How to choose an infrared heater for greenhouses

Although greenhouses offer the perfect growing environment for plants all year round, it can be difficult to keep the temperature at its ideal level, particularly in the winter. An effective way to keep greenhouses warm and plants flourishing is with infrared heaters. However, to guarantee efficacy and energy efficiency, selecting the ideal infrared heater necessitates careful consideration of a number of factors.

The size of the area should be taken into account before choosing an infrared heater for your greenhouse. There are many different sizes of greenhouses: from tiny backyard buildings to massive commercial greenhouses. In order to efficiently heat the entire space without overstressing the heater or wasting energy, it is imperative to select a heater with the right heating capacity.

The kind of plant you’re growing and its particular temperature requirements are also important considerations. Since different plants have varying temperature requirements, it’s critical to choose an infrared heater that can give your greenhouse’s plants the perfect amount of warmth. Certain heaters have movable settings, so you can alter the temperature to what your plants require.

Another important factor to take into account when selecting an infrared heater for your greenhouse is energy efficiency. Seek for heaters with high energy efficiency ratings and features that can help you reduce energy consumption and optimize heating schedules, like timers and programmable thermostats. To further ensure constant warmth throughout the greenhouse and prevent heat loss, take into account the insulation qualities of the heater.

It’s also crucial to consider the requirements for installation and maintenance. Select a heater that fits the design and construction of your greenhouse and is simple to install. Choose a heater that also needs less upkeep to keep it operating smoothly and efficiently so you can devote more time and energy to taking care of your plants.

You can choose the best infrared heater to keep your greenhouse warm and give your plants the best growing environment by carefully weighing factors like size, plant requirements, energy efficiency, and installation/maintenance.

Different types for the greenhouse

There are numerous modifications available for this class of equipment. They come with both ceiling-mounted and ground-mounted mounting options. The initial ones are positioned at a minimum height of one meter above the ground. Because heating surfaces, including the soil, produces a greenhouse effect, they are thought to be the most popular for using an infrared heater to heat greenhouses.

Direct application of infrared films to the soil is done. They can be found beneath vegetable crops at a depth of up to 50 cm, between beds, and around the outside of the greenhouse. These devices are most frequently utilized in stationary greenhouses where the soil is not disturbed.

Infrared heaters are separated based on wavelength.

In accordance with this parameter, they are:

• Near, the closest to visible light;
• Medium;
• Distant.

In the house, they’re frequently called radiant or luminous heaters. However, you should be aware that the wavelength is the only difference to prevent confusion. Hence, the radiating element temperature of long-wave, or dark, ones is low, and that of short-wave, or light, ones is higher than 800°C.

Furthermore, there is a division based on the installation method into:

1. Stationary;
2. Portable.

The first are shaped like LED lamps, and the location of their installation is decided upon during the greenhouse design phase. Portable ones are lightweight, easily transportable, and have a fan to quickly distribute heat.

Compressed gas cylinders or an electric mains supply can power such equipment.

Is it possible to use IR heaters in the greenhouse

For greenhouses, gas or electric heating is thought to be the best choice for resolving the heating problem. The greenhouse’s owner should keep the following things in mind when selecting a heating system:

• maximum even heat distribution;
• absence of draughts;
• cost-effectiveness;
• practicality.

Safety during use and an automated heating process that takes into account outside variables are regarded as additional requirements for infrared heating.

Maximum even heat distribution

The heater operates by utilizing infrared radiation’s capacity to influence objects’ surfaces. Air exchange, the presence of heat loss, and the distance from the study source have almost no effect on the heating power range. Plant growth can be accelerated and the ground can be heated evenly if the power is distributed and calculated correctly.

Lack of drafts

Erroneous heating system design is thought to be one of the primary causes of draughts. For large-scale heating, forced air circulation is frequently used. Cold air moves downward and warm air upward. Accessing areas of a greenhouse with inadequate insulation is very challenging. Doors and windows allow cold air to enter, creating drafts that are harmful to the delicate flora.

If radiators are installed in front of the door or window, you can solve this issue with the polycarbonate greenhouse’s infrared heating system. Draughts are avoided as a result of the creation of a thermal barrier and the compensation of heat losses.

Cost-effectiveness, convenience and safety

Glass or polycarbonate greenhouses can be heated radiantly without incurring significant costs. Installing the system can be done on its own. A thermoregulator can cut your gas or electricity bills by up to 40%. Using an infrared heater to heat a greenhouse is now thought to be one of the most economically sound options. The gadgets are protected on multiple levels. Electric shocks are entirely eliminated by the moisture-proof housing of electric heaters.

What is called an infrared heater

Infrared heaters are unique devices that, in theory, function similarly to the sun. The gadget works by producing rays that are then absorbed by surfaces and objects in the immediate vicinity. Additionally, they are already heating the air. The sun produces roughly the same thermal effect. This characteristic confers several benefits to infrared heaters intended for greenhouses.

Types of infrared heaters

Infrared heaters come in two varieties. It concerns:

• ceiling plates. They are used for heating greenhouses, the length of which is approximately equal to 4 meters. Plates are placed in a single row, but make sure that the surface of the beds is at least 1 meter away;
• foils embedded in the ground. Installed both vertically and horizontally. And if in the first option, the infrared heater is mounted between the beds or along the perimeter of the greenhouse, then in the second it is installed in the soil under the vegetables at a depth of 50 centimeters. It is best to use such a heater in stationary greenhouses, when they do not have to be constantly dug out and then buried.

What are infrared heaters made of?

Infrared heaters have a very basic design. They are composed of aluminum anodized profiles, stainless steel tubular electric heaters for the heating elements, and metal bodies coated in heat-resistant enamel. There are foil- and specially-made heat-insulating shields between the heat-emitting plates and housings. The design includes detachable covers to protect the connection tubes used to connect to the power supply.

Principle of action

This device works by converting electrical energy into thermal infrared radiation, which travels from the plates to the floor and any objects that are placed on them. They in turn supply the environment around them with heat. The temperature of the plates’ surface heating is 250 degrees Celsius.

As a result, the infrared component does not lower the energy, maintaining a constant level of moisture in the air. This method, when used correctly, saves over 40% of the energy used in electricity. It’s important to realize, though, that the heating system is calculated differently for every room.

Organizing efficient greenhouse heating with infrared heaters

Installing and connecting infrared heaters is simple and doesn’t require the assistance of a craftsman because they are mobile pieces of equipment. However, the most effective way to heat a greenhouse is a completely different story.

Use of more powerful devices

One of the ways of applying infrared heating is considered to be the use of devices that have a power of 500 watts. In this case, the distance from the unit to the plants should be at least one meter. Install them either near windows or walls. Use heaters equipped with a special ceiling mount and hang them, for example, over the object where the seedlings are located. But it is not so easy to say at what height the unit should be mounted. The dachnik will need to figure it out on his own. Putting the IR heater at a certain distance, it should not be moved until the plants begin to develop. As soon as you notice that they are rising slightly, hang the unit a little higher.

There is one installed device every three or four meters. The height and dimensions of the greenhouse determine the precise separation between the units. The area that the heater covers increases with mounting height. Hang it as high as you can, therefore, to cut down on the cost of purchasing appliances. On the other hand, keep in mind that the height has an impact on the amount of heat provided to the plant.

Using less powerful devices

Using 250 W power appliances is the second option. Simple logic will tell you that in order to see a noticeable difference, you will need to use more infrared heaters. Consequently, in this instance, there should be no more than 1.5 meters separating the units. Experimentation will also be required to determine the appropriate height to place the seedlings above one another.

As in the previous instance, leave the heaters in a static condition and wait until the plants begin to grow. Lift saplings gradually after observing their growth. Because of its weight and small size, this type of infrared heater has an advantage. Hang it with a regular wire.

Additionally, there are a few tricks that the owner of the dacha will be able to use to maximize the efficiency of infrared heating. For instance, by spacing out the devices, one can save energy and increase a device’s output. There won’t be many "dead zones" on the site in this scenario. It’s true that this advice is only appropriate in situations where heating the entire greenhouse uniformly is required. The units should be placed directly above any areas where heat is required exclusively.

As you can see, using infrared heaters to artificially heat your greenhouse is a great way to achieve high yields. Consider the type you require when selecting this unit, and carefully review its features as well.

It’s essential to select the correct infrared heater for your greenhouse if you want to keep your plants healthy and grow at their best. With so many options on the market, it’s critical to weigh a number of considerations in order to make an informed choice.

First, determine the greenhouse’s dimensions and unique heating requirements. Determine the area’s square footage and the amount of heating power needed to efficiently warm it. While undersized heaters might not be able to provide enough warmth, oversized heaters can waste energy.

Take into account the infrared heater’s energy efficiency as well. To save operating expenses and minimize electricity consumption, choose models with high energy efficiency ratings. Seek for features that optimize energy usage according to your greenhouse’s needs, such as adjustable settings and programmable thermostats.

The quality and longevity of the heater is another crucial factor to take into account. Select trustworthy brands that are recognized for creating durable and dependable equipment. A high-quality infrared heater may be more expensive at first, but by preventing frequent replacements and repairs, it can save you money over time.

Additionally, consider the infrared heater’s installation and maintenance needs. Choose a model that requires little installation or maintenance so you can devote more time and effort to caring for your plants instead of resolving heating problems.

Finally, consider any extra features or accessories that could improve the infrared heater’s performance. Features like integrated fans for improved heat distribution or integration with greenhouse automation systems for remote monitoring and control are examples of this.

To sum up, when choosing an infrared heater for your greenhouse, you should take into account aspects like heating capacity, energy efficiency, durability, installation, upkeep, and extra features. Your plants will grow in the best conditions possible if you carefully consider these variables and select a heater that satisfies the demands of your greenhouse. This will guarantee the health and productivity of your plants.

Infrared heaters can be game-changers for greenhouse heating, offering efficient warmth without the need for extensive energy consumption. When choosing the right infrared heater for your greenhouse, it"s crucial to consider factors like the heater"s size, power output, and energy efficiency. Assessing the size of your greenhouse and its insulation level is key to determining the appropriate heater size and output. Additionally, opt for heaters with adjustable settings to tailor the heat output to your specific needs and weather conditions. Prioritize energy-efficient models to minimize operating costs and environmental impact. Lastly, consider the heater"s durability and safety features to ensure reliable performance and peace of mind. By carefully evaluating these factors, you can select an infrared heater that effectively maintains optimal temperatures for your greenhouse while promoting sustainability and cost-effectiveness.

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