Infrared heating and traditional electric heating systems both use electricity, but they deliver warmth in very different ways. While conventional electric heaters warm the air within a room, infrared heating uses radiant energy to heat people and surfaces directly.
This guide compares infrared heating with common electric heating systems used in UK homes and commercial buildings, including electric radiators, convection heaters, and storage heaters.
How infrared heating works
Infrared heating uses electromagnetic radiation to transfer heat directly to solid objects such as walls, floors, furniture, and people. This is similar to how sunlight provides warmth without heating the surrounding air first.
Infrared panels are typically wall or ceiling mounted and begin producing warmth as soon as they are switched on. Because heat is absorbed by surfaces, rooms often feel comfortable at lower air temperatures.
How electric heating systems work
Traditional electric heating systems generate heat using electrical resistance, which then warms the air within a room. Common examples include electric radiators, convection heaters, fan heaters, and storage heaters.
These systems rely on air circulation to distribute warmth, gradually raising the overall air temperature within the space.
Comfort and heat distribution
Infrared heating delivers radiant warmth directly to occupants and surrounding surfaces, helping to reduce cold spots and uneven temperature distribution. Because there is little air movement, the heat is often described as more natural and consistent.
Electric convection-based heaters warm the air, which can rise and escape through ceilings, ventilation, and draughts. This can lead to temperature variation within a room, particularly in larger or less well-insulated spaces.
Energy efficiency in everyday use
All electric heating systems convert electricity into heat at the point of use, but efficiency in practice depends on how the heat is delivered and retained within the room.
Infrared heating focuses heat where it is needed, which can reduce overall energy consumption in spaces that are not used continuously. Traditional electric heaters may need to run for longer periods to maintain a consistent air temperature.
Side-by-side comparison
| Aspect | Infrared heating | Electric heating |
|---|---|---|
| Best suited for | Zoned or intermittent heating | Continuous room heating |
| Heat delivery | Radiant heat to people and surfaces | Heated air circulation |
| Warm-up time | Fast, direct warmth | Gradual air temperature increase |
| Installation | Wall or ceiling mounted, low disruption | Wall mounted or freestanding units |
| Maintenance | Very low | Low |
Installation considerations
Infrared heating systems are often selected for retrofits, extensions, and buildings where minimal disruption is important. Panels do not require pipework or major building work.
Electric radiators and convection heaters are generally easy to install but may take up more wall space and can influence room layout.
Running costs and usage patterns
Running costs depend heavily on how each system is used. Infrared heating can reduce total energy use by delivering warmth quickly and heating occupied areas only.
Electric radiators and convection heaters may need to operate for longer periods to maintain a comfortable air temperature, particularly in larger or draughty rooms.
For a detailed breakdown of energy use, see our guide on how much infrared heating costs to run in the UK .
Which electric heating system is right for you?
Traditional electric heating systems may suit rooms that require steady background warmth and where simplicity is the main priority.
Infrared heating is often chosen where zoned control, faster warm-up times, space saving design, and reduced air movement are important considerations.
Related heating system comparisons
Frequently asked questions
Is infrared heating cheaper than electric radiators?
Running costs depend on usage patterns. Infrared heating can be more efficient in rooms that are not heated continuously by reducing overall run time.
Can infrared heating replace electric radiators?
Yes. Infrared heating can replace electric radiators when the system is designed correctly for the room size and usage.
