Heating Lamps

Heating Lamps — infrared heating lamps in food dispensing lines are the most effective way to maintain the temperature of hot food in open buffet or distribution zone displays, heating food directly from above with infrared radiation without direct contact with the food and without the risk of food drying out, which occurs when using unsuitable heating methods.

Types and configurations of heating lamps

Heating Lamps — the HoReCa heating lamps category includes various configurations and installation types depending on the needs of the food dispensing area. Single lamp block — a compact heating lamp block with one IR lamp; suitable for a small food distribution zone or an individual hot food station; limited heating area. Double lamp block — two heating lamps in one block; wider heating area; better suited for a standard GN heating space or bain-marie surface. Three or more lamp block — for food dispensing lines with a large hot food zone; provides even heat over a longer food display. Height adjustment — many heating lamps are height-adjustable; closer to the food — more intense heat; further away — more even temperature distribution over a larger surface; find the optimal height for specific food. Coloured or colourless heating lamp — yellow or orange IR lamps create a pleasant warm light that makes food visually appealing; clear or colourless lamps provide heat without an additional colour effect; restaurants often choose yellow to create an attractive food presentation. BHS offers heating lamps across Europe.

How heating lamps work

Heating Lamps — an infrared radiation lamp for a food heating table differs from a standard lighting lamp in that its purpose is heat, not light, although heating lamps also provide light. Infrared radiation — IR radiation is electromagnetic waves that heat objects they come into contact with; the food surface and dishes absorb IR radiation and become warmer; the air between the lamp and the food is heated minimally. Keeping food warm — the heating lamp maintains the food surface temperature, slowing down cooling rather than reheating it; the optimal choice of lamp height and number ensures 63–75°C food temperature. Energy consumption — heating lamps consume 150–500 W depending on the lamp type and power; they are switched on when food dispensing begins and switched off after it ends. Food quality — a properly configured heating lamp maintains food temperature without losing moisture; too intense heating from a great height can dry out the food surface; BHS supplies heating lamps.

Placement in the food dispensing line

Heating Lamps — proper placement of heating lamps in the food dispensing line or buffet station ensures optimal heat for all foods. Stationary mounting above the dispensing surface — heating lamps are usually attached to a special heating lamp stand or suspended from a structural bracket above the food surface; standard height 40–70 cm above the food surface. Mobile heating lamp stand — heating lamps on a freestanding stand allow the food heating zone to be moved; suitable for catering events and changing layouts; see Heating Solutions for Food Dispensing Lines. Zoning — in large food dispensing lines, different heating lamps are installed in different zones; it is more important to heat meat, fish and sautéed food zones; heating lamps are not necessary in salad distribution zones. BHS supplies heating lamps.

HoReCa usage scenarios

Hotel breakfast buffet station — heating lamps above the hot food distribution zone; fried eggs, bacon, pancakes and toast kept warm under the lamps; visually appealing presentation effect; BHS supplied the product. Restaurant grilling and hot food distribution station — heating lamps above the grilled meat display zone; food maintains temperature during distribution. Catering event with buffet service — mobile heating lamp stand; food display maintained at temperature in accordance with food safety requirements; BHS supplies the product.

Frequently asked questions

At what height should heating lamps be installed above the food? Heating Lamps — the optimal height is 40–70 cm above the food surface depending on the lamp power and type of food; too low — the food may overheat or dry out; too high — the temperature may drop below 63°C; check with a food thermometer in the specific setup; see the Heated Serving Shelf for an alternative heating method.

Does a heating lamp maintain food at food safety temperature? Heating Lamps — a properly installed heating lamp maintains the food surface temperature at 63–75°C; the internal food temperature remains higher; regular checks with a thermometer are recommended; the Plate Warmer provides additional heating from the plate side.

Why choose BHS?

BHS – Baltic HoReCa Solutions supplies professional equipment for restaurants, cafés, hotels and canteens: more than 20,000 products from many manufacturers. Our specialists help you choose the right equipment and spare parts for your kitchen or bar.

Delivery

We deliver across the European Union. Delivery time and cost depend on the order volume and destination — contact the BHS team for an exact price and lead time.