If you’re thinking of upgrading the heating in your property, you should really consider infrared panels. As a fairly new addition to the world of heating this modern solution is quickly increasing in popularity for a variety of reasons. Infrared is efficient, safe and delivers comfortable warmth for every room in the house. In this guide to infrared heating panels, we are going to explore how infrared heaters work, the many different designs on offer and why they make such an effective heating source.
How do they work?
Infrared heating panels use cutting-edge technology to provide the best heating solution for homes and businesses. Just as you might imagine, infrared heaters work by using infrared radiation. This means that instead of simply heating the air like other heaters, the radiant warmth travels in a wave to heat objects and people directly. Radiant panels use resistive wires which emit an even distribution of far infrared heat across the large, flat surface on the front of the panel before sending the heat outwards into the room, delivering a deeper level of warmth. So, to achieve a comfortable and warm atmosphere throughout your property, infrared is the way to go.
How efficient are infrared panels?
Infrared panels are one of the most efficient electric heaters out there. Since they heat by radiation, the warmth they produce is easily absorbed by the surrounding objects which then re-radiate the warmth back into the room, for 360ᵒ heat. As these panels don’t waste energy trying to warm up the air, the heat provided doesn’t get lost to open windows or doors, ultimately reducing the potential for wasted energy, providing you with a more economical system.
Are radiant heating panels safe?
All radiators emit far infrared which is commonly known in the industry as ‘radiant heat’ and is the same type of heat we get from the sun, so in reality, there isn’t a single person who hasn’t already experienced infrared. Infrared panels are just as safe as the radiators you may currently have in your property and in many cases even more so. For one thing, radiant panels do not produce carbon monoxide so there will be no risk of any leaks. They do however provide far infrared heat which is a natural form of heat that our bodies absorb easily. Even though far infrared warmth is similar to the heat we get from the sun, it does not produce the harmful rays of ultraviolet, making it much safer. Infrared panels do not get hot enough to produce any harmful radiation, instead providing a gentle warmth that is so comfortable it is even used in incubators for babies, so you can rely on the safety of these panels in your home. Plus, they run completely silently and as they only heat via radiation and not through convection, infrared does not disturb the air and therefore will not agitate any allergies. Some infrared radiant panels can even be installed on the ceiling, keeping them out of reach for even better safety.
Costs of infrared panels
Radiant panels require a lower wattage to keep a room at the perfect temperature, mainly because they do not have to keep reheating the air. A lower wattage means a lower running cost and the wattage for infrared heating panels is roughly 30% lower than the wattage needed for traditional convection heaters. Plus, once the objects in the room are warm, they do part of the work too, by re-radiating warmth back into the room for more efficient heating. Unlike traditional heating methods, such as gas central heating, there is also no need to organise any annual callouts for infrared panels to be serviced, instead a casual dusting every so often will do the job when it comes to maintenance, further helping to save on costs.
To help you see the difference between the types of infrared panels available, the below table outlines costs, wattages and a variety of features included with three different panels to show you just what you can get for your money.
| Ecostrad Accent IR Infrared Wall Panels with Remote | Ecostrad Opus iQ WiFi Controlled Infrared Wall Panel | Herschel Inspire Glass ** | |
| Price* | £199.99 – £309.99 | £209.99 – 419.99 | £484.99 – £819.99 |
| Wattage | 350 – 1100w | 350 – 1100w | 350 – 900w |
| Room Size | 7 – 22m2 | 7 – 22m2 | 7 – 22m2 |
| Warranty | 5 Years | 5 Years | 10 Years |
| Finish | White aluminium | Powder-coated white | White glass |
| DIY Installation | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| 24/7 Programming | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Remote Control | Yes | Yes (via app) | Yes (via app) |
| WiFi Control | No | Yes | Yes |
| Voice Control | No | Yes | Yes |
* Prices correct as of August 2020
** Programming, WiFi & voice control available when purchased with the Herschel MD2 thermostat, sold separately.
What is infrared heating good for?
Radiant panels are good for a number of reasons. By installing these panels throughout your home, you will benefit from a variety of advantages, including:
- Fighting damp – infrared prevents moisture from settling which is why it is great for bathrooms.
- Keeping draughty homes warm – infrared doesn’t heat the air, but surrounding objects, which is what makes it ideal for properties that may have poorer heat retention, as warmth won’t be lost easily like it might be with other heating solutions.
- Gentle on allergies – the panels do not disturb dust particles, so they are a perfect choice for those with allergies.
- No more cold floors – infrared heating provides an even level of warmth in every room.
- A contemporary solution – radiant panels are stylish and sophisticated which is why they can help to modernise any property.
How do you control infrared panels?
Most modern infrared panels can be connected to a thermostat for extra control over your heating with some of these thermostats providing WiFi control. This allows you to manage your heating with your phone or tablet from anywhere in the world as long as you have a connection to the internet. Through an app, you can arrange a heating schedule to fit in with your lifestyle and control heaters on an individual basis so that you do not waste energy heating less frequented rooms. Heating apps are also often compatible with voice control via Amazon Alexa and Google Home, for hands-free heat management around the house, giving you that extra level of convenience. These contemporary features help to make heating your home more efficient than ever before.
The different types of infrared panels
Infrared heating panels come in a variety of designs and sizes, from mirror panels to ceiling panels, designer styles to budget options, there is a heater to suit every room in your home.
Mirror panels
Disguised as a mirror, these infrared panels are discreet and make for the perfect multi-purpose heating solutions for the bathroom. Some even come with motion-activated LED lights for a three-in-one heating solution. The warmth provided by these heaters ensures that the reflective surface remains clear so that if the room happens to fog up after a hot shower, you will still be able to use the anti-mist mirror. These panels look great throughout the house, from your bedroom to even your kitchen, blending in seamlessly with all interiors.
Ceiling panels
Infrared panels can reach up to 90ᵒ C so it is understandable if you want to keep them out of reach. Ceiling panels are the perfect solution as their installation allows for them to be kept away from young children or vulnerable adults. This discreet form of heating fits seamlessly into ceiling grids as well, making them just as great a choice for commercial properties as they are for domestic ones. Unlike a traditional, bulky heating system, radiant panels are a slimline alternative and by installing them, you can free up some space in your property and create heating zones throughout, keeping certain areas warm to suit your needs.
Glass panels
With radiant panels you can add a touch of contemporary living to any home. Sleek and stylish, glass panels make a luxurious addition to any property and can easily blend in with all interiors, allowing for invisible heating, so they will not interrupt your home aesthetic. The designer panels can also become the focal point of a room with their modern style, whilst also providing all the same benefits of other panels, including that comfortable radiant warmth.
Powder-coated panels
For a simpler style, there are also infrared panels with a powder-coated finish so you can select a colour to suit your home décor. These panels are more lightweight than others such as glass and mirror panels, making DIY installation easier and even sometimes allowing for ceiling installation. Powder-coated panels are great for use throughout your home, from the bedroom to the living room.
Infrared heating panels might be a new addition to the world of heating, but they are certainly making waves. They are an efficient, versatile and advanced solution to heating your property. So, why not consider upgrading your system with this modern and effective alternative?
