Infrared Heating Panel FAQ

How do infrared heating panels work?

They work by turning electricity into infrared energy, which is directed at surfaces (ideally the floor), to warm the room. They work differently from convection heaters, which heat the air rather than surfaces, which makes these panels a more efficient way to heat a space.

How efficient are they?

Infrared panels are 100% efficient, converting all of the electrical energy directly into heat. However, this does not mean that they are cheaper to run than other methods of heating.

A gas central heating solution is still significantly cheaper to run than heating your house using electricity – the reason being that gas is much cheaper than electricity per kilowatt hour.

We therefore recommend using infrared panels for additional heating or in difficult to heat areas of the home or so-called ‘cold-spots’.

Where should these panels be installed?

Ideally they are fitted on the ceiling, so that they warm up the floor below and then the heat radiates back up into the room, however they still work excellently when installed on walls.

This is different to traditional radiators or electric fan heaters, which are normally situated on the floor. These traditional forms of heater take advantage of convection heating, which is when the air is heated and moves around the room – the issue with this type of heating is that if a cold draught comes through a room it strips all the heat from the air.

Infrared panels are therefore an ideal heating solution if you are opting to heat the home using electricity. They can be used in extensions, bathrooms and exposed areas of the house that need additional heating.

Is infrared radiation safe?

Yes – 100% safe

Infrared radiation is the reason you feel the warmth of the sun on your face even in the midst of winter. The radiation emitted is on the safe end of the electromagnetic spectrum, (next to the red bit of visible light). As the unit is situated on the ceiling it can be less dangerous for children than a burning hot radiator in an easy to reach place.

Do you need built in thermostats?

You can purchase infrared heating panels with built in thermostats, however it is not something we recommend since if you have two panels in a room they will interfere with one another. It is much better to get a wireless thermostat, which should be situated on a wall adjacent to the panel.

What types of panel are there and what do I need?

They come in a range of sizes and styles. The size required will depend a little on how well insulated the room is and of course the size of the room. You can get Mirror, glass and carbon fibre effect panels. Mirror panels are particularly popular in bathrooms.

This table gives you a rough idea of the panel required.

Does infrared kill mould?

Mould tends to be the result of a build up of damp – therefore by using infrared panels directed at walls that have damp, they will dry out and this will prevent the spread of mould. In addition since these panels don’t heat spaces using convections, allergens won’t be circulated around the room – making it more suitable for sufferers of asthma and other respiratory diseases.

How much does an infrared panel cost?

Prices start from around £180, and you can buy your infrared heating panels in our energy efficiency shop using the link below!