Infrared heating is becoming a popular choice for homeowners. This type of heating system uses infrared technology to provide warmth in a more efficient and cost-effective way. But why should you consider it for your home?
Infrared heating panels are known for being highly energy efficient. Unlike traditional heating systems that heat the air, infrared heaters directly warm objects and people. This means:
Using infrared heating is beneficial for the environment. Traditional heating methods often rely on burning fossil fuels, which contribute to pollution. In contrast:
Infrared heating offers various health benefits, enhancing the quality of life at home. These include:
Infrared heating provides a unique type of warmth that many find more comfortable than traditional heating. Here’s how:
Infrared heating is a smart choice for anyone looking to improve their home's efficiency, reduce their environmental impact, and enjoy a healthier, more comfortable living space.
Infrared heating panels offer several key advantages that make them an attractive option for many homeowners.
Energy Efficient with Up to 50% Savings: Infrared heaters are highly efficient. They convert almost all the electrical energy into heat, ensuring minimal waste. This can result in up to 50% savings on your heating bills compared to conventional heating systems.
Easy Installation and Minimal Maintenance: Installing infrared panels is straightforward. Most panels can be mounted on walls or ceilings and simply plugged into a power socket. Maintenance is minimal, with no need for regular servicing or filter changes.
Targeted Heating for Specific Areas: Infrared heating provides targeted warmth. It heats objects and people directly instead of the surrounding air. This makes it ideal for heating specific areas, such as a home office or a cozy reading nook, without wasting energy on unoccupied spaces.
Space-Saving Design and Silent Operation: The slim design of infrared panels allows them to fit seamlessly into any room without taking up valuable floor space. They operate silently, making them perfect for bedrooms, living rooms, and home offices where quiet is essential.
While infrared heating has many benefits, it's important to consider the potential drawbacks.
Requires Clear Space Around the Panel: For optimal performance, infrared panels need clear space around them. Objects that block the panel can prevent heat from reaching the intended area. Wall or ceiling mounting can help minimize this issue.
Immediate Loss of Heat When Turned Off: Unlike traditional heating systems that continue to radiate warmth for a while after being turned off, infrared heaters stop heating immediately once they're switched off. This means you might need to keep them on continuously for consistent warmth.
Less Effective for Heating Large, Open Spaces: Infrared heaters work best in smaller, enclosed areas. They may struggle to heat large, open spaces effectively. For larger areas, multiple panels might be necessary, which can increase costs.
Higher Initial Cost Compared to Conventional Systems: The initial purchase price of infrared panels can be higher than traditional heating systems. However, the long-term savings on energy bills and maintenance can offset this initial investment over time.
Infrared heating panels can vary in price depending on the size, wattage, and features. Typically, a basic infrared panel might cost anywhere from £125 to over £1,000. For example, a small Redwell WE heater might start at £336, while a larger model could reach £1,380. Customizable options, such as panels with artwork or mirrored surfaces, tend to be on the higher end of the price spectrum.
Installing infrared panels is generally less invasive and cheaper than setting up traditional heating systems. Traditional systems often require extensive plumbing, ductwork, and gas lines, which can be costly and time-consuming. In contrast, infrared panels need only to be mounted on a wall or ceiling and plugged into an electrical outlet. The installation can be completed by a reputable electrician with minimal disruption to your home.
One of the standout features of infrared heating is the minimal maintenance required. Unlike conventional systems that need regular servicing, infrared panels have no moving parts or filters to replace. This results in significant savings over time. Additionally, the energy efficiency of infrared panels translates to lower energy bills. These panels convert almost 100% of electricity into heat, reducing the overall energy consumption.
The operating costs of infrared panels are notably lower than other heating methods. For instance, a standard fan heater might cost around 28p per hour to run, whereas an infrared panel could cost between 4p and 11p per hour, depending on its power output. This efficiency means you spend less on electricity while still maintaining a comfortable home environment.
In summary, while the initial cost of infrared panels might be higher than traditional systems, the ease of installation, minimal maintenance, and lower operating costs make them a cost-effective and efficient heating solution in the long run.
