Nowadays, infrared heating is a relatively new solution that is widely installed in modern housing. A traditional heating system warms the air while infrared heaters heat the objects or people in a room, just like how we experience heat from natural sunlight.
Not only does this produce more comfortable, even heat, but it also provides improved circulation and helps fight allergens in the air. Infrared heating is also eco-friendly in that it reduces the carbon footprint and energy use of homeowners. In this post we will delve into what infrared heating is and where it is best used in your home.
What is infrared heating and how does it work?
Infrared heating is a technology that uses infrared energy to heat people and objects directly, unlike traditional heaters, which first raise the temperature of the air around them, which in turn warms people. As the sun’s rays heat us with energy and warmth, this material-soaking infrared wave penetrates anything, such as furniture or your body, heating from within.
With this method, the whole room is warmed up at once and uniformly without any drafts or hot-cold spots, as you will experience with regular heating. These heating devices are commonly sold in the form of panels, which can be mounted against walls/ceilings thus making them even more modern-looking and saving lots of space.
Health benefits of infrared heating
There are many health benefits that come with infrared heating, including the following:
Improved circulation and joint health
It helps to improve blood circulation by directly working on the skin and heating the body from the core. As a result, it expands blood vessels, increasing blood flow and decreasing tension in muscles and joints. Individuals with conditions such as arthritis or other types of chronic pain may be able to achieve relief from infrared heat by reducing their stiffness and becoming more mobile.
The deep, healing warmth can also help speed recovery from exercise or injury, making it a great solution for those who want to improve their health and well-being without leaving home.
Reduced allergens and improved air quality
Infrared heat does not rely on circulating air like conventional heating systems, so it does not stir up dust, allergens, or other particles in the air. Therefore, it is perfect for those with allergies, asthma, or any respiratory problems.
The fact that it does not use forced air mobility means it contributes to fresher indoor air for you and your family. On top of that, it helps to keep your humidity levels more even and can prevent your skin and nasal passages from drying out the way traditional heaters do.
Strengthened immune system
Infrared heating provides a sunlight-like heat that boosts immunity. It has long been known that natural sunlight helps to enhance immune function. This mild heat exposure can raise the core temperature, enhance the production of white blood cells and allow your body to fight infections more efficiently.
It additionally stimulates sweat production, which is a detoxification response of the body to be rid of toxins. Long-term, daily exposure to infrared heat can help people live healthier lives making it a valuable addition in any home.
Energy efficiency and cost-effectiveness
Infrared heating is more energy-efficient and affordable than traditional electric heaters. It mainly works by warming people and objects through infrared waves rather than wasting energy warming the air. This targeted method of heating cuts down on heat loss, which is especially useful for areas where insulation isn’t up to the mark or rooms where drafts are common.
Infrared heaters also work practically instantaneously and thus use less energy to achieve the targeted temperature, which could potentially result in lower power bills. Moreover, their uniform spreading of heat can discourage wasting energy by not adjusting the temperature regularly. Infrared heating systems save you money in the long run by having few moving parts and little maintenance, making them an eco-friendly and budget-conscious move for your household.
Ideal uses in the home
Where are the best spaces to use infrared heating? Here are three of the top options:
Living rooms and family spaces
Infrared heating works well in living rooms and family areas where a homey ambience is key. These heaters emit a soft, even heat that improves the ambience but doesn’t leave the spaces feeling dry like traditional systems do. The design is aesthetically appealing, making it one of the first things that homeowners might notice as they don’t take up much space on the walls and ceiling.
As infrared heaters do not circulate dust or allergens these spaces can remain comfortable for people with allergy or respiratory issues. This warmth creates a very cosy atmosphere, so infrared heating is an ideal choice for when the family gets together or you want to relax.
Bathrooms and wellness areas
For bathrooms and wellness areas such as spas and saunas, infrared heating can be beneficial. It is perfect for fast-heating areas where temperatures drop considerably during colder months. Infrared heaters can be built into the floor or installed as wall-mounted units to make sure you are nice and warm when you bathe or relax.
Plus, the comforting heat can help foster relaxation in the shower or tub, helping muscles relax and relieve stress. The experience carries several benefits, including but not limited to improving your bath and potentially increasing the overall wellness of a home by allowing for stay-at-home spa days.
Home offices and workspaces
Infrared heating is also ideal for home offices and workspaces; it can help you keep a comfortable atmosphere where you can work efficiently. These heaters warm people and objects, not the air, which helps eliminate cold drafts you can feel with traditional setups. Instead, this directed heat keeps a gentle room temperature that allows people to remain on task without disrupting their tight schedules by cold stress.
Because infrared systems are energy efficient but still able to deliver heat quicker than other options, they can be a great choice for those who work from home and can lower heating costs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, infrared heating offers a healthier, greener, and more efficient way to heat your home, enhancing comfort while reducing energy costs. With its numerous health benefits and versatility for various living spaces, it’s an ideal choice for modern households.
If you’re considering switching to infrared heating and you are based in Scotland, Scottish Energy Saving can help. Our expert team specialises in the installation of infrared heating systems and panels, ensuring you enjoy the full benefits of this innovative technology. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation energy assessment.