Today, thermal infrared panels are increasingly used for heating residential premises. They are highly efficient, practical, compact and attractive in appearance. The automation built into IR heaters allows you to easily control the operating parameters of the devices themselves. The main disadvantage of infrared heating is its dependence on expensive electricity. At the same time, it has many advantages, thanks to which it is gradually gaining immense popularity.
Construction of a house with infrared heating Source ultra-term.ru
What is infrared heating
With traditional space heating, warm air constantly moves upward. Therefore, the space under the ceiling always warms up more than above the floor. When using an infrared heating system, furniture, walls, ceilings, and flooring are first heated. They then release the accumulated heat to the environment. As a result, a uniform distribution of thermal energy throughout the room is achieved, and people in it feel as comfortable as possible.
IR heating is used as independent or auxiliary. In this case, it is possible to organize local heating of rooms, when heat is supplied only to certain zones. The latter is especially true for huge rooms with high ceilings. In addition, this type of heating allows for efficient heating of open areas, including street ones.
Infrared heaters provide the most economical electric heating Source autodela.ru
Rating of heaters for greenhouses
You can heat a greenhouse in different ways. When compiling the rating, our team studied the main options for heating rooms, from primitive and low-cost to technically complex and expensive. Each of them has its own advantages and disadvantages. Water heating, heat guns, electric panels and infrared emitters - all of the heating methods listed have their own characteristics, advantages and disadvantages.
Some are highly effective, but their implementation is associated with serious costs of labor and material resources, and they will pay for themselves only in reputable and profitable farms. Others do not require special material costs, can be installed within a few hours, but are ineffective and consume a significant amount of energy resources. Our task is to select inexpensive, effective and economical devices that do not require complex installation and the constant presence of the owner during operation, such as when using a potbelly stove.
When selecting nominees for the rating, our experts paid special attention to the following characteristics and functions of the devices:
- Model sizes. The heater should not clutter up the work space;
- Weight. Lightweight greenhouse structures will not withstand heavy equipment;
- Power. It should be enough to effectively heat the soil and plants;
- Cost-effective – The model must provide the desired effect with minimal costs;
- Autonomy. Preference was given to devices whose operation can be programmed to automatically maintain a set temperature in the room around the clock.
- Price. Nominees with the best price-quality ratio were selected;
- Safety. Models that meet all electrical safety requirements were selected.
A team of experts took part in compiling the rating, which included experienced gardeners who have been using heaters of various designs for many years, electricians with extensive experience, and sales consultants in specialized stores. Considering their competence and high level of professionalism, we can confidently recommend any of the seven nominees presented to customers.
Operating principle
Thermal radiation emanating from IR heaters is not absorbed by the air. It reaches directly objects and people, who then transfer heat to the environment. The high efficiency of infrared heating devices is due to the following: any surfaces in the house perfectly absorb infrared rays. Furniture, after sufficient heating, turns into a heat source.
The infrared heater contains an aluminum plate and a heating element, which heats it up to 250°C. After heating, the plate emits waves of the electromagnetic type. In this case, the device body does not reach a high temperature (maximum 80°C).
Infrared heaters are compact in size, easy to use, and demonstrate high operating efficiency Source eurosantehnik.ru
Important! During operation, infrared heating panels do not absorb oxygen at all. Therefore, they are excellent for creating a healthy microclimate in apartments, houses, offices, and industrial premises.
To ensure that the thermal energy generated inside the home remains in the rooms, infrared heating panels should not be directed at the ceiling, walls, or doors Source domsireni.ru
Principle of operation
The operating principle of solar panels is to generate electrical energy; they do not accumulate or generate it in any way. When the sun's rays directly hit their surface, they are immediately converted into current and removed from the panel.
Each plate can produce 250 W, so to improve the principle of operation they try to install them closer to each other. The current obtained as a result of photosynthesis flows through the distributor into the batteries, and then into the inverter of the power grid at home.
It should be noted that the volume of solar batteries affects the duration of daily operation of the batteries. The batteries are recharged throughout the day while the energy generated the previous day is used.
The operating principle is simple and at the same time effective thanks to the “semiconductor”. A semiconductor contains atoms that, thanks to an external electron, can capture or reflect other electrons. As a result, the surface of the solar cells is covered with this material. This “semiconductor” is Selenium and Silicon.
Types of devices
Based on their installation location, all infrared heating panels are divided into 3 groups: wall, ceiling, floor. The difference between them is only in the installation diagram and the presence of certain useful functions.
Wall mounted
Most often they are mounted in a niche under a window or at the bottom of the walls. They are made similar to existing central heating radiators. IR heaters differ from the latest ones only in the flat shape of their surfaces. In terms of efficiency, they are not at all inferior to other varieties of similar devices.
All wall heating panels contain a thermostat and systems that protect against possible overheating. Such devices are slightly heavier than floor-mounted and wall-mounted ones; they are installed for a long time, while immediately taking into account the design features of the room. Sometimes during the installation of devices all kinds of decorative elements are used: ornament, stucco, stone.
In most cases, household IR wall heaters emit waves with a length from 5.6 to 100 microns Source stroy-podskazka.ru
Ceiling
In appearance they often resemble lamps, but at the same time they are distinguished by their relatively large size and considerable weight. Ceiling heaters are not entirely suitable for installation in living rooms; they are more recommended for use in offices, garages, and industrial premises.
The main advantages of heaters that are mounted on the ceiling are high power, the presence of a thermostat, and large area coverage. The latter allows the use of ceiling heating panels for high-quality heating of large rooms. Such devices are controlled via a remote control, which is extremely convenient for users.
Ceiling infrared heaters are most often used in rooms with a large area, they differ in overall dimensions and considerable weight Source twoidvor.com
Difficulties in choosing thermal panels
Like any other material, thermal panels can vary significantly in quality. This depends, first of all, on the components used by the manufacturer and the manufacturability of the manufacturing process. Let's try to give some advice to those who have decided to acquire similar “clothes” for their home:
Tip #1. The manufacturer of the material is very important. Today, the market offers products from many companies, including Russian ones. Which one should you give your preference?
Traditionally, European companies are the market leaders in this segment. They have a complete production process, including all stages - from raw materials to the finished product. In Europe they monitor quality jealously, since the standards of the European Union are modern and more demanding than ours.
You can find a wide variety of facade thermal panels on the market
Almost all manufacturers from Russia, in fact, are not engaged in this very production. The fact is that these companies purchase all the elements abroad, and at their own facilities they only carry out gluing. Actually, they are responsible for it. If there is a defect, it will be almost impossible to make a claim against such a manufacturer.
However, in fairness it should be said that there are reputable companies that work according to all international standards, and there are no complaints about the quality of the goods they produce. These include: Termozit, Plitprom, Regent, Forland, Forska, Ermak.
Ready-made facade thermal panels with yellow clinker tiles
The products of the company Unique Multi Block stand out . This manufacturer does not assemble. All stages of production take place in Russia. The thermal panels produced are of very high quality.
Tip #2. If you decide to buy polystyrene foam panels, then carefully inspect the material - it should not crumble. The seams between the front elements should be even, and the insulation granules should not come out too much, as this will significantly complicate jointing.
High-quality thermal panels
Tip #3. Try not to buy panels with plastic as cladding, as it does not initially look attractive, and over time it can fade in the sun. The optimal solution in terms of price, appearance, quality would be panels with ceramics and artificial stone.
The front part of the thermal panels is made of polymer materials - it doesn’t look very attractive, but the price is low
Advantages and disadvantages
Like any other, infrared heating system has advantages and disadvantages. Its positive aspects include the following:
- the room can be heated to 50°C;
- when operating IR heating panels, normal humidity and optimal temperature conditions are ensured;
- during operation of infrared devices, no convection air currents are formed, therefore there is no dust in the house;
- the presence of a thermostat allows you to maintain a certain temperature indoors and save energy;
- infrared heating panels can be placed both on the ceiling surface and on the walls;
- IR devices minimize the temperature difference at the ceiling and at floor level;
- due to the slight inertia of the infrared system, heating of the room begins immediately after it is turned on;
- long service life - 50 years;
- environmental Safety.
Voltage drops in the network are not critical for infrared panels, therefore they are considered quite reliable Source s.06153.com.ua
Conclusion
A heating system based on infrared thermal panels is the optimal solution for all types of health centers. This is the additional value that can be offered to the customer, lower installation and heating costs, better and healthier well-being. Long infrared waves help improve the circulatory system, strengthen the immune system, have a positive effect on rheumatoid arthritis, increase the stretch of collagen tissue, reduce joint stiffness and reduce muscle spasms.
How to choose the right one
Before purchasing equipment for installing infrared heating, you should decide for what purpose it is planned to be used. If the selected model will serve as the main heating source, it is extremely important to pay attention to its power. It must be at least 100 W/m2. If the ceiling height in the room is more than 3.5 m, then you should focus on the minimum value of 120 W/m2.
Other factors influencing the choice of an infrared heating device:
- Features of the walls of the premises: type, presence of insulating material.
- Glazing quality. The type of windows installed and the presence of energy-saving glass in window structures are important.
- Ceiling characteristics. The current state of the ceiling is considered. It also matters what is located on top: another apartment or a roof.
The listed factors greatly influence the heat loss in the room, and therefore the calculation of the power of the future IR heater.
Before purchasing an infrared heater, you should calculate its power by first measuring the area of the room and the height of the ceiling Source stroy-podskazka.ru
Best options
7th place. STN 500 W
The STN 500 W IR heater opens our list of the best panel-shaped heating devices. The first thing worth noting about this model is that there are two options for its installation. This heater can be placed both on the wall and on the floor, and in the latter case you can put the panel on the wheels that come with it.
This model can easily heat small (up to 10 m2) rooms in a house, apartment or office.
This model also has one feature, which is a double heating method. In addition to the infrared spectrum, it can work as a convector.
Pros:
- optimal heating;
- does not dehumidify the air in the room;
- energy efficient;
- protection from moisture and overheating;
- certification was carried out in the Russian Federation and the EU;
- quality guarantee up to 5 years.
Minuses:
- oil radiators, which are not much inferior to it, are cheaper.
STN 500 W
6th place. BISON IKO-K3-1000
In sixth place in our rating is a domestic model from the ZUBR company called IKO-K3-1000. The presence of a heating element in its design and a power of 1000 W loudly declare the advantages of this model.
The reliability and durability of domestic devices is a separate matter. The very name of the ZUBR company already indicates that the device will serve you faithfully for a very long time. The 5-year warranty is a clear confirmation of this.
The combination of aluminum and other metals with an anodized coating is another secret to the good heating of rooms with this heater.
Remember! The thermostat is not included in the package. It must be purchased separately.
Mounting to the ceiling is easy and quick, and even an inexperienced person can handle it.
Pros:
- high-quality case;
- high power;
- ease of operation;
- energy efficiency;
- does not create noise during operation.
Minuses:
- The thermostat and power cord must be taken separately.
BISON IKO-K3-1000
5th place. Almac IK11
Do you need an IR heater, but not a simple one, but a specific color? Then you should pay attention to the fifth place in our rating - the Almac IK11 model, which is characterized by the presence of five shade options for everyone who cares about design.
In addition, this IR heater weighs little and is small in size. And at the same time, it has a power of 1000 W, which is surprising for such a small device.
Installation can only be done on the ceiling using suspended mounts.
Almac IK11, interestingly, cannot fully operate without an external thermostat, because it is not included in the kit. But there are simple and clear instructions that will explain how to connect it to this IR heater.
Pros:
- rich color range;
- easy installation;
- does not dry out the air;
- good room heating.
Minuses:
- dependence on an external thermostat;
- noisy heating element.
Almac IK11
4th place. Hyundai H-HC2-30-UI692
In fourth place in our rating is a model known for its reliability from the well-known Hyundai company - H-HC2-30-UI692. Its main advantage is considered to be a two-variant arrangement - installation is possible both on the wall and on the ceiling.
The declared power of this heater, in comparison with previous models, is simply amazing - 3000 W fit into a fairly thin body, at which the air is 30 square meters. m. room heats up quickly, and the room or small office will always be warm.
Pros:
- does not dry out the air;
- keeps a large area warm;
- high power;
- no burning smell;
- silent operation;
- two mounting options.
Minuses:
- high price;
- heavy device;
- no thermostat included.
Hyundai H-HC2-30-UI692
3rd place. Wester IH-2000
The bronze medalist of our rating is the Wester IH-2000 model. Its power is 2000 W, which is enough to heat a room of 20 square meters. m. fits perfectly.
Mounting on the ceiling allows you to keep the room warm without taking up space. Another advantage of this panel is the ability to hide all wires and communications, exposing only the IR panel itself. The mounts themselves allow you to withstand the heavy weight of the device.
The absence of rotating elements allows for virtually silent operation and low electricity consumption, which also adds advantages in the eyes of a potential buyer.
Pros:
- ceiling mounting;
- stylish design;
- rapid heating of the room;
- ease of use;
- affordable price;
- energy efficiency at a high level.
Minuses:
- additional installation work will still be required;
- small number of power settings.
Wester IH-2000
2nd place. Ballu BIH-S2-0.3
The IR panel from Ballu takes the silver place in our top. BIH-S2-0.3 is considered the smallest IR heater, which imposed restrictions on the power of the device - 300 W, which is enough to heat small rooms.
The ceiling mounting form with protection from dust and moisture allows you to think about connecting the device in small rooms and offices. Thermal insulating material provides good heating of the premises. And the ability to install several of these heaters at a time improves the quality of heating.
Pros:
- versatility and compactness in design;
- easy installation;
- does not make noise during operation;
- like a “warm floor”, only the installation is on the ceiling.
Minuses:
- heats only small rooms;
- It's easy to get the case dirty.
Ballu BIH-S2-0.3
Installation features
The installation procedure for infrared heating panels is not complicated: just follow the instructions in the instructions. It can be found on the website of the manufacturer of the purchased equipment. After completing the installation work, you only need to plug in the device into the electrical network.
IR heaters are mounted on walls and ceilings. When choosing a ceiling device, you should consider the following recommendations:
- It is important to prepare suitable fasteners: they must be strong in order to reliably hold the weight of the device being installed.
- The heater is fixed using the fasteners that come with it. Often these are steel chains and rigid brackets.
- During the installation process, it is necessary to prevent contact of the heating surface with flammable substances and materials.
- Using a special tape, it is important to insulate the electrical wiring contacts.