Infrared Heating Guide: How It Works, Benefits, Costs and Installation
This practical guide explains what infrared heating is, how it works, the pros and cons vs traditional systems, how to size your system correctly, and where infrared panels are best used. It links to calculators, product ranges and help articles so you can plan a complete setup with confidence.
Contents
- How infrared heating works
- Pros and cons
- Types of infrared heaters
- How to size panels and choose wattage
- Placement for best results
- Running costs and efficiency
- Materials and build quality
- Health and safety
- Where infrared works best
- Installation and regulations
- Smart thermostats and control
- Infrared vs traditional heating
- Frequently asked questions
How does infrared heating work
Infrared panel heaters emit far infrared radiant energy that is absorbed by people, walls and furnishings. The warmth feels like 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.
By comparison, convection systems heat air that rises to the ceiling which can lead to stratification and draughts. Radiant heat reduces these effects and helps dry out damp surfaces.
Read the full technical explanation
Infrared sits on the electromagnetic spectrum as non ionising radiation. Our indoor panels operate in the far infrared band tuned for comfort. Waves travel line of sight and gently warm solid objects. Those objects store energy and re radiate heat which evens out the temperature profile. Because less energy is spent warming all the air volume, you can use lower set points for the same comfort. Explore more science: The science of infrared heat.
Pros and cons of infrared heating
Advantages
- Fast, comfortable warmth with stable room conditions
- Room by room zone control
- Low air movement for better perceived air quality
- Can help reduce condensation and mould on cold surfaces
- Slimline panels with wall or ceiling options
- Low maintenance and long service life
Considerations
- Panels should not be obstructed by large furniture
- Relies on electricity pricing and supply
- Correct sizing and placement are important
- Bathrooms require suitable IP rating and electrical compliance
Read the full rationale
Radiant heating works best where people spend time. It is effective in higher ceiling rooms or areas subject to draughts. Infrared is not reliant on moving warm air which can feel stuffy. Consider window placement since infrared can transmit through glass. Good outcomes rely on correct wattage and positioning, which is why the calculator and placement guidance matter.
Types of infrared heaters
Framed wall panels
Classic radiant panels for living rooms, bedrooms and offices.
Frameless panels
Minimal look that blends into modern interiors.
Ceiling panels
Discreet heating in kitchens, offices and grid ceilings.
Mirror panels
Dual purpose heat and mirror for bathrooms and hallways.
Glass panels
Premium black or white finishes for a design led space.
Panels with LED light
Combine ceiling lighting and infrared heating.
Built in thermostat panels
Integrated control for simple setups.
Infrared bar heaters
High output units for garages, workshops and outdoor zones.
How to size infrared panels and choose wattage
- Measure the room in metres for floor area and note ceiling height.
- Assess insulation and glazing. Colder or poorly insulated rooms may require higher watts per m².
- Use the Wattage Calculator for an exact recommendation.
- Decide on one large panel or two smaller panels for even coverage.
- Add control: a smart thermostat enables schedules and zones.
Tip: Ceiling mounting often gives uniform coverage and keeps walls free. For very tall spaces, consider higher wattage or bar heaters.
Placement for best results
Do
- Face seating and work areas
- Keep a clear line of sight (avoid large furniture in front)
- Use ceiling panels in kitchens, offices and long narrow rooms
- Use mirror panels in bathrooms to tackle condensation
Avoid
- Mounting behind sofas, wardrobes or long curtains
- Placing directly opposite large glazing
- Ignoring bathroom IP rating and zoning rules
Read full placement guidance
In long rooms, ceiling mounting along the centreline provides even exposure. In open plan areas, use two panels to cover seating and dining zones. In bedrooms, avoid aiming directly at the pillow area and consider a timer or setback schedule overnight.
Running costs and efficiency
Infrared panels convert electrical energy to radiant heat with minimal loss. Because people and surfaces are warmed directly, comfort arrives quickly and air temperature can be set lower than with convection systems. Actual running cost depends on wattage used, tariff and hours of operation.
Simple example
Estimated cost per hour = panel wattage in kW × electricity price per kWh. Example: 800 W panel at 0.30 £/kWh costs about 0.24 £ per hour while active. Thermostats cycle panels so average cost across the day is usually lower.
Save more by zoning rooms, adding schedules and pairing with Solar PV. See environmental benefits for emissions information.
Materials and build quality
Heating element and surface
- Uniform infrared output across the surface for even warmth
- Durable finishes that resist yellowing and colour shift
- Aluminium or glass fronts depending on design goal
Electrical and safety
- CE and UKCA compliance with thermal cut out protection
- Correct IP rating for bathrooms and wet areas
- Proper insulation and robust mounting hardware supplied
Why build quality matters
Uniform surface temperature avoids hot spots and delivers a consistent feel. Stable coatings preserve long term appearance. Safety devices protect against overheating and correct IP ratings ensure suitability for bathroom zones. Always follow the product manual for clearances and fixings.
Health and safety
Infrared heaters emit non ionising radiation that produces heat. There is no ultraviolet output from our panels. Many users find comfort improves because there is less air movement and dust circulation. Drying out cold walls can also help reduce mould growth. Read more: Is infrared heating safe and Infrared as a solution to damp and mould.
Where infrared works best
Homes
Retrofits and new builds with clean, silent heating.
Offices
Even warmth for productive workspaces with ceiling options.
Hotels
Guest comfort with discreet panels and smart control.
Conservatories
Targeted heat that tackles cold glazing.
Retail shops
Spot heating for tills and changing rooms.
Sports halls
High ceilings benefit from radiant heat.
Hot yoga and spas
Comfortable radiant warmth for studios.
Warehouses and factories
Targeted heat for work bays and loading areas.
Churches and heritage
Low visual impact and gentle fabric heating.
Dog kennels and catteries
Clean heat with low air movement.
Equestrian and stables
Robust options with bar heaters.
Installation and regulations
Most panels are DIY friendly with simple brackets for wall or ceiling mounting. Always follow electrical regulations and local building rules, especially in bathrooms. A qualified electrician is recommended for hard wiring, spur connections and bathroom zones. See product pages for specific IP ratings and mounting clearances.
Smart thermostats and control
Use a smart thermostat to set room schedules, control zones independently and monitor energy use. Smartphone apps make it easy to pre heat rooms and avoid heating empty spaces. Start here: Smart thermostat range or see our recommended option: Smart Thermostat.
Infrared vs traditional heating
| Feature | Infrared panels | Traditional radiators or fan heaters |
|---|---|---|
| How heat is delivered | Radiant heat to people and surfaces | Convection that warms air first |
| Warm up feel | Fast perceived warmth | Slower, relies on air temperature rising |
| Air movement | Low, helps reduce dust circulation | Higher, can move dust and create draughts |
| Zoning | Easy room by room control | Often centralised |
| Maintenance | Minimal, no pumps or valves | Can require bleeding, servicing or filters |
| Aesthetics | Slimline wall or ceiling panels | Bulky units that take wall space |
For a deeper comparison read Infrared vs Traditional Heating.
Ready to plan your system
Use the calculator to size your rooms, then choose panels and controls. Our team can help with placement, specification and installer recommendations.