Are Infrared Heaters Safe?

During harsh winters, setting up a heater is what comes to mind first. Traditional heaters consume a lot of electricity and lose a lot of heat. Not only that, they also cause heat to build up in your ceiling, making your walls cold and wet. This could be a painful experience for you.

IR heaters provide a form of radiation distinct from one produced by X-ray equipment or germicidal lightbulbs. Some of the attributes of infrared radiation (IRR) are comparable to visible light; however, IRR is invisible to the bare eye, and infrared heaters do not heat a room or the air within it.

Infrared heaters save far more energy than other heaters. They use almost all the heat they produce, which creates but little loss in heat transfer. Unlike other heating appliances, infrared heaters do not heat the air but emit radiation that warms only the objects it touches.

Key Takeaways

• Infrared heaters are energy-efficient and heat objects rather than the air, making them a safe and effective heating option.
• Infrared heaters are safe for health, as our skin naturally absorbs infrared radiation, and they undergo rigorous testing and certification to meet safety standards.
• Infrared heating panels offer advantages such as preventing mould growth, maintaining humidity, and being comfortable for contact lens wearers, making them a beneficial choice for indoor heating.

A Variety of IR Heaters Available to Serve Different Purposes

Infrared Luminous Heaters with a High Intensity

Direct-fired gas-fired high-intensity heaters pass a gas-air mixture through a porous matrix refractory material, igniting the gas-air mixture uniformly throughout the surface.

This surface is heated to temperatures of 1350°F or more, releasing a substantial amount of infrared radiation that may be directed to any location where heat is needed.

Unvented high-intensity heaters are common. To disperse combustion-gases discharged, proper ventilation is required.

Here Are the Sub-Types:

• Infrared space heaters
• Infrared patio heaters
• Portable construction infrared heaters
• Electric infrared heaters

Low-Intensity Infrared Radiant Tube Heaters

Gas-fired infrared heaters are indirect-fired appliances with a radiating surface between the combustion and the intended load. A flame is kindled within an exchanger when a call for heat is made. After that, the exchanger is heated to temperatures as high as 1350°F, emitting infrared energy.

This energy is reflected down to the ground level, where people and objects absorb it. Because more heat is created in the first half of the tube at the burner-or combustion-end than in the second half of the tube at the exhaust end, a heat differential exists along the length of the heat exchanger. A well-designed device minimises this temperature difference.

The Sub-Categories are:

• Forced draft systems (push)
• Draft induced systems (pull)
• Multiple burner vacuum system

The IRR primarily flows through the air, heating other items like inanimate objects or your body, but not the air. Heating highly might result in fires or dangerous skin burns. Furthermore, the eye overheats because the IRR is blocked, resulting in eye injury and maybe blindness. As a result, you should avoid staring at the heater for long periods of time.

The Use of Infrared Heaters Is Absolutely Safe for Our Health

Our skin has already been pre-conditioned to absorb infrared radiation. This is because infrared rays are also emitted by the sun.

The electromagnetic spectrum, or electromagnetic waves, are all emitted by the sun. Because infrared waves are one of them, the sun produces them in modest amounts. Our bodies are built in such a way that the moisture in our skin receives and absorbs these radiations, giving us a warm feeling.

Infrared heaters used in homes and businesses are rigorously tested to meet a variety of European Harmonizing Standards, and they should all have a CE sticker to show that they have passed the tests.

The European Union directive ‘The Restriction of Hazardous Substances Directive’ prohibits the use of certain hazardous elements in electrical and electronic products. It is also known as known as Directive 2002/95/EC.

This logo indicates that the inputs used to make the final product have been given special consideration. Some infrared manufacturers have this tag, while others do not, indicating a difference in manufacturing procedures.

The International Commission for Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) has undertaken numerous studies on the health impacts of various types of infra-red, and it is a resource that national bodies like the UK Health and Safety Executive use when establishing safe working conditions. The ICNIRP believes that the “contribution made by the IR-C spectral range 3-1000 is typically of no practical consequence from a health hazard standpoint” for known artificial far infrared sources.

Varying heaters will have different surface ingress protection or IP ratings, indicating that they should be protected against solid and liquid entry. An IP65-rated panel, for example, will be completely protected from dust infiltration as well as low-pressure water sprays from any direction.

It’s always a good idea to ask the manufacturer what kind of testing their items have through and any safety certificates that come with them to ensure they’re offering high-quality, well-tested products.

Infrared Heating Panels Have Several Advantages

As an infrared heater heats walls directly and keeps them dry, it prevents mould from growing on them as well.

Mould is frequently spread due to damp, chilly walls. Mould can cause a variety of health problems. Headaches, respiratory disease, mucous membrane and throat discomfort, joint difficulties, gastrointestinal problems, eczema, and laxity are among them. These symptoms can be persistent if you are exposed to mould for a long time.

The humidity in the space stays since infrared heating panels do not heat the air. Dry winter air dries down mucous membranes, making us more vulnerable to viruses and germs.

Isn’t it true that viruses can’t thrive in environments with at least 30-40% humidity? Dry, heated air can make you feel sluggish and fatigued, and it is frequently the source of headaches. Infrared heating panels are also more comfortable for contact lens wearers because the retina of the eye is not dried up.

We tend to air our homes less in the winter because it becomes cold quickly and takes a long time and a lot of energy to warm up again. You may ventilate rooms using infrared heating panels without worrying about the room being as cold as a refrigerator later. Because objects rather than air are heated, the majority of the heat will remain in the space.

Precautions to Take When Using Infrared Heaters

Keep your hands away from the heater. It can produce the same kind of damage as any other type of heater. Infrared heaters can cause burns if they are touched.

To avoid harm, place the heaters higher up so that no direct contact occurs.

Extensive contact and exposure from a short distance should be avoided. Infrared heaters can cause burns in the same way that extended exposure to sun rays can. Long-term exposure to any waves, not only infrared, can cause some damage.

Handle your heater with care and have it inspected for any leaks or other safety issues on a regular basis.

Is It Safe to Leave Infrared Heaters Unattended?

A new infrared heater is safe to be on for long periods if you follow the above advice and buy a model with safety measures. A model with extra safety mechanisms in case the heater falls over or overheats might add another layer of protection. You can assist manage your heater effectively and safely by having an automatic shut-off, a timer, and an adjustable thermostat.

Additionally, make sure that your heater has been certified by one of the three most reputable testing companies (such as Underwriters Laboratory-UL). This guarantees that your unit complies with safety regulations.

Is It Safe to Leave Infrared Heaters on Overnight?

It is safe to leave infrared heaters on all night. They aren’t finicky, and mostly come with shut-off controls in case they overheat or fall over. Even then, however, if you’re leaving one on while you’re sleeping or are out, you should be cautious.

Infrared heating panels are designed to heat as efficiently as possible. However, they are not a therapy method; rather, they may have beneficial health impacts by removing the harmful effects of convection heaters. Their soothing warmth can help relieve symptoms, but they cannot cure them; you should see a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Heat Pump Source: Reliable Heating and Cooling Solutions

At Heat Pump Source, we take pride in our unwavering commitment to serving the UK with top-tier HVAC solutions. From the efficiency of heat pumps and the cool relief of air conditioning to the warmth of boilers, radiators, and underfloor heating, our dedicated team is always at the forefront of innovation. We understand the unique needs of every household and business, and we strive to provide dependable health and cooling products and services that are tailored just for you. Ensuring your comfort and satisfaction is our utmost priority. Whether you have questions, need guidance, or require support, we’re always here to assist. Please don’t hesitate to contact us; we’re eager to be of service.

Conclusion

Infrared heaters offer a promising, efficient and safe heating solution during cold seasons. Their ability to direct heat towards objects, rather than just warming the air, saves energy and minimizes potential health risks associated with traditional heaters. With rigorous testing and certification ensuring their safety and the added benefits of preventing mould growth and maintaining humidity, infrared heating panels emerge as a comfortable and health-conscious choice for indoor heating. However, it’s important to follow safety guidelines and choose certified models to enjoy this innovative heating technology’s benefits fully.