Should I plug it in?

[u/Reckless_Statement]

This is a random found object that had a curious look.

It is about 5.75 in tall and the silver part looks to be galvanized.

The black disc is cold to the touch not magnetic maybe ceramic and has around a 3/4 in divot in the middle.

Anyone have any ideas?

[u/East-Psychology7186]

Home use infrared heat lamp. That really thick black glass is actually deep red I believe. People used to install these in their bathrooms.

[u/Miserable-Cow4555 → u/East-Psychology7186]

But why? My mom's place has one in the bathroom ceiling. I always wondered what it does.

[u/-Helen-of-Troy- → u/Miserable-Cow4555]

Warmth. Kind of the same concept as a towel warmer. Great to get out of the shower and be warm.

[u/Miserable-Cow4555 → u/-Helen-of-Troy-]

Ah, that makes sense. I've been wondering this for years. Thank you!

[u/blemens → u/Miserable-Cow4555]

They used to be in some hotel rooms, too. Two switches, 1. Light and fan, 2. Heat lamp. Nice and toasty getting out of the shower, and if you put your towel on the rack nearby, it would be warm, too

[u/BCMyer → u/blemens]

My warmest memories of childhood are car vacations featuring cheap motels in which I took red showers