The infrared ceiling heater allows you to raise the air temperature in the room faster than when using convector analogues. During the operation of such devices, energy for heating is spent more economically. As a result, the cost of utilities in winter in a private house and other facilities is significantly reduced.
Content
How it works?
The IR device is simple in design. It consists of a heating element (heater), a radiating plate (emitter), heat-insulating material with a reflector layer. Due to this, the intensity of heat transfer to the room increases when the heating element is heated. The body of the electric ceiling infrared heater is mounted on a horizontal surface using brackets.Devices are often equipped with thermostats, which allows you to control the air temperature.
The principle of operation of such a technique is based on the ability to emit radiation waves in different ranges (0.75-100 microns). This happens when the device is connected to a power source. As a result, the temperature of the heating element increases. Infrared radiation hits the surfaces of objects that are in the room. At the same time, they heat up.
However, at the initial stage of operation of the device, the air temperature does not change. This means that infrared radiation does not contribute directly to environmental parameters. This happens only as a result of indirect influence, when the surfaces heated by the IR device begin to release the received heat into the air.
The advantage of devices of this type is the ability to maintain a comfortable ambient temperature for a long period without the need to restart. This is due to the fact that surfaces made of different materials (metal, plastic, wood, laminate, etc.) cool down slowly, continuing to give off heat to the air.
For comparison, the classic convection model of the device heats the air. At the same time, it quickly becomes necessary to reheat the room. The intervals between turning on the IR device are much longer, which saves energy. This technique is safe for humans, because it is the best infrared source in the most comfortable range: from 5.6 to 100 microns.
Industrial ceiling devices are characterized by long-range action.The height of the suspension in this case is much higher (3-12 m), so radiation in a different range (0.75-2.5 microns) will not harm a person. It is impossible to place such devices closer to the floor.
IR devices also have disadvantages, for example, average efficiency, low power, which does not allow using them instead of a heating system. For heating a private house, IR devices may only be used as an auxiliary measure. In addition, prolonged exposure to infrared radiation can cause discomfort, dryness of the outer integument.
Differences between different classes of heaters
Devices of this group are divided into 3 classes. They differ in wavelength, the efficiency of heating the room:
- shortwave - the fastest models, the heating element is able to warm up to + 1000 ° C, these devices are designed for operation on large areas, heating when installing such equipment to a minimum height can lead to a dangerous situation;
- medium-wave: the heating element warms up to +600 ° С, the models of this group are optimal for residential, office premises, they are recommended to be located at a height of 3-6 m, such models are also suitable for Armstrong ceilings;
- long-wave - devices of a low price category, have an average level of efficiency, are suitable for rooms up to 3 m high, the heating temperature of the heating element can be + 100 ... + 600 ° С.
Ceiling infrared heaters of the new generation are presented in a wide range, which allows you to choose the right model for performance, heating speed, installation height.As a result, the device will function without overheating the surface, but at the same time providing comfortable conditions for staying indoors.
The choice of the power of the infrared heater
IR devices should be purchased with basic parameters in mind. Power is determined by the ratio of 100 W per 1 m². However, there are some exceptions. So, if the room is not used for a long period, it is not heated, then a device with a power margin (15-20% more than the recommended value) should be selected for heating it.
Medium- and long-wave devices are considered more efficient. Despite this, to warm up a room up to 15 m², you will need 2 devices with a power of 1.5 kW each. If the heating system is not used or not provided for by the project, there should be more heaters in the room, which will lead to an increase in electricity consumption.
Influence of the design of the device on the characteristics of heating
It is recommended to take into account the angle of scattering of IR radiation. You should imagine a conditional triangle within which infrared rays propagate from the body of the device. Its approximate dimensions, and at the same time the angle of coverage of the area of the room, are determined based on the configuration of the emitter, the front screen. Possible options:
- 90 ° - such models are equipped with a curved reflector (semicircular), flat screen;
- 90-120 ° - devices with a semicircular screen, they, on the contrary, are equipped with a flat reflector;
- 120° - models with a tubular emitter.
The coverage angle determines what area the device will heat.Based on this parameter, you can determine the location of IR devices, which will ensure the highest efficiency of their operation.
Characteristics of heaters depending on the thermal element
Devices are divided into groups depending on the type of heating element:
- ceramic: characterized by a low heating rate of the emitter, however, such models give off heat for a longer period;
- halogen lamps: they emit visible light, are inconvenient to use, can create a dangerous situation, because this type of heater is very hot;
- carbon spiral in a vacuum environment of a closed space in the form of a tube - the most common model, does not last long (2 years), emits visible light, contributes to eye fatigue, discomfort;
- advanced ceramic tube-shaped heaters are the most efficient, but still come at a high price.
Rating of ceiling infrared heaters
When choosing, one should take into account not only the main parameters, but also the reliability of the product. The best infrared heaters are produced by UFO, Almac, Thermal, Zilon and some other manufacturers:
- Almak 11R consumes 1000 W, heats an area of no more than 22 m² (in the warm season) and up to 11 m² in winter. Installation height - up to 3.5 m. The device can be used in rooms for various purposes. Price - 3500 rubles.
- Thermal P-0.5 kW. From the designation you can find out the power. This model has the shape of a square, designed for installation in Armstrong type ceilings. Price - 2200 rubles.
- Zilon IR-0.8SN2 consumes 800W. This model is designed for rooms up to 10 m². You can buy it for 2500 rubles.
Before buying, you should pay attention to the installation method and dimensions of the IR heater. For Armstrong ceilings, a technique with a special mount has been developed. It has a different body shape. It is recommended to select such models also by weight, which will allow the ceiling frame to hold the device without deforming.
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