What Size Infrared Heater Do I Need?

Although numerous heating calculators exist that aim to simply calculate how many heaters you need, many fail to consider the most appropriate heater to choose for the given application. The first step is to work out what type of infrared heater is needed for your application. As a rule of thumb:

• Industrial Heaters such as the Apollo, are the recommended solution for warehouse, factory or large sports hall applications, excellent for high ceilings, hard-to-heat areas, or for efficient low-carbon heating in zones
• Commercial Heaters such as the Sorrento, are the recommended solution for hospitality and commercial establishments, looking to maximise outdoor potential
• Outdoor Heaters such as the IP-rated Rio Grande or low-glare Bahama, are the recommended solutions for domestic or commercial outdoor awnings or pergolas where warmth is required in colder conditions
• Indoor Heaters such as Radiant Heat Panels are recommended for domestic and office heating applications where lower wattage zonal heating is required to achieve comfortable warmth when needed

On the list above, you’ll find there are a range of shortwave, medium-wave and long-wave/far infrared heaters. It is important to note that the solutions mentioned cover only some of the considerations, as each building may have unique requirements, making it crucial to select a company with the right experience to advise on all aspects involved.

A common mistake that buyers make is failing to know the difference between types of infrared heaters and how they would work in various applications. For example, though some manufacturers may specify longwave or far infrared heaters in church applications, our research, development and engineering for the last 40+ years has demonstrated over time that these fail to keep draughty, poorly insulated grade-listed buildings warm. Discreet, shortwave heaters may be better suited to the needs of the congregation, offering an instant heat source where needed without heat loss or the need for pre-heating as shown in a Shropshire church case study.

The next key question to consider is whether a full heating solution is required or if more-effective zone control is the better solution in cases where heating is not necessary for part of the day. For example, in an office or home working environment where hybrid working is the norm – heating may only be required in occupied areas. Within a warehouse, operational zones within factory areas may vary throughout the day and for churches, congregational hours may only be a few hours a day. Typically we find that the response is consistent and full, targeted, zonal control is the overarching theme.

To calculate the best design scheme outcome, the following factors should be considered:

• Building Type and Usage (Occupancy)
• Design of Building
• Rate of Air Movement (Draughts or Winds)
• Temperature
• Size of Area to be Heated (m^2/3)

The required output of the heater is influenced by the above factors. If you have a rough idea of area size and ceiling height, you can then find the volume of the space and position heaters accordingly in relation to your usage requirements.

Tansun can help you determine the best solution for your space via our bespoke design scheme service. We're on hand to assist with establishing the best course of action for your building space to help maximise heat delivery.

What Are The Outcomes?

Choosing the right size of an infrared heater according to the application is crucial for efficient heating and energy savings. The size of the infrared heater you need depends on various factors such as the area you intend to heat, the insulation of the building, and the specific heating requirements of your space. Here’s a detailed guide to help you determine the appropriate size:

1. Area Size and Volume: Measure the length, width, and height of the space you need to heat. Multiply these dimensions to get the cubic footage. Larger spaces will require heaters with higher wattage to ensure even heat distribution.
2. Insulation Quality: Assess the quality of insulation in your building. Poorly insulated spaces will lose heat faster, requiring a more powerful heater to maintain a comfortable temperature.
3. Temperature Requirements: Determine the desired temperature increase. For example, if you need to raise the temperature by 10 degrees Celsius, you will need a different heater compared to needing a 20-degree increase.
4. Climate Conditions: Consider the external climate conditions. Colder climates will demand higher wattage heaters to compensate for the greater temperature differential.
5. Usage Patterns: Identify how often and for how long the space will be occupied and heated. Zones that are used sporadically might benefit from infrared heaters with quick warm-up times and higher efficiency.

Infrared heater panels are a popular choice for indoor heating, offering efficient and targeted warmth. To determine the correct size of an infrared heater panel, consider the following:

Room Dimensions and Wattage Requirements:

• Room Size: Similar to infrared heaters, the size of the infrared heater panel depends on the room’s dimensions. Measure the room’s length, width, and height to calculate the volume.
• Heating Requirement: Determine the wattage needed based on the room’s size and insulation. Typically, infrared heater panels require around 50-60 watts per square metre in a well-insulated room. For poorly insulated spaces, this may increase to 70-80 watts per square metre.

Panel Placement:

• Wall or Ceiling Mounting: Decide whether to mount the panels on the wall or ceiling. Ceiling-mounted panels provide even heat distribution and are ideal for rooms with limited wall space.
• Number of Panels: Depending on the room size, you may need multiple panels to ensure consistent heating. Distribute the panels evenly to avoid cold spots.

By considering these factors and performing the necessary calculations, you can more accurately determine the size and number of infrared heaters required to keep your space comfortably warm.

For personalised advice, consulting with experts such as Tansun can ensure that you choose the most suitable heating solution for your specific needs and take the headache of planning away. We work closely with decision-makers to help plan the best solution for the space. 

Though this guide intends to provide you with enough information to make an informed decision, it is evident that to achieve precise results there isn’t a universal solution for all. Instead, many factors need to be considered by buyers before making a purchase decision.

Tansun have developed comprehensive solutions for the last 40+ years, resulting in thousands of successful projects worldwide. We have a dedicated team of consultants who can help design the best heater scheme without obligation.

We’re invested in the engineering of infrared heating to achieve the best possible results for all end users and are on hand to help you implement the most energy efficient solution according to your needs. Contact us today to discuss how we can help meet your goals.