Infrared heaters for churches
Churches often face unique challenges when it comes to heating, due to their large, open spaces and the need for occasional rather than constant heating. Traditional convective heating systems can be inefficient and costly, often leading to uneven heating and discomfort for attendees. An alternative source of heat is the use of infrared heating systems, which offer several advantages over conventional methods.
The Challenges of Traditional Heating Systems
Traditional convective heating systems primarily heat the air, which can be inefficient in large spaces like churches. Warm air rises, causing heat to accumulate at the ceiling rather than where it is needed most—around the congregation. This thermal lift not only leads to uneven heating but also increases energy consumption as more energy is needed to maintain comfortable temperatures at ground level. Furthermore, the creation of drafts can cause discomfort for attendees, and rapid temperature changes can negatively affect historical artefacts and structures within the church.
Advantages of Infrared Heating Systems
Infrared heating systems work by emitting infrared radiation, which directly heats objects and people in its path, similar to how sunlight warms the earth. This direct heating method ensures that warmth is delivered precisely where it is needed, such as the pews, floors, and areas occupied by people. This targeted heating results in significant energy savings, as there is no need to heat the entire volume of air in the church. The risk of drafts is also eliminated, providing a more comfortable environment for attendees throughout their visit.
Key Benefits of Infrared Heating for Churches
- Immediate Comfort: Infrared systems can rapidly achieve desired comfort levels, making them ideal for settings like churches, where heating is often only required for short periods.
- Energy Efficiency: By focusing on heating people and objects directly, infrared systems significantly reduce energy consumption and CO₂ emissions. This makes them a more sustainable choice compared to traditional systems.
- Environmental Impact: Electric infrared systems produce zero direct emissions, aligning with broader environmental goals to reduce carbon footprints and meet future Net Zero targets.
- Advanced Control Features: Modern infrared systems for churches come equipped with advanced control features, including programmable timers, modular system design, and touch screen interfaces. These features allow for precise control of heating periods, intervals, and temperatures, optimising energy use and ensuring that the system is only active when needed.
- Protection of Historical Artefacts: Infrared heating helps maintain stable environmental conditions, reducing the risk of damage to sensitive structures and artefacts due to rapid temperature fluctuations.
Customised Solutions and Professional Support
At Schwank we offer tailored infrared heating solutions designed to meet the specific needs of churches. These systems can be integrated seamlessly into the church’s architecture, ensuring minimal visual impact while maximising energy efficiency and comfort. Schwank provides comprehensive support, from initial surveys and concept design to installation and technical expertise, ensuring that each system is optimised for performance and efficiency.
If you are looking for infrared heaters for your church, please get in touch with our team of experts.