Is Infrared
Near IR can be harmful to the eyes because it penetrates as far as the cornea (Voke, 1999). Uncontrolled, frequent, or long-term exposure to Near Infrared can also cause thermal burns and ageing effects such as “Bakers Arms” or “Glassblowers Face” (Cho & others, 2009).
In older, draughty homes, infrared panels alone may not be enough to keep rooms warm. Rooms will feel nice and comfortable when they are on, but without good insulation, the room temperature will quickly cool down when the panels are switched off. Infrared heating works best in modern, highly insulated buildings.
All electrical devices, including infrared heaters, emit some level of EMFs. However, the levels emitted by infrared heaters are typically low and considered safe. The concern over EMFs is generally associated with high-frequency EMFs. These are different from the low-frequency EMFs emitted by infrared heaters.
Most residential infrared panels are designed to be safe for extended periods. These heating units often come with built-in safety mechanisms, such as: Overheating protection: This feature automatically switches off the heater when it reaches a certain temperature to prevent any fire risk.
Many studies have looked at using infrared saunas in the treatment of long-lasting health problems and found some proof that saunas may help. Conditions studied include high blood pressure, heart failure, dementia and Alzheimer's disease, headache, type 2 diabetes, and arthritis.
The deep, penetrative effects of Near and Mid-infrared in the short term are beneficial, but over time leads to headaches and dry-skin.
Understanding Infrared Heating
These waves are a type of radiation emitted by the sun and are safe for human exposure when used correctly. They provide even warmth throughout rooms while being safer than conventional heaters due to their targeted approach.
The protein of eye lens is very sensitive to IR radiation which is hazardous and may lead to cataract.
IR-A radiation with its excessive heat can cause irreversible damage (such as burns) to the retina and cloud the lens, which can lead to a cataract (also known as glassblower's cataract or infrared cataract). IR-B radiation can damage the blood vessels down to the fatty tissue.
High up on the wall or ceiling are the best locations for infrared panels.
Now you might think this sounds a bit scary, but actually it's very safe. While it's true that some forms of EM Radiation like ultraviolet and x-rays can be harmful, infrared is the same type of wave that our own Sun employs to heat the Earth.
The upfront cost of installing infrared heating can also be a deterrent for some homeowners. While infrared heating panels are competitively priced when compared to installing boilers or central heating systems, people may still see them as more expensive than traditional convection heaters or electric radiators.
Detrimental effects such as thermal burns, photocarcinogenesis, and photoaging have been reported, though evidence suggests that these may be due to the thermal effects produced secondary to IR exposure rather than the isolated effect of IR.
Sealed combustion heaters are much safer to operate than other types of space heaters, and operate more efficiently because they do not draw in the heated air from the room and exhaust it to the outdoors. They are also less likely to backdraft and adversely affect indoor air quality.
Do not use if pregnant, have serious inflammation, a fever, a communicable disease, acute bleeding, or intoxicated.
Potential health issues
Indeed, if you sit too close to an infrared heater, you can experience blotchy skin, so there is damage occurring at a cellular level. Also, if you overheat, you sweat. While this isn't an issue with convector heaters that gently heat and circulate the air, it is a problem with infrared heat.
The good news is that modern infrared heaters are very safe to use even when left unattended during the night, even while you are sleeping.
Runs on expensive electricity – Infrared panels use electricity, which is currently more expensive than gas (from 1st January 2025 to 31st March, costs will be 24.86p/kWh vs. 6.34p/kWh respectively). While their efficiency can lower energy bills, electricity prices may still impact overall savings.
But don't worry, infrared heaters are incredibly efficient. They're designed to keep a space warm while using as little electricity as possible.
Oil Room Heaters
Oil room heaters, including the premium varieties by Orpat, are one of the safest options that can be chosen for good health. Oil serves as a medium to hold and distribute heat evenly across the room.
Because infrared is an electromagnetic wave (similar to light), it can be directed or “focused” over specific distances. Infrared heating can be broadly categorized into two types: near-infrared and far-infrared. Far-infrared is gentler, as it heats objects and surfaces rather than the air directly.
Infrared panels are suitable for all-day heating.
The gradual build-up of heat ensures a comfortable environment, allowing them to be left on for extended periods without making a room feel stuffy.