Why are the rays of infrared heaters harmful to health?


In the cold season, the consumer is faced with choosing a heating system. Models with electromagnetic radiation are now in demand; they have a number of advantages compared to oil and convector radiators. Sellers claim that the new products are harmless. However, ignorance of the nuances of use is fraught with serious consequences. Therefore, it is very important to understand whether infrared heaters are harmful to health or whether they are a misconception.

The principle of operation of infrared rays

Infrared heaters have a simple design - they use special heating elements that generate infrared radiation. This type of radiation is thermal, it is emitted by the sun and any other heat sources. Even the most ordinary fire on which we barbecue is a powerful source of infrared radiation. It is this radiation that allows you to warm living spaces and even open and semi-enclosed areas.

When studying the dangers of infrared heaters for humans, you need to know about the operating principle of these heating devices. It is very simple - IR radiation, leaving the heating device, reaches surrounding objects and begins to warm them. Those, in turn, heat up, beginning to release heat into the atmosphere. This heating method is more effective compared to convection, which heats air masses .

The devices we are considering do not heat the air, since infrared radiation is weakly absorbed by it. Air masses are heated only by surrounding objects. Humans can also feel infrared radiation – they perceive it in the form of directed heat. Remember how warm it is when we approach a fire - this is how its infrared radiation acts. And if we turn our backs to the fire, our face will feel the coolness of the surrounding air.

What are the benefits of infrared heaters? They provide:

  • rapid spread of heat throughout the heated room - infrared radiation travels at the speed of light and over a fairly long distance (hot air from convectors disperses throughout the room tens of times slower);
  • maintaining air humidity - this indicator does not change;
  • maintaining the amount of oxygen in the air - the oxygen needed for breathing is not burned, its percentage remains the same.

IR devices are characterized by high efficiency and fairly good economics.

Carbon infrared heaters have the best characteristics - they are superior to any other heating devices in their efficiency and economy.

Operating principle

In order to imagine the mechanism of action of infrared radiation, it is enough to recall solar heat. The sun emits special energy, part of which can be perceived visually - this is sunlight. The other part is perceived by humans as heat. These are infrared rays, invisible to the eye, but felt by the body. An interesting fact is that the thermal energy emitted by infrared heaters is not absorbed by the air. The advantage is that objects and people receive the maximum amount of heat, the energy of which is not spent on heating the air. In turn, heated objects transfer the resulting heat to the air. Thus, this heating can be attributed to the direct method of transferring heat from a source to an object, in which the equipment works with maximum benefit. A comfortable heating temperature in the room is established within a few hours, even if the initial temperature was minus. The heating speed directly depends on the size of the heated room and the power of the device.

How safe are IR heaters?

The harm of infrared heaters to humans has been exaggerated. Correct selection of IR equipment and ensuring proper operation will help mitigate harm and even reduce it to zero . For example, the same uranium mines, if the strictest operating requirements are met, are practically harmless to the people working there. The same applies to IR radiation.

By the way, the word “radiation” affects people like a loaded pistol - many, having heard this word, perceive it as an element of danger. At the same time, the most ordinary light that a light bulb emits is also radiation. Another type of radiation is radio waves - this electromagnetic radiation causes radios to talk and televisions to show us images.

This is not to say that IR radiation is absolutely harmless. If you wish, you can harm your body using the most harmless things and objects. The same oranges or chicken eggs, if consumed in unimaginable quantities, can cause a person a lot of suffering and trouble. Therefore, when assessing the harm from infrared heaters, you need to focus on the correct selection of equipment and compliance with operating rules.

Infrared heaters - the harm and benefits of them can be very different. Let's look at how benefits are achieved and under what conditions they become harmful:

  • The correct selection of heaters for the volume of the room will provide benefits and prevent headaches. If there is “overkill” in power, it will not be possible to avoid harmful effects;
  • correct choice of heaters by wavelength - short-wave models are aimed at outdoor use. Indoors, their exposure leads to a kind of burns, headaches and other troubles. To heat rooms, long-wave heaters should be used (the best option for humans);
  • correct operation over time - long-term operation of such devices can cause harm, so you need to know when to stop;
  • location of heaters - in order to neutralize the harm of infrared heaters, it is advisable to position them so that they warm up surrounding objects. You also need to maintain a distance from heaters to people.

One should take into account the fact that IR devices provide protection against many pathogenic bacteria - this is a benefit, not a harm. They also warm the skin well and are used to treat certain diseases.

Possible painful symptoms from IR heaters

What symptoms can people experience when exposed to infrared heaters?

  • A headache is a clear sign that it’s time to temporarily turn off the heater or sit away from it.
  • A numb or cottony feeling in the head is another sign of adverse effects. Perhaps you incorrectly calculated the power of the equipment you are using or did not ensure that recommendations for its placement in the rooms are followed.
  • A feeling of dry skin – a similar sensation occurs after sitting near a fire for a long time. The skin seems to dry out, tighten, and feels overheated. If you feel this effect, sit away from heaters.

Thus, all harm is associated only with improper operation - being close to people, incorrect selection of power, staying in front of the heater for too long, incorrect selection of wavelength . If you follow the rules of operation of such devices, then you will receive only benefit from them, but not harm.

Source: remont-system.ru

Features of infrared radiation

Typically, the operating principle of heaters is to heat air, which transports heat to people and surrounding objects. In the infrared device, manufacturers used the forces of nature : the device emits heat rays, they are absorbed by furniture and surrounding objects, which then release heat into the atmosphere.

The main structural elements are two parts, one of them emits heat, the second reflects it. The emitter plays the role of a source of high temperature, and the reflector directs its waves into the environment. Walls and interior items receive heat from these waves, heat up and release excess temperature to the air.

In this video you will learn detailed information about infrared radiation:

The heater itself can be compared to a heated body with a deflector. It creates a beam of heat rays that do not contact the air. The heating level of the room depends on the quality of the deflector and the maximum heating temperature of the device elements.

Types of heaters

Specialized stores offer several types of heating devices. The most popular among them are:

  • ceiling;
  • floor;
  • wall.

If there is a child in the house, then you should give preference to the latter option. The structure is installed at such a height that children cannot reach it. You should not use a ceiling heater in a room with low ceilings. Otherwise, there is a risk of overheating and damage to furniture and household appliances.

Do not install it in the bedroom, children's room and kitchen, this can lead to overheating. It is better to install a ceiling heater in a living room or dining room with high ceilings. The best choice is a mobile floor-standing device. It can be carried and changed position.

Heaters: answering popular questions

Simple selection rules

The modern heating equipment market offers a huge selection of options to suit any budget and whims. Manufacturers present devices with various characteristics and functional options. If you decide to purchase an infrared heater to heat your home, you should follow a few simple rules.

  1. If you are choosing a heater for your home, give preference to a device that is connected to the electrical network. Such heating devices are quite economical, reliable and safe. They are able to provide uniform heating of the air in the room. You won't have to pay huge monthly heating bills.
  2. Inspect the device carefully. A quality product is immediately visible. The body must be strong and free from defects and flaws. It is better to avoid a heater with a thin cable or a loose plug.
  3. Beware of questionable heaters. Infrared devices that have an unreasonably low price cannot be of high quality, but rather have a lot of disadvantages. Poorly made contacts, unreliable connections and thin wires can lead to short circuits, and as a result, tragedy. Give preference to branded heaters from well-known brands.
  4. An important characteristic is the power of the heating device. In this case, there is a standard calculation formula: 10 sq. meters of area = 1KVA. The initial air temperature does not have any significance for the calculation; the device is effective at sub-zero temperatures. The benefit of the device will be higher with correctly selected characteristics.
  5. Choose the type of heater design that will provide you with the most benefit. If you plan to regularly move the device from one place to another, give preference to an underfloor heater. A wall heater is suitable for heating the sleeping area or kitchen. For heating the living room and hall with high ceilings in a country house, a ceiling structure would be ideal.
  6. The ceramic body of the device reduces the radiation intensity. Excluding the main disadvantage - the impact on human health.

Considering the impact of infrared radiation on humans, many experts in the medical industry agreed that the benefits of the waves are significant. The damage that rays can cause is only caused by improper operation of the devices. Choose reliable equipment that will make you feel not only comfortable, but also safe.

Beneficial features

Before concluding whether an infrared heater is dangerous for human health, it is necessary to highlight its advantages. Main useful properties of the device:

  • local heating becomes possible;
  • the devices do not dry out the skin and do not burn oxygen in the air (this is a common myth);
  • the device does not make noise;
  • the width and direction of the radiation zone are easily controlled;
  • air convection is almost completely absent, so dust does not move around the room;
  • Infrared radiation improves blood flow, increases metabolism.


There are also useful properties, for example, this radiation increases blood flow
. Although the human body can be considered a full-fledged source of heat, sometimes it itself needs additional heating with the help of long-wave radiation. In the absence of replenishment, a deterioration in well-being may be observed, and the body’s protective reaction to external stimuli decreases. That is why after heating by the fireplace or under the sun, your physical condition and mood improves. Infrared heaters act like the sun , emitting long waves. The device can have a beneficial effect on human health.

Advantages and disadvantages

The main advantage of using infrared heaters is their efficiency. The benefit of the high efficiency of the heating device is the ability to maintain the required temperature even in ventilated rooms. Heating begins immediately after turning on the device. The advantage is the absence of heating or calcination, which significantly improves the quality of space heating. Another plus is the simplicity of installation and ease of operation of the device. The heater is lightweight and can be transported and installed anywhere.

The advantage of an infrared heater is its versatility; it can be used both indoors and outdoors. A huge selection of design options for heating appliances allows you to fit them into any interior. According to manufacturers, infrared heaters do not burn air oxygen at all, which is an undeniable advantage. The devices have point settings. You can always direct the action of radiation to the required area of ​​space, extracting maximum benefit for yourself.

The only disadvantage of using infrared heaters is their impact on human health. The harmful effects are enhanced by improper use of the device. Heaters require special attention and careful compliance with the rules of use. Then small disadvantages will turn into significant advantages.

The disadvantages of infrared heaters are easily eliminated with a competent approach to organizing space heating. Ultimately, the health harm of an infrared heater will be reduced to zero.

Harm to health

Despite the obvious advantages, many believe that infrared heaters are still harmful to health. Heaters emitting short waves can harm the human body. The smallest of them can penetrate up to 4 cm under the skin. This can lead to negative consequences:

  • the skin becomes dry and dehydrated, and burns may also appear;
  • photochemical exposure;
  • high temperature negatively affects the lens and retina of the eye, which can cause cataracts.

Assembly and installation of a gas infrared emitter:

A certain wave intensity can disrupt cell membranes and contribute to a decrease in the amount of protein in the body. The harmfulness of a heater depends on its type.

The halogen device irritates the eyes with its golden radiation and harms the skin due to its short waves. Patients with asthma and allergy sufferers will feel worse under the red rays of the carbon emitter. The best option is to purchase a heating element with a ceramic shell.

Source: kaminguru.com

Thermal heating of the body as a method of curing cancer

A team of researchers found that cancer cells are more vulnerable than healthy cells and can be damaged or destroyed by exposure to high temperatures. At a temperature of 41-42 °C, they “forget how to repair” damage to the DNA molecule and die.

However, there is a problem. Overheating negatively affects the well-coordinated functioning of the body. It is necessary to use heating only on the affected areas.

It turns out that the smaller the tumor, the closer it is to the surface of the body, the more successful the method is.

  1. Local hyperthermia (or “thermal ablation,” to put it even smarter) has shown encouraging results when acting directly on the tumor (if its size is no more than 5 centimeters). High temperature coagulates proteins and destroys blood vessels: the site of exposure is “sintered.” The target area is heated in various ways: radio waves, focused ultrasound (HIFU). The impact can be carried out externally through the skin or by inserting a needle into the tumor that conducts energy.
  2. Regional hyperthermia is the heating of a specific organ or cavity. It involves surgery under anesthesia. Blood circulation in the problem area is isolated from the circulatory system. The blood is extracted into a heating device and returned back at a temperature of 40-45 °C.
  3. If cancer is diagnosed at the metastasis stage, it is necessary to resort to general hyperthermia. The patient's temperature is raised by immersion in hot water, wrapping him in electric blankets, or placing the patient in a special device such as a steam room. Body temperature can be raised for a short time to a critical value: 41.6 ° C, at which immune cells are activated and remain active several hours after the procedure. However, this method has a lot of side effects. Nausea, diarrhea, problems with the cardiovascular system and other organs are frequent accompaniments of general hyperthermia carried out using the above-mentioned traditional methods.

Infrared radiation in human life

You need to have a good understanding of what infrared radiation is. The sun emits electromagnetic waves that vary in length. White light, refracted when passing through a special prism, breaks up into different colors with different wavelengths. The shortest waves are violet in color; as their length increases, the colors of this spectrum change. The longest wavelength is red. But the shortest and largest waves, invisible to the human eye, are called ultraviolet and infrared waves.

A person cannot see infrared rays, but they can feel them. After all, these invisible rays have the ability to heat the objects on which they fall. This property can be used in household and industrial appliances. But first you need to consider the pros and cons of their impact on human health.

Such equipment can be wall-mounted or placed on the floor (depending on size and other parameters).

Infrared rays, depending on the temperature of the body emitting them, are divided into three types:

  • long waves, at the emitter temperature less than 300°C;
  • medium – from 300 to 600°C;
  • short – if the emitter temperature exceeds 800°C.

Infrared light is emitted by absolutely all bodies whose temperature is above -273°C (this is the absolute zero point).

Such infrared rays have different wavelengths; they also differ in their intensity and penetrating ability. Therefore, the effect of IR rays on living organisms will be different. Consequently, the pros and cons of different types of infrared radiation for all living things will be different, and this must be taken into account.

Operating principle of the device

IR radiation is of the electromagnetic type. A striking example of such a source is the sun, more than half of whose spectrum consists of infrared rays. Waves of this type are used in the medical industry, industry, for the operation of night vision devices and various coolants.

By the way, any heated body or object propagates vibrations of various lengths. The higher the temperature, the shorter and more intense the wave.

The benefits and harms of infrared radiation

When long-wave infrared rays fall on a person’s skin, he feels a pleasant warmth. It is this property that gives such radiation its second name – thermal.

Long-wave infrared radiation, according to medical research, does not harm humans at all. It has a beneficial effect on the immune system, promotes regeneration processes in the body, and improves the functioning of internal organs. There are no contraindications for using devices with infrared radiation in rooms where there are people.

But short-wave infrared radiation affects us in a completely different way. Penetrating inside a person, it contributes to excessive heating of organs from the inside. It is these waves that provoke heat strokes in humans, visual impairment, and can cause burns on the skin.

Advantages of infrared heaters

Such heaters do not heat all the air in the room, but a specific object or living object at which they are directed. If a person is near such a heater, he will warm up almost immediately after turning on the device.

It can warm any objects and living bodies not only indoors, but also outdoors. It makes no difference to an infrared heating device where it works; it does not heat the environment. Additional benefits are that they:

  1. Does not affect indoor air humidity.
  2. They do not reduce the oxygen level in the closed space of the apartment.

These qualities influence people’s reviews of IR heaters; they are most often positive.

The main disadvantages of IR heating devices

Typically, such heating devices use radiation at medium and short waves. These waves are more intense than long waves, they cause greater heating of objects and living bodies, which is very harmful with prolonged exposure. The appliances must not be used for prolonged heating. This is one of the significant disadvantages of such devices.

Although manufacturers of such products claim that these devices cause no more harm than sunlight, a person is not exposed to direct sunlight all the time. If you stay in the sun all day, there is a high risk of sunstroke and heatstroke, negative changes in the skin, internal organs of a person and harm to health in general. Constant use of infrared devices during the cold season can affect the body in a similar way.

Infrared heaters can be harmful to health if used continuously. The devices work on the principle of fireplaces - they heat only the part of the body they are directed at. Therefore, to heat the body evenly, you will have to install several heating devices. But few people have the funds to purchase several heating devices with infrared radiation.

Without affecting the humidity of the environment, such a device greatly dries out human skin. Therefore, when choosing such heating devices, you need to pay attention to power.

It is better to use wall-mounted IR heaters to heat rooms, which will affect the furniture and walls of the room, and not the person.

So it is impossible to say for sure whether infrared heaters are harmful or not. To reduce the negative impact of such devices on humans and their health, it is necessary to strictly follow the basic rules of their operation. It is also necessary to buy these heaters, like any other household appliances, only from well-known companies.

Source: LadyKrasotka.site

Expert's answer: are infrared heaters harmful to health (video)

The impact of infrared radiation on the human body has been studied for a long time; large-scale research has been carried out in this area by physiotherapists, scientists and physicians. In the course of a detailed analysis of the devices, their actions, and the intensity of the waves produced, we can talk about the harm that IR heaters can cause.

The most noticeable harm of an infrared heater is drying out the skin. Heating of its surface occurs instantly, with the evaporation of moisture, and the body does not have time to produce it in the required volume.

People involved in production, where such radiation is constantly present, are especially at risk. When skin that is not protected by clothing is systematically exposed to infrared radiation, an internal change occurs in its structure.

Heaters emitting short and long waves are designed for outdoor heating: in a cafe, on a summer terrace, in a gazebo. When installing such a device in a room, a person can get severe burns, including redness and blisters.

Benefit

In a normalized, dosed form, infrared radiation is not capable of causing harm to the body, but in excess, radiation is harmful in all cases. If necessary, infrared rays are used to warm up tissues and kill germs on the surface.

As a result of solar exposure, a person relaxes and feels calm. The radiation provided by infrared heaters can accelerate metabolic processes in cells and help improve blood circulation.

As a result of this effect, excess toxins are broken down and nutrients are activated. In this regard, fatigue and nervous tension are relieved, and harmful substances are gradually cleansed.

It is also possible to cure diseases with the help of infrared radiation because the rays are able to penetrate to a certain depth under the skin. This type of therapy is especially often used for diseases of the abdominal cavity.

If you use infrared radiation in measured quantities, you can improve metabolic processes in the body. If there are problems with the activity of the cardiovascular system, it is not recommended to use UV and infrared rays for treatment. Unfavorable areas include the head and chest.

Is it possible for an infrared heater to be harmful to humans? Since this question increasingly worries people’s minds, it cannot be groundless. The principle of operation of such devices is similar to the operation of a blue lamp for the ears, which were usually forbidden to look at due to the danger of damaging vision.

Of course, in large quantities everything will be harmful. But by observing the correct dosage of IR radiation, it is possible to accurately warm up locally illuminated tissues due to the ability of heat rays to penetrate several centimeters under the skin.

Moreover, such radiation destroys harmful microorganisms. Unlike ultraviolet light, which is a killer of all living things, the infrared spectrum is widely used during the restoration of health after serious injuries and various diseases.

Scientists' opinion

The results of recent scientific research have confirmed the positive effects of long-wave infrared rays on human health and immunity. But this applies to short-term exposure. Otherwise (with prolonged directed heating), doctors say, the skin is overheated and dried out, which has a detrimental effect on its condition.

Everything in moderation

It will be useful to warm up near a heat source when you come in from the cold, but sleeping in the immediate vicinity of an IR heater is harmful and dangerous. A working appliance hanging from the ceiling or standing in the corner of a room will cause just as much harm as a fireplace.

Infrared heaters can be harmful if used incorrectly. Also, the negative impact of such devices occurs due to poor quality assembly.

Unfortunately, infrared heaters really aren't very healthy. However, all the harm that we will describe can only be caused by such devices with prolonged exposure to the skin.

Infrared heaters can only be harmful if exposed to human skin for a long time

Harm from infrared emitters:

  1. Such heating can dry out the skin. The fact is that with prolonged exposure to IF waves on the skin, it begins to dry out at such a speed that sweat does not have time to be produced. Thus, you risk getting dry and lifeless skin.
  2. With prolonged exposure to IF, cells begin to deform. The membrane loses permeability. The protein is denatured. However, such an influence is only possible if you are exposed to a powerful short-wave device.
  3. With direct exposure to If on the eyes, there is a risk of burns to the retina and lens. Such a burn can lead to the development of cataracts.
  4. If you installed ceiling infrared heaters incorrectly, you risk developing headaches. This is possible if the rays directly affect a person’s head.

As you can see, infrared heating does pose some danger. However, such negative consequences most often occur due to improper installation or selection of a low-quality device.

However, one should not rush to conclusions. Such a lamp also has a positive effect on health, and the negative consequences can be eliminated with the help of simple manipulations.

Infrared heaters also have their “light” sides. However, this only applies to long-wave models. Since it is long-wave radiation that is as close as possible to natural radiation.

Such waves penetrate only the upper layers of human skin and are completely absorbed by them. When used correctly, they will only have a beneficial effect on your body.

Small doses of infrared radiation can improve blood circulation

Benefits of IR radiation for humans:

  1. Infrared radiation, with proper installation and selection of the device. Can be used in residential premises for quite a long time.
  2. Short-term exposure to long wavelength IF is beneficial for older people. This effect also has a positive effect on the immune system.
  3. Such waves are used in medicine, for example, in surgery and dentistry. They are also taken in the form of IF baths.
  4. Using small doses of infrared radiation, you can improve blood circulation, which will have a positive effect on skin color.
  5. Such devices nullify the radiation of microwave ovens and computers. Such heating also cleanses your home of negative waves.
  6. Unlike other heaters, quartz and laser heating do not drive dust around the house, do not make noise and do not emit an unpleasant odor. It also does not burn oxygen.
  7. Short-term exposure to IF has a positive effect on the nervous system. Thanks to it, you will sleep better.
  8. Increases the release of melatonin. This fact will help you get rid of winter depression.
  9. Increases insulin production. This is especially important for diabetics.
  10. Improves joint function in arthritis and radiculitis.
  11. Japanese doctors have proven that long-wavelength IF rays suppress the growth of cancer cells. This conclusion is not actively used in medicine, but provides a platform for further advancement. Perhaps soon the harmful radiation used in the treatment of cancer will be replaced by IF waves.
  12. Using an IF heater, you can disinfect the air in your home. The fact is that such radiation kills some pathogenic microbes.

Despite the wide range of beneficial effects, you should not think that this is a panacea for all diseases. Without a doctor's permission, such treatment cannot be used.

Infrared heaters can be used to heat your apartment. However, in order to minimize the negative impact of such devices, several conditions must be met.

How to reduce the negative impact of IF heaters:

  1. Try to stay as far away from it as possible while the device is operating. The closer you are to the source of infrared radiation, the greater its influence on you.
  2. Do not abuse IF heating. You should not turn it on all night in a room where people sleep.
  3. Choose models with a rotation function. Such devices have minimal impact on the same area.
  4. Do not install infrared heaters in children's rooms. The skin of babies is more delicate than that of adults, and therefore more susceptible to the effects of infrared rays.

It is quite possible to reduce the negative impact of infrared heaters

In addition to these rules, there is one more thing: install the device so that the emitter is directed at the ceiling or wall. In this case, you will minimize its effect on the body of your loved ones.

Infrared heaters have their positive and negative sides. If you decide to install such a device at home, then choose only a high-quality product, because your health depends on it!

What is IR radiation?

Any heating household appliance emits a certain amount of infrared radiation. This even applies to conventional steam heating radiators. But when using IR heating devices, their frequency and wavelength are much greater.

Infrared radiation is one of the types of electromagnetic fluxes. The most powerful natural source of such radiation is the sun. But despite this, being under the rays of the sun is not dangerous for humans.

Attention: When the IR heater operates, heat rays are directed to the desired area of ​​the room and heat it evenly.

With the help of these devices, you can warm only certain areas in the room. The emitted waves come in the following varieties:

  1. Short. Their length is 0.76 - 2.5 microns, and the element temperature is at least +800 degrees.
  2. Average. 50 microns long, and the temperature is approximately +600 degrees.
  3. Long. Their diameter is 200 microns, and the temperature is +300 degrees.

If the instructions are not followed, infrared heaters are harmful to health, because their radiation can penetrate human skin. The depth of impact on the skin largely depends on their intensity. The waves generated during the operation of the IR heater are of three categories:

  1. IR-C – characterized by insignificant effects on the human body. Their length is 3 microns. The effect is on the surface of the skin.
  2. IR-B – whose length is from 1.5 to 3.0 microns. These waves penetrate only the surface layer of the skin.
  3. IR-A – these waves have the deepest penetration. Their length is from 0.76 to 1.5 microns. The penetration depth is approximately 4 centimeters.

When the IR heater operates, waves of various sizes are formed. In this case, the number of certain rays may be different. But as research shows, the higher the heating temperature, the more short waves there will be.

Much also depends on the material from which the radiating surface of this heating device is made. The biggest negative impact is the black heated surface. If the body is made of ceramic materials, then the strength and frequency of the radiation is much lower.

Harm of IR radiation

The issue concerning the negative effects of infrared radiation on humans has occupied many leading scientific and medical figures. Numerous studies have been conducted that have shown that these heaters can, in some cases, have a negative impact on human health.

Attention: The greatest harm from infrared heaters is associated with overdrying of the skin, which heats up very quickly, after which moisture evaporates, which the body is not able to quickly restore.

If you stay in close proximity to such a heater for a long time, you can get burns. After all, at a short distance, this heating device emits waves that are the most dangerous.

Infrared radiation is always present in any production. People who are in the workplace are regularly exposed to it. If the skin is not protected by clothing, then with daily exposure changes occur within its structure. In particular, the permeability of cell membranes decreases, protein melting occurs, which is irreversible, and the appearance of blood cells changes.

The eyes also suffer from radiation. Especially the retina and lenses. Because of this, vision may deteriorate. In addition, cataracts may develop in the future.

To heat various outdoor objects, heaters that emit short or long waves are most often used. They can be installed in gazebos, cafes, and summer areas. If such a device is installed indoors, a person regularly exposed to radiation can get quite severe burns. Often, skin redness and blisters appear.

Experiments on the use of IR rays in oncology

At first, as usual, experiments were carried out on mice. The cancer research journal Cancer Science and Therapy published information on the effects of infrared radiation on the cancer cells of these classic laboratory “volunteers”.

The size of tumors decreased by 86% within a month. The same experiment was repeated by irradiating human cancer cells in a test tube. The result is similar. Moreover, high temperature was not required: heating to 25 °C was sufficient.

The same white mice participated in a Japanese experiment: infrared radiation seriously slowed down the growth of cancerous tumors in the mammary glands of experimental animals without side effects.

Over time, the effects of infrared rays on people with a wide variety of diseases have accumulated. It turned out that heat penetrating into the body to a depth of four centimeters causes a response.

The kind that the body gives out when protecting itself from infection: an increase in temperature. Remember the recommendations of modern doctors? There is no need to lower your temperature if you have a cold, unless it exceeds the critical level of 38 degrees.

Infrared rays have been found to work in a similar way. They are able to reverse the oncological process that has begun or stop the growth of a cancerous tumor at the very start. How do they do it?

Who knows? Doctors say: “They stop the effects of free radicals before cancer cells begin to form and carry out their destructive activities.” That is, the disease is prevented at the stage, so to speak, of its planning by sinister monsters - carcinogens.

Infrared heaters can be hung from the ceiling. Convectors and other appliances instantly disrupt the circulation of air masses. Well, household infrared ceiling heaters will operate flawlessly even when upside down.

Light is almost not deflected by gravity. For a long time it was believed that gravity does not affect quanta at all. So far, no study has been carried out on the movement of particles in the orbital space of one of the planets of the solar system.

A typical Rioland ceiling infrared heater is not very different in appearance from a regular fluorescent lamp. And, of course, it will also provide light. Dull red hue.

Zebra infrared heaters have a very interesting property. Has everyone heard about the heated floor system? Well, this will be a warm ceiling, but the design is similar. Heat comes from above, as they say.

https://vashtehnik.ru

Methods of protection against infrared radiation

In order to understand whether an infrared heater is harmful or not, you need to familiarize yourself with the methods of protection against their radiation. There are several effective methods to reduce the negative impact of infrared heaters on the human body. Here a lot depends on the correct choice of the heater and the location of its installation:

  1. The IR heater should not be installed in a children's room or bedroom. If for some reason this cannot be done, then it should be sent to an area where people are not constantly present. In no case should the radiation from it fall on the bed, since then the person will be constantly exposed to radiation.
  2. It is best to install the IR heater in the far corner of the room or under the ceiling. This arrangement will allow you to efficiently warm the room and protect people from direct exposure to radiation.
  3. You should not buy infrared heaters that have too much power for heating residential premises. As the practice of their use shows, it will be enough for it to efficiently heat only the ceiling, floor and walls. They, in turn, will transfer heat to the room.
  4. When choosing a heater, you should give preference to high-quality models. When buying a cheap product, you risk not only that it will quickly fail and will not be able to perform the functions assigned to it, but also your health. After all, when heated, harmful substances will enter the atmosphere of the room. The safest are tubular, ceramic and carbon IR heaters.
  5. Before purchasing an infrared heater, you should carefully read its performance characteristics. Find out all the details related to its operation. This information can be obtained from consultants or found on the Internet. It would be a good idea to read reviews about it.

If you follow these rules, you can not only quickly and effectively warm the room, but also protect yourself from the negative effects of infrared rays on the human body.

Basic principles of infrared heating

Many who hear the word “radiation” experience some kind of rejection due to associations with something bad and harmful, but there is no need to be afraid of the word itself.

Radiation is the transfer of energy by emitting electromagnetic waves. These can be solar rays, as well as heat flows that can be emitted by any heated object in our environment.

One of the most famous examples, as you already understood, is the sun. Such a phenomenon as, for example, solar radiation is called “thermal radiation”.

When a heat flow, spreading from a source object, reaches other bodies, part of it is reflected, and part is absorbed by them. When other objects absorb the energy of thermal radiation, it turns into the internal energy of these objects, and they heat up.

In practice, there are three main types of IR waves:

  1. Short wavelengths are waves from 0.8 to 3 micrometers that appear at temperatures of 800° and above
  2. Medium wave - from 30 to 50 microns, at temperatures from 300 to 800°
  3. Long wavelength - from 100 to 200 microns, at temperatures up to 300°

Short-wave fluxes emitted by high-power heating elements at high temperatures are considered dangerous to human health.

The safest and best option for residential premises is long-wave radiation, which coincides with the radiation of the human body, which perceives it as its own and easily absorbs it.

When a person is exposed to a long-wave stream, he begins to feel better, relieve fatigue, and improve blood circulation.

This method is often used in medicine. For example, in the West, for heating newborn children, or in Japan, in health centers for the elderly.

In Russia, the analogue of these technologies has always been the Russian stove, which, after heating, gave off dry heat for a long time and served as a good aid in folk medicine. Lying on the stove, people often treated colds and more.

Advantages of IR heaters and recommendations for use

But when figuring out whether an IR heater is harmful to a person, you should understand that if used correctly, it will not only not harm your health, but will also become an excellent means of heating. After all, an infrared heater has numerous advantages:

  • silent operation;
  • fast heating speed;
  • long service life;
  • uniform heating of the surface;
  • the ability to heat only the necessary zones, and not the entire room.

Attention: When choosing an infrared heater, you should carefully study the instructions and thoroughly find out what its benefits and harms are, what waves are produced during operation of this device.

Much depends on the material from which the heating element is made. You should not purchase devices that use a halogen lamp as a heating element. It emits short waves, which pose the greatest danger to human health. Such devices should not be used for household purposes, as this will negatively affect your well-being.

As mentioned above, a lot depends on the installation location of this climate control device. Much depends on the size of the room and the height of the walls. Especially if you intend to mount it on the ceiling. The device must be at a certain height.

Before installing an IR heater, you should remember that the waves it emits should spread evenly throughout the room, and not be directed only to one part of it. Not only the quality of heating, but also the state of your health depends on how correctly this device is installed.

Please ensure that the specified technical specifications correspond to reality. A modern IR heater is often equipped with a tip-over and overheating protection sensor and has a built-in thermostat, with which you can set and maintain the desired temperature in the room. There should also be a control panel. All this additional equipment allows you to make the process of its operation more comfortable.

Remember, the safest heaters are long-wave ones. They must be correctly located in the room and made of quality materials. This is the key to their safe use and quality of room heating. In addition, you should follow the recommendations specified in the instructions.

Infrared heating devices are a first-class type of climate control technology. Are infrared heaters harmful? No. After all, if you choose and install them correctly, they will be safe, convenient and versatile. With their help, you can not only effectively heat the room even in severe frosts, but also save a lot of money.

Source: ZnatokTepla.ru

Main classification

According to the method of application, they are distinguished:

  • Heaters for enclosed spaces. Designed to organize a heating system for residential areas, as well as places of human activity. They have all the advantages of modern heating systems.
  • Outdoor heaters that operate outdoors. Specialized heaters used for spot street heating. Indispensable for winter picnics, fishing, gardening in the cold season or construction work at sub-zero temperatures. The heat probe is capable of warming open air within a radius of 2.5 meters.

Depending on the type of construction, there are:

  1. Floor infrared heaters . The advantage of this model is its mobility, which allows you to easily transport the device from one room to another. It can be used in the apartment or taken with you to the country house. The device is equipped with a rollover shutdown sensor, as well as an overheating protection system.
  2. Wall-mounted infrared heaters . Ideal as the main room heating system. In addition to excellent performance properties, they have excellent design features that allow them to harmonize with the interior of any stylistic direction. For city apartments, devices whose panels are finished with high-quality plastic are suitable. For country houses, an interesting solution would be devices with a natural stone panel.
  3. Ceiling infrared heaters . They are used in large premises with high ceilings. Their main advantage is the possibility of use in children's rooms. The design of the devices resembles a chandelier in appearance, so they do not spoil the overall appearance of the room at all.

Depending on the energy source, infrared heaters are divided into:

  • electrical;
  • gas;
  • diesel

Each type of equipment has its pros and cons, so you should choose an infrared heater based on the tasks at hand.

Those advantages of thermal devices that will create ideal heating for industrial buildings are disadvantages for residential areas.

Operating principle of infrared radiation

According to manufacturers, heating a home using such devices does not cause any harm at all, but there are also skeptics who argue that infrared heating of a home is very harmful to the health of residents. It is worth immediately recalling the school physics course, where it is indicated that any warm object emits waves on the electromagnetic spectrum, with the only difference being in length.

One of the largest heaters with IR technology is our Sun, and depending on the direction of the wave and its intensity, a person receives either comfort or discomfort. The length of the rays is usually divided into the following types:

  • short wave radiation – up to 1.5 microns;
  • medium wave radiation – up to 3 microns;
  • long wave radiation – from 3 microns or more.

Like any heater, a device operating on the IR principle has waves that decrease as objects heat up. The same indicator depends on the total power of the device.

The safest for humans is only radiation from long waves, the initial values ​​of which are at least 9 microns or more.

Video: heater - safe or harmful?

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Is infrared heating good or bad?

The impact of infrared heaters on humans has long been studied and, in connection with this, the following negative consequences have been proven:

  • Short-wavelength radiation can penetrate deeply into the epidermal tissue. Moisture evaporates from the skin and often the body cannot even develop a protective coating afterwards. This “effect” is often observed among those who like to visit infrared saunas, sometimes the result ends in first-degree burns;
  • Another disadvantage of prolonged exposure to an infrared heater is the development of eye pathologies. This fact was noticed in people whose activities involve intense radiation professionally.

But, despite such shortcomings, modern medicine widely uses infrared devices for physiotherapy. Positive symptoms include:

  • treatment of inflammatory processes of various pathologies;
  • acceleration of metabolism;
  • general acceleration of skin regeneration.

Devices used in medicine work with waves of a precise range, and the total time of exposure to the human body is carried out according to a cumulative system.

Among the positive characteristics of an infrared heater installed in a room, one can note the fact that the devices cope well with the dampness of the room without reducing the overall humidity. In addition, the use of IR heaters reduces the level of dust in the house and ionizes the air well, which has a beneficial effect on people with various types of allergies. Other advantages of infrared home heating include:

  • complete antimicrobial effect on the air;
  • general immune strengthening effect;
  • improved blood circulation;
  • improvement of the body's regenerative functions.

Based on the above, we can say that infrared heating at home is harmful to health, but not 100%, and here you should be guided by the quality of the device, the method of its use and the method of production of the device.

Source: OtoplenieBlog.ru

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