Are Infrared Heaters Dangerous?

How Infrared Heaters Work

• Infrared heaters generate warmth by emitting infrared electromagnetic radiation waves. They are capable of generating a significant amount of heat without having to come into contact with the item or person that is being warmed. Infrared heaters are most commonly found in space heaters and saunas, which are used to raise body and room temperature while still maintaining comfortable conditions for human habitation.

Heating Dangers

• Infrared heaters make rooms and people warmer without consuming as much oxygen from the air as traditional heating methods do. This means that people are more comfortable at higher temperatures. The risks associated with higher body temperatures include a loss of hydration or dehydration due to sweating and loss of fluids. People may also become overheated if they stay in a room with too high of a temperature for too long a time period. Some types of infrared heaters may cause skin irritation and burns after prolonged exposure.

Health Problems

• Infrared heaters have a likelihood of exacerbating certain types of health problems. People who are being treated for certain diseases and disorders, especially those who are heavily impacted by blood flow and circulation, can suffer serious health complications as a result of prolonged exposure to infrared heaters. Conditions that infrared heaters affect negatively include diabetes, heart problems and individuals with a history of strokes.

Minimizing Your Risks

• As with any type of heating device, you can significantly reduce the risks of experiencing problems by exercising common sense and caution while using infrared heaters. Heaters should be supervised and not left to run while unattended. Infrared heaters are less likely to start fires than traditional heaters but should still not be placed where someone can knock them over or where they will be able to heat up combustible materials. If you become uncomfortable or feel ill while using an infrared heater, stop using it immediately.