Infrared heaters have become increasingly popular in recent years as an energy efficient way to heat homes and offices. If you’ve ever wondered how these heaters provide radiant heat without blowing hot air around a room, read on to learn the science behind infrared heating technology.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: Infrared heaters work by emitting infrared light waves which are absorbed by objects in a room. This creates heat as the objects vibrate from the infrared energy. The heat is then radiated out into the surrounding space.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll provide an in-depth look at how infrared heaters operate, the types of infrared heaters, their benefits over conventional forced air heaters, and tips for selecting and using an infrared heater in your home or workplace.
What is Infrared Radiation?
Infrared radiation refers to a type of electromagnetic radiation that lies within the invisible portion of the electromagnetic spectrum. It is characterized by its longer wavelengths than visible light, ranging from approximately 700 nanometers to 1 millimeter.
Unlike visible light, infrared radiation cannot be seen by the human eye, but it can be felt as heat.
Definition and properties of infrared waves
Infrared waves are a form of radiant energy that is generated by the thermal motion of atoms and molecules. This thermal energy causes the particles to vibrate, emitting infrared waves. These waves have unique properties that make them useful for various applications.
For instance, they can penetrate certain materials, such as plastics and fabrics, making them suitable for heating purposes.
Near, mid and far infrared rays
Infrared radiation can be further classified into three main categories: near infrared, mid-infrared, and far infrared. Near infrared has the shortest wavelengths and is primarily responsible for the heating effect. It is commonly used in infrared heaters to provide warmth.
Mid-infrared falls in the middle of the spectrum and can be used for communication and detection purposes. Far infrared has the longest wavelengths and is often used for therapeutic purposes, such as in infrared saunas.
How infrared is emitted and absorbed
Infrared radiation is emitted and absorbed by all objects that have a temperature above absolute zero. When an object is heated, such as an infrared heater, it emits infrared radiation in the form of electromagnetic waves.
These waves travel through the air and can be absorbed by other objects, causing them to heat up. The absorption of infrared radiation is dependent on the material’s properties, such as its color and composition.
For example, dark-colored objects tend to absorb more infrared radiation than light-colored objects. This is why black surfaces feel warmer in the sun compared to white surfaces. Additionally, certain materials, such as glass, are transparent to infrared radiation, allowing it to pass through without being absorbed.
Understanding how infrared radiation works is essential in comprehending the functionality of infrared heaters. By harnessing the power of infrared waves and their ability to transfer heat efficiently, these heaters offer a cost-effective and energy-efficient solution for heating spaces.
How Infrared Heaters Work
Infrared heaters emit infrared radiation
Infrared heaters are designed to emit infrared radiation, which is a type of electromagnetic radiation. This radiation is produced by heating up a filament or ceramic element inside the heater. Unlike traditional heaters that rely on convection to heat the air, infrared heaters directly emit this radiation, which is then absorbed by objects and surfaces in the vicinity.
Objects absorb the infrared waves
When the infrared waves are emitted, they travel through the air and are absorbed by nearby objects and surfaces. These objects can be anything from furniture to walls to people. The absorption of the infrared waves causes the molecules in the object to vibrate, which in turn generates heat.
Absorbed energy is converted to heat
As the objects absorb the infrared waves, the energy from the radiation is converted into heat energy. This process is similar to how sunlight warms up objects on a sunny day. The absorbed energy raises the temperature of the objects, making them warmer and creating a comfortable environment.
Heat radiates outwards and warms surroundings
Once the objects have absorbed the infrared waves and converted the energy into heat, they start to radiate that heat back into the surrounding area. This process is known as thermal radiation. The heat radiates outwards in all directions, warming up the air and other objects in the room.
This is why infrared heaters are often praised for their ability to provide instant and targeted heat.
Types of Infrared Heaters
Ceramic Infrared Heaters
Ceramic infrared heaters are one of the most common types of infrared heaters available on the market. They work by using a ceramic heating element that emits infrared radiation. The ceramic element is heated up by passing an electric current through it, and then it radiates heat into the surrounding area.
These heaters are known for their efficiency and ability to heat up quickly.
One advantage of ceramic infrared heaters is that they have a longer lifespan compared to other types. They are also relatively affordable and can be found in a variety of sizes and designs to suit different needs.
Additionally, ceramic infrared heaters are safe to use, as they do not produce harmful emissions or release any chemicals into the air.
Some popular brands that offer ceramic infrared heaters include Honeywell, Dr. Infrared Heater, and Duraflame. These brands have a reputation for producing high-quality heaters that are durable and effective in heating spaces.
Quartz Infrared Heaters
Quartz infrared heaters are another popular type of infrared heater. They use quartz heating elements to generate heat. The quartz heating elements are made from a combination of quartz and tungsten, which allows them to reach high temperatures quickly and efficiently.
One of the advantages of quartz infrared heaters is that they emit a more intense heat compared to ceramic heaters. This makes them ideal for heating larger spaces or areas that require a higher level of heat. They are also known for their durability and long lifespan.
Some well-known brands that offer quartz infrared heaters include Lifesmart, EdenPURE, and Heat Storm. These brands are trusted by consumers for their reliable and efficient heating solutions.
Carbon Infrared Heaters
Carbon infrared heaters are a newer type of infrared heater that use carbon fiber heating elements to generate heat. These heaters are known for their energy efficiency and ability to provide a comfortable and even heat distribution.
One of the advantages of carbon infrared heaters is that they have a faster heat-up time compared to other types of heaters. They also have a longer lifespan and require less maintenance. Additionally, carbon infrared heaters emit a gentle and soothing heat that is often compared to the warmth of the sun.
Brands such as TPI Corporation, SunStar, and Heat Storm offer carbon infrared heaters that are popular among consumers. These heaters are praised for their effectiveness in heating spaces and their ability to save energy.
Benefits of Infrared Heating
When it comes to heating your home or office, there are several options available. One popular choice is an infrared heater. These heaters work by emitting infrared radiation, which directly heats objects and people in its path rather than heating the air.
This unique method of heating offers several benefits over traditional heating systems.
Energy efficiency
An infrared heater is known for its energy efficiency. Unlike conventional heaters that warm the air, infrared heaters transfer heat directly to objects, which means less energy is wasted. This targeted heating allows for quicker and more efficient heating of a space, resulting in lower energy consumption.
Lower operating costs
Due to their energy efficiency, infrared heaters can help reduce operating costs. By using less energy to heat a space, you can expect to see a decrease in your monthly heating bills. Additionally, some infrared heaters come with programmable thermostats or timers, allowing you to easily control when and how long the heater operates, further optimizing energy usage and lowering costs.
Zone heating capabilities
One of the standout features of infrared heaters is their ability to provide zone heating. This means you can heat specific areas or rooms in your home without wasting energy on heating the entire space.
For example, if you spend most of your time in the living room, you can use an infrared heater to keep that area warm while keeping the rest of the house at a lower temperature. This targeted heating approach can lead to significant energy savings.
Healthier heat distribution
Unlike traditional heaters that can circulate dust and allergens in the air, infrared heaters produce heat that is distributed evenly without stirring up dust particles. This can be especially beneficial for individuals with allergies or respiratory issues.
Additionally, because infrared heaters do not rely on blowing air, they do not dry out the air, which can help prevent dry skin and other discomforts often associated with forced-air heating systems.
Quiet operation
Many infrared heaters operate silently, making them a popular choice for bedrooms, offices, or other spaces where noise can be a nuisance. Unlike some traditional heating systems that can produce loud noises when turning on or off or when the fan is running, infrared heaters provide quiet and efficient heating without any disruptive sounds.
Tips for Using an Infrared Heater
Choose the right size heater
When selecting an infrared heater, it’s important to choose the right size for your space. Consider the square footage of the area you want to heat, as well as the heater’s power output. A good rule of thumb is to have 10 watts of heating power for every square foot of space. This will ensure that the heater is able to effectively warm the area without wasting energy.
Position carefully
The placement of your infrared heater is crucial for its performance. Position the heater in a central location where it can distribute heat evenly throughout the room. Avoid placing it near curtains, furniture, or other objects that could potentially block the heat.
Make sure it is also positioned at a safe distance from flammable materials to prevent any accidents.
Maintain clear line of sight
Infrared heaters work by emitting infrared radiation that heats objects directly in its line of sight. To maximize its effectiveness, ensure that there are no obstructions between the heater and the objects you want to warm. This means keeping furniture, walls, and other obstacles out of the way.
By maintaining a clear line of sight, the heater can efficiently heat the desired area.
Keep pets and children safe
While infrared heaters are generally safe to use, it’s important to take precautions, especially if you have pets or young children in your home. Place the heater in an area that is out of reach for children and pets to prevent accidental burns or tipping over. Additionally, it’s a good idea to supervise their interaction with the heater to avoid any potential accidents.
Clean regularly
To ensure the optimal performance of your infrared heater, regular cleaning is essential. Dust and debris can accumulate on the heating element, reducing its efficiency. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to clean your specific model, and make sure to unplug the heater before doing so. Regular maintenance will help prolong the lifespan of your heater and keep it working efficiently.
Conclusion
Infrared heaters offer an efficient and healthy way to warm homes and workplaces without drying out the air. By understanding how infrared technology converts light to heat, you can better utilize these heating systems.
Positioning the heater properly, sizing it correctly for the space, and performing routine maintenance will provide the best results.
We’ve just scratched the surface in explaining infrared heating. There are many additional details around the science, operation, benefits and proper use of infrared heaters. Hopefully this overview gave you a solid understanding of the infrared heating process and how it differs from forced air heating methods.
