3 options for connecting an infrared heater

Having the appropriate heating system in our homes is essential to keeping them warm and comfortable. Due to their effectiveness and affordability, infrared heaters have become more and more popular in recent years. Infrared heaters produce radiant heat that warms objects and people in the room directly, in contrast to conventional heating techniques, which rely on convection to warm the air. Choosing how to connect an infrared heater to your home’s power source is a crucial choice when installing one. We’ll look at three different ways to connect an infrared heater in this post, each with advantages and things to think about.

Direct wiring is the first option. Using this method, the infrared heater is connected straight to the electrical system of your house. It offers a long-lasting and seamless replacement, doing away with the need for outlets or cords that are visible. Because plugs and sockets do not lose energy, direct wiring also guarantees maximum efficiency. To guarantee that this option complies with safety regulations and electrical codes, professional installation is necessary. To ensure that the wiring is done safely and correctly, it is imperative that you work with a licensed electrician.

Plugging in is the second option. A plug-in connection is an option if you want a simpler installation procedure. The infrared heater in this configuration has a standard power cord that fits into a nearby electrical outlet. Plug-in heaters are a convenient and adaptable heating option that you can move around your home as needed. They are also usually easier to install and less expensive than direct-wired models. To avoid overloading the electrical outlet or tripping circuit breakers, it is imperative to confirm that it can support the heater’s power needs.

Third option: Hardwired thermostat mounted on wall. Hardwiring an infrared heater with a wall-mounted thermostat provides the perfect answer for individuals looking for a solution that strikes a balance between permanence and flexibility. With this configuration, direct wiring is seamlessly integrated with thermostat control. You can customize the thermostat’s temperature settings and heating schedules to suit your needs. Furthermore, hardwiring removes the need for outlets or cords that are visible, keeping your living area tidy and uncluttered.

Nuances of connection

Let’s have a brief discussion about connecting such a device. Wall or ceiling heaters can function normally, but built-in thermostats have very poor efficiency because the heat generated by the heater’s body activates the sensors rather than the room’s temperature. As a result, the proper installation plan presumes that the controlling components are placed remotely. Zoning for the use of such a device must be calculated when installing the thermal regulator; otherwise, the installation will be incorrect. In order to guarantee that this process is performed accurately, the following regulations must be adhered to:

• if a ceiling heater is placed, it will be better to place the thermostat somewhere farther away on the wall, such installation of the heater of the type in question requires the installation of the regulator there, but not far from the device;
• It is better to place the regulator from the floor at a height of 150 centimeters;
• installation will depend on the chosen mounting option – if the heater is built-in, it will be necessary to hollow out the wall, and devices for installation on the wall require a box for power cables and a thermal sensor;
• If the installation scheme requires placing the device on the outer wall of the building, it is necessary to install heat-insulating material under the housing, this makes it possible not to cause accidental activation of the relay;
• the selected area for installation of the temperature controller should be located relatively far away from windows, doors and heating equipment.

Typically, the thermostat has two pairs of terminals that are attached to both the heater and the circuit breaker. If the plan calls for the inclusion of multiple heating devices, those additions should be made concurrently. Two possible connections in this scenario are as follows:

• When there are so many wires coming from the temperature controller that corresponds to the number of appliances to be connected;
• The thermostat has two pairs of terminals that are connected to the circuit breaker and the heater.

It is important to distinguish between the zero and phase conductor inclusion locations during installation as some electric regulator models are extremely sensitive to this particular point. Furthermore, one ought to install a magnetic starter or a contactor. The temperature controller’s output type terminals are connected to the control relay if necessary, and the heaters are connected through the starter’s contacts.

Model with remote sensor

Understanding how to connect the ceiling infrared heater to the thermoregulator will be made easier by following the advice above. The majority of devices that are mounted on walls or ceilings also fall under this general category. With an infrared heater embedded in the floor, this is not the case.

In this instance, the laminate or linoleum is covered with a unique heating film. We refer to this system as floor heating. Compared to wall or ceiling heaters, it is more efficient. The most common type of thermostat used to regulate its heating is one with a remote sensor.

In this instance, the device will have an additional wire. There will be a tiny temperature sensor installed at its end. It ought to be installed on the floor right next to the movie. An outlet can be used to connect the infrared heated floor to a room of average to small size. Seldom does its power surpass 1.5 kW.

Connection of thermoregulators to infrared electric heaters

Correct installation ensures efficient operation. It is important to consider the heater’s placement first. The gadget shouldn’t be placed close to heat sources or in an area with high humidity. The heating device may not operate properly if these guidelines are broken, as an inaccurate temperature reading could result.

How to connect the thermostat to both the heater and the power source is the next crucial question. To shut off the circuit, an automatic shutdown relay is employed. The most popular connection schemes are listed here.

Using one thermostat per heater is the initial method of thermostat-to-infrared heater connection. The easiest way to manually connect the thermostat is with this option.

The second approach entails simultaneously connecting two heating devices in parallel to a single thermostat. The wiring for the second electric heater is made after the first one is connected in series. One thermostat can be used for more than two electric heaters in a different way.

This kind of scheme is the most practical, even with its intricate connections. Here, the electromagnetic starter is the foundation for the device’s safe operation when using an electrical appliance.

Certain manufacturers have their own magnetic starters for sale, so they can provide you with a ready-made scheme. Therefore, it is preferable to carefully familiarize yourself with the connection instructions beforehand if you have little experience with electrical engineering, or to rely on the expertise of professionals.

Price and varieties of infrared heaters with temperature control using three widely used examples as an example. Within their product category, the most widely used infrared thermostat models are wall-mounted and ceiling-mounted models. Their small size is what sets them apart most.

Furthermore, the product’s unique design and the option to choose a temperature controller that complements the room’s decor draw in potential buyers. Think about a few choices.

Connection and installation of the thermostat

The thermo regulator can be connected in one of two ways. These are techniques for joining single- and two-core cables.

Connecting the two-core cable to the thermostat

When the TR needs a complete power supply from the power grid to operate a closed-loop control system of the heating mode of a specific volume, double-core wire is utilized. These are microprocessor-based integrated circuits.

The device analyzes the data it receives from the sensor, which includes changes in resistance and current strength. Consequently, instructions are sent to the heating element starter with a specified time interval and boundary threshold to initiate heating of a specific area.

Kindly take note! A diagram showing how to connect a two-core wire to the thermostat and circulation pump of a water heater boiler can be used as an example. Schematic of the circulation pump connection

Schematic of the circulation pump connection

Connecting a single-core cable to the thermostat

When installing a thermoregulator in the break of the phase wire that leads to the heating element’s plus terminal, a single core cable is utilized in the connection scheme. In other words, the wire acts as a phase breaker for the main current that powers the heating components.

Connecting a thermoregulator to an infrared heater

Ascertaining the equipment’s installation location is a prerequisite before moving forward with the heater installation.

To guarantee the safest use of the device and its seamless operation, location selection is crucial. Here are some helpful hints:

First tip: Avoid placing the device in areas with high humidity. This poses a serious risk, particularly for electric thermostats.

Tip 2. It is advisable to select a location that is shielded from the sun because direct sunlight will adversely impact the device’s functionality. The truth is that they will start to display erroneous data as soon as they are exposed to sunlight, which will negatively impact the heating process.

Once the location has been decided upon, you can proceed straight to the installation process by getting all the required tools ready.

Materials and tools required

One of the most important tools you’ll need is a tape measure, which will let you gauge the required distance from the ceiling to the location of the device’s installation. To make the installation as level as possible, you should also have a construction level.

Additionally, the installation process will require the following supplies and tools:

• drill or drill bit;
• perforator;
• dowel;
• bracket.

It is feasible to complete the equipment installation because of all these devices.

Peculiarities of installation

It is important to consider certain aspects when installing the heater, and one of these aspects is the thermoregulator attachment. Using the thermostat brand "Balu" as an example, one can examine the installation and connection procedures.

To ensure that the device can handle all of the tasks that have been assigned to it, you must first become familiar with the installation guidelines and follow them as closely as possible.

Among the fundamental guidelines that must be followed are:

1. The thermostat can be installed only 1.5 meters from the floor.
2. Before installing the device, a layer of insulation material should be placed under it.
3. Never mount the thermostat near furniture or behind curtains.

The last reason is that, because there wouldn’t be enough air to cool the device during operation, such an arrangement would be both dangerous and incredibly inconvenient.

Infrared heaters offer a versatile and energy-efficient solution for heating your home, but choosing the right connection method is crucial for optimal performance. When it comes to connecting an infrared heater, you have three main options: direct wiring, plug-in, or connecting to a smart home system. Direct wiring provides a permanent and tidy installation, ideal for fixed heating setups. Plug-in options offer convenience and flexibility, allowing you to easily move or adjust the heater as needed. For those looking to integrate their heating system into a smart home setup, connecting to a compatible smart home system enables remote control and automation for enhanced comfort and energy savings. Each option has its own advantages, so consider your specific needs and preferences when selecting the best connection method for your infrared heater.

Varieties of infrared heaters

Infrared heating devices are very popular these days. This is a useful piece of equipment that heats the space to the ideal temperature fast. Their working principle is very straightforward. The heater emits radiation that is comparable to solar heat. They give the room’s objects heat. The air stays cool at the same moment.

Many consumers of these products wonder if it’s possible to connect an infrared heater without a thermoregulator and why a heating control unit is necessary. It is theoretically possible for the equipment to function without a regulator. However, you can establish the ideal microclimate in the space when it is a part of the circuit.

It is possible to mount infrared heaters under infrared film or on the walls, ceiling, or floor. Every variety that is being offered has unique characteristics. The general idea is the same, though.

Schemes of connection options

Any kind of thermoregulator needs to be connected properly. You can use multiple schemes that represent every aspect of the process for this purpose. It should be noted ahead of time that placing a heater with a regulator close to heat sources or in a room with high humidity will cause the control system to operate incorrectly.

Infrared panels are a simple way to enhance any interior decor.

An automatic type relay is required for operation. This component will supply the device with power. Once all the components have been chosen, you can use one of the following connection schemes:

• In the first case, 1 heater and 1 thermostat can be used. The automatic unit has 2 pairs of wires, one of them is directed to the thermostat. One wire is zero, the other is phase. Connection is carried out accordingly. The second pair of elements is used to connect to the infrared heater;

Wires can be used to connect a single heater to the regulator.

The wiring from the thermostat is needed to connect two heaters.

When multiple devices are connected, a unique scheme is created.

Features of models of thermoregulators

It is necessary to consider the unique characteristics of the device when connecting the regulator to infrared electric heaters made by various manufacturers. The ceiling-mounted Ballu Bih series electric heaters are among the most widely used. They can be linked to a remote control, and multiple heaters can be integrated into a single system. Thermostats that are electronic in nature are frequently connected.

The thermostat works well with other infrared heaters as well as ceiling heaters.

Ballu thermoregulators work well with the same-brand infrared electric devices. An instruction manual for connecting is included in the kit, which simplifies the work. The mechanical device features an adjustment wheel, typically with a range of 5 to 30 °, and an integrated air temperature sensor.

The same-brand controller and heater function well together.

Timberk is a brand that manufactures thermocontrolling devices in addition to infrared heaters. Contemporary models can be connected to ceiling heating systems, so they come with a remote control. A variety of colored sensors show how the device operates. It is possible to program many models to shut off in increments of 60 minutes every 13 hours.

The Timberk line comprises several contemporary controller models.

Infrared, water, and air heating systems can be operated with universal control devices from the Eberle brand and the Instata 2 series. One sensor can be controlled by means of digital and push-button control when a control unit is present. The operation’s outcome is shown on the display, and the mode can be scheduled up to seven days in advance.

Additionally, infrared devices and regulators for heating boilers are part of the Eberle range.

Numerous manufacturers of infrared heaters add various kinds of thermostats to their lineup. This enables you to build a high-quality chain of products from the same manufacturer, which makes connection easier and guarantees dependable system performance.

Recommendations for correct installation

For the technique to operate safely and smoothly, control devices connected to infrared panels must adhere to universal and basic rules. The following summarizes the general recommendations for element placement and installation:

• One thermostat can be installed in each room heated by the infrared heater;
• Installation of the sensor can be carried out on the surface of the infrared panel, but between them it is necessary to install a heat-reflecting screen;
• Ceiling heaters equipped with a controlling sensor do not have a power of more than 3 kW;
• It is recommended to install the regulators at a height of 1.5 m from the floor level.

The infrared panel’s regulator has a simple design that blends in well with the room’s decor.

Video: design and connection of the mechanical thermo regulator

When an infrared heater has a thermoregulator installed, you can control the heating system’s operation manually or remotely. With the help of this control, it is simple to establish the ideal temperature in the room and prevent either overheating or underheating.

Ceiling heaters with thermostat

There are advantages and disadvantages to this kind of infrared heat emitter, so when choosing them for the dacha, you should consider the following features:

It is crucial to take into account the weight and material composition of the infrared ceiling heater with thermostat. Although steel models are less expensive, not all ceilings can support their weight.

It will cost more because it is made of aluminum, but it works with summer houses of any ceiling height. It is necessary to determine the heater’s power based on the room’s area if it is assumed that the heater will be the only source of heat in the house. Generally speaking, 1 m2 needs 100 watts to be heated. It also matters what wavelength the device emits. The area it can heat gets smaller the shorter it is. The infrared ceiling heater in the dacha should also be long-wave if the ceiling is high.

If it is necessary to install a ceiling heater in a summer house, which is not visited in winter, it is necessary to choose a device with protection against condensation and moisture. Since during this period the temperature will be kept to a minimum, it can cause the formation of water droplets on the ceiling, which can damage the device and create a short circuit.
The thermostat for the ceiling heater is selected depending on how often the owners "visit" their dacha in winter. Mechanical device is suitable when someone permanently lives at the cottage. Settings in it are entered manually, and the principle of operation is based on turning on/off the heater as the air in the room heats up or cools down. Electronic thermostat or programmer can cost almost the same as the ceiling infrared heater, but it can be controlled remotely, adjusting the device for a week in advance, taking into account the time of day.

Important: using a thermostat is required to ensure both energy savings and the safety of its operation. Expensive thermostat models store the settings and guard against network short circuits in the event of a power outage.

How to connect a warm floor to a thermostat

In contrast to electric underfloor heating, where the basic version of floor water heating lacks automation, the temperature regulator is part of the set and the scheme arranges for its connection. There are two varieties of them available:

• Mechanical control with a thermal head and remote sensor for the coolant temperature.
• By means of an electronic thermostat with a servo actuator.

Although there is another way for the controller to have centralized control over the "smart home" system, we won’t take it into consideration because of how complicated the system is. Below is the most basic wiring diagram for a floor heating system using a thermal head with an immersion temperature sensor and a three-way valve.

Linkage to the underfloor heating system

Using an immersion sensor, the thermal head, whose actuator is housed in the three-way valve, gauges the temperature in the supply manifold, to which the heating circuits of every room are connected. The floor heating system’s water circulation begins when the coolant reaches the desired temperature, which is detected by the head’s actuator activating the three-way valve. The boiler’s supply of heating medium is cut off or limited.

This type of indirect climate control maintains the same heating medium temperature throughout all the rooms. The warm floor, which is linked to an electronic thermostat and positioned on the room temperature sensor, is eliminated from this drawback. To ensure the right connection is made, refer to the accompanying diagram.

Attaching an electronic thermostat to the floor heating system

Installing the room thermostat on the wall within the space is required in order to connect it to the distribution manifold. Additionally, power supply wires need to be run to the switching unit, which needs to be mounted on a rail above the distributor, and the home electrical network. Moreover, the servo drive is inserted in place of the plastic cap that was previously on the supply line valve.

Connecting the wires from the servo drive to the electronic block completes the last connection between the floor heating and the thermostat. The wiring diagram that comes with every product indicates the terminals on every device to which the wires need to be connected. Now, each circuit will receive coolant based on the actual temperature in the room where the thermostat is located.

How the thermostat works

There are two primary components to such a regulator:

• A temperature sensor installed near the heat source and/or in the heated room.
• The control unit that processes the temperature sensor signals.

The way these structural components interact with one another is as follows:

• The control unit receives the program of operation of the heater, which specifies the temperature mode in the room or the degree of heating of the heating element.
• The temperature sensor reads the "degrees" in the room and/or at the heating element and transmits this information to the control unit.
• The control unit turns on the heating element if the temperature transmitted by the sensor is less than the programmed value. And turns off the infrared panel if the temperature in the room or at the heating plate exceeds the programmed parameter.

Because of this, infrared heaters mounted on walls and ceilings that have thermoregulators only use the "volume" of electricity required to heat a space to the appropriate temperature. These adjust the temperature and heat output in increments of 0.1 to 1.0 °C.

Typical types of thermostats

Two varieties of thermoregulators are produced by manufacturers nowadays:

Mechanical apparatuses. A unique plate or diaphragm composed of material sensitive to temperature is used by these controllers as a temperature sensor. As a result, thermomechanical regulators actually lack a control unit. The plate, in response to the "influence" of the real temperature within the house, closes or opens the contacts of the electrical circuit that powers the infrared heater. Additionally, the entire regulation consists of positioning the components of the plate temperature sensor to fix the desired temperature with the aid of a mechanical lever.

• The main advantage of such a regulator – the ability to work without electricity supply to the device.
• The main disadvantage – low calibration accuracy – from 0.5 to 1 °C.

Diagram showing how to connect an infrared heater to a thermoregulator

Gadgets made of electronics. Such a device’s temperature sensor reads electromagnetic waves at a specific frequency in order to detect thermal radiation. In this instance, the house’s degrees and the "outside" temperature are both controlled. Such a controller’s control unit receives signals from the sensor and processes them using a program or algorithm. The controls on electronic appliances are solely digital. The factory programs or buttons on the housing determine the algorithm used to process the sensor’s signals. The display shows information about the operating modes and temperature.

• The main advantage of such an instrument is high accuracy – calibration is carried out in 0.1 °C increments. In addition, there is some autonomy of control. For example, infrared heaters with a thermoregulator for dacha can be programmed for a week of work on the temperature of the air outside the house and even do not go out of town to monitor and adjust the heating system. Mechanical regulators cannot do this – the user will have to "spin the wheel" of the setting almost every day.
• The main disadvantage is that it can only operate when the mains voltage is present.

How to connect a thermostat to an infrared heater?

The following widely acknowledged guidelines ought to be followed when installing the temperature controller:

• A separate regulator is installed in each heated room.
• A heat-reflecting screen must be installed between the temperature sensor and the supporting surface.
• Infrared ceiling heaters with a thermostat can not be more powerful than 3 kW.
• The recommended height of placement – 1.5 meters from the floor level.

The device itself is installed in the manner described below:

• From the central panel to the regulator a separate line is "pulled", which ends at the incoming "zero" and "phase" terminals.
• From the regulator to the heater pull the power supply line, starting from the outgoing terminals "zero" and "phase".
• External temperature sensors connected to the regulator using separate lines or wireless communication protocols are connected to the appropriate connectors of the thermoregulator.

For each model of regulating device, the passport contains the precise installation plans.

Ballu BMT 1 thermostat regulator: how to connect

The Ballu BMT 1 temperature controller with air temperature sensor is the most widely used and well-known. In use, it has shown its worth.

• Cabling;
• Installation and connection of the device.

Prior to anything else, the heater installation location must be decided upon. You can then begin installing wires after that. You should select a wire cross-section of at least 2.5 mm2 to guarantee fire safety.

Install the thermostat after the cables have been laid. Next, we attach the gadget. Since many people do not know how to connect the device correctly, it is necessary to understand the diagram in order to accomplish this.

The labels for the regulator’s terminals are (3, 4, 1, 5, 6), arranged from left to right. Attach the supply phase wire to terminal number (1). Terminal number (6) is used to connect zero wires. The same terminal is used by both the device zero and the operating zero.

After that, a jumper to terminal (5) must be made from terminal number (3).The device’s indication is connected thanks to this jumper. Attach the phase wire to the heating device to terminal (4).

Understanding the color markings on wires is essential to avoid confusion during the connecting process. Phase wire (brown or white), ground (yellow-green), and neutral (blue). It should be mentioned that the F2000 thermo regulator can be connected using this scheme.

Detailed instructions for installation and connection with your own hands

The device must be installed correctly in order to enjoy all of the aforementioned benefits. There are five steps in this work, and following the instructions exactly is necessary.

Preparatory stage

To avoid being distracted during the installation, it is first necessary to have a set of tools. Participation is required:

1. Roulette.
2. Pyrometer.
3. Screwdriver.
4. Screwdriver.
5. Drill (perforator).
6. Pliers.

Where and how to install an IR heater?

At this point, it is decided where the infrared heater should be installed. It can be mounted on a slope, a wall, or a ceiling.

In living rooms, infrared radiation up to 800 W is installed. In the case of public buildings, 1.5 kW is the starting power.

To support a load of twenty to thirty kg, the surface needs to be sturdy.

The heater should not be placed next to anything that could catch fire.

Location and height from the floor

It is advised to install IR close to heat-absorbing surfaces. Stone surfaces, wood, and carpets are wise choices. Reflective surfaces ought to be avoided because the owner will only notice a small impact from using the device. It is recommended to install electrical wiring on a non-combustible substrate.

The location of the heater is largely dependent on the particulars of the space. When it comes to placing IR in residential buildings, there is a best layout. It appears like this:

1. A pyrometer can measure the coldest place that requires heating. In the case of installing several heaters at once, it is required necessarily.
2. The height from the floor should be 1.5 meters in residential areas. In case a person spends a lot of time under the heater, the value should start from 1.8 meters.
3. If the installation of a high-temperature infrared heater is carried out in public buildings, offices, the distance should be from 2 m.

Mounting of the device

It is possible to carry out installation on your own without incurring any costs. The installation process requires a certain level of skill and knowledge, which is the only challenge.

It is imperative that the heater remains off while installing and connecting to the power source.

Path of action:

Using a tape measure, ascertain the height of attachment from the floor and ceiling. If the wall is concrete, drill a hole with a drill (perforator) or screw in the bolts.

It is crucial that the mounting points be spaced the same distance apart. After the holes are drilled, insert dowels. Put the fasteners in place. Place the device into the holes for fixing. It’s possible that heater designs are not very different from one another, so heed the advice of the manufacturers.

Keep in mind that heater designs can differ significantly, so heed the advice of the manufacturers.

Connection to the mains

The thermostat and infrared heater are mounted together to provide a comfortable temperature and save energy. When the room reaches the desired temperature, the unit automatically switches off the infrared. The thermostat activates the IR as soon as the room’s air cools down.

There are four steps involved in connecting the thermostat and mains:

1. Mount the thermostat to the wall at a height of 1.4 m from the floor near the infrared heater.
2. Select a wire that is resistant to high loads. It must be laid inside the walls and ceiling from the IR to the thermostat.
3. The wire is masked with plaster or special boxes.
4. The wiring of the heater is switched in parallel to the main line.

One thermostat will not be sufficient if heaters are installed in multiple rooms at the same time. For every room, one device is required.

Wiring diagram of several heaters through a thermoregulator

Connecting entails bringing multiple devices’ cables to the thermoregulator. The junction box is then connected to the thermostat.

Adding a separate automatic circuit breaker to the switchboard is the best course of action. This lowers the possibility of overloading.

To get the most out of your infrared heater and make sure your house stays warm and comfortable, you need to connect it correctly. With three main options—direct wiring, plug-in, and hardwired with a thermostat—every household can find a solution that suits its taste and requirements.

Direct wiring may be the best option if you’re searching for an easy-to-use and long-lasting fix. By directly connecting the heater to the electrical system of your house, this method guarantees a steady and dependable power source. It’s a well-liked option that offers a smooth and hassle-free installation for people who wish to avoid dealing with cords and plugs.

Conversely, if you value adaptability and ease of use, an infrared heater that plugs in might be the solution. This option makes it easy to move or relocate the heater as needed because all you have to do is plug it into a regular electrical outlet. Renters or those who desire the flexibility to rearrange their living space without being constrained by permanent wiring will find it ideal.

Take into consideration going with a hardwired infrared heater with a thermostat for the best in control and customization. With this configuration, you can control temperature settings and plan heating cycles by directly integrating the heater into your home’s heating system. For homeowners who value energy efficiency and seek a heating solution that works well with their current setup, it’s ideal.

Regardless of the approach you select, optimal performance and safety depend on correct installation and upkeep. Make sure you adhere to the manufacturer’s instructions and, if necessary, seek advice from a certified electrician. An infrared heater can be a reasonably priced and effective way to maintain a warm and cozy home all year long with the correct setup.

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