Road construction in Maine warrants the use of infrared heaters

In Litchfield, Maine, construction crews are starting work on the Academy Road bridge, which is off of the Maine Turnpike. This section of the road will be closed to give crews the chance to do demolition work and replace necessary components. In order to avoid possible delays and keep workers comfortable during unseasonably cold temperatures, crews will need the targeted warmth of infrared heaters.

According to Maine Today Media, the 56-year-old bridge will remain closed through November and electronic message boards are posted to alert travelers about these closures. The project entails the removal of the bridge deck and structural enhancements.

“When the bridge is complete this fall, the new bridge will be see feet wider and two feet higher than the old bridge,” project administrator Scott Warchol told town officials. “The higher bridge will allow for greater under clearance over the turnpike.”

At a cost of less than 14 cents per hour, the energy efficiency of infrared heaters is superior to other sources. For example, propane heaters typically cost as much as three dollars per hour to operate.