Infrared panels: pros and cons of IR heating, types of wall-mounted devices, do-it-yourself installation rules

IR heaters today are stylish, fashionable, practical and efficient. This type of climate control equipment is extremely economical in terms of electricity consumption, and its design allows you to quickly start heating the room. In addition, the IR heater does not dry out the air.

The versatility of using this type of heater is another advantage that can be realized when installing it in any room. Today, IR heaters can be found in any form, which allows you to expand the choice for a potential buyer.

In this article we will tell and show IR panel heaters and which ones are best to choose.

TOP 7 IR heaters

Infrared radiation: nature and properties

Infrared radiation is included in the spectrum of electromagnetic radiation from the Sun. With the help of this part of the spectrum, heat is transferred directly to the earth, various objects and bodies, which in turn heat the air. It’s not for nothing that these rays are also called heat rays.

Solar radiation spectrum

But not only the Sun is a source of heat rays. As we have already said, any surface heated to a certain temperature emits infrared waves. The human body is no exception, the length of heat rays is approximately 10 microns (see Fig. 1). It is waves of this length that are the most favorable for humans; the human body perceives them as “its own.” Therefore, infrared rays have found successful use in therapeutic and preventive medicine. They help strengthen the immune system and contribute to the overall strengthening of all vital systems of the body. Under the influence of heat rays, blood circulation is stimulated, the supply of human body cells with necessary substances is improved, metabolism and regenerative processes are accelerated. This list can be continued for a very long time.

Information on infrared heating

Infrared thermal panels are direct heaters. The technology is based on the use of light waves from the region below the visible region of red light (long infrared waves IR-C*). This heat can be compared to the sun's rays. Infrared radiation is completely natural and safe. Moreover, it works well for consumers (used in maternity hospitals for many years). The most visible source of infrared heat wave is, of course, the Sun. Using room heating based on infrared heating panels, you bring a small solar home! The waves emitted by the panels reach the body without heating the air, creating a feeling of soothing warmth and comfort.

Infrared radiation waves are divided into three types: short wavelengths near visible light IR-A (>700°C), medium wavelengths IR-B (about 250–700°C) and long wavelengths IR-C (<250°C). A person is able to sense infrared heat waves when the temperature of a given object is above 22°C, but, of course, the higher the surface temperature, the greater the susceptibility of the heat wave.

How do electric infrared panels work?

We found out that infrared rays are carriers of heat, which is so necessary for the normal functioning of the human body. Now let's figure out how such panels help provide heat to the entire house.

An electric infrared panel is a ceramic plate containing a resistive heating element. When current passes through such an element, it heats up and the heat is transferred to the ceramic plate. But why ceramics?

Ceramic infrared panels in the interior

Firstly, it has a high heat capacity. On the one hand, this is a minus, since it takes from 10 to 20 minutes for the surface of the stove to heat up to operating temperature. On the other hand, this is a big plus, because such material promotes uniform heating of the entire surface of the device and better distribution of rays in the room. In addition, after turning off the power, the surface cools down to room temperature within another 30-40 minutes (which cannot be said about water heating radiators or other heating devices).

Secondly, ceramics are a good choice for aesthetic reasons. We will talk about the variety of types of panels below, but for now we will only say that their range will allow you to choose the most suitable model for your interior.

In addition to thermal radiation, ceramic panels provide 30% heating by convection. This is achieved thanks to the presence of a radiator grille on the panel. This design allows you to install the device under a window to form a “thermal barrier” from cold air moving from the glass.

And so, we learned how infrared panels work, and that they provide uniform heating of the room with heat beneficial to the human body. What about the economic benefits of such heating?

Heat pumps of two types

These designs are very popular. The device is considered the most efficient heating option because it is environmentally friendly. There is a type of heat pump called “mini-split”. It has an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units that supply both hot and cold air. There are two types of models on sale:

1. Air source heat pumps. These are structures that have devices that, even at -20 degrees, take heat from external air masses and distribute it throughout the house through installed air ducts.
2. Geothermal heat pumps. Devices with which you can use the energy of the soil. In the ground they are laid horizontally in rings at a depth of 1.5 meters, no less (freezing of the soil should be taken into account). Pumps can be installed vertically. For this purpose, wells are drilled to a depth of 200 m.

Although they run on electricity, the devices are energy efficient. Considering the costs, their efficiency is very high (1:3 for air, 1:4 for geothermal structures).

In addition, the units are environmentally friendly and absolutely safe. Another advantage of heat pumps is that they operate in reverse mode. They not only heat, but also cool the air. A geothermal device can be combined with a water heater, which will supply water up to +60 degrees.

Recommendations for installation

To install infrared heating panels, you do not need special knowledge or experience. The tools needed for installation are at the disposal of every owner. The documents for the device must contain step-by-step installation instructions. If you haven’t found it, go to the panel manufacturer’s website, there is definitely such information there.

Fastenings for panels are already included with them. If you have your own vision on this matter, you can choose the fasteners yourself. However, be sure to make sure that it can support the weight of the panel you choose to install.

Here are a few more nuances that it is better to know about in advance, that is, before installation begins:

• A larger percentage of manufactured panels are ceiling panels. Many of them are equipped with corner brackets, but not all. Therefore, pay attention to this point when purchasing. Swivel models are better because their working surface can rotate 30°.
• For rooms with high ceilings, models are produced that are suspended on chains. This allows you to control the radiation intensity and select the heated area.
• To calculate how powerful the heating system should be to warm the room with IR panels, proceed from the calculation - 1 kW per 10 m2.
• Mount the panels at the recommended mounting height, as most lower wattage panels heat the room more efficiently and evenly by eliminating blind spots and hot spots.

During installation, do not allow the heating surface to come into contact with flammable or flammable substances.

Ceiling infrared devices are supplied with a complete mounting kit. The package includes brackets, hooks and chains depending on the model

Take care of high-quality insulation of electrical wiring contacts when installing the device. Use plastic caps or electrical tape for this.

“Question-answer” section

On the topic of infrared panels, you can find a lot of identical questions on the Internet, which are the first thing that comes to a person who decides to install them at home. We have consolidated the most common of them and prepared a kind of TOP questionnaire with detailed answers.

— How long will IR panels last me?

— Their average service life is 25 years. Whether they will work for you more or less depends on the mode in which you operate them and whether you follow the care rules.

— What is sold complete with the IR panel? Are any other materials or components needed for its installation and operation?

— The standard configuration of the device includes the heater itself and a wire with a plug. For subsequent installation and connection, you also need electrical wires, a thermostat in the socket, if it is not structurally provided for, automatic switches, magnetic starters and possibly other automatic devices (depending on the characteristics of the heating system).

You will also need brackets, dowels, screws, and self-tapping screws for fastening, but in most cases they also come as a kit.

— Do panels from different manufacturers have different dimensions or are the standardized dimensions the same for all?

— The length may differ - 1 m and 1.5 m. The first is on models with a power of 0.6 kW, the second is for 1 and 1.3 kW. The width and thickness are the same for all devices - 16.5 cm and 4 cm, respectively.

— What acts as a heating element in the panel?

— It is a low-temperature heating element mounted in an aluminum plate, which acts as a radiator.

— How much does the ceiling IR panel weigh?

— It all depends on the power of the model. For configurations at 0.6 kW, the weight is 3.5 kg, for power 1 and 1.3 kW - 4.5 kg.

— My ceiling is covered with plastic. Will the panel light it up? Does it get very hot?

— Its body practically does not heat up, as it is thermally insulated. Therefore, installation is possible on surfaces made of any materials. You don't have to be afraid of fire.

Infrared heating devices can be mounted on any surface. They work well with any building and finishing materials without the risk of fire

— Is it possible to leave the plates turned on unattended?

— Yes, if they are equipped with a thermostat. If not, it is not recommended to leave it unattended for a long time to avoid overheating of the room.

— How many thermostats do you need?

— One thermostat per room.

— How much electricity is consumed with such heating? If a model with a power of 1 kW will it “wind up” 1 kW/hour?

— If you approach operation wisely, then, of course, no. The whole secret is that to maintain a comfortable temperature, it is enough for the panel to work for 20-30 minutes per hour.

It is not necessary to monitor the operation of an infrared heating panel equipped with a built-in thermostat or similar device in the outlet. It will turn off automatically when it reaches the temperature selected by the owner.

If you install a thermostat, the heater will not work constantly. It will turn on as needed. If the heating operates for 20-30 minutes per hour, electricity consumption will be from 1/3 to 1/2 of the device’s power.

Arguments for and against IR panels

Those who plan to install infrared heating panels at home naturally want to know not only about their advantages, but also about the points that may cause inconvenience. Therefore, below is an objective assessment of both the positive aspects and disadvantages of this heating method.

The following arguments in favor can be given in favor of infrared panels:

1. Impact resistance and increased strength. IR panels are not afraid of even shocks and falls. And all thanks to its shockproof body and heavy-duty materials.
2. Easy installation and simple operation. You just need to fix the panel on the wall or ceiling and plug it into a power outlet. This does not require any special knowledge, a welding machine, etc.
3. Low energy consumption. Firstly, there are no energy losses for heating the air. Secondly, IR radiation reduces the overall temperature of the space by 3-5 ºС, which allows saving energy up to 25%. That is, the air temperature is felt on average 5 degrees higher than the one shown by the thermometer when measured. And all because not only the air that is being measured heats up, but also the objects in the room and even the person himself.
4. Quiet operation. Such heaters will not “crack” or “gurgle”, which means they will not interfere with sleep and other vital processes.
5. Independence from power surges. Even if the voltage changes, this will not affect the operation of the heater.
6. Maintaining normal air humidity. IR thermal panels do not dry out the air, like other electric convectors, which make breathing difficult and dry out the mucous membranes. They do not allow air mixing (cold/warm), so dust caused by heated air masses does not rise.
7. Compact dimensions and lack of associated equipment. There is no need to install bulky pipelines, radiators, boilers.

Energy saving using monolithic quartz thermal electric heaters

You can save energy if, for example, you use quartz thermal electric heaters. Such efficient heating of a private home converts electrical energy into heat. The quartz sand contained in heating elements retains heat for a long time after the power supply is turned off.

What are the advantages of quartz panels:

1. Affordable price.
2. Quite a long service life.
3. High efficiency.
4. Relatively low energy consumption.
5. Convenience and ease of equipment installation.
6. No oxygen burnout in the building.
7. Fire and electrical safety.

Monolithic quartz thermal electric heater

Energy-saving heating panels are made using a solution made using quartz sand, which ensures good heat transfer and a long service life. Thanks to the presence of quartz sand, the heater retains heat well even when the power is turned off, and can heat up to 15 cubic meters of a building. The production of these panels began in 1997, and every year they become more and more popular due to their energy saving. Many buildings, including schools, are switching to this energy-saving heating system.

This heating system is made of modules connected in parallel, and how many there will be depends on the size of the room. Another plus is the possibility of automatic control.

A few words about the types of infrared heaters

Conventionally, this type of climate control equipment is divided into three groups depending on the location: floor, wall and ceiling. The difference between all of them lies only in the installation pattern and the presence or absence of certain functions.

Floor

Instruments of this type of installation can be transported, which makes transporting it an attractive advantage when choosing a purchase. For ease of carrying, there is either a handle or a special compartment for installing a cord, and there may also be small wheels.

As a rule, such heaters have special sensors. For example, one of them saves you from overheating, the other turns off the device when it overturns. It’s interesting what thermostats or the ability to control from the remote control add.

Wall

This type of infrared heater has two places - a niche under a window or the bottom of a wall.

As a rule, they are made to look like central heating radiators, like many people already have in their house or apartment, but they are flat. Let us immediately note that they heat no worse than other types of IR heaters.

All wall-mounted options boast a thermostat and a system that protects the device from overheating. Since the wall-mounted model is heavier than the floor or hanging model, it is installed for a long time, taking into account all the nuances of the room design. During installation, you may need to decorate the device with various decorative elements, such as ornaments, stone, stucco, or simply paint it in the desired color.

Ceiling

Typically, ceiling options are made very similar to lamps, and they are quite bulky in size and quite heavy in weight. Such heaters are not entirely suitable for installation in residential premises - they are better used in non-residential premises, such as an office, garage, and various warehouses.

Scope of application and specifics of operation

IR panels work best with spot heating of a specific place indoors or outdoors. They work great in areas equipped for recreation near dachas and private houses, areas owned by cafes and small restaurants.

Most often, IR panel heaters are used as an additional heating source when it is necessary to increase the temperature in a specific place. For example, when it is necessary to “insulate” a recreation area in a large house or a work space somewhere in a warehouse or industrial facility.

The IR panel allows you to create an “island” of heat in large rooms. Their action is focused, aimed at a certain zone, or more precisely at objects located within it

As for heating commercial buildings in this way, it is very economical and convenient. With the help of panels, it is possible to create conditions for the most comfortable stay of a person in any specific area, without spending money on heating the entire room.

Weather conditions such as humidity or wind do not affect the radiation efficiency, so the panels perform excellently even outdoors.

In offices, infrared panels are often used as the main heat source. This solution is cheaper than installing your own mini-boiler room with solid fuel or gas equipment if the office is not connected to a centralized heating system.

IR heaters are more economical than oil-based heaters, electric heaters, etc., since radiant heating is the most economical among all types of electric heating. It is most profitable for offices to combine heated floors with IR panels mounted in the ceiling. Then you can maintain the room temperature at +20⁰С even in frosty weather.

Infrared heaters emit more than just heat waves. they can easily serve as lamps in the area of ​​entrance areas and in corridors, night lamps

Classification of infrared panels

Infrared panels come in two main types:

• mounted. Such panels most often have a colored metal body, which is heated by an infrared emitter. The device is connected via a socket and can be placed either separately or attached to the wall;
• built-in The base of such a panel consists of plasterboard, it contains two layers of emitter and insulation. At the top there is an IR emitter in the form of a carbon conductive thread, and on top of it is a protective polymer coating. The panel is connected to a 220 V network.

There are also designer wall panels, which are available in different sizes and colors. In addition, you can purchase a panel in the form of a plinth, which is attached around the perimeter of the premises instead of the usual one.

If you finish the walls with plasterboard, wall-mounted heating can be used as the main one. When you have another type of heating at home, for example, a source running on solid or liquid fuel, infrared panels can serve as a backup heating source.

However, along with the positive characteristics, this system also has its disadvantages , which are often mentioned in customer reviews:

• the heat from the rays is felt quickly, however, the effect of the infrared heater is too targeted. It will be very hot in one place and cold in another;
• if heat affects the human body unevenly, he will suffer from headaches and complain of constant fatigue;
• infrared stoves do not heat the air, but objects; sometimes this can cause a plastic smell to appear if they are directed at equipment;
• the power of the device is about 1200 W, but it can heat a room of up to 8 square meters;
• Waves of infrared rays can adversely affect vision.

Features of the use of film infrared heating

The main feature of film-type infrared heating is that it does not require heat transportation from its source, which sometimes causes heat loss. Also, the film can be placed anywhere : on the floor, on the wall or even on the ceiling.
Moreover, if the film is placed on the ceiling, it will occupy about two-thirds of its area, and this will allow the room to be heated more evenly. If desired, the film can be equipped with decor. However, never install an infrared heating source under suspended ceilings made of PVC materials or fabric.

First, a plasterboard frame should be placed above the film, and the decorative finish should not contain metal.

Such a system has the following advantages:

• the only necessary communication is electricity;
• no need to purchase boilers or have additional premises for installing the system;
• the system does not freeze;
• the ability to quickly reinstall everything in another location;
• no need for regular system maintenance, ease of use;
• absence of noise and combustion products;
• the system does not suffer from voltage surges;
• duration of operation (up to 20 years).

However, film infrared heating also has a significant drawback: it is quite energy-intensive and will require significant energy costs.

Other types of infrared heating

Ceiling-type infrared heating sources are quite economical and can be installed in rooms with a ceiling height of three meters or more.
In addition, they operate silently, can heat a certain area of ​​the room, are environmentally friendly and convenient in terms of installation and subsequent operation. For suspended ceilings, some infrared heating manufacturers have provided special cassette-type heaters that are mounted in the ceiling.

However, along with high electricity consumption, infrared ceiling-mounted hanging heaters have another drawback, this time of an aesthetic nature: they are not always easily combined in terms of style with the overall interior design.

And wall-mounted infrared panels are a good alternative to traditional heating radiators. They are thin, can be of different sizes and are easy to install with your own hands.

Best options

7th place. STN 500 W

The STN 500 W IR heater opens our list of the best panel-shaped heating devices. The first thing worth noting about this model is that there are two options for its installation. This heater can be placed both on the wall and on the floor, and in the latter case you can put the panel on the wheels that come with it.

This model can easily heat small (up to 10 m2) rooms in a house, apartment or office.

This model also has one feature, which is a double heating method. In addition to the infrared spectrum, it can work as a convector.

Pros:

• optimal heating;
• does not dehumidify the air in the room;
• energy efficient;
• protection from moisture and overheating;
• certification was carried out in the Russian Federation and the EU;
• quality guarantee up to 5 years.

Minuses:

• oil radiators, which are not much inferior to it, are cheaper.

STN 500 W

6th place. BISON IKO-K3-1000

In sixth place in our rating is a domestic model from the ZUBR company called IKO-K3-1000. The presence of a heating element in its design and a power of 1000 W loudly declare the advantages of this model.

The reliability and durability of domestic devices is a separate matter. The very name of the ZUBR company already indicates that the device will serve you faithfully for a very long time. The 5-year warranty is a clear confirmation of this.

The combination of aluminum and other metals with an anodized coating is another secret to the good heating of rooms with this heater.

Remember! The thermostat is not included in the package. It must be purchased separately.

Mounting to the ceiling is easy and quick, and even an inexperienced person can handle it.

Pros:

• high-quality case;
• high power;
• ease of operation;
• energy efficiency;
• does not create noise during operation.

Minuses:

• The thermostat and power cord must be taken separately.

BISON IKO-K3-1000

5th place. Almac IK11

Do you need an IR heater, but not a simple one, but a specific color? Then you should pay attention to the fifth place in our rating - the Almac IK11 model, which is characterized by the presence of five shade options for everyone who cares about design.

In addition, this IR heater weighs little and is small in size. And at the same time, it has a power of 1000 W, which is surprising for such a small device.

Installation can only be done on the ceiling using suspended mounts.

Almac IK11, interestingly, cannot fully operate without an external thermostat, because it is not included in the kit. But there are simple and clear instructions that will explain how to connect it to this IR heater.

Pros:

• rich color range;
• easy installation;
• does not dry out the air;
• good room heating.

Minuses:

• dependence on an external thermostat;
• noisy heating element.

Almac IK11

4th place. Hyundai H-HC2-30-UI692

In fourth place in our rating is a model known for its reliability from the well-known Hyundai company - H-HC2-30-UI692. Its main advantage is considered to be a two-variant arrangement - installation is possible both on the wall and on the ceiling.

The declared power of this heater, in comparison with previous models, is simply amazing - 3000 W fit into a fairly thin body, at which the air is 30 square meters. m. room heats up quickly, and the room or small office will always be warm.

Pros:

• does not dry out the air;
• keeps a large area warm;
• high power;
• no burning smell;
• silent operation;
• two mounting options.

Minuses:

• high price;
• heavy device;
• no thermostat included.

Hyundai H-HC2-30-UI692

3rd place. Wester IH-2000

The bronze medalist of our rating is the Wester IH-2000 model. Its power is 2000 W, which is enough to heat a room of 20 square meters. m. fits perfectly.

Mounting on the ceiling allows you to keep the room warm without taking up space. Another advantage of this panel is the ability to hide all wires and communications, exposing only the IR panel itself. The mounts themselves allow you to withstand the heavy weight of the device.

The absence of rotating elements allows for virtually silent operation and low electricity consumption, which also adds advantages in the eyes of a potential buyer.

Pros:

• ceiling mounting;
• stylish design;
• rapid heating of the room;
• ease of use;
• affordable price;
• energy efficiency at a high level.

Minuses:

• additional installation work will still be required;
• small number of power settings.

Wester IH-2000

2nd place. Ballu BIH-S2-0.3

The IR panel from Ballu takes the silver place in our top. BIH-S2-0.3 is considered the smallest IR heater, which imposed restrictions on the power of the device - 300 W, which is enough to heat small rooms.

The ceiling mounting form with protection from dust and moisture allows you to think about connecting the device in small rooms and offices. Thermal insulating material provides good heating of the premises. And the ability to install several of these heaters at a time improves the quality of heating.

Pros:

• versatility and compactness in design;
• easy installation;
• does not make noise during operation;
• like a “warm floor”, only the installation is on the ceiling.

Minuses:

• heats only small rooms;
• It's easy to get the case dirty.

Ballu BIH-S2-0.3

Application of infrared panels

Heated thermal panels work well in a wide range of applications. Examples:

• heating of apartments, houses, holiday homes, winter gardens;
• heating of offices, conference rooms;
• heating of shops, service points, trading areas;
• heating of halls, warehouses, workshops, loading ramps;
• heating of exhibition and exhibition halls;
• communal heating;
• heating schools, kindergartens,
• heating of museums and galleries;
• heating of catering establishments;
• heating of hotels, sanatoriums, shelters;
• heating of hospitals and sanatoriums;
• heating of churches and places of worship;
• heating of sports halls, entertainment halls, sports halls;
• heating in zoological and botanical gardens;
• heating in livestock and crop production;
• heating in saunas, swimming pools and fitness clubs and much more.

How to choose the right IR panel

There are a number of parameters that must be taken into account when choosing electric heating systems:

• Room area;
• Ceiling height;
• Heat loss;
• Source type: main, additional.

Conclusion

A heating system based on infrared thermal panels is the optimal solution for all types of health centers. This is the additional value that can be offered to the customer, lower installation and heating costs, better and healthier well-being. Long infrared waves help improve the circulatory system, strengthen the immune system, have a positive effect on rheumatoid arthritis, increase the stretch of collagen tissue, reduce joint stiffness and reduce muscle spasms.

The influence of IR radiation on humans

Since infrared devices can be called the latest miracle of technology, a natural question arises as to how safe the devices are for humans. Based on the results of scientific research, it was revealed that at moderate power, long-wave infrared radiation has a beneficial effect on the general condition of a person and does not harm the body. Moreover, medical institutions practice therapeutic procedures in specialized infrared boxes.

A negative impact from the device can only occur if the materials used to manufacture the equipment contain aggressive impurities that evaporate during operation of the unit.

Infrared heating systems are economical, mobile, do not take up usable space, and are safe for the health of people and animals.

Induction electric boilers

This new product appeared on the market relatively recently and aroused considerable interest, since it was advertised as another energy-saving installation. In reality, this water heater uses the law of electromagnetic induction, according to which a stationary steel rod placed inside a coil with current flowing through it will heat up. There are no tricks here, the so-called energy-saving boiler operates with an efficiency of about 98-99%, like its other electric “brothers”.

The clear advantage of the unit is that the coolant passing through it does not come into contact with important elements, but only with the metal rod. Therefore, the boiler can reliably serve for many years without any maintenance other than periodic flushing. Other advantages of the induction apparatus are:

• small dimensions and weight, which is very important when placing the heat generator in the combustion room;
• rapid heating of the coolant.

Calculation of IR heating project

Only a specialist can make accurate and high-quality calculations when designing a heating system. But you can get approximate figures for infrared heating yourself. The following indicators are important in this matter:

• total power for heating the room as a whole;
• power density (its required amount per square meter)
• degree of comfort (temperature regime acceptable for residents).

Thermal insulation indicators must take part in the calculation. For non-professional calculations, you can rely on your own feelings.

Let's take a small cottage with an area of ​​200 m2, the owners of which feel comfortable at 190C. The house is built of sand-lime brick, double-glazed windows are installed. Heat loss in a home is average; a power density of 100 W/m2 is sufficient. The total power for heating it will be 2000W. It should be borne in mind that with an average value of heat loss, this value must be multiplied by a reduction factor of 0.85: with infrared heating, the temperature is felt 3-4 degrees higher.

The height and location of installation of the heating device is important. If the owners decided to place them on the wall at a height of 2.5 m from the floor, then it will be able to heat 8 square meters of area. In the ceiling installation option at a height of three meters, the volume of heated meters would increase to 24, which significantly reduces the number of heating devices in the project.

The level of heat and electricity costs depend on high-precision calculations, and it is best to entrust this work to specialists.

Ways to improve energy efficiency at home

You can reduce energy costs used for heating using different methods:

• increasing the energy efficiency of the building;
• the use of the Smart Home system, as well as other automation that allows minimizing costs;
• reducing electrical losses using radiators and other devices;
• increasing the efficiency of heating boilers or furnaces;
• using environmentally friendly types of energy (firewood, solar panels).

A combination of two or more options can be used to achieve better results.

Even the most reliable and high-quality heating system will not bring much benefit if large-scale heat loss occurs in the house, so measures should be taken to prevent heat energy from leaking through cracks and open vents.

It is important to take simple but effective steps by covering floors, walls, doors, ceilings, and window frames with thermal insulation material. In addition to insulation, additional insulation can be placed according to regulatory requirements. This will further reduce heat loss, thereby increasing the energy efficiency of the building.

To carry out high-quality thermal insulation, you can call a specialist energy auditor. He will carry out a thermal imaging survey of the house, which will reveal the places of the most intense heat loss, the insulation of which must be carried out first.

As a rule, the greatest heat loss occurs through the walls, the attic floor, and the floor along the joists. These areas require high-quality thermal insulation. To prevent heat loss through windows, you can use shutters that close at night.

Advantages and disadvantages of IR heating

Heating a home using infrared heating has excellent consumer properties:

• direct heating and its high speed. Directly transmits speed to surrounding objects immediately after connecting to the network;
• relative economy. Operates from a 220V socket, is equipped with a temperature sensor that transmits a signal to turn on when the temperature cools down and turn off after establishing a comfortable mode;
• the ability to heat individual local zones and open areas. An indispensable property for providing warmth to verandas and open terraces. Allows you to create warm areas in separate rooms (in the bedroom, in the nursery);
• service life. The simplicity of the design and operating principle preserves the vital functionality of the devices for a long time. In addition, IR heaters can be easily repaired;
• environmental friendliness and safety. The operation of IR equipment is free of noise, vibration, release of combustion products, oil vapors and other side effects inherent in traditional radiators. Does not burn oxygen and does not dry out the air;
• simplicity and flexibility of installation. Does not require highly qualified workers and great effort;
• possibility of remote control via smartphone, PC, remote control;

Negativity regarding infrared heating at home is in most cases far-fetched. Among the disadvantages are obvious:

• high cost of equipment (relative to other types of devices);
• rapid cooling of heating equipment. The oil radiator will continue to give off heat for some time after being turned off, and the IR equipment will cool down instantly.
• Direct dependence on electricity

A number of negative qualities are associated with erroneous power calculations during the design process and incorrect placement of devices. Negativity regarding IR equipment is in most cases far-fetched and is nothing more than a myth.

Heat recovery

Using heat recovery will be a step towards creating an energy-efficient private home, as well as a good way to save on utilities. Heat recovery is the return of warm air using a ventilation system. When ventilating, we not only let in cold air, but also let out warm air, thus discrediting the central heating system, and we throw money away.

During recovery, not only the temperature regime is maintained, but the air is also purified. Every modern “passive” private house has a heat recovery system. Organizing recovery is inexpensive, especially compared to the benefits it brings. Statistics show that about 40% of the heat goes outside during ventilation. But you have already paid for this warmth!

So, there are many different energy-saving heating systems and the main question is how to choose the most optimal one. To do this, you need to devote time and effort to its selection, purchase and installation.