Far infrared and panel heaters

What far infrared means

Infrared radiation covers a wide band of wavelengths. Hotter elements give off shorter wavelengths and visible light, while cooler surfaces give off longer wavelengths with no glow. Far infrared is the marketing term for heaters at the cooler end: flat panels and some carbon elements. Source: Far Out editorial

There is no consumer label that certifies a heater as far infrared, and the term does not describe efficiency or health effects. Treat it as a description of a low temperature, low glow heater and judge the product by its wattage, listing and installation instructions. Source: Far Out editorial

How panel heaters work

Radiant heating panels can be installed on walls or ceilings, and the Department of Energy describes them as transferring heat directly from a hot surface to people and objects in the room. Source: DOE

A panel spreads its heat over a large flat face, so its surface runs cooler than a glowing quartz tube of the same wattage. That makes panels quiet and easy to live with, and slower to make a cold room feel warm. Source: Far Out editorial

Wall, ceiling or portable

Ceiling panels aim downward over a seating area and stay out of reach. Wall panels suit a room where you sit facing one wall. Freestanding panels and small under desk panels plug in and move with you. Source: Far Out editorial

Wall and ceiling hung heaters can fall under a different safety standard from permanently fixed panels. The UL standard for movable and wall or ceiling hung electric room heaters excludes panel type radiant heating equipment that is covered by separate requirements, so check which listing a mounted panel carries. Source: UL Standards

Before you mount a panel

Read the installation manual first. It sets the mounting height, clearances to walls and ceilings, and whether the panel plugs in or must be hardwired. Hardwired panels belong on a circuit sized for them and installed by a licensed electrician. Source: Far Out editorial

Look for a registered certification mark on the panel. OSHA explains that the mark signifies a recognized laboratory evaluated and certified the product against appropriate product safety standards. Source: OSHA

Claims to read carefully

Panel marketing often promises large savings, better health or relief from allergies. We have not found government or standards body evidence for those claims. A panel converts its power into heat like any electric heater. Read our efficiency guide for what it can and cannot save. Source: Far Out editorial

Can a panel heat a whole room?

Panels can keep a closed, insulated room comfortable because they warm the walls and furniture over time. Sizing depends on the room, insulation and climate, so use the manufacturer's sizing guidance for the exact model. Source: Far Out editorial

Are infrared panels safe around children and pets?

Panel surfaces run cooler than glowing elements but still get hot. Follow the same habits as any heater: keep a three foot kid free zone and keep anything that can burn away from it. Source: NFPA