Near vs Mid vs Far Infrared Heat
Infrared is not a single type of heat. Learn the differences between near, mid and far infrared wavelengths, how each is used, and why far infrared is commonly associated with indoor radiant panel heating.
Near, mid and far infrared occupy different wavelength ranges within the infrared spectrum. Different wavelengths are produced by emitters operating at different temperatures and are therefore suited to different heating and technical applications.
What is the difference between near, mid and far infrared?
Infrared radiation forms part of the electromagnetic spectrum, positioned beyond the red end of visible light. The infrared region covers wavelengths from approximately 700 nanometres (nm) to 1 millimetre (mm).
This broad range is commonly divided into near infrared, mid infrared and far infrared. The boundaries used to define these categories can vary slightly between scientific and technical conventions.
For heating, the important point is that emitter temperature, wavelength and intended application are closely related. A high-temperature short-wave heater behaves very differently from a lower-temperature long-wave radiant panel.
For a broader explanation, read our guide to the science of infrared heat .
Infrared and ultraviolet occupy different regions of the electromagnetic spectrum. Infrared radiation used for heating is non-ionising and should not be confused with ultraviolet radiation.
The infrared wavelength ranges
One commonly used way of dividing the infrared region is shown below. Exact boundaries can differ depending on the convention being used.
Near, mid and far infrared explained
Each range has different characteristics and is used for different purposes.
Near Infrared (NIR)
Approx. 700 – 1,400 nmNear infrared sits closest to visible red light on the electromagnetic spectrum.
In radiant heating applications, shorter infrared wavelengths are associated with higher-temperature emitters and more intense, directional radiant output.
Near infrared also has many non-heating applications, including sensing, imaging, communications and industrial processes.
Mid Infrared (MIR)
Approx. 1,400 – 3,000 nmMid infrared occupies the intermediate region between near and far infrared.
Medium-wave radiant heaters are used in various commercial, industrial and specialist heating applications where a balance between radiant intensity and emitter temperature is required.
The exact characteristics depend on the emitter design and operating temperature rather than wavelength terminology alone.
Far Infrared (FIR)
Approx. 3,000 nm – 1 mmFar infrared covers the longer-wave region of the infrared spectrum.
Long-wave infrared is associated with lower-temperature emitters than short-wave radiant heaters and does not require the bright visible glow associated with very high-temperature elements.
This makes long-wave radiant heat particularly relevant to infrared panel heating used in homes and many commercial buildings.
Near vs mid vs far infrared comparison
| Characteristic | Near Infrared | Mid Infrared | Far Infrared |
|---|---|---|---|
| Approx. wavelength | 700 – 1,400 nm | 1,400 – 3,000 nm | 3,000 nm – 1 mm |
| Relative wavelength | Shorter | Intermediate | Longer |
| Typical radiant-heating emitter | Higher temperature | Intermediate temperature | Lower temperature than short-wave emitters |
| Visible glow | Often associated with glowing high-temperature heating elements | Depends on emitter temperature and design | Long-wave heating panels typically operate without a bright visible glow |
| Example uses | Industrial processes, sensing, imaging and specialist radiant heating | Commercial, industrial and specialist radiant heating | Low-temperature radiant heating and infrared panel heating |
Why is far infrared used for indoor heating?
For many indoor applications, the aim is not to create an intense point source of radiant heat. Instead, the objective is to provide comfortable radiant heating across an occupied space.
Infrared heating panels use a heated surface to emit long-wave radiant energy. People, walls, floors, furniture and other surfaces within the effective field of the heater absorb that energy and become warmer.
Those surfaces subsequently exchange heat with the surrounding room, creating a different heating pattern from a system that relies primarily on circulating heated air.
Correct output and positioning remain essential. Infrared is not a way of avoiding the heat loss of a building — the heating system still needs to be sized for the space.
Where is far infrared heating used?
Heater type, wattage and positioning should always be selected for the individual building and how the space is used.
Wall and ceiling mounted radiant heating for individual rooms or complete residential projects.
02 CommercialOffices, retail spaces, hospitality environments and other commercial buildings.
03 Churches & HeritageRadiant heating options for large-volume and specialist heritage spaces.
04 IndustrialHigher-output radiant heating solutions for selected larger and commercial working environments.
Turn the science into a heating plan.
If you're researching infrared for your home or building, the next step is to establish how much heat each room requires. Our calculator helps estimate the infrared wattage required from your room dimensions and property type.
Near, mid & far infrared FAQs
What is the difference between near and far infrared?
Near infrared occupies the shorter-wavelength part of the infrared spectrum, while far infrared occupies the longer-wavelength region. In radiant heating applications, shorter wavelengths are generally associated with hotter emitters, while long-wave heating can be produced by lower-temperature surfaces such as infrared heating panels.
Which type of infrared is used for heating homes?
Long-wave or far-infrared radiant heat is commonly associated with electric infrared panel heating used in homes and many commercial indoor environments.
Does far infrared produce visible light?
Infrared itself lies outside the visible spectrum. Long-wave infrared panel heaters typically operate without the bright visible glow associated with very high-temperature short-wave heating elements.
Is infrared the same as ultraviolet radiation?
No. Infrared and ultraviolet occupy different parts of the electromagnetic spectrum. Infrared radiation used for heating is non-ionising and should not be confused with ultraviolet radiation.
Does far infrared heat the air?
Infrared heating transfers energy radiantly to people and surfaces within its effective field. As those surfaces warm, they also transfer heat to the surrounding environment, so air temperature can rise as part of the overall heating process.
Is far infrared suitable for a whole house?
Infrared heaters can be designed as a primary space-heating system where the required heat output, heater positioning, electrical installation and thermostatic controls are properly specified for the property.
Want to use far infrared to heat your property?
From individual rooms to complete homes and commercial projects, we can help you calculate the required output and choose the appropriate heater type and positioning.