Infrared Heating for Equestrian Spaces, Barns & Stables
Caring for horses during colder months requires more than shelter alone. Consistent, well managed warmth plays an important role in maintaining comfort, supporting circulation, and reducing respiratory stress, particularly for foals, older horses, and animals recovering from injury. In poorly heated stables, low temperatures and damp conditions can quickly affect wellbeing.
Traditional heating systems are rarely suited to equestrian environments. Convection and fan heaters attempt to warm the air, which rises and escapes through large door openings, high ceilings, and ventilation. This leaves cold conditions at ground level where horses stand, while energy consumption increases without delivering effective comfort.
Infrared heating works differently by delivering radiant warmth directly to horses, walls, flooring, and stable structures rather than the air. Heat remains at animal level, creating a more stable and comfortable environment even in draughty or partially open buildings. Because infrared heat does not rely on air circulation, it performs reliably where conventional systems struggle.
Infrared bar heaters are particularly well suited to stables, grooming bays, tack rooms, washdown areas, and covered arenas. Their slim profile allows wall or ceiling mounting well out of reach of animals, keeping floor space clear and reducing safety risks. Low glare output makes them suitable for horses with sensitive eyesight.
If you are new to infrared technology, our Infrared Heating Guide explains how radiant heating works and why it is increasingly used in agricultural, veterinary, and equestrian settings.
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Where infrared heating works best in equestrian environments
Infrared heating is highly effective in enclosed or partially enclosed equestrian spaces where consistent warmth is required at animal level. Stable blocks, grooming areas, veterinary holding zones, and foaling boxes all benefit from radiant heat that remains focused on occupied areas.
Because infrared heat is unaffected by air movement, it performs well in barns and stables with frequent door openings or high ventilation rates. Warmth remains on surfaces and animals rather than being lost through airflow or ceiling voids.
Infrared systems also support zoned heating. Individual bays or areas can be heated independently, allowing targeted warmth for specific horses without heating unused sections of a stable block.
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Calculate the right infrared heating for your space
Use our wattage calculator to determine the correct infrared heating setup based on room size, insulation, and how the space is used.
Performance, safety, and efficiency considerations
When specifying infrared heating for equestrian spaces, factors such as building openness, ceiling height, insulation levels, and heater placement all influence performance. Bar heaters should be positioned to provide clear line of sight to occupied areas while remaining safely out of reach.
Low glare infrared bar heaters are recommended for use around horses to minimise visual disturbance. Unlike high intensity radiant systems, low glare units provide effective warmth without bright light output, helping maintain calm stable conditions.
Infrared heating is particularly beneficial in environments affected by damp. By gently warming walls, floors, and stable structures, infrared heat helps reduce surface moisture and condensation, supporting a drier and healthier environment.
Running costs are typically lower than traditional heating systems. Infrared heaters operate efficiently by delivering heat only where it is needed, and surfaces retain warmth for longer periods. When paired with smart controls, heating schedules can be aligned with stable routines to avoid unnecessary energy use.
For best results, infrared heating should be combined with sensible draught reduction and basic insulation improvements to maintain stable temperatures and optimise energy efficiency.
Frequently asked questions
Are infrared heaters safe to use around horses?
Yes. When wall or ceiling mounted, infrared bar heaters are safe for equestrian use. They have no exposed moving parts and can be installed well out of reach of animals.
Do infrared heaters help with muscle recovery?
Yes. Gentle radiant warmth supports circulation and muscle relaxation, making infrared heating useful in grooming areas and post exercise environments.
Can infrared heating work in draughty barns?
Yes. Infrared heat is not carried by air, so it remains effective even in ventilated or partially open equestrian buildings.
Can heating be controlled by area or time?
Yes. Infrared systems can be paired with smart controls or timers to manage heating by zone, helping reduce energy use while maintaining comfort.
