A heater that transfers heat to the environment through infrared radiation is called an infrared heater. User reviews report that the use of this heat radiator is much more effective than others (for example, oil radiators, fan heaters, etc.).
The design of the device is quite simple: a tubular electric heater is used in closed types, and a spiral in a quartz tube is used in open types. To direct the beam flux, a special reflector (screen) of dense and heat-resistant metal is used.
What is infrared heating?
Heat transfer when using IR heaters is carried out not directly from the heater or pipes, but through heated surfaces and furniture. Radiation raises the temperature of all objects that are encountered in its path.
The principle of operation is similar to the natural heating of surfaces from the rays of the sun.
When using such a device in the room, the amount of oxygen does not decrease, but the humidity remains optimal.
The average savings on heating by such emitters is 50%. For the most beneficial use, the location and number of infrared heaters should be considered. User reviews report that with the right selection of equipment, the effect of its use occurs a few minutes after launch.
The main types of heaters
According to the type of food, they distinguish:
- Electric. Most often they are used in domestic conditions.
- Gas infrared heaters. Reviews about these devices are very different. This type is most often used in open areas.
In addition, the first group is divided into:
- On ceramic emitters. The heating element in such a heater is a cable that is enclosed in a ceramic case. He, in turn, is not able to conduct currents, but does not interfere with the propagation of the IR beam. Most often, these devices are used in residential premises or offices.
- Carbon heaters. Users emphasize the cost-effectiveness of such models. Heat is transferred through vacuum tubes, inside of which there is carbon or carbon fiber. Devices are widely used in medicine.
- Film. Such heaters resemble a flat rectangle and are often made in the form of paintings. Microheaters are mounted on a special heat-resistant film. The maximum surface heating temperature is 75 ° C.
The second type of heaters is used when working in open areas, and can also be installed in recreation areas.
Varieties for home use
All heaters can be divided into two groups: light and long-wave.
The characteristic features of the first type are:
- high surface temperature of the emitter (up to 600 ° C);
- the ability to heat several rooms.
The second group is less effective, so they are often used to heat small rooms or greenhouses. An example is the Ballu infrared heater. Reviews about this device are mostly positive. Users say that it is inexpensive, safe, economical, heats up quickly, has an aesthetic appearance.
Principle of operation
The basis of the operation of such heaters is the conversion of one type of energy (for example, electricity or fuel) into thermal radiation. The temperature of the heated plates is on average 250 ° C. Rooms heated by infrared radiation retain heat for a long time.
Industrial heaters are also used for hardening concrete parts, drying painted parts, etc. Such devices work according to the standard principle.
Characteristics of some models
Among users, budget devices are becoming more popular - ceiling infrared heaters. Customer reviews confirm the conformity of their characteristics with the declared manufacturer (if the power source is gas):
- Fuel consumption is small - only 300 g / hour.
- Heat transfer occurs at a distance of 1 cm to 10 m.
- The range of heat transfer is from 2 to 15 kW.
Features of infrared heaters
Wall heaters are suitable for both partial and complete heating of the room. Infrared ceiling heaters are considered less effective . Customer reviews report that the device’s power supply also affects efficiency.
The most convenient and powerful are electric heaters. In addition to such popular are gas and modulated devices. The former are more practical, because they do not need to be connected to the mains and are able to heat a room in which there are no any communications.
Modulated heaters are equipped with a special fan, which contributes to the rapid and uniform distribution of warm air.
Outdoor gas infrared heaters are gaining great popularity. Reviews and recommendations about them are mostly positive. Users say that they are reliable, look stylish and warm the space well. This unit consists of:
- out of the case;
- gas tank;
- burners;
- emitter.
Modern street heaters are made in a variety of designs - from the most primitive, rectangular, to compact, in the form of lamps or bowls.
Key features are ease of use, absolute fire safety and economy.
How to choose the right infrared heater: user reviews and tips
When choosing you should consider:
- The power of the device. This criterion is selected depending on the area of the room and the presence of other sources of thermal radiation.
- Reviews note that floor heaters are much more powerful than wall or ceiling.
- If there are frequent power outages on the ground, gas heating systems should be chosen.
- When choosing a gas heater, you should consider the additional area for the placement of cylinders.
- For greater convenience in use, you can purchase an infrared heater with a thermostat. User reviews are also inclined in favor of devices with remote controls and other automation.
Advantages and disadvantages of using
A key advantage to use is cost-effectiveness. Other features include the following:
- the heater does not dry the air;
- safe to use;
- the device is suitable for both combined and individual use;
- the heater is made from environmentally friendly products;
- the device does not make noise during operation;
- the room heats up in a few minutes;
- extraneous factors (e.g. drafts) do not affect the quality of the heating;
- An IR heater consumes almost 80% less energy than a fan heater;
- mobility (the device can be transported at any distance without effort).
In addition to a number of advantages, the devices also have disadvantages. According to reviews, infrared heater:
- has a point heating system;
- the waves that the device emits adversely affect vision;
- due to uneven heating of the room, various fungi and molds may appear;
- the heater does not dry the air, but the surfaces (because of this, the furniture loses its properties, equipment may fail).
Rating of infrared heaters
Mobile appliances for heating are widespread in both domestic and industrial conditions. The rating among users is as follows:
- In the first place is the Electrolux EIH / AG2-2000E. The Swedish manufacturer has earned trust among citizens for a reason, because the device has sufficient power - 2 kW and a mode of 1 kW. Manual temperature adjustment is possible. The system also has protection against hypothermia and overheating. Among the advantages: a large service area - up to 25 m 2 , mobility, compactness. The main disadvantages of the reviews are the high level of noise during operation, the lack of protection from tipping over.
- The second position is taken by the Ballu BIH infrared heater. Reviews report the following: the device can be mounted both on the wall and on the ceiling. Despite its compactness, the device can heat a room with an area of up to 20 m 2 . Among other advantages: low cost, high-quality assembly, protection of the housing from moisture, ease of installation and operation.
- One of the best ceiling heaters is considered "Resanta IKO-2000". This device is able to evenly heat a room with an area of up to 20 m 2 . Among other advantages: compactness, ease of installation and maintenance, nice design. Key disadvantages are: high cost and lack of temperature control.
- Mister Heat belongs to wall infrared heaters. Reviews about the device are also positive. This unit is economical and consumes only 100 watts of energy per hour of operation. The temperature can be adjusted manually. Among other advantages: excellent assembly, modern design, simple operation, wide temperature range.
- The last position in the ranking is occupied by Royal Clima. The main advantages are: low cost, attractive design, high power and the possibility of various installation options. The disadvantage is the lack of a temperature sensor.
Important! Portable models of heaters of any kind can be equipped with tripods for installation of the device. The tripod, in turn, is adjustable in height. This feature allows you to use units with maximum comfort. It is possible to install several heaters on one support.