Bathroom heat lamps are standard fixtures in many homes, but there is some debate over whether they are actually beneficial. In this post, we will explore the pros and cons of using bathroom heat lamps. Keep reading to decide if a bathroom heat lamp will improve your bathroom design.
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How Do Bathroom Heat Lamps Work?
Bathroom heat lamps work by providing a source of infrared radiation. This type of radiation is invisible to the naked eye but can be felt as heat. Infrared radiation is produced by all objects that have a temperature above absolute zero; the special incandescent light bulbs used in heat lamps happen to produce a lot more of it than the average bulb.
Infrared bulbs are somewhat counterintuitive to standard lightbulbs. The best LED lights strive to provide maximum light and minimal heat exhaust. Incandescent lights are low-light, high-heat.
Pros of Bathroom Heat Lamps
There are a few benefits to having a heat lamp in your bathroom.
First, heat lamps can help to keep your bathroom warm during the winter months. This can be a real boon if you live in a climate that gets very cold. Second, heat lamps can help to prevent condensation from forming on mirrors and prevent mold growth.
Here are a few of the main perks of bathroom heat lamps.
Energy Efficient
Infrared heat lamps are energy-efficient and don’t use up much power. They’re meant to supplement the heat in your bathroom when needed, not to be left on for lengthy periods.
The average heat lamp uses less than 250 watts per hour. As long as the appliance isn’t left running for days on end, most homeowners won’t notice hefty expenses on their energy bills.
Comfort On-Demand
Is there anything more frustrating than stepping out of a steamy shower just to shiver in a chilly bathroom?
Bathroom heat lamps start producing heat from the second you switch them on. A strategically placed heat lamp can make all the difference in your post-shower comfort levels.
While heat lamps aren’t designed to heat a room entirely, they can be a great supplemental source of warmth.
Versatile and Inexpensive
Heat lamps are one of the most versatile and inexpensive options for supplemental heat. They’re affordable to install and can be placed just about anywhere in your bathroom.
Most people like to mount their heat lamp on the ceiling, ideally creating a pocket of warmth right where they would step out of the shower. An in-ceiling heat lamp might need to be installed by a professional.
Less expensive, portable space heaters can do the job just as well. Plus, you have the option to move them as needed and create the ideal setup.
In the past, heat lamps had large bulbs and were clunky or unattractive. Fortunately, heat lamp experts have discovered how to make smaller bulbs that generate as much heat as their predecessors.
Modern heat lamps are designed to be water-resistant to provide even more versatility, meaning they can withstand more moisture without risk of malfunction.
Cons of Bathroom Heat Lamps
Despite their many benefits, there are also a few potential drawbacks to using a bathroom heat lamp. Before taking on any home improvement project, it’s essential to understand the cons fully.
Insufficient for Whole-Room Heating
While heat lamps can provide a burst of warmth, they’re not designed to heat an entire room fully. If you’re looking for a way to keep your bathroom toasty all winter long, you might need to consider other options like space heaters or baseboard heating.
Heat lamps work great for heating the person standing under them, but anyone looking to heat an entire bathroom would be wise to explore other options.
Risk of Malfunction When Wet
As we mentioned, most heat lamps on the market today are designed to be water-resistant. However, there’s always the risk of malfunction if your heat lamp gets too wet.
It’s essential to take care when installing a heat lamp and make sure it’s placed in an area that won’t be directly exposed to water.
For example, if you’re planning on putting your heat lamp above the shower, make sure it’s at least three to six feet away from the water source.
If you have any doubts about the safety of your heat lamp, don’t hesitate to consult a professional.
Burn Risk & Fire Hazards
All heat lamps give off intense heat, leading to burns if you’re not careful. Be sure to install your heat lamp out of reach so there’s no risk of accidentally touching the hot surface.
In addition to the risk of burns, heat lamps also pose a fire hazard. If the unit isn’t properly ventilated, there’s a chance the heat could build up and cause a fire. Homeowners should also do their best to dust the bulbs frequently to reduce the risk.
Bathroom heat lamps don’t pose more of a fire risk than other light bulbs, but they require special care to account for the amount of heat they can generate.
For this reason, it’s essential to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when installing and using your heat lamp. If you have any doubts about the safety of your heat lamp, don’t hesitate to consult a professional. It also helps to be up-to-date on product reviews and news about recalled products.
Step Into Comfort With a Bathroom Heat Lamp
So, are bathroom heat lamps a good investment for your home? The pros of having one installed include supplemental heat that is comfortable and on-demand and the potential cost savings from using an energy-efficient option. However, it’s essential to be aware of the risks involved with these devices before making a purchase. Heat lamps should only be used in specific circumstances and should not be relied upon as the primary heating source for a room. All in all, the final decision is up to you and your preferences.
