How should I choose a patio Infrared heater?

We have a post that talks about the different types of outdoor heating. If you don't know if gas or electric heating is better for you, we recommend that you first read the post: How should I choose a patio heater.

That said, we want to explain how electric infrared heaters or stoves work. If you understand it better, you will be able to better choose the product you need. Shall we go?

INFRARED HEATERS

Electric infrared heaters or stoves rely on infrared waves to produce radiant heat and are available in 3 versions, depending on the type of wave they emit:
Long wave, medium wave, short wave. ..

We tell you that sunlight has part of the 2 types of waves, but each one has a different effect so we perceive it differently.

The main characteristic, common to all infrared heaters, is that the waves heat (things and people) around them, without heating the air through which they pass. This causes the efficiency of this type of heater to be very high, especially when we refer to outdoor heating, in which the air is moving.


It is important to differentiate the different types of infrared waves. We are not going to get technical, but we are going to explain the bases of each type of wave:

Short Wave Infrared Stoves

"We perceive them as intense reddish light"

Shortwave infrared heaters emit light and reach quite high temperatures. Its use is recommended outdoors, industrial environments (very large spaces that are difficult to heat) and areas that need instant heating. They emit a very direct and intense heat similar to when the sun touches us.

Medium Wave Infrared Stoves

"Softer light version"

Medium wave infrared heaters emit little light, so they are not bothersome to the eye. Its heat is very soft and comfortable, although also more superficial. Does not cause damage to the skin.

Long Wave Infrared Stoves

"Heater that does not emit light"

Long wave infrared heaters do not emit light, so they are imperceptible to the eye. Its heat is even softer than the heat caused by medium wave infrared and very comfortable. They are perfect for protected indoor or outdoor spaces (for example, terraces protected with windbreaks and side curtains for parasols ).

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