Ceiling heating: are infrared lamps safe?

You may have never considered heating your outdoor space, but infrared ceiling lamps are more popular than you might think. Yet, you never really notice them because they are discreet yet incredibly effective. Ceiling heating is a type of heating that works by placing infrared heaters on an area of ​​the ceiling and they radiate heat into the room. The benefit is that they don’t take up valuable space, are unobtrusive, and can be very effective when used correctly.

How infrared works

Infrared lamps produce heat powered by electricity. Radiant heating means that heat is transferred by electromagnetic waves causing particles in solid objects such as people, furniture, walls and floors to produce heat on their own. This heat is then put back into space by these objects.

Radiant heating has been around for a long time, but it has recently become increasingly popular as consumers see how energy efficient this technology is. Hence, you are likely to hear a lot more about radiant heating such as infrared heating as it continues to grow in popularity in both domestic and commercial settings. Their main advantages are:

• 100% energy efficiency
• Discreet appearance with aesthetic design
• Provide uniform temperature from ceiling to floor
• Can only be zoned for use in occupied areas
• Provide the same thermal comfort with a lower air temperature
• Easy installation and no maintenance
• Absence of noise, dust and odours
• Non-drying

Technical features

Since radiant heating doesn’t work by convection, it doesn’t heat the air in the room but works much like the sun. It transmits a type of electromagnetic wave that is invisible to the human eye, but which we can perceive as heat that is perceived by both you and objects within its range. Like furniture, walls and floors, which in turn absorb heat and slowly release it. This is the same way the sun produces heat. On a cold, crisp day you will feel a nice warm glow on your face when you stand in the sun. Even if the air temperature around you is cool, the sun transmits infrared heat.

So radiant heating is different in that it doesn’t heat the air and therefore is much more energy efficient at converting electricity into heat. It can be controlled individually per room directly from your smartphone or remote control. So you only use them in rooms that are in use and there is no wasted energy. They work like a simple light switch and because they are relatively quick to heat up, there is no need to pre-heat rooms beforehand.

This system does not require the use of forced air, so there is no airflow from the heater. No draft or dust circulation and the air quality is better than with convection heating. With no vents or fans, you don’t need filters and therefore maintenance is unnecessary. It also does not produce condensation and can help with humidity and prevent mold growth. For this reason, infrared ceiling heaters are also ideal for poorly insulated or outdoor areas such as terraces and gardens in hotels, restaurants, bars, etc.

Am I a safe solution?

Infrared technology has become popular in recent years for heating small spaces quickly and only for the duration of its use. They are widely used in outdoor bars and restaurants to provide a source of heat above the outdoor tables. This technology should not be confused with UV light which is the other side of the light spectrum and is harmful.

Also, infrared lamps are hot to the touch when turned on; therefore, it is recommended to place them at a height out of the reach of children and the elderly. This is why an in-ceiling installation can be a safer option.

Where to place an infrared lamp

Infrared radiation travels from the infrared bulb at a 45 degree angle; therefore, placing the heater as centered on the area of ​​interest as possible is the key to maximum performance. Placing it too close to a wall or corner will lead to too much heat being directed to an unnecessary area and wasted. Placing it too close to the floor or even too far away if you have high ceilings will lead to not getting the best results.

With infrared heating systems becoming more and more modern in their approach to creating a heating system that blends seamlessly with your home’s decor, ceiling heating can also come in the form of stylish infrared lamps that provide heating and interior design features. For more industrial or retail environments, our AURA infrared lamp is an innovative infrared heater that can be wall or ceiling mounted. Heating is an important part of your home as it is one of the most expensive aspects and because it is essential for your comfort and well-being. It is worth investing in all the options and finding the heating system that is right for you.