How to choose an infrared heater

Recently, the availability of infrared heaters (IO) has increased. And it is logical that demand has risen for them.

Their specificity is the heating of walls, floors, things in the room. Their competitors are convectors only warm the air.

The waves from the IO are identical in length to the wavelength of the solar infrared spectrum. A person feels them immediately after starting the device. But heat is generated only in the area of ​​radiation, and not throughout the room.

There are no intricate mechanisms inside the IO. Its body is made of steel. It is coated with durable powder paint. Also, an aluminum reflector with a heating component is mounted on the body. You can choose infrared heating according to the following components:

• halogen;
• carbon;
• ceramic;
• TENY or tubular types.

Even in domestic IOs, a thermostat is mounted to adjust the temperature and a device that stops the device in case of overheating. If the EUT is floor mounted, it also has a rollover sensor.

Selection of EUT by type of installation

These units are usually mounted on the floor or on the walls. What is the best type of installation for you depends on the parameters of your room and the operating conditions of the IO. It is important to decide whether you need a stationary or mobile device. The mobile model has smaller dimensions and power indicators. Stationary modifications are often mounted on walls, ceilings and around skirting boards.

The most convenient to install - ceiling. He does not need much space, and their radiation covers a fairly large area. For example, for a greenhouse, this is a good option.

There are modifications that are built directly into the suspended ceiling. There are models that join the usual ceiling, they can even be used for a garage. The fasteners here are hanging brackets. And the distance from the IO housing to the ceiling is about 5 cm.

Floor gas differs in low power and efficiency. The radiation coming from them is forced to overcome more obstacles.

If you need to buy such a model, then take the option with a heating element or carbon element.

The ceramic element has a short service life. And from the halogen very short waves come. They can negatively affect a person. And besides, the full-fledged operation of such a device is possible only with long waves.

Models wall mounted, must be placed at a certain distance from the floor. If small children live in the house, the height of the appliance should be out of the reach of children.

When you want to place the device under the window, you should give priority to the version with plinth mounting. How to choose the power correctly, we will consider further for all situations.

Selection of EUT by wavelength and heating parameter

The heating components arranged inside the IO differ in the length of the generated waves and the heating parameter. Their varieties are as follows:

1. Species emitting waves with a length of 5.6 - 100 microns. Heating parameters: 100 - 600 degrees. Areas of use: houses, offices, workshops where the ceilings do not reach a height of 3 m. A device with heating up to 120 degrees is suitable for residential use.
2. The types of panels that form the waves, the length of which is concentrated in the range of 2.5 - 5.6 microns. Heating: 600 - 1000 degrees. Ceilings in height: 3-6 m. Areas of use: large private buildings, public buildings.
3. Components that form the waves 0.74 - 2.5 microns. Heating: 100 degrees. Ceilings: 6-8 m. Field of use: production shops, outdoor facilities. They are forbidden to use at home.

The choice of heating component

When choosing an IO, it is worth considering their differences in the shell of the heating component. The types of infrared heaters are more often classified precisely because of the heater.It can be metal, ceramic or quartz.

The halogen element for the home is a lamp that generates waves in the IR spectrum. An incandescent thread is arranged inside it. As a rule, it is made of tungsten or hydrocarbon fiber. When the thread heats up, energy is generated. And it is transmitted through the tube of the lamp.

The radiation of all such lamps has a golden hue. It is harmful to the eyes. Therefore, the lamp is often coated with a protective compound. A lot of harm to human health is the radiation of the halogen component itself. Reason: short waves emanate from him. Therefore, experts advise choosing devices not with such a component for continuous use.

The carbon element is a quartz tube. A vacuum is arranged inside it. It is concentrated carbon fiber spiral. Advantages of this component for an apartment:

• high dynamics of heating;
• powerful efficiency.

Disadvantages:

• short service life (about 2 years);
• absorbs a lot of electricity (1 - 1.5 kW);
• a reddish glow spoils the eyes;
• dangerous for allergy sufferers.

The ceramic-coated component has powerful defense. He does not emit light at work. Other advantages, for example, for giving:

• minimum service life - 3 years;
• absorbs 50 - 2000 W;
• high strength.

Minuses:

• solid prices;
• slow warming and cooling.

In a tubular metal element, the shape is similar to the shape of a ceramic component. But its cost is higher. And the pluses are as follows:

• good, reliable work;
• convenience in everyday life

Cons (in addition to price):

• small cods at work.

The reason for the crackles is the temperature differences between the spiral and the casing: it is steel, it is aluminum.

Selection based on the layer on the radiating plate

This layer is called anodizing. It is located on a plate that forms infrared waves. If its thickness is at least 25 microns, then the heater itself will work stably for about 20 years.

If the thickness is less than this value, then after 2-3 years the device will simply burn. Visually determine such a parameter is not possible. It remains to hope for the integrity of the seller.

Question with the material of the heating component

The materials of which the heaters are made are also important. If it is black, then in places with a serious percentage of humidity the device should not be used. If the metal is stainless, then the use of the device in bathrooms, toilets and other similar places is quite reasonable.

Emitter foil. Its minimum thickness is 120 microns. If the indicator is less, then the rays from the EUT will simply heat the ceiling, not the room.

Checking the thickness of the foil is as follows: a little pressure on the foil with a rod from the handle. If it turns out a crumpled place or hole, its quality is rather weak (no more than 100 microns). If the parameter is 120 microns, the hole will not work.

IO power

The scheme works here: on 10 sq.m. premises need 1 kW of power. However, power reserve models are often purchased. Reason: heat losses through different floors, windows and walls are taken into account.

When the EUT only supplements the existing heating network, then power needs to be calculatedbased on the operating conditions of the apparatus. All kinds of heat losses are taken into account, which often try to close.

There are models with modest power - 300 watts. Usually they are used for quick and short-term heating of a room, for example, a cellar or garage. They do not cause much damage to a person, even at very close proximity.

When choosing an IO for a summer residence, it is taken into account that such a house does not need a serious heating parameter. You can develop the temperature parameters in it by only a few points. Therefore, an apparatus with a power of 60-80 W per 1 sq.m. is suitable here. If necessary, these indicators can be corrected.

Question with the insulator

The housing of the IO should not be heated more than 95 degrees.For this, an insulator is arranged in it. Types of insulators are different. The leader in safety and practicality is a basalt look without any additives. Supplements only harm human health, because at high temperatures they can give off formaldehyde.

When buying IO, the seller must show a special mark on the permission to use the insulator in the food sector. The mark is usually put in a special certificate.

Body

The body of the device must be of high quality and durable. Previously, only steel cases were made, but now there are aluminum ones. They are more elegant, but steel counterparts are still more reliable.

When buying the device, examine the case from the inside. There should be no traces of paint and rust.

Manufacturers

Often, buyers want to buy a good company’s product. The most reliable and expensive are European devices. It should be borne in mind that the production of many European large companies are concentrated in China. They get the best savings on wages for workers. Over time, components are more often taken from there. As a result, quality suffers. For this reason, when deciding on a manufacturer, pay attention to the country of production.

Additional options

IO can be equipped with the following additions:

1. With thermostat. Although usually it can already be built-in, but not on all models. It will help maintain a stable temperature.
2. A device that protects against overheating.
3. Rollover protection device (for floor modifications).
4. Remote control. All ceiling versions have it. The presence of other modifications is affected by the type of model.

Proper use

It’s easiest to care for ceiling models: you just need to periodically wipe the dust from them.

Correctly apply the wall and floor versions of the panel type according to the following criteria:

1. They can not be covered with anything from above.
2. Their front panel must be at least a meter away from sockets and other objects.
3. In rooms with high humidity, IOs with a minimum protection class of IP24 are installed.

Emissions from AI are not considered to be particularly harmful to humans. The main thing is not to be long under their direct influence: there is a risk of heat stroke.

And if you put the device in the room with a power of 150 watts per 1 square meter, you can seriously disrupt the immune mechanism.

Rating of the best

Today, the market presents an abundance of various AI. The following is a selection of a list of fairly popular models.

Ballu BHH / M-09

Small type halogen film apparatus. Energy level control - mechanical. If you turn on 1 and 2 buttons, the device instantly reaches the set temperature. Reliable protection against overheating and overturning.

Data:

Operating modes: 0.45 / 0.9 kW.

Parameters: 0.30 / 0.37 / 0.14 m;

Weight - 1100 grams.

Closed housing with waterproofing.

Price range: 700 - 1400 rubles.

Pros:

• does not harm the humidity in the room;
• does not reduce oxygen levels;
• has a bright but not blinding glow;
• does not develop dust levels;
• mobility;
• ease of use;
• stylish design.

Minuses:

• some lamps break quickly;
• in some assemblies there is no waterproofing;
• glow interferes with healthy sleep.

Almac IK11

This modification of the new generation is equipped with:

1. TENOM. It is made of stainless steel.
2. Screen. Created from foil.
3. Heat insulator. For its manufacture, basalt fiber is used.

These elements are arranged in the body cavity. It is made of aluminum. In case of overheating, the device itself turns off. To save electricity, it is better to install a thermostat.

Data:

1. The component that generates heat is anodized. Class - Al.
2. Operating modes: 1 kW.
3. Parameters: 133 x 3 x 16 cm.
4. Weight - 3.3 kg.
5. Cost - about 3400 rubles.

Pros:

• with a temperature controller, energy efficiency is obtained;
• silent work;
• fast achievement of the set temperature;
• easy to mount to the ceiling;
• does not adversely affect air;
• environmental friendliness;
• aesthetic appearance.

Minuses:

• edges have no processing;
• painting without innovative technologies.

Polaris PMH 2095

Appliance with ceramic heating element. Floor mounted.

Data:

The heating power reaches 2000 watts.

Availability of power settings.

Operating voltage: 220/230 V.

The switch has a light indicator.

Price in the range: 4,000 - 4,700 rubles.

Pros:

1. There is protection against frost.
2. In case of overheating, an automatic shutdown is triggered.
3. It works in the event of a rollover.
4. Quickly reach the desired temperature.
5. There is a compartment for the cord.
6. The presence of wheels.
7. Stylish design.

Minuses:

• short length;
• absorbs a lot of electricity.

Electrolux EIH / AG 2-2000E

This is a wall mounted apparatus.

Data:

1. Heats up to 25 sq.m.
2. Power of heating - 2000 watts.
3. Operating voltage: 220/230 V.
4. The thermostat is present.
5. The presence of a display.
6. Price range: 6 150 - 7 900 rubles.

Pros:

1. Smart management.
2. Overheat defense.
3. High heating rate. The heating itself is combined: infrared and convective.
4. Very sturdy legs.
5. The case does not heat up.

Minuses:

1. Loud noises at work.
2. The display is too bright.
3. The device often heats only in the zone in front of itself.

Timberk TCH A5 800

This is a ceiling mounted model.

Data:

1. Operating voltage: 220/230 V.
2. Power of heating: 800 watts.
3. Heating Area: 8 sq.m.
4. Weight - 3.5 kg.
5. Parameters: 95.2 × 14.2 × 5 cm
6. Cost - 2650 p.
7. The thermostat is present.

You can attach to the device:

1. Other AI. It turns out a group with a total power of up to 3000 watts.
2. Remote control unit.
3. Room thermostat.

Pros:

• graceful appearance;
• ease of work.

Cons: weak reflection, at a distance of 2-3 m from the apparatus, the heat seriously weakens.

Ballu BIH-AP2-1.0

This modification is mounted on the ceiling or wall.

Data:

1. Heating component - TEN.
2. Power of heating - 1000 watts.
3. The control method is mechanical.
4. Parameters: 5x4x13 cm
5. Weight - 3.4 kg.
6. Functional voltage: 220/230 V.
7. The maximum mounting height is 3 m.
8. Price range: 2950 - 3400 rub.

Pros:

1. The presence of universal fasteners for ceiling and wall mounting.
2. Possibility of connecting a temperature controller.
3. Stylish look.
4. Reliable work.
5. Auto shutdown in case of overheating.

Cons: severe crackles when heated and cooled.

Placement Recommendations

Before acquiring the IE, the following room data are taken into account:

• his appointment;
• sizes
• humidity level.

Other important factors:

• view of the main heating source;
• ceiling parameters (height, format);
• number and parameters of windows;
• lighting technology;
• perimeter of external walls.

In the bathroom and kitchen, a compact ceiling or wall model with waterproofing is usually mounted. Also, it should fit in harmoniously. Suitable options: Royat 2 1200 and AR 2002. Manufacturers: Noirot and Maximus (respectively).

A silent and not brightly glowing apparatus fits into the bedroom. Examples: SFH-3325 Sinbo, Nikaten 200.

Any IO that has the desired heating area is placed in the living room. Examples: good wall fixtures (any of the suitable ones mentioned above).

On the balcony, in the garage or country house, Almac IK11 or IK5 are good.

In one room you can not put one powerful AI. It is much more profitable to distribute here 2-3 devices with more modest power.

Title	Ballu BHH / M-09	Almac IK11	Polaris PMH 2095	Electrolux EIH / AG 2-2000E	Timberk TCH A5 800
Heating area	15 sq.m	20 sq.m	20 sq.m	25 sq.m	8 sq.m
Heating power	900 watts	1000 watts	2000 watts	2000 watts	800 watts
Control	mechanical	mechanical	light indicator switch	electronic, display, temperature control, switch with indicator light	can connect a remote control
Protective functions	shutdown when overheating, shutdown when capsizing, moisture-proof housing	-	frost protection, shutdown when overheating, shutdown when capsizing	frost protection, shutdown when overheating	-
Dimensions (WxHxT)	30.5x37x13.6 cm 30.5x37x13.6 cm	133x3x16 cm	5.0 x 69 x 58 x 13 cm	77x40.5x9.5 cm	95.2x14.2x5 cm
Price	from 850 rub.	from 3390 rub.	from 5640 rub.	from 5940 rub.	from 3000 rub.

We recommend that you familiarize yourself with the more extensive rated infrared heaters