We have calculated the local absorption of thermal infrared radiation in humid air under nonequilibrium conditions : constant air temperature and humidity, contained in a room with a higher constant surface temperature (Delta T = 5 K). The result shows a non-negligible heat transfer of 3-6 W m(-3) K-1 from the surface to the air due to the absorption by the water vapor. The absorption is mainly concentrated to an air layer of 10-30 cm near to the wail. The interaction is very much increased near to corners and edges of the room.