If you’re on the hunt for a bathroom heating solution that seamlessly blends efficiency with understated style, infrared panels are the way to go. These sleek solutions are primed to deliver cosy warmth to your space, along with a few added perks you might not be aware of! When it comes to installing in bathrooms, there are a few key things to keep in mind, but don’t worry; we’ve got you covered with all the essential information, plus a couple of our recommendations to sweeten the deal.
Bathroom heating: what you need to know
When it comes to infrared heaters in bathrooms, the normal rules regarding mounting location and installation may not always apply. However, it’s not as complicated as it sounds. In fact, infrared heaters are exceptionally safe and convenient for bathrooms – there are just a few considerations to be aware of.
IP ratings
IP ratings assess how well electrical appliances resist solids and moisture. All our infrared heaters come with this classification, helping you to determine which are bathroom-friendly:
- The first number tackles protection against things like fingers and dust, but that doesn’t matter for bathrooms.
- The second number is all about water resistance, which is crucial in determining bathroom suitability.
- The scale goes from 0 (no defence) to 8 (can handle being underwater). ‘X’ simply means untested.
So, if you’re going to install an infrared heater in your bathroom, it needs a minimum rating of IPX4.
Installation
Once you’ve picked an infrared heater with a suitable IP rating, how do you go about installing it? While many are DIY-friendly, it’s important you never try to install them yourself. When it comes to bathrooms, an electrician must hardwire the infrared heater to your mains to guarantee safe operation and comply with building regulations.
Bathroom zones
Another thing to be aware of is mounting location. The IET Wiring Regulations have divided bathrooms into four distinct zones, though the setup can vary based on your bathroom’s size. Before you make any decisions, it’s best to consult with your electrician, but here’s a quick rundown to get you started:
- Zone 0 – Areas directly around the bath or shower. This is a no-go for electric heating.
- Zone 1 – The space directly above your shower or bath. It’s rarely practical to install a heater here, so best to confirm with your electrician.
- Zone 2 – Covers the area outside your bath or shower. This is a popular location for heaters.
- Zone 3 – Any space in your bathroom outside Zones 1 and 2. Technically, this is not a regulated space, but we still recommend a waterproof heater.
The good news is our infrared panels all have at least an IPX4 rating, making them suitable for installation in Zone 2 or 3. That way, you’re not limited to placement apart from the areas occupied by your bath and shower.
Why infrared heaters are great for bathrooms
So, now you know what to look out for, it’s time to delve into what makes infrared heaters the ideal choice if you’re weighing up your options.
Combats damp & mould
Ever notice your bathroom walls getting damp and mirrors foggy after a shower? It’s all to do with condensation. The good news is that you can combat this with infrared heaters. Heating solely via infrared radiation, this method transfers warmth directly to people, objects and surfaces, regardless of the surrounding air. That way, you’ll not only benefit from comfortable warmth, but walls and surfaces will also be heated enough to keep condensation at bay, therefore drastically reducing chances of damp and mould.
Independent bathroom heating
The modular nature of electric heating means they can be used on a room-by-room basis. This flexibility means you can focus the warmth exactly where you need it, such as in the bathroom, without having to kick the whole system into gear. So, no more heating the whole house just to dry your towels – with infrared panels, you’re guaranteed a substantial drop in energy waste, helping you keep running costs in check.
100% radiant warmth
The problem with convection heaters is their warmth is easily lost to draughts and cold spots. If you’ve got the window open while you’ve got the shower running, heat ends up getting lost. With infrared panels, they’ll continue heating whatever’s in their path regardless of airflow. So, the next time you step out of the shower, the swift and targeted heat from an infrared heater will ensure you experience warmth on a deeper level without any waste.
Our favourite infrared heaters for bathrooms
Herschel Select XLS Infrared Heating Panel – Mirror
At a glance:
- From £389.99
- Frameless mirror design
- WiFi compatible with thermostat
- IP44 rating, suitable for Zone 2 & 3
The Herschel Select XLS Mirror cleverly disguises its original function and serves as both a decorative feature and efficient source of warmth. Its consistent radiant heat has the added benefit of keeping its surface fog-free, even after the hottest of showers! Pair the XLS with a compatible thermostat for sleek manual control or take it a step further with a WiFi programmer. With convenient app and voice control, elevate your bathroom heating to a whole new level of comfort and sophistication.
Herschel Select XLS Glass Infrared Towel Rail
At a glance:
- From £489.99
- Towel drying & room heating
- Integrated WiFi & voice control
- IP44, suitable for Zone 2 & 3
The Herschel Select XLS Glass Towel Rail boasts a sleek, modern design, offering both indulgent warmth and efficient towel drying. Its dual-heating technology ensures the top half reaches temperatures of up to 105 °C, while the bottom half keeps towels warm at a cosy 45 °C. Equipped with integrated touchscreen controls and built-in WiFi, effortlessly customise temperatures, timers, and schedules from your smartphone or speaker. Whether you need the perfect addition to a modern bathroom or simply looking to make a statement, the Herschel Select is the ideal choice.
Overhaul your bathroom with an infrared heater
Ready to transform your space? Discover your new favourite heating solution with our full range of bathroom infrared heaters. Don’t forget, we also have a room calculator to help you work out the wattage needed to heat your bathroom effectively, but if you’d prefer a personalised recommendation, simply get in touch for a no obligation free quote. Whatever your space or budget, we’ll help you find the perfect fit.