Outdoor heaters are used to heat outdoor or partially outdoor spaces where forced air heating and insulation are impractical and ineffective. Infrared outdoor heaters use electromagnetic waves from infrared light to heat objects, materials or spaces with the application of a reflective shield.
Unlike convectional heaters, or forced air heaters, infrared space heaters do not use air molecules to transport heat energy. Forced air heaters heat air molecules which then rise, leaving a vacuum into which cooler molecules move and are heated, creating movement of air through convection. Forced air heaters are not able to suitably affect the temperature of an outdoor area because of the process of convection. However, radiated heat in the form of electromagnetic waves travels through the air and is absorbed directly by people and objects, making infrared space heaters a far more effective and efficient method of heating outdoor areas. An electric infrared heater has an element, a common example of which is a tungsten filament, while a radiant gas heater burns natural gas or propane to create a heat source. The heat generated is then reflected off a radiant surface, usually composed of a metal in the direction required. Radiant waves lose minimal energy to the processes of convection and conduction. As various metals react to and absorb heat differently, this must be taken into consideration when determining the appropriate heater usage.
For residential and commercial purposes, outdoor heaters extend the time people are able to use an outdoor space such as patios, terraces, gardens and other entertaining areas. Infrared heaters can create a comfortable temperature even on cooler days and nights to allow for outdoor dining or events. Generally outdoor heaters are portable and able to be moved in accordance with their need and application. They can however be mounted on walls or ceilings in locations which have a set structure or purpose. The high level of efficiency of outdoor electric infrared heaters leads to a large number of benefits, both economically and environmentally. As there is less heat wasted, the heaters do not have to run for as long or at such a high power as other types. As electric heaters do not use fuels, there are no harmful emissions being released into the atmosphere, resulting in fewer concerns about oxygen and moisture removal from the air. Gas heaters are also effective, but there are other considerations such as the environmental impact of burning gas, and the added risk of fire with the existence of a flame in the apparatus. A protective shield can be used in both types of heater to prevent direct contact with the source of heat and safeguard against burning and fire.
