How Infrared Heating Works: The Complete Guide

What is infrared heating

Infrared heating is a form of electric radiant heating that transfers heat through electromagnetic waves rather than warming the surrounding air. Far infrared energy is absorbed by people and solid surfaces, creating warmth similar to gentle sunshine.

Because infrared heats mass rather than air, rooms feel comfortable at a lower air temperature and surfaces store heat that releases slowly after the panel turns off. This process differs fundamentally from conventional heating systems, which rely on convection. Convection-based systems heat air first, which then circulates around the room. As warm air rises and cool air falls, this can lead to temperature stratification, draughts and uneven comfort.

Because infrared heat interacts with mass rather than air, it behaves differently in real-world environments. Understanding this distinction is key to assessing comfort, efficiency and suitability across different building types.

Infrared heating compared to traditional heating

The main difference between infrared heating and traditional heating systems lies in how heat is delivered into a space. Understanding this distinction helps explain differences in comfort, efficiency and suitability across different environments.

Traditional heating systems such as radiators, fan heaters and warm air systems rely on convection. Heat is transferred to the surrounding air, which then circulates around the room. Warm air naturally rises, often collecting near the ceiling before gradually cooling and falling back down.

This process can result in uneven temperature distribution, with warmer air at high level and cooler conditions closer to the floor. In buildings with high ceilings, draughts or frequent air exchange, a significant proportion of heat can be lost before it contributes to occupant comfort.

Infrared heating operates using radiant heat. Rather than warming the air first, infrared energy travels directly to people and solid surfaces. These surfaces absorb the energy, warm internally and then release heat back into the space over time.

For a broader overview of how these systems differ in practice, including comfort, control and maintenance considerations, see infrared heating vs traditional heating

Because comfort is delivered directly, infrared systems are less affected by air movement and stratification. This often results in a more consistent and stable thermal environment, particularly in spaces where convection heating can struggle to perform efficiently.

Infrared heating is often compared with low-carbon alternatives such as heat pumps. For a practical comparison, see our guide to infrared heating vs air source heat pumps.

See also: Infrared Heating v Alternative Heating Options

Efficiency, running costs and energy use

Infrared heating systems convert electrical energy directly into radiant heat with minimal conversion loss. Unlike systems that rely on warming large volumes of air, infrared heating focuses energy where it is most useful, on people and occupied surfaces.

Because infrared heating delivers heat directly to occupants and surfaces, less energy is wasted heating unused air, making it well suited to zoned and intermittently occupied spaces.

One of the biggest advantages of Infrared is its energy efficiency. Because warmth is felt more quickly and consistently, infrared systems are often operated at lower air temperature setpoints than convection-based heating. This can contribute to reduced energy demand when systems are correctly sized and controlled.

Actual running costs depend on several factors, including heater wattage, insulation quality, room size, electricity tariff and how long the system operates. Infrared heaters do not run continuously at full output when used with a thermostat. Instead, they cycle on and off to maintain comfort.

A simple way to estimate maximum running cost is to multiply the heater’s wattage in kilowatts by the electricity price per kilowatt hour. For example, an 800 watt panel operating at a tariff of £0.30 per kWh would cost approximately £0.24 per hour when actively heating.

In practice, average daily costs are usually lower due to thermostat cycling, zoning and scheduled operation. Systems designed with room-by-room control can further reduce unnecessary heating by targeting occupied areas only.

Infrared heating can also integrate effectively with renewable energy sources such as solar PV. Using self-generated electricity to power heating systems can significantly reduce operating costs and carbon impact. More information is available in our guide to infrared heating with solar panels.

For a broader discussion of efficiency and emissions, see the environmental benefits of infrared heating.

Health, safety and air quality

Infrared heating systems produce heat using non ionising radiation. This type of radiation is used solely to transfer thermal energy and does not alter materials, air quality or biological structures. Infrared panels do not emit ultraviolet radiation and are designed for safe use in indoor environments, and according to research have health benefits.

Because infrared heating does not rely on circulating warm air, there is typically less air movement within a room. Many users find this beneficial for comfort, as reduced air circulation can limit the movement of dust and airborne particles compared to convection-based heating systems.

Another commonly reported benefit is the effect infrared heating can have on cold or damp surfaces. By gently warming walls and solid materials, infrared systems may help reduce surface condensation, which can contribute to improved conditions in properties affected by damp or mould.

All infrared heaters should be installed in accordance with manufacturer guidance and electrical regulations. Modern panels incorporate safety features such as thermal cut-outs and are tested to meet recognised UK and European standards. Bathrooms and wet areas require products with appropriate ingress protection ratings and professional installation.

For a more detailed discussion covering safety, radiation types and health considerations, see is infrared heating safe and infrared heating as a solution to damp and mould .

Where infrared heating works best

Infrared heating is most effective in spaces where heat is required at occupant level rather than throughout large volumes of air. This makes it suitable for a wide range of domestic, commercial and specialist environments, particularly where traditional convection systems struggle to perform efficiently.

Because infrared heating warms people and surfaces directly, it performs well in rooms with higher ceilings, frequent air movement or intermittent use. Zoned control also allows individual spaces to be heated independently, reducing unnecessary energy use.

• Homes and apartments, including living spaces, bedrooms and kitchens
• Offices and workplaces, where consistent comfort improves productivity
• Hotels and hospitality spaces, with discreet wall or ceiling panels
• Conservatories, where radiant heat helps offset cold glazing
• Retail shops, providing targeted warmth for customer-facing areas
• Sports halls and leisure centres, where convection heat is inefficient
• Hot yoga studios and spas, requiring stable radiant warmth
• Warehouses and factories, using zoned or high-output infrared systems
• Churches and heritage buildings, where fabric-friendly heating is important
• Dog kennels and catteries, offering clean, low-air-movement heating
• Equestrian spaces and stables, using robust infrared bar heaters

Selecting the correct heater type, wattage and placement is essential for each environment. Using a room-by-room approach ensures comfort is delivered efficiently without overheating unused spaces.

Installation, regulations and compliance

Infrared heating panels are generally straightforward to install and require no plumbing, pipework or central plant. Most systems are wall mounted or ceiling mounted using supplied brackets and fixings, making them suitable for both new installations and retrofits.

Electrical connection methods vary depending on the product and application. Some panels are supplied with a standard plug for connection to a socket, while others are designed to be hard wired to a fused spur. In all cases, installation should follow the manufacturer’s instructions and applicable electrical regulations.

Bathrooms and wet areas require particular care. Only panels with appropriate ingress protection ratings should be used, and installation must comply with bathroom zoning requirements. In these environments, work should be carried out by a qualified electrician.

Infrared heating systems supplied in the UK are required to meet recognised safety and compliance standards. This typically includes UKCA marking and conformity with relevant electrical and product safety regulations. Choosing certified products helps ensure safe operation and long-term reliability.

While infrared heating is often suitable for self-installation in simple applications, professional advice is recommended where room layouts are complex, ceilings are unusually high or where systems form part of a wider heating strategy.

Smart control, zoning and thermostats

One of the key advantages of infrared heating is the ability to control each room independently. Because panels operate as individual heat sources, systems can be designed around zones rather than relying on a single central controller.

Using thermostats allows infrared heaters to cycle on and off automatically, maintaining a stable temperature without continuous operation. This helps manage energy use and ensures rooms are only heated when required.

Smart thermostats extend this control further by enabling schedules, remote access and temperature monitoring via mobile apps. Rooms can be pre-heated in advance, set back when unoccupied and adjusted in response to changing routines. 

See the benefits on installing a smart thermostat

Zoned control is particularly effective in homes and buildings with varied usage patterns, such as spare rooms, home offices or commercial spaces that are not occupied continuously. Heating only the spaces in use can significantly reduce unnecessary energy consumption.

More information on compatible controls is available in our smart thermostat range.