Infrared Heating Systems
What are the Advantages of Infrared Heat?
Infrared radiation is now a proven and effective source of heat in the homes. It works like
radiant heating systems in that the heat it provides starts from the ground and warms people and objects all throughout in a direct manner without any cold spots. Specifically, the
heating system that uses low intensity radiant infrared is more preferred over the hot water and forced air systems.
The advantages
Infrared heating has several advantages compared to the convection and forced air method. First, it provides people the heat they need without heating air. Since infrared is not absorbed by the air, its heat is directly absorbed by people and objects along its path. Infrared heat is normally at the ground level and with its reflectors, radiation is directed to where it is needed thus, effectively utilized.
Another advantage is its ability to be controlled in individual zones. In other words, with infrared heating, varying comfort levels can be maintained in separate zones as its energy is absorbed only in a certain area where it is needed.
Staging is a big edge of electric infrared heating. This unique feature not only enhances people’s comfort but conserves energy as well. This means that the system allows only a certain portion of the heater’s total capacity to be utilized. An example would be a two-stage control wherein in the first stage, one heat source in each fixture would be energized and then in stage two, two heat sources in each fixture would be energized.
Using infrared heating can really lower operating costs. A homeowner can save energy by a maximum of 50 percent. Savings, though, will depend on certain factors such as a building’s insulation, ceiling height and type of construction.
Electric infrared is also clean and safe. It is said to be cleanest heating system with no emissions compared to systems that use fossil fuel. Apart from being environment-friendly, it is safe as well as there’s no open flame, no fuel lines to leak, no moving parts that can malfunction and no toxic emissions.
Homeowners using this system get instant heat without having to wait for some time. Additionally, infrared heating is a low maintenance system. Since no moving parts or motors and air filters are involved, all you need is a periodic cleaning of its reflectors and replacement of heat source.
How it works
Infrared radiation is also called heat radiation. It involves the transfer of thermal energy in the form of electromagnetic waves. Infrared heat is usually radiated from the heated material towards a person or an object. When radiation is absorbed, heat is then created.
Infrared radiation when it comes in contact with a surface normally is absorbed partially and reflected in part at varying wavelengths.
Infrared heating differs in terms of wavelength, efficiency and reflectivity. Its efficiency mainly depends on the material of the heat source.
When using electric infrared heating, the air temperature in a room can be lower compared to the conventional heating system but still providing the same level of comfort to people. This is attributed to the radiant energy emitted by the heating elements. Infrared heating also results in higher temperatures on the floor and surfaces than the air temperature.
Homeowners opting for this type should make sure that the infrared equipment is well chosen and installed the right away to ensure superb heating efficiency to the home and its residents.
