Welcome to Frequently Asked Questions

Do infra-red heaters heat the air?
Yes.  Infra-red heaters first heat objects such as the floor, machinery, people, etc.  Through various methods of heat transfer (radiation, re-radiation, conduction and convection) the air is heated secondarily as it passes over the warm concrete. Therefore, the heaters can be controlled by air temperature sensing thermostats.  This method of heating is very effective in hard to heat areas such as high ceiling or high air exchange areas (such as aircraft hangars).

Why are infra-red heaters more efficient than unit heaters?
The major difference between a gas-fired infra-red heating system and a forced hot air heating system is the method used to create a comfortable temperature. Infra-red heats the floor slab, the machinery and the people first and then the air by using all three methods of heat transfer: radiation, conduction and convection. The storage of the heat in the slab floor creates a low temperature emitter and a faster recovery time when large overhead doors are opened and closed.

With a forced air system, the hot air rises to the ceiling and stratifies, gradually working its way down to thermostat level so that the floor slab never becomes warm enough to be comfortable. It literally acts as a heat sink, draining heat from the air and from personnel standing on the floor. The ceiling area of a high bay building using a forced air system can be easily 30° to 40° warmer than the floor area.

By first placing the heat at the floor, improved comfort level and reduced operating costs are achieved.

How do you size an application?
Infra-red heaters must be applied more carefully than traditional unit heaters.  First, a building heat loss must be completed.  After the amount of heat needed is determined the layout phase begins.  Infra-red heaters are applied in a fashion similar to lighting where the objective is to evenly place heat throughout your building.  Minimum mounting heights must be observed and burners should be placed in areas of greater heat loss.  Please consult your local Re-Verber-Ray Representative for further design assistance.

All infra-red heaters are CSA Design Certified and are a safe and effective means of heating.  However, like any heating appliance caution must be exercised in certain applications.  Unless otherwise specified, infra-red heaters are not approved for residential applications.  Furthermore, infra-red heaters are not explosion proof and may not be placed in Class 1, 2 or 3 environments.  Finally, careful attention must be paid to the “Clearance to Combustible” distances as published for the heater as this will ensure that proper safety distances have been met.  Questions concerning specific jobsite concerns should be directed to your local Fire Marshall or Insurance Carrier.

What extra items are needed for installation?
Depending on your particular application, you will want to consider the following accessories for all series of Re-Verber-Ray infra-red tube heaters:

• Venting Kits
• Hanging Related Accessories
• Safety Plaques
• Fresh Air Kits
• Thermostats
• Guards or Decorative Grills

How is the heater controlled?
Primarily, the heater is controlled by a line voltage thermostat. Alternatively, you may use a 24-volt thermostat.