A common question for many families is ‘are Infra-Red heaters safe in households with young children and pets’. The good news is that Infra-Red heaters can be very safe, provided they are used correctly and sensible precautions are taken.
Infra-Red heaters are becoming increasingly popular in homes due to their energy efficiency, quiet operation, and ability to provide quick warmth. They work by emitting Infra-Red radiation, a form of electromagnetic energy, which directly warms people and objects in a room rather than heating the air. This method of heating is similar to the warmth of sunlight and can feel more natural and immediate. However, a common concern for many families is whether Infra-Red heaters are safe for young children and pets.
How Infra-Red Heaters Work
Unlike traditional convection heaters that warm the air, Infra-Red heaters emit Infra-Red rays that heat up surfaces and people directly. This makes them efficient because no energy is wasted in heating unused airspace. Many modern models come with safety features, such as cool-to-the-touch exteriors, automatic shutoff mechanisms if the heater tips over, and overheat protection. These features significantly enhance their safety profile, especially in environments where children and pets are present.
Know more about how infrared heating works?
Safety for Children
One of the obvious concerns with all heating is the risk of burns or fire. Traditional radiators have hot surfaces that can cause burns if touched. Infra-Red heaters also get warm, and it comes down to a sense of positioning – for example the most efficient place to position an Infra-Red heater is on the ceiling, way out of reach of everybody. When Infra-Red heaters are mounted on walls, once again they can be hung out of the reach of toddlers who are naturally curious and inclined to touch everything. In part it’s a question of any child learning that heat can be dangerous. In many respects Infra-Red panels are the best heaters for a baby room or as a nursery heater as they keep an infant directly warm in winter.
Safety for Pets
Pet’s love laying down by heaters and Infra-Red is perfect for them. Pets naturally know when they get too hot and move away. As such Infra-Red panels are perfect for pets and, at Kiasa, we have fitted out Dog Hotels with Infra-Red heaters in every kennel. Of course, owners should monitor how their pets interact with the heater and ensure they have the freedom to move away from the heat source if they become too warm.
Other Considerations
Infra-Red heaters do not dry out the air like some other heating methods, which can be beneficial for children and pets who may suffer from dry skin or respiratory issues. Indeed Infra-Red is a safe option for eye problems. They also operate quietly, avoiding the loud fans found in other types of heaters, which can disturb pets or sleeping children.
All things considered Infra-Red heaters can be a safe and efficient choice for homes with children and pets, provided that modern, well-designed models are used and basic safety practices are followed. When used responsibly, these heaters offer a comfortable and safe way to keep your home warm during the colder months.
