Short-wave infrared heaters are becoming an ever more popular option for Australian outdoor living as they provide instant targeted heat and offer 92% radiant energy efficiency. Whether you’re relaxing on the patio or enjoying a cosy evening in your backyard, these heaters deliver quick and efficient warmth which doesn’t blow away on the breeze. But did you know you can make them last even longer? Add a ‘Soft-Start’ feature to your short-wave infrared heater to protect it without affecting its quick performance. Let’s explore what soft-start technology is, how it works, and why it’s beneficial for your short-wave infrared heater.
What Does ‘Soft-Start’ Mean and How Does It Work?
Using a soft-start with a short-wave infrared heater can significantly extend the life of the heater element. A soft-start gradually increases the power supply to the heater, rather than delivering full power immediately. This all happens in a micro-second, so you still get instant heat without any delay. However, it reduces the initial electrical and thermal stress on the heating element, which means it helps your infrared heater lamp last longer.
Why Use Soft-start with Short-Wave Infrared Heaters?
Adding a soft-start feature to your short-wave infrared heater offers several benefits:
1. Extended Heater Life
Soft-start technology reduces electrical and thermal stress, helping your heater element last longer. For example, using an Infresco power regulator with a Heliosa short wave infrared heater can increase the heater element’s lifespan by up to 30%. This also means more consistent heater performance.
2. Energy Efficiency
By managing the initial power surge, soft-start technology optimizes power consumption, leading to energy savings over time. This makes your heating system more cost-effective and environmentally friendly.
3. Reduce Maintenance Costs
Eventually, the heating element will fail, even though they have a long life of up to 7000 hours (5000 hours when behind glass). The element can be replaced, but a longer-lasting heater element means a long period between change over.
What type of Soft-Start is available?
All of Infrared Australia’s controllers come with a soft-start as part of the package. This can be on a separate power controller, Bluetooth controller, integral power controller, digital timer or simply a soft-start in-line box. All our heaters can be wired to a controller, or the Heliosa Wide Angle has the soft-start controller built into the heater assembly. Soft-start is an optional requirement and all our short-wave infrared heaters are completely safe and efficient without the use of soft-start technology.
Conclusion
Soft-start technology is a valuable addition to short-wave infrared heaters, offering benefits like extended heater life and reduced maintenance costs. Whether you’re installing a new heating system or upgrading an existing one, integrating soft-start technology can be a smart investment. Enjoy the instant heat you love and the long-term benefits that soft-start technology provides for your short-wave infrared heaters. Contact us today to learn more about how you can leverage soft-start with a Heliosa short-wave infrared heater.
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