An overhead heating system uses radiant heat to heat objects rather than the air. The high temperature of the heating elements emit infrared waves that are absorbed by physical objects, including people. It's like when you are out on a sunny winter day and then you walk into the shade of a tree or a building. You go from being quite comfortable and even warm to being immediately cold.

They are ideal for patios and outdoor areas because it is impossible to heat the outside air. They can be used indoors as well where you want to quickly heat up a hard-to-heat room. They are often used in Hot Yoga studios because of their fast action and efficiency.