How IR Radiation Works

Infrared light is part of the invisible light spectrum and has several subtypes. It refers to one of the natural forms of heat transfer that accompanies all of us daily. In a specific form called long-wave or C-length, it is emitted and received by you and your surroundings at all times.

The Earth receives vast amounts of heat from the Sun exclusively through various forms of IR radiation. The Sun also emits other types of electromagnetic radiation, some of which are harmful, unlike IR radiation. Therefore, we cannot equate the operation of IR heating panels with solar heat, although the heating principle is similar.

How IR Panels Work

Infrared (IR) panels mainly emit heat in the long-wave infrared spectrum or IR-C, which is gentle and pleasant. This heat is transferred directly to objects and surfaces, meaning all surfaces in the room warm up to the desired room temperature when heated consistently. When IR radiation reaches the floor or wall, the energy is converted into heat, warming the object directly and also surrounding surfaces through partial reflection of IR radiation.

This process allows objects in the room to heat evenly and emit warmth, which in turn raises the air temperature in the room without directly heating the air as conventional heating systems do. This direct transfer of heat to objects and surfaces enables quick and efficient heating of the space and reduces heat loss through convection or air circulation.

Certain types of IR panels emit heat in the short-wave or medium-wave spectrum. These types of IR panels, also known as high-temperature IR panels, achieve greater operational efficiency in challenging conditions for specific purposes, such as heating outdoor spaces, restaurant terraces, targeted heating of industrial buildings, or workspaces.

What You Need to Know About the Operation of IR Heating

People are increasingly opting for IR heating for several reasons. High energy efficiency, which actually consumes less energy to achieve the same room temperature as conventional heating systems, allows for quick and efficient space heating. Easy installation of IR panels ensures faster setup. The natural form of heat provided by the IR system positively impacts the comfort and well-being in the space. The lower initial investment compared to other central heating systems is attractive to many. Simple operation and long-term durability of the system make it easy to use and maintain. Additionally, IR heating has a positive ecological aspect, as it does not produce harmful emissions and is environmentally friendly.

With properly designed and dimensioned IR heating, the average operation of IR panels is very low, approximately 3 hours per day in well and excellently insulated buildings, and about 5 hours daily in poorly insulated buildings. This refers to the average operation throughout the heating season. It is essential to have energy calculations done by Ekosen experts for serious use of IR heating. The actual number of operating hours also depends on usage, external temperatures, insulation, and heating temperature. Generally, we can talk about very low consumption achieved due to several factors described on the "Energy Consumption with IR Panels" page.

Of course. When the building is heated primarily - maintaining the desired temperature constantly, the air in the room is pleasantly heated to room temperature. The regulator, positioned in each room, measures the air temperature, not the surface temperatures. If we set the temperature to, for example, 22°C, the air temperature will be exactly 22°C, and all surfaces in the room will have a similar temperature. In practice, this means that the entire space is evenly heated without cold zones.

Not at all. IR heat is distributed very evenly throughout the entire room, and it is often warmer under the table compared to traditional radiator heating, where warm air rises to the ceiling and cool air remains near the floor. It is true that IR panels primarily heat all objects in their line of sight, but indirectly, and in a constantly heated room, there is partial reflection of IR radiation on surrounding surfaces (those "in the shade"). Heat naturally spreads to cooler areas, thus heating the floor under the table.

A room constantly heated with IR panels achieves very even heat distribution throughout the space. The temperature difference between the floor and the ceiling is only about 1-2°C. In comparison, with traditional convection heating, temperatures can be about 5-6°C higher near the ceiling than at the floor. The temperature difference is even greater with higher ceilings. Therefore, the advantages of IR heating are even more pronounced in high-ceilinged spaces.

Absolutely! We can confidently say that Ekosen IR heating achieves more favorable room temperatures using less energy than convection heating methods. In enclosed spaces like living areas, all surfaces (floors, walls, etc.) are evenly heated and then radiate warmth, pleasantly heating the air. Most people believe that the sensation of warmth depends on air temperature, which is incorrect, as thermal comfort depends on several factors, with key ones being the average temperature of the surroundings and the presence of drafts. Example: Skiers and mountain climbers do not freeze even when surrounded by cold air. The reason is that they are bathed in thermal IR waves emanating directly from the sun (solar heat) and from environments capable of effectively reflecting these rays (snow, rock, earth, etc.). We can confidently claim that IR heating can create perfect thermal comfort, ensuring the right air and ambient temperature, regardless of the demanding conditions.

Of course. IR heating can easily be used as a standalone primary heating source. For new constructions, a renewable energy source such as a solar power plant should be ensured. Based on our years of experience, we have found that IR panels provide exceptionally efficient and economical heating, as confirmed by numerous satisfied customers both in Slovenia and abroad. Despite some sectors not having sufficiently studied the operation of IR panels and not yet accepting the facts on which their efficiency is based, our customers are thrilled with the results. More and more people are choosing IR heating because it operates extremely efficiently, with high savings, especially considering the overall operating costs.

Yes. As mentioned, IR heating is very economical in most situations, but there are certain specific factors or types of buildings where IR heating is not the most practical or efficient due to its mode of operation. Therefore, it is essential to consult with IR heating specialists before purchasing, who will know how to design correctly and provide appropriate advice. Residential buildings mostly made of stone or solid brick without additional insulation and with ceramic or stone flooring without insulation underneath present a greater challenge in ensuring the appropriate efficiency of IR heating. These types of buildings often show a high level of capillary moisture in the walls or floors. Although IR panels can be very effective in removing this moisture, it should be noted that such buildings still have a constant external influx of moisture into the walls. While IR panels reduce moisture in the walls, their operation in drying damp walls with continuous external moisture influx increases the energy consumption needed to maintain the desired room temperature.

Slovenian Product

In-house Production

Our best-selling IR panels and IR Sun regulators are manufactured in-house, based on years of experience.

Warranty

We offer the longest 15-year warranty on our best-selling IR panels, with the possibility of extending it to 20 years.

Quality Materials

We use the highest quality materials in the production of our products, resulting in a long product lifespan and maximum efficiency.