What is infrared heating
Infrared (IR) heating works differently than the more conventional convector heating. From the emitted waves, objects are heated - walls, floors, ceilings, furniture - and the air in the room is already heated from them. A person who is in a room heated by infrared radiation is enveloped in warmth from all sides, and from the side of the floor too. For this reason, the level of comfortable temperature decreases by a couple of degrees, which means that under the same conditions, heating costs will be lower.
The difference between traditional types of heating and infrared
Nevertheless, miracles do not happen and only the heating of the house will be economical, in which heat losses are minimized. Under such conditions, of course, all costs for heating will be less, including for any electric one. But with IR heating, the temperature really needs to be lower. The second reason for savings is the presence of a thermostat. If it is present, the heaters operate for a short period of time when the room temperature drops below the set one. Otherwise, the heaters are on all the time, the room is hot, you have to open the windows, and the electricity bills are high (to put it mildly).
You can use infrared heating as the main one, or as an additional one to create more comfortable conditions in a particular place - near the desktop, in a recreation area, etc.
Principle of operation
The principle of operation of solar panels is the formation of electrical energy, they do not accumulate and do not form it. When the rays of the sun directly hit their surface, they are immediately converted into current and removed from the panel.
Each plate can produce 250 watts, so they try to install them closer to each other to improve the principle of operation. The current obtained as a result of photosynthesis, through the distributor, enters 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 the daily operation of the batteries. Recharging the batteries takes place during the day, while the energy generated on the previous day is used.
The principle of operation is simple, and at the same time effective thanks to the "semiconductor". A semiconductor contains atoms that, due to an external electron, can capture or reflect other electrons. As a result, the surface of solar cells is covered with this material. These "semiconductors" are Selenium and Silicon.
Advantages and disadvantages of solar heating system
The advantages of a solar heating system are not so many, but each of them becomes a reason for constant experimentation:
- environmental Safety. This is an environmentally friendly source that is safe for residents and the environment and does not require the use of standard fuels;
- offline work. The owners of such systems do not depend on the cost of energy carriers and on the economic situation in the country;
- economical consumption. While maintaining the standard heating system, you can reduce the cost of paying for hot water supply;
- availability. To install solar panels for home heating, you do not need to go to authorities and ask for permission.
Users also highlight cons:
- high cost of juice equipment, which is necessary to put the system into operation;
- direct dependence of the volume of heat received on geographical location and weather;
- the presence of an additional source (solar system or gas boiler).
To get a better return, you need to constantly monitor the health of the collectors, clean them with debris and protect them from ice formation at low temperatures.
If the temperature is often below 0 degrees, then it is important to take care of additional thermal insulation not only of the parts of the solar system, but also at home.
Infrared heating panels
IR panels are becoming more widely used
Everyone is familiar with infrared radiation. After all, it is it that occupies a large part in the spectral radiation of the Sun. IR rays are invisible to the eye and occupy the region between the red end of the spectrum and microwave radio emission. A person can feel IR rays as heat. Every object emits IR waves, and the hotter it is, the shorter the waves.
The first infrared heaters appeared in Switzerland in the 60s of the last century, and thus the history of infrared heating has more than half a century. The principle of operation of a heating system with infrared emitters is very similar to the "work" of our luminary. The only difference is that IR emitters do not work from a thermonuclear reaction, but from an energy source. In addition, unlike the Sun, infrared heating devices may not have visible radiation or have a weak glow. This does not affect the quality of heating, since the heat transferred to the surfaces is the result of invisible radiation.
Reviews of numerous users about heating with infrared heaters are mostly positive. Perhaps the only significant drawback is the cost of electricity. However, in the long run, also as an alternative source of heat. such equipment is unrivaled. The prospects for installing infrared heaters for home heating are deservedly appreciated abroad. Quite often, outdoor cafes, verandas and terraces, all kinds of open areas in parks or on ship decks are heated with gas or electric infrared heaters. In our country, infrared heating equipment is not so popular, but gradually, with the development of technology, it is becoming more common. Consider such a variety of emitters as infrared panels.
Pros and cons of heating with infrared heaters
Like all inventions in the world, IR equipment has its advantages and disadvantages. The choice depends on the ratio between them and what quality of equipment is a priority for the consumer at the moment. We list the main features of heating with infrared heaters, perhaps this will help you make your choice:
- IR devices do not directly affect the air, which means they do not dry it and do not change the microclimate in the room;
- for the same reason, convection currents and drafts are not created, there is no transfer of dust particles;
- air is heated from all surfaces that the device acts on, and does not accumulate under the ceiling as with conventional heating;
- the system is completely fireproof, all devices have overload sensors and will turn off the system in case of an emergency;
- the compact dimensions of infrared radiation devices allow them to be installed even in small rooms, and often completely hidden under decorative wall, floor or ceiling coverings;
- the equipment is easy to install and connect even without special skills;
- all equipment has a sufficiently long service life, since there are no parts in it that would fail as a result of wear. And in the event of a breakdown, it is possible to replace an individual element or module;
- The infrared heating system can be fully automated, and each device is programmed for its own mode of operation;
- there is the possibility of local heating in a room of any size;
- complete environmental cleanliness: no noise, dust and emissions of combustion products;
- the cost of devices can be very different and depends on the specific model;
- operating costs depend on the choice of the operating mode of the equipment;
- IR equipment can be used in any premises, provided that the devices are correctly located.
The most optimistic expectations can be overshadowed by electricity bills. Therefore, before buying and installing infrared panels and heating heaters, read reviews, make calculations. This will help you find the best solution.
Interesting on the topic:
Device and types of infrared panels
Infrared heating wall panels
The heating element, or rather the heat emitter in each infrared heating source, is a special lamp. In principle, the well-known incandescent lamp is also a source of infrared radiation. After all, less than 10% of the energy is converted into light, and the rest (90%) is exactly infrared radiation. In modern infrared heating panels, different types of lamps can be used. Electricity is the most common source of energy, but gas can also be used. The reflective surface is another important component of an infrared radiator. It is a steel plate with a mirror polish, curved so as to focus the radiation of the lamp in a certain place. The radius of the emitter and the coverage area are the main characteristics when choosing equipment for heating.
The design of modern IR heaters can be different. More often these are minimalist wall panels with a strict geometric shape and small thickness or ceiling equipment. It should also be noted that the properties of the device depend on the shape of the reflecting element: the more voluminous and convex reflector, the greater the focus and coverage area.
IR heating as an alternative to traditional types of heating
Compared to infrared heating, convector. gas or solid fuel, occupy, perhaps, more leading positions in Russia. But this is only in terms of prevalence. This can be explained both by habit and insufficient information about this high-tech heating method. If we compare the efficiency, then infrared heating is the undoubted leader among other methods of heating a home. Moreover, IR equipment is superior to traditional heating devices (stoves, heating boilers, electric convectors, etc.) in several parameters at once:
- ease of installation;
- no noise;
- absence of combustion products;
- environmental cleanliness and many others.
Types of IR panels
Ceiling infrared panels
Heating with infrared radiation can look like quite traditional radiators. And an ignorant person will not notice the difference, especially if there is no visible radiation. However, the principle of heating is completely different. Infrared rays penetrate the air and directly heat objects: furniture, floors, walls, people. That is, all surfaces that are in the zone of action of the IR emitter serve as a source of radiation. Infrared heating radiators are usually located on the walls. Moreover, if you hide them behind decorative panels, this will not be an obstacle to radiation. Skirting systems are another type of infrared heating batteries. As the name implies, they are usually installed around the perimeter of a room or some selected zone at the junction of walls and floor.
Ceiling panels can be both external and hidden. The external ones are emitters of various sizes and shapes, the internal ones are modules that can be built into suspended ceiling systems instead of plasterboard or plastic boards.
In terms of power and impact area, infrared equipment also varies significantly.It is used not only for heating housing, but also for heating office, commercial and industrial premises, as well as all kinds of warehouses, hangars, boxes, etc. Moreover, in rooms with high ceilings, this is perhaps the most effective way to convey heat without loss from the source to the consumer. Reviews of those who have already installed infrared heating panels are the most favorable. They usually emphasize not only their versatility and environmental friendliness, but also the full automation of the system and the possibility of significant savings compared to other types of heating.
Types of infrared heating panels
According to the heating method, conventional and convection appliances are distinguished, which heat and distribute air around the room between the wall and the metal case. They are characterized by faster heating, due to which a comfortable temperature for a person is reached in a matter of minutes.
There are also devices with a thermostat, which allows you to set the desired temperature in the room. But this is not its only advantage. Thanks to the thermostat, it is possible to maintain the set temperature, while the appliance will turn on only when the temperature drops. This gives real savings in energy resources, since the panel does not work all the time, but turns on when necessary.
Infrared heating panels photo
If we talk about the design of the panels, then in addition to elegant white heaters in a minimalist style, manufacturers produce color models with several dozen shades. But that's not all. It is possible to order a picture panel with an exclusive design pattern, which will not only warm you up on a cold autumn evening, but will also become a bright accent in the room. Depending on the power of the device and the area of the room, 1-2 infrared heating panels are needed per room.
Infrared heating panels photo
What is better wall or ceiling panels
On sale you can find various types and sizes of such products, and on thematic forums about infrared heating panels, reviews often come across contradictory. Some buyers note the efficiency and simplicity of the device, while others say that they give little heat. What is the best choice to make?
Ceiling infrared heating panels are designed for rooms with a height of at least 2.5-3 m - in any case, it is desirable that at least 50 centimeters remain between them and the head of a person of average height. In a very small room, they may not be very comfortable, but they are a good option for large rooms that require only zone heating.
Ceiling panels radiate heat, which does not heat the air, but is transferred to objects, and the heat will be felt in different ways. The top of the room will be hotter, the bottom colder.
Wall panels will be a good addition in a large room that lacks heat from conventional heaters. They can be placed in several areas of the room for constant uniform heating, or they can be hung in only one area where you need the most heat.
For example, if you need additional heating for the bedroom, you can place such a panel near the bed. This will make it possible to enjoy warmth and comfort during a cozy evening, while the cost of additional heating will be small.
In any case, both options will be more effective than the usual convective heating. If you put ordinary batteries in the room, the air will constantly circulate around the room: it warms up from the radiator, rises, cools down, falls.
Because of this, the heated air is always at the top, and the floor will be cold. The installation of infrared panels will allow you to forget about this drawback, since the surfaces themselves warm up first of all, and then they give off heat to the home atmosphere.
Benefits of infrared heating
Modern heating methods are based on more advanced technologies, and therefore they have more advantages compared to traditional appliances. What are the advantages of infrared ceramic heaters?
Rapid heating of the room - 10-15 minutes is enough to heat the room.
Versatility. They can work as the main source of heat, or be used for local heating of individual zones (for example, you can heat only your workplace or a sleeping area with a bed).
To organize autonomous heating of a house or apartment with IR panels, permits are not required.
Fast installation. It takes only one day to install the panels in a standard two-room apartment.
Alternative. If you do not want to make holes in the walls, then install the panels on the legs.
Infrared heating panels photo
Simple control. Specify the temperature that is comfortable for you, and the device will take care of maintaining it constantly in the room.
Individual settings. It is possible to set your own optimal temperature in each room.
Temperature controller. Not only will it save money, but it will also prevent overheating of the air.
Doesn't dry out the air. Suitable for installation in rooms where children live, as well as people suffering from allergies and asthma. Infrared panel heater does not dry the air and does not burn oxygen and dust particles that provoke the release of toxic gases. Moreover, infrared radiation is even used in the treatment of asthma.
Heating with infrared panels photo
Safety. The outer side of the panel does not heat up and is not capable of causing burns when touched. The heating element is located inside the appliance, so it cannot cause discomfort if you accidentally touch the panel. Parents of small children can also be calm, who, having played out, will touch the “battery” more than once. Heating with infrared panels can be arranged not only in the living room and bedroom, but also in the children's room.
Profitability. According to manufacturers, new generation heating panels consume 30-50% less electricity than classic ones, with the same heat output. It also does not require the presence of additional devices (boiler), a separate room (boiler room) and a communication system (ventilation).
Long service life. The average life of an IR panel is 30 years, some manufacturers give a 50-year warranty.
Fire safety. The device does not contain components that may ignite or contribute to fire.
Unusual design. You can choose a picture-panel with a thematic image that matches the room - children for the nursery, exotic flowers for the living room, relaxing and peaceful pictures for the bedroom.
infrared panel heater photo
If you want to decorate your home in an unusual and original way, then infrared heating panels will help you with this. And low operating costs, along with high efficiency and a long period of operation, allow us to speak of them as one of the best heating devices.
Selection of panels and their installation in the apartment
The power of the panels for the house is selected at the rate of 1 kW per 20-25 cubic meters of space. Knowing the size of the room, it will be easy to calculate which panels will be required for it.
If heating radiators are already installed, and the panels will play a secondary role, it is necessary to reduce the power and choose the most compact equipment. The efficiency of such heaters reaches 90%: this means that they use electricity as efficiently as possible, so their installation will be much more efficient than installing conventional radiators or convectors.
Not only electricity can be used to heat the coolant in the system.Gas heating will be much cheaper, and if possible, you can consider connection options. The coolant will warm up in the exchanger, and then flow through the pipes to the panels, which will distribute soft heat throughout the room. However, this is a rather complicated option: it is much easier to equip a conventional system with a heating element.
Externally, the wall panel is a thin plate, it can have various sizes. You can purchase regular products, or you can order designer panels, whose outer surface will be decorated with bright multi-color patterns.
Such products can be placed in any part of the room, and they will look good in the interior. Having chosen a place for installing the panels, you can proceed directly to the installation:
A kit is purchased, which, in addition to the panel itself, includes a cable, a thermostat and a system of sensors that will allow you to monitor the temperature in the room. With their help, it will be possible to maintain a stable level of heating, which will be regulated without human intervention. At the same time, you can choose several panels that differ in power: thanks to the operation of the thermostat, they will be able to maintain optimal temperature conditions.
You need to determine the place for the panels. The best option is the walls between the windows: this will allow you to direct the warm flow into the room, and the radiation will provide uniform heating. You can hang them on the walls like paintings, or install them on the ceiling in accordance with the design project.
A set of sensors and a thermostat are installed in the room, the system is connected by a cable into a single unit and connected to the network. The cable can be tucked into a box and fixed to the wall to give the room a neat look.
Usually, installation takes a minimum of time; even a home master who has not previously worked with such systems can easily install such panels. Manufacturers supply products with detailed instructions describing the principle of operation of the system. It is possible to calculate at which point in the room it is constantly coldest, and that is where it will be appropriate to place a thermal infrared panel.
If self-installation causes difficulties, it is better not to take risks, but to seek the help of a specialist. In addition, it is desirable to protect the power grid from sudden voltage drops with the help of stabilizers. Infrared panels do not tolerate sharp rises and falls in the electrical system, so they can fail for a long time even with a single failure.
An important advantage of such panels is versatility. Equipment of the required power can be selected not only for a living room, but also for a production workshop, assembly hall, any other large room in which uniform heating can be ensured from all sides.
Due to the high energy efficiency, it will be possible to minimize heating costs and at the same time create the most comfortable indoor environment.
You need to enable JavaScript or update the player!
Quality of sales and prospects for the development of solar technologies
The modern market and its sales technologies do not leave the buyer with an unambiguous assessment. Especially high-tech equipment and devices. This also applies to the market for the sale of solar power supply systems. Since the production technologies themselves are very energy-intensive, if you want to purchase solar panels or buy a solar power plant for your home, the price in both cases will call for a detailed analysis not only of technical and technological features, but also on economic justifications.
Voltage stabilizers for the home: reviews. What is the best converter to choose
Main technical characteristics of devices. Survey of modern models. Connection and repair of rectifiers.
An important factor when buying FSE is the quality of sales services.If we understand the price of a product only as its check face value, then under the cost, we can agree to understand all types of overhead costs, the reliability of the seller and the product, as well as the time and moral strength within the framework of the article.
So, the cost of solar panels for a home or the cost of a set of solar power plants for a home of the same manufacturer from different sellers can vary significantly. The reason may be as follows:
- the seller does not carry out a preliminary engineering calculation. So you need to go somewhere else. And this time and transport;
- the seller does not carry out design work. You will have to spend money, use extra time and transport;
3D scheme of solar panels installation
some accessories are missing from the seller. You will again have to look for goods in another store, which may be more expensive and again require additional time and transport;
the seller simply does not have assembly teams for installing equipment. Time costs again;
the seller does not deal with logistics
This means that a situation is possible when everything will be assembled, but one important element will have to wait an unknown number of days. Etc.
Useful advice! Choose a reseller with a full package of services, from project assistance, quality equipment in the provision of professional installers to warranty service.
The future belongs to alternative energy sources
The rapid penetration into our lives of new technologies for the use of alternative sources of electricity and heat directs our choice to increasingly purchase solar power plants, solar collectors (heating stations), domestic wind and hydro stations, as well as use heat pumps and a variety of electric generators. So in recent years, considerable experience has been gained in the application of photovoltaic power supply systems in many areas of management. This applies to the use of solar panels and solar collectors in domestic conditions: in private homes and cottages.
The use of solar energy is the best solution for home and garden
In conclusion, we can say that the solar technology market currently offers a wide variety of equipment. And most importantly, given the acceptable cost of solar panels for the home, reviews of their high quality and long period of reliable operation, we can conclude that the use of this equipment is becoming more appropriate and allows you to participate in large-scale environmental projects and programs.
