Why Infrared Heating Panels Are The Best Replacement For Night Storage Heaters

May 3, 2024
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Looking To Replace Your Night Storage Heaters?

As UK home heating solutions evolve, people are questioning old tech and rising costs. Infrared heating panels bring a new wave of efficient warmth, putting old night storage heaters to the test. These heaters used to save money by using Economy 7 tariffs, which offer cheaper electricity at night.

However, during warmer months, those on Economy 7 might use 90% of their electricity when it’s priciest. This leads to big bills¹. Now, folks are finding that infrared panels give steady heat more affordably. They cost about 15p per kWh in the day, unlike storage heaters that rely on the night’s cheaper rates¹.

Understanding the Inefficiency of Night Storage Heaters

As heating costs rise, the inefficiency of night storage heaters becomes a big worry for UK homes. Newer storage heaters adjust heating levels automatically. But older ones need a manual fine-tuning of controls². Their design banks on low night-time electricity rates. This stirs questions on their efficiency and the resulting heating costs.

The High Cost of Daytime Electricity Consumption

Night storage heaters seem cheap because of lower night rates. Yet, they end up expensive due to non-stop energy use. Old models need manual fiddling to manage heat. This, along with ‘boost’ features at peak hours, boosts the energy bill². New heaters, which you can program or control with an app, help avoid wasting energy and money².

Lack of Demand-Based Heat Release

Night storage heaters can’t adjust to what heat you really need. They let out heat at a fixed pace. This often makes rooms too hot in the day but cold when you need warmth². Electric radiators are different. They’re 100% efficient, turning all energy into heat. Plus, you can control the heat room by room for perfect warmth.

Inefficient Heat Distribution Through Convection

Traditional storage heaters use convection, warming the air first. But this warm air often escapes quickly. This leads to a lot of wasted energy². Electric systems are better. They avoid heat loss seen in gas systems and keep temperatures just right with thermostats. You can also set heat times for different areas at home and control them over WiFi. This shows how heating has improved from old storage heaters to efficient modern solutions.

The Evolution of Heating: From Storage Heaters to Infrared Panels

Home heating in the UK has changed a lot. It moved from old storage heaters to modern infrared panels. This change shows a move towards better, efficient, and cheaper heating options.

The Historical Context of Storage Heaters in the UK

Storage heaters hold a special place in British history, helping homes stay warm. They were made in a time when electricity was cheaper at night. This meant they could store heat at night and release it during the day. Today, though, new technologies like heat pumps are becoming important for homes without gas³.

The Technological Advances in Infrared Heating

Infrared heating is a step up from storage heaters. It uses far infrared radiation to warm up rooms more effectively. This method is not only more comfortable but also uses less energy. It’s a big part of moving towards using less energy and reducing carbon footprints in the UK⁴.

Type of Heater	Cost Efficiency (£ per KW)	Environmental Impact
Air Source Heat Pumps	£780 – £970	Lower temperatures, longer heating times³
Ground Source Heat Pumps	£1,475 – £1,860	Essential for decarbonising off gas properties³
Biomass Boilers	£534 – £694	Reduces carbon emissions significantly³
Solar Thermal	£1,277 per KW	Sustainable, low environmental impact³
Storage Heaters	Lower upfront cost	More cost-effective but less efficient than heat pumps³
Infrared Panels	N/A	Direct heat, high energy savings potential⁴

The Technological Mechanism of Infrared Heating Panels

Efficient heating technology has arrived, shining through infrared heating panels. They step away from old, less efficient heaters that use air movement. These panels heat directly, like how the sun warms the earth, thanks to a far more direct mechanism.

Space technology’s heating methods closely resemble how infrared panels work on earth. A document’s Chapter 7.2 discusses small spacecraft’s thermal systems, focusing on heat exchange, solar absorption, and infrared emission⁵. This study reflects infrared panels’ working, aiming for a room’s balanced energy via long-wave radiation. Heat emitted warms up room surfaces, objects, and people, creating a gentle, even warmth.

Infrared panels have found their place in many industries, including food processing. They not only heat but also help in food chemistry, boosting antioxidant levels and stabilizing products with efficient heating⁶. The infrared spectrum is divided into different wavelengths, each with its unique heating characteristics⁷.

Designing thermal systems for SmallSats shares challenges with using infrared heating at home. Strategies include picking the right materials and positioning the spacecraft for temperature control⁵. Similarly, infrared panels need careful design and installation to heat efficiently. They’re also very safe, operating in safer infrared wavelengths.

In conclusion, infrared technology’s success in space heat control mirrors its benefits in modern heating. Infrared panels offer pioneering radiant heat for homes and businesses. They are eco-friendly and cost-effective. Their design is based on proven scientific principles, changing how we heat our spaces.

Comparing the Costs: Storage Heaters Versus Infrared Panels

In the UK, heating homes efficiently and cost-effectively is a big topic. Many people discuss whether traditional storage heaters or modern infrared panels are better. This discussion matters to those watching their wallet and to those who care about our environment.

Analysing Economy 7 Tariffs and Their Impact on Heating Costs

Storage heaters often use Economy 7 tariffs, offering cheaper electricity at night. But, using electricity at peak times can be pricey⁷. On the other hand, ceramic electric radiators work on regular tariffs. Thanks to smart thermostats and WiFi, they may offer savings anytime, not just at night⁷.

Real-Life Cost Savings with Infrared Heating

The design of ceramic electric radiators, like the Ecostrad iQ, helps cut heating costs⁷. Storage heaters lose heat all day, which is wasteful if you’re not home. But modern radiators give you control, saving you money in the long run⁷. Their precise heating and energy-saving features mean lower costs upfront and over time⁷.

As energy prices in the UK rise, the benefits of infrared heating stand out even more. These heating systems not only save money but also push us towards greener heating solutions. They’re leading the way in efficient and eco-friendly home heating.

Infrared Panels: Balancing Aesthetics and Functionality

Home heating systems are now about more than just efficiency. They also focus on style. The latest trends are about mixing use with beauty. So, homeowners can enjoy cutting-edge heating that fits perfectly with their home decor. Infrared heating panels are at the forefront here. These panels combine top performance with elegant design.

The Sleek Design Options for Infrared Heating Panels

Infrared heating panels have a sleek, thin design. This makes them look better than the bulky old heaters. They are so slim, just 2cm deep, that they easily blend into any room. This helps keep your space tidy. Moreover, these panels are versatile. You can even personalize some with your own images, making them a part of your home decor.

Combining Heating with Home Décor

Infrared panels do more than warm your home. They also become a part of your decor. They fit well in any room, whether it’s designed with a classic or modern look. Importantly, far infrared radiant panels are great for even historic buildings. Their gentle warmth does not harm the building’s structure⁸.

Far Infra-Red Radiant Panels: Aesthetic and functional for historical conservation⁸
Stylish Heating Solutions: Merging technology with art for home décor⁸
Trench Heaters and Fan Convectors: Addressing practical needs without compromising style⁸

These heating advancements cater to all tastes, not just the modernist. They are elegant yet functional. For instance, trench heaters prevent cold air from large windows. Fan convectors heat up spaces quickly without being seen⁸.

Form and function combine beautifully in infrared heating panels. They work well in any setting, making a statement or blending in. These design-focused solutions ensure your home remains stylish without losing heating efficiency.

How Infrared Heaters Deliver Targeted and Immediate Warmth

Infrared heaters excel in getting homes warm quickly. They focus on heating objects and people directly. This means a cozy feeling starts right away. These heaters work without needing big systems like boilers, making them simple to fit⁹ into any space and providing warmth where it’s needed fast.

Around 7% of homes in England use electric heaters, with numbers varying in other parts of the UK. In Scotland, it’s about 11%, and in Northern Ireland 8%. This highlights the need for effective heating. Infrared heaters perform well here. They don’t store heat, avoiding high costs during busy hours. Instead, they use energy only when necessary.

Infrared heaters are low on upkeep, needing checks every five years. They match well with hopes for durable and practical heating⁹. They’re easy to install and don’t harm the environment. By not using fossil fuels, they help the UK’s mission to reduce harmful emissions by 2050¹⁰.

The UK aims to cut emissions by 78% by 2035 from what they were in 1990¹⁰. Shifting to cleaner heating, like infrared, is key. This change supports growth in the green sector. It could add £6 billion to the economy and create 175,000 jobs by 2030¹⁰.

Heating technologies like infrared meet green goals and have benefits now. They heat up spaces right when turned on. More families are choosing these over old-school heaters. They see the value in the fast and accurate heat that infrared provides.

Best Replacement for Night Storage Heaters: Why Infrared Is Leading

Homeowners are looking into new heating solutions and finding infrared heating exciting. It’s known for using less energy and becoming more popular. It’s used for many things, such as making metals and keeping homes warm. We’ll talk about how it’s good for your health and fits with needing to use less energy.

Health Benefits of Far Infrared Heating

Far infrared heaters are special because they’re really good for your health. They make a type of heat that our bodies can easily absorb. This heat matches the frequencies of our cells. The gentle heat from these heaters, like those in infrared saunas, has many health benefits¹¹.

These heaters use a specific light range that helps blood flow better, boosts metabolism, and can ease muscle pain. They are key in making space heaters that don’t use a lot of energy but are still good for our health¹¹.

Adaptability to Modern Energy Requirements

As we move towards using less carbon, we need better ways to use energy. Infrared heaters are great for this. They can reflect about 95% of their heat, making them very efficient. This is thanks to technology like gold-coated quartz tubes¹¹. Infrared lamps can heat up quickly and provide a lot of power. They’re used in food making, chemical treatments, and other industries that need quick, strong heating solutions¹¹.

Infrared Heater Type	Wavelength (μm)	Applications	Efficiency
Near Infrared (NIR)	0.75 – 1.4	Metal Finishing, Curing Paints	High
Medium Infrared (MWIR)	1.4 – 3	Food Processing, Chemical Processing	High with Rapid Response
Far Infrared (FIR)	>3	Infrared Saunas, Space Heaters	Energy-Efficient, Health Benefits

Installation and Maintenance: A Comparison

Homeowners upgrading their heating systems look for warmth, comfort, efficiency, and ease of use. Infrared panels stand out for their easy installation and low-maintenance heating. They’re far ahead of old storage heaters, offering a hassle-free option for modern homes.

The Simplicity of Installing Infrared Panels

Installing storage heaters used to be complex, needing connection to special electricity supplies and professional setup¹². In contrast, infrared panels are simple. You can plug them in to start or hard-wire them with controls, fitting all user needs.

Minimal Maintenance Needed for Infrared Heaters

Infrared heaters need little maintenance, unlike storage heaters that require daily dial adjustments¹². They’re designed to be ‘fit and forget’. No need for daily fiddling means no surprise high bills. Plus, you can find help and how-tos online easily.

Feature	Infrared Heaters	Storage Heaters
Installation Process	Plug-and-play or hard-wire option	Requires connection to off-peak supply¹²
Daily Maintenance	Minimal to no adjustments required	Settings depend on daily heat needs¹²
User-friendliness	Simple to operate, low learning curve	Requires understanding of input/output settings to manage costs¹²
Operational Guidance	Online manuals readily available	Manuals and guides accessible on manufacturer’s websites¹²
Cost Effectiveness	Energy efficient with lower running costs	Can be costly due to inefficient heat management¹²

Infrared heaters are great because of their easy installation and low-maintenance heating. They offer clear advantages over storage heaters. This makes them a top choice for UK homes, ensuring warmth, efficiency, and ease.

The Financial Implications of Switching to Infrared Heating

Moving from old night storage heaters to new infrared panels is tempting. It’s not just the better comfort that homeowners like. There are big money benefits too. When looking at costs, it’s clear that switching can save a lot in long-term heating costs. This drop in costs makes the initial spend on infrared heating worth it.

Initial Investment and Long-Term Savings

The start-up cost for infrared tech might seem high at first. Yet, long-term savings on heat bills make it worthwhile. By switching, homeowners cut down on carbon emissions and boost their home’s energy use efficiency. A ground source heat pump could save £939 a year on costs, for a three-bedroom home. This also helps cut down carbon emissions each year¹³.

With the government’s help, like a £7,500 subsidy from the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, the cost becomes easier to manage¹³.

Infrared Heating Panels and Energy Bills

Infrared heating is changing the game in home heating, matching the UK’s want to lower energy bills. About 60% of people want to move from gas boilers to greener options. This shift aims for a more sustainable lifestyle¹³. Air source heat pumps are popular, representing over 81.5% of domestic setups approved under RHI in 2019. They offer savings of £4,891 over their life span, compared to traditional gas boilers¹³.

With gas prices expected to jump by 50% by 2030 and having already shot up by 404% last year, the efficiency of these pumps, between 300% and 600%, makes a strong case for considering infrared¹³.

Technology	Cost Efficiency	Annual Running Cost (Three-Bedroom Household)	Lifetime Savings
Air Source Heat Pumps	81.5% market share under RHI 2019¹³	Not specified	£4,891 savings compared to gas boilers¹³
Ground Source Heat Pumps	Up to 500% efficiency¹³	Approximately £939¹³	Significant carbon emissions reduction¹³

The stats show that choosing infrared heating systems is not just doable, but practical. Even though only a quarter would pick heat pumps if they were free, knowing the cost and benefits is key. It’s important to see the long-run money advantages of going for infrared heating solutions¹³.

How to Transition from Storage Heaters to Infrared Panels

Homeowners are now choosing infrared heating over old heating methods. Replacing storage heaters with infrared panels leads to big energy savings and helps the planet. Moving away from old Economy 7 or Economy 10 tariffs makes infrared heating work better, as those tariffs were good for storage heaters that saved heat at night when it was cheaper.

The cost to put in infrared panels starts at £150 and can go up to £500¹⁴. This might seem more than traditional heaters, but running costs are low. For example, a 600W infrared panel can run for just £40 a year, saving a lot compared to gas or oil heaters¹⁴. Larger panels give off more heat, making it easy to adjust for any room’s needs¹⁴.

Consult a qualified electrician to ensure optimal installation of infrared heating panels.
Consider the size of the room and choose the size of the infrared panel accordingly to ensure sufficient heating¹⁴.
Understand that while the average annual running cost of oil central heating is approximately £830¹⁴, the running costs for a 500W infrared panel used for 11 hours a day are estimated to be merely around £50 per year.
Appreciate the added benefits such as a reduction in damp and mold growth, suitability for individuals with dust allergies or asthma, and the amenity of silent operation, especially ideal for bedrooms promoting undisturbed sleep.

Switching to infrared panels moves your home into the modern age. This change will make your energy bills lower and bring comfort. Enjoy the eco-friendly benefits of this new heating technology.

Assessing the Longevity and Durability of Infrared Panels

Infrared heating systems stand out because they last a long time. Their infrared panel durability shows true innovation in keeping heating system longevity top-notch. Thanks to their solid build, these panels work well for ages, unlike traditional heaters that lose efficiency.

The strength of infrared panels means less need for fixes or new ones. This saves money and stress. We’ll now delve into what makes these panels so tough and reliable.

Attribute	Description	Impact on Longevity
Material Quality	High-grade materials resistant to wear and tear	Enhances structural durability and operational lifespan
Maintenance	Minimal upkeep due to lack of moving parts	Lowers the risk of malfunction and subsequent repairs
Efficiency	Consistent and effective heat distribution	Prevents overstraining the system, promoting sustained use
Eco-Friendly Design	Optimised energy use with reduced wastage	Contributes to system resilience by limiting environmental stressors

Advanced technology boosts the infrared panel durability. A simple design means fewer parts that can fail. This adds years to the heating system longevity, giving steady warmth over time.

Choosing infrared heating means planning for the future, not just solving today’s cold. It’s a smart move for a lasting, eco-friendly home in the UK.

The Future of Home Heating: Infrared versus Outdated Alternatives

The UK’s energy story is changing, moving from old fuel sources to renewable ones. Our 29 million homes, including cosy modern flats to historic terraced houses, are now getting warm through new ways¹⁵. Infrared heating is leading this change. It offers better efficiency and adjustability than old storage heaters, perfectly fitting every home’s needs¹⁵.

Almost every UK home is connected to the electricity grid, paving the way for efficient heating like infrared panels¹⁵. These panels ensure that every bit of electricity is used to create warmth, unlike expensive gas heating¹⁵. Infrared heats things and people directly, saving energy. This makes it more effective than traditional heating methods¹⁵. The easy set-up, no need for upkeep, and smart control use highlight infrared’s role in new heating trends.

Looking ahead, firms like Ambion and Heat Wayv are creating unique heating solutions. Ambion’s infrared panels show great results in tests. Heat Wayv will soon offer quick hot water with microwave boilers by 2023¹⁵. With advancements from companies like Naked Energy, the shift to greener and cheaper heating options is clear¹⁵. This change aims to provide warmth efficiently, without sacrificing our planet’s health or our wallets.

FAQ

Why are infrared heating panels considered the best replacement for night storage heaters?

Infrared heating panels give out heat directly and efficiently. This means they warm up objects and people quickly, unlike night storage heaters. Because of this, they run for a shorter time, which saves money. Their modern look and low upkeep make them a top choice for UK homes.

What makes night storage heaters inefficient?

Night storage heaters use power at night and release heat during the day. This can waste energy if the heat isn’t needed. They heat the air, which can easily escape, instead of heating people and objects directly. This shows how they’re not the best at saving energy.

How did heating technology evolve from storage heaters to infrared panels?

Storage heaters were first made to use cheaper night-time electricity. But infrared heating has come a long way. It sends out far infrared rays that heat directly, making it more efficient. This technology has grown better over time, fixing many old problems and being more energy-efficient.

How does the mechanism of infrared heating panels work?

Infrared panels work by sending out radiant heat. This warms up people and objects straight away. It’s like the warmth from the sun, but without heating the air too much. The far infrared they use is good at heating us safely and without costing a lot.

Can you compare the costs of storage heaters and infrared panels?

Using storage heaters, especially with Economy 7 tariffs, can be expensive because they’re not very efficient. Infrared panels use less energy, so they cost less to run. Switching to infrared can save homeowners money thanks to its better heating method.

What are the aesthetic benefits of infrared heating panels?

Infrared panels have a modern and slim design. They look good with any home décor. They’re less bulky than old heaters and can even show personal pictures. This makes them a stylish and efficient way to heat your space.

How do infrared heaters provide targeted and immediate warmth?

Infrared heaters give out a warmth that goes straight to people and objects. They don’t waste time heating the air. This makes the room feel warm quickly, making it a really efficient way to heat up a space.

Are there health benefits associated with far infrared heating?

Yes, far infrared heating can boost blood circulation and give a natural warmth. It does this without the bad UV rays. These benefits make infrared heating a great choice for a modern, healthy home.

What should be considered when transitioning to infrared panels from storage heaters?

Moving to infrared panels means leaving old tariffs for a standard one. This gets more efficiency. You’ll also need a skilled electrician to install the panels. This switch offers a simpler and less costly heating solution.

How does the installation and maintenance of infrared panels compare to storage heaters?

Infrared panels are easy to install and keep up. Many models just plug in, and you can choose to fix them in place. Their low maintenance needs make them better than old storage heaters.

What financial benefits can be expected after installing infrared heating panels?

Installing infrared panels needs an upfront cost, but you’ll save a lot of energy money in the long run. They’re so efficient that your bills and heating costs will go down. This makes them a smart money choice for homeowners.

How durable are infrared heating panels compared to storage heaters?

Infrared panels last a long time and keep working well. Storage heaters can lose efficiency and need more upkeep. But infrared panels stay efficient with hardly any maintenance, ensuring they work well for years.

What is the future outlook for home heating, particularly infrared heating versus traditional storage heaters?

The future of home heating is moving towards efficient and cost-saving options like infrared heating. Old storage heaters don’t fit well with new energy needs. Infrared heating is seen as the way forward, matching the UK’s change to renewable energy sources.