Pros and Cons of an Infrared Bathroom Heater
Heating is an essential factor to consider when creating a comfortable and cosy bathroom environment. Traditional bathroom heaters have been around for decades, but infrared bathroom heaters have gained recent popularity due to their unique heating mechanism.
Infrared heaters operate on a different principle than traditional convection heaters. Instead of heating the air in the room, they cast infrared radiation that heats objects and surfaces. This mechanism leads to a more efficient and targeted heating process, like the sun’s warmth on a chilly day.
In this blog post, we dive into the benefits and drawbacks of infrared bathroom heaters, helping you decide whether it’s the best choice for your space.
Pros of an infrared bathroom heater
1. Energy efficiency
Since an infrared bathroom heater heats objects directly, there’s minimal heat loss through air circulation. This feature can result in lower energy consumption and reduced heating bills compared to traditional heaters that need to warm the air continuously.
2. Quick heating
Infrared heaters provide rapid and localised heating. As soon as you turn on the heater, you’ll start feeling the warmth on your skin, much like stepping into the sun’s rays. They make an excellent choice for bathrooms where you need immediate comfort, especially during the chilly months.
3. No dust circulation
Traditional heaters can circulate dust and allergens around the room as they heat the air. Infrared heaters avoid this issue since they don’t rely on air currents to distribute heat. They are ideal for individuals with allergies or respiratory sensitivities.
4. Silent operation
Infrared heaters are well-known for their quiet operation. Unlike traditional heaters that produce fan or motor noises, infrared models run silently. This feature helps create a peaceful and serene bathroom environment.
5. Reduced mould and mildew growth
An infrared bathroom heater can provide warmth and help prevent mould and mildew growth. These heaters reduce the moisture that promotes such growth by heating surfaces directly, making them particularly beneficial for bathrooms with inadequate ventilation.
Cons of an infrared bathroom heater
1. Initial cost
Infrared bathroom heaters can be more expensive to purchase and install compared to traditional heaters. However, it’s crucial to consider the long-term energy savings they offer, which can offset the higher upfront investment.
2. Limited air heating
While infrared heaters excel at heating objects and surfaces, they are less effective at heating the air alone. This drawback means that if you’re looking for an overall increase in room temperature, you might need to wait a bit longer, unlike a convection heater.
3. Specific heating direction
Infrared heaters cast heat in a specific direction. That’s why you must be within their line of sight to feel the warmth. If your bathroom layout is such that the heater cannot direct its rays toward you, you might not experience the desired heating effect.
4. Maintenance
While infrared heaters require less maintenance, unlike traditional heaters, they still need occasional cleaning. Dust and dirt cling to the heating element, reducing its efficiency. Regular cleaning is a must for optimal performance.
5. Installation considerations
Installing an infrared bathroom heater requires careful planning. Strategically positioning it is a must for effective heating. On top of that, if you’re replacing a traditional heater, you might need to rewire or tweak it to accommodate the new system.
Whether an infrared bathroom heater is ideal depends on your needs and preferences. If you prioritise energy efficiency, quick warmth, and targeted heating, an infrared heater might be an excellent investment for your bathroom comfort. Remember to weigh the pros and cons carefully to make an informed choice that aligns with your budget and requirements.
