The Environmental Benefits of Switching Your Church to Infrared

Across the UK, churches and places of worship are under increasing pressure to reduce their environmental impact. Rising energy costs, tightening regulations and growing awareness of climate change are forcing many congregations to rethink how they heat their buildings.

The reality is that most traditional church heating systems are highly inefficient. Gas boilers, oil heaters and warm air systems consume large amounts of energy while delivering inconsistent comfort. In buildings that are only used part time, this results in a high environmental cost with limited practical benefit.

Infrared heating provides a cleaner, more efficient alternative. In this guide, we explore how switching to infrared can help your church reduce emissions, improve energy efficiency and support long term sustainability goals.

Why Traditional Church Heating Is Unsustainable

Many churches still rely on conventional heating systems, including:

• Gas fired boilers with radiators
• Oil based heating systems
• Fan heaters and warm air blowers
• Electric convection heaters

While familiar, these systems present several environmental challenges.

High Carbon Emissions

Gas and oil systems release carbon dioxide directly into the atmosphere. Even electric convection heaters require large amounts of electricity to heat vast volumes of air, particularly in churches with high ceilings and little insulation.

Energy Waste

Convection heating works by warming the air, which naturally rises. In a church, much of this heat is lost at ceiling level or escapes through doors and windows. Energy is wasted heating empty space rather than people.

Limited Control and Zoning

Older heating systems often lack precise controls. Heating the entire church for a short rehearsal or weekday service increases energy use unnecessarily and adds to the building’s carbon footprint.

How Infrared Heating Reduces Environmental Impact

Infrared heating works by emitting radiant energy that warms people, furniture and surfaces directly. This is similar to the way sunlight provides warmth, without relying on air movement.

This difference leads to several clear environmental benefits.

Lower Energy Consumption

Because infrared heating targets occupied areas rather than heating the air, it uses significantly less energy. This results in:

• Reduced electricity demand
• Lower emissions from energy generation
• Shorter heating periods per service or event

Many churches that switch to infrared report energy savings of between 30 and 60 percent.

Targeted Zoning

Infrared systems allow churches to heat only the areas in use, such as:

• Pew seating areas
• The altar or sanctuary
• Side chapels or meeting rooms
• Choir areas

This approach dramatically reduces wasted energy and is well suited to buildings that are rarely used at full capacity outside major services.

Fast Heat Up Times

Infrared heaters reach operating temperature within minutes. This removes the need for long preheating periods and ensures energy is used only when required.

In contrast, traditional systems often need to run for one to two hours before the space becomes comfortable.

No Combustion or Fossil Fuels

Infrared heating systems are fully electric and produce no on site emissions. This means:

• No carbon monoxide or gas byproducts
• No risk of fuel leaks
• Improved safety for occupants

As the UK electricity grid continues to decarbonise, electric heating systems such as infrared will become progressively cleaner over time.

Lower Maintenance and Resource Use

Gas and oil systems require servicing, replacement parts and fuel deliveries, all of which contribute to their environmental footprint.

Infrared heaters are maintenance free, long lasting and fully recyclable at the end of their lifespan. This reduces resource consumption and avoids unnecessary service visits.

Learn more about our church heating solutions.

Ideal for Heritage and Listed Buildings

Many churches are listed or located within conservation areas, where building alterations are restricted. Infrared heating is well suited to these environments because:

• No pipework or ducting is required
• Units can be wall or ceiling mounted
• Systems are visually discreet
• Installation avoids structural changes

This protects historic fabric while reducing environmental impact.

Compatibility with Solar PV and Renewable Energy

Electric infrared heating integrates seamlessly with renewable energy systems. Churches that invest in solar panels or green electricity tariffs can further reduce their environmental footprint.

When paired with solar PV, infrared heating allows churches to:

• Generate heat using renewable electricity
• Reduce reliance on fossil fuels
• Move closer to net zero energy targets

This combination is increasingly popular among churches aiming for long term sustainability and energy independence.

Supporting Church Sustainability Initiatives

Many churches are committed to national and regional environmental programmes, including Eco Church and the Church of England’s Net Zero by 2030 target.

Switching to infrared heating is one of the most immediate and impactful steps a church can take. It supports carbon reduction goals, strengthens grant applications and demonstrates visible commitment to environmental stewardship.

Cost Versus Environmental Benefit

While there is an upfront investment when upgrading heating systems, the long term environmental and financial benefits are significant.

Infrared heating delivers:

• Lower ongoing energy costs
• No servicing or fuel expenses
• Minimal installation disruption
• Long system lifespan
• Measurable reductions in carbon emissions

Summary

Infrared heating offers churches a cleaner, simpler and more sustainable way to stay warm. It reduces energy use, cuts emissions and protects historic buildings without compromising comfort.

By switching to infrared, churches can take meaningful action on climate responsibility while safeguarding both their finances and their heritage.

Next Steps

• Explore our eco friendly church heating range
• Use our Wattage Calculator to size your system accurately
• Contact our team for advice on zoning, design and funding support