Infrared Heating: Is it the right choice for your home or business?

With energy prices rising and sustainability becoming a priority, many homeowners and businesses are searching for the most efficient heating solutions. Infrared heating has gained attention for its energy efficiency and rapid warmth, but is it truly the best option? In this guide, we’ll explore how infrared heaters work, their pros and cons, and how they compare to other electric heating options like the NEOS electric radiator.

How Does Infrared Heating Work?

Before we dive into the pros and cons of infrared heating, it’s essential to understand what it is and how it works. Unlike traditional heating systems that warm the air in a room, infrared heaters emit (safe) electromagnetic waves that directly heat objects and people in their path. This process is similar to how the sun warms the Earth – the infrared radiation travels through the air until it hits a solid surface, which then absorbs the energy and heats up.

Infrared heating can be broadly categorized into three types based on the wavelength of the radiation emitted:

• Near-infrared (NIR)

• Medium-infrared (MIR)

• Far-infrared (FIR) This is used the most for residential and commercial heating purposes, as they provide a gentle, consistent warmth without the intense light associated with near-infrared heaters.

Benefits of Infrared Heating

Infrared heating offers several advantages, making it a popular choice for homes and businesses. Here’s why:

1. Instant, direct warmth

• Heats people and objects immediately

• Great for occasional use or for spaces that need quick heating

2. Energy Efficient & Cost-Effective

• Minimal Heat Loss through the air

• Possibility of using less electricity to reach a desired temperature as they heat up more quickly

3. Silent Operation

• No fans, motors, or moving parts so completely silent while running

• Ideal for bedrooms, offices, or any spaces where noise would be disruptive

4. Health Benefits - No Air Circulation

• Can be ideal for people with allergies or respiratory issues since they don’t rely on circulating air

5. Flexible Installation Options

• Available wall-mounted, ceiling-mounted, and portable models

• Sleek and space saving to suit all kinds of interiors

Comparison with Other Electric Heating Options

While infrared heating has its merits, it’s crucial to understand how it compares to other electric heating options, particularly when it comes to effectiveness and overall room comfort. Let’s explore this comparison in depth:

Convection Heaters vs. Infrared Heaters

Convection heaters, such as the NEOS electric radiator, work by heating the air in a room. As the air warms, it rises, creating a natural circulation that distributes heat throughout the space. This method can be more effective at providing consistent, all-over warmth in a room, especially in well-insulated spaces.

While infrared heaters offer instant, directional warmth, they may not heat a room as evenly as convection heaters. Objects and people in the direct path of the infrared rays will feel warm quickly, but areas out of the direct line of sight may remain cooler. This can create “cold spots” in a room, which might be less comfortable for some users.

Heat Distribution and Room Comfort

Convection heaters like the NEOS electric radiator excel in distributing heat evenly throughout a room. They work by creating a natural air circulation pattern, which helps to maintain a consistent temperature from floor to ceiling. This can result in a more comfortable environment, especially in larger spaces or rooms with complex layouts.

Infrared heaters, on the other hand, provide more localised heating. While this can be advantageous in certain situations (such as heating a specific work area in a large warehouse), it may not be ideal for creating an evenly heated living or working space.

Long-Term Heating Effectiveness

Once a room is heated to the desired temperature, convection heaters can maintain that warmth efficiently. The heated air acts as a buffer, helping to keep the room warm even when the heater cycles off.

Infrared heaters, while providing instant warmth, may need to work continuously to maintain comfort levels, especially in larger spaces. This is because they don’t heat the air, so the warmth dissipates quickly when the heater is turned off.

So is Infrared The Right Choice For Your Home or Business? 

If you’re a homeowner or business owner considering infrared heating, there are several factors you should take into account:

• Room Size and Layout - Infrared heaters work best in smaller, enclosed spaces. For large rooms and open-plan spaces, it may not be ideal

• Insulation Quality - Infrared heating can be effective in poorly insulated spaces but optimal insulation is always key when it comes to your heating working efficiently

• Heating Patterns - If quick targeted heating for short periods of time is your goal, infrared heaters may work but consistent all-day warmth, a convection system like the NEOS would be more suitable

• Safety Considerations - While infrared heaters are considered safe, they can become very hot on the surface, causing potential concern with young children or pets.

• Energy Costs and Efficiency - A cost-benefit analysis is essential, despite infrared heating being considered energy-efficient. Factors such as the size of the space, current energy costs and hours of operation need to be acknowledged.

Conclusion

Infrared heating offers a unique approach to warming spaces, with benefits such as instant heat, energy efficiency in certain scenarios, and silent operation. However, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. For many homeowners and businesses, a combination of heating technologies, like our NEOS electric radiator, might provide better overall comfort and efficiency.

Ready to explore an alternative to infrared heating? Download our FREE heating guide today!

Tags: Comparisons, Tips, General Guides.