What is Infrared Heating?

Infrared heating is a system or appliance that provides heat by thermal radiation. A good example of infrared heating is the sun. The sun emits infrared rays (thermal radiation) through cold, dark space, which is then absorbed by objects and is converted into heat. This is made possible through the use of the electromagnetic spectrum.

Heated objects then emit this energy in the form of conduction, convection, or radiation to heat the surrounding air. The same operating principle applies for manufactured infrared heating appliances.

The Electromagnetic Spectrum

The electromagnetic spectrum is the range of all possible frequencies of electromagnetic radiation; it includes gamma-rays, X-rays, ultraviolet, visible light, infrared, microwaves, and radio waves.

Electromagnetic wavelengths travel through empty space, air, and other substances. Radiant heat energy is emitted from a source in the form of electromagnetic waves in the infrared band which covers the range of 300 GHz (1mm) to 400 THz (750nm). The infrared band is located next to the visible light band.

Warming the Environment with Infrared Heaters

Infrared heating allows the source of heat to begin at the floor level and not the ceiling. This makes it the most efficient and effective method in which to heat under the diverse conditions present in most warehouses, storerooms, and the most immense structures imaginable.