Infrared heating panel: types, their characteristics, reviews

The arrival of new technologies in the production of heating equipment has made it possible to increase the efficiency of instruments and to facilitate the means for their management. The principle of infrared radiation requires the connection of the same powers as for conventional convectors, but its productivity in terms of heat distribution is much higher. Other characteristics of such units are also advantageous. In particular, the infrared panel is characterized by its compact dimensions and the availability of modern automation to monitor operating parameters.

Infrared heater device

The working base of the device is made up of heating elements with a ground wire. There are several types of this device. So, the most powerful are the carbon elements, made on the basis of carbon-hydrogen fibers encased in sealed tubes. Classic tubular heaters do a good job of maintaining a given temperature regime and at the same time are reliable. In the market you can also find ceramic infrared panels, whose advantages include a simple design and quick warm-up. True, it is not worth counting on high power when operating such a model - it will suit, rather, for servicing a small room.

The outer part of the unit is represented by metal panels, which radiate the heat transmitted by it from the heating element. Usually aluminum batteries are used as such accumulators. Also, the infrared panel has a protective casing, which is usually made of steel coated with a heat-resistant paint layer.

Classification of panels by type of fastening

Infrared devices do not require the use of massive components in the design, which expands the possibilities for developing a wide variety of configurations. In particular, manufacturers produce ceiling, wall, suspended and even plinth models. Direct fixation is most often realized with the help of brackets. Hinged devices can be integrated into popular ceiling systems with metal profiles. Also common is a mobile infrared panel, which does not require special installation operations. In its design, wheels and convenient transport devices are provided. During operation, the user can put such a heater anywhere in the house, while observing the fire safety measures.

Classification by heating temperature

The second most important feature of separating infrared heaters is the maximum possible radiation temperature. The initial level is represented by low-temperature aggregates capable of operating in the average operating range from 100 to 500 ° C. Next are medium-temperature instruments that expand this spectrum to 1000 ° C. The most powerful carbon models can provide heating with an index of more than 1000 ° C. We can say that these are full-fledged infrared heating panels, which can replace the basic heating equipment. As a rule, 100-120 ° С is enough for thermal maintenance of residential and office premises. Higher requirements already apply to production facilities, halls and other large areas.

Main characteristics

As with other climate equipment, the performance of infrared panels determines the power. In models designed for household use, this indicator on average varies from 500 to 800 watts. Actually, from this value depends the ability of the heater to cope with its tasks in the premises of a certain area. An entry-level unit with a capacity of 500 W, for example, can fully service a room up to 10 m ² . If the infrared panel is purchased with the expectation of additional heating, then it can be installed in rooms of about 15 m2. Also, the equipment has different characteristics in size and weight. Weight in the case of the simplest modifications rarely exceeds 5 kg, and in the productive models it reaches 10 kg.

Management and Opportunity

To control the temperature regime, most models are supplied with thermostats, by means of which the user can set the heating parameters. Developers also provide thermal switches to protect equipment from overloads. These devices automatically turn off the device when there are strong signs of overheating. In addition, the security is provided by an external insulator that protects the surfaces close to the shell from thermal contacts. To detect and quickly troubleshoot infrared heaters-panels are also equipped with a light indication. A feature of such equipment is the possibility of operation on the street. For this, the latest models use anti-icing systems, which makes it possible to heat verandas and hothouse facilities even in cold weather conditions.

Reviews about infrared panels

For the most part, users of such heaters leave positive feedback. This is primarily due to the efficiency of the main function, as well as energy-saving qualities. In addition, the owners point to ergonomic advantages. The segment of compact heaters today is almost complete without the introduction of automatic control systems for functions, but in this case, intelligent systems are increasingly being implemented. And this is not to mention the security systems that are supplied with infrared panels. The reviews also note the pleasant appearance of the devices. For manufacturers, the tasks of ennobling unsightly structures have long been unavailable. Designers initially strive to create on the basis of hulls, almost complete interior decorations.

Conclusion

Panels working on the principle of infrared radiation, in many aspects of operation, outstripped their competitors. Suffice it to note the compactness, performance, safety and availability of effective management tools. However, in terms of affordability, infrared heating panels are by far not the best solution. Even in the category of budgetary models, there are rarely devices worth less than 2 thousand rubles. Of course, such units can only be used in small rooms and only as an additional source of heat. Qualitative and powerful modifications from eminent manufacturers of climate equipment cost around 5-7 thousand rubles.