Infrared products make superb heating solutions, but for a first-time customer, there can be a lot of different heater types to learn about. Is too much choice a bad thing? We don’t think so – or at least not when it comes to energy-efficient heating – but if you’re not sure which solution is best for you, the number of products on offer can be tough to grapple. That’s why we’re taking an in-depth look at one of our less well-known products, the ceramic infrared heater, and why it’s fantastic for large interiors or sheltered outdoor spaces.
How does a ceramic infrared heater work?
Ceramic heaters are similar to infrared panels in that they use a resistive wire element to create heat – but that’s where the similarities end. These heaters use an increased wattage to achieve higher temperatures when in operation, which allows them to heat a large area with greater intensity. As the wire heats up, its warmth is transferred to a ceramic plate encasing the wire, which in turn radiates heat out into the room.
Ceramic has unparalleled versatility as a material so it comes as no surprise that it’s used in everything from brake discs, to cooker hobs, to hair straighteners, to electric heaters, all the way to gas burner nozzles. It has exceptional resistance to high temperatures – which is why it tends to be used in temperature sensitive applications – and is very quick to heat up. The superior thermal conductivity of ceramic combined with its superb heat retention makes this type of heater very efficient to run. Even once a ceramic heater has stopped drawing power from the mains, it will continue to radiate heat because of the residual warmth stored in the ceramic.
Where can I use ceramic heaters?
Effective Commercial Heaters
For everyday home heating, we would normally point customers toward infrared panels because they’re slim, stylish and have lower wattages to produce a gentler heat. However, not all interiors are of a standard height, nor are they all neatly segmented into smaller rooms. Shopping centres, airport waiting rooms, warehouses and meeting halls are all notoriously difficult to heat because they’re open-plan, have high ceilings or have large exterior doors which let in cold air. Ceramic heaters are just the ticket for spaces like these; they’re able to emit radiant heat over a larger area compared to infrared panels but using a form of warmth that’s just as gentle. Just like any other infrared product, ceramic heaters produce radiant heat that isn’t blown away by gusts and breezes, so if you’re trying to heat a bustling railway concourse or busy cafe where people are constantly coming and going, they’re the best solution for reliable comfort heating.
Gentle Heating for Open, Draughty Interiors
Though ceramic products are normally used as commercial heaters, they’re also great for non-standard domestic interiors that need an effective heating solution, such as homes with mezzanine floors or barn conversions. High-ceilinged rooms are difficult to heat with convection heaters because warm air can collect toward the ceiling. Once again, ceramic heaters come to the rescue – ceiling mounted models such as the Herschel Pulsar direct heat down toward living levels to keep rooms comfortably warm and can even be fitted with thermostats for precision control over your heating.
Comfortable Warmth for Sheltered Outdoor Areas
The applications don’t stop there: they’re also great for heating sheltered outdoor spaces. It’s important to bear in mind that the gentle warmth of a ceramic wall heater can be easily offset in exposed areas, so we wouldn’t suggest using it as a universal outdoor heating solution. They can, however, be a good choice for sheltered areas such as restaurant terraces and covered bars which are more protected against gusts of wind. They’re especially useful for areas where people may be seated for long periods as ceramic heaters will provide a comfortable primary heat source throughout the day.
What other advantages do ceramic heaters have?
Can you spot the ceramic heater in this photograph? These heaters aren’t noticeable at first glance, which is precisely why they make such good heating solutions for commercial spaces. Most ceramic wall heaters are designed to be as unobtrusive as possible and have black housings to help them blend into their surroundings. Their unconventional shape also means that to the uninitiated, they’re not even recognisable as heaters at all, and can sit high up on the wall without customers noticing their presence. What’s more, they’re completely silent and produce no light when in operation so you won’t be contending with whirring fans or glowing lights every time you want to get warm. Herschel’s Aspect XL2 and XL3 are particularly good choices for public spaces because they also have a grill covering the heating element for extra safety.
How do ceramic heaters compare to other infrared solutions?
If you’re still not sure whether a wall-mounted ceramic heater is best for your needs, here’s how they stack up against other indoor and outdoor infrared products:
Ceramic Heaters vs Other Indoor Infrared Heaters
* This table is for illustrative purposes only and does not take into account the varying sizes and wattages of each individual product
Ceramic Heaters vs Other Outdoor Infrared Heaters
* This table is for illustrative purposes only and does not take into account the varying sizes and wattages of each individual product
As you can see, ceramic heaters make some of the most versatile heating solutions available on the market, particularly if you need a system to heat a draughty interior. While they do require more careful positioning outdoors, some businesses may find that they can use them throughout their property, both inside and outside.
Ceramic infrared heaters – versatile heating for home and business
No matter whether it’s a domestic or a commercial interior, if you find it hard to keep warm using conventional means, a ceramic heater may be the perfect solution. All of our ceramic infrared heaters should be used with thermostats if installed indoors as this will slim down their running costs and make them more convenient to use. If you’d like any more information about our excellent range of ceramic wall heaters, our Sales team are always on hand to provide guidance on whether they will be a good match for your installation.
Image Sources:
https://www.herschel-infrared.co.uk/product/aspect-xl/
https://www.herschel-infrared.co.uk/product/advantage-ir/
https://www.herschel-infrared.co.uk/product/pulsar/