As a highly efficient heating solution, infrared panels continue to increase in popularity. Not only do they look good as a slimline, ultra-modern appliance, but they also tick all the boxes when it comes to saving energy. As the UK continues its mission towards a greener future, you may be wondering how to turn your heating into a completely carbon neutral system. Well, you’re in luck, because we’re exploring how you can take a step in the right direction by pairing your infrared panels with renewable energy.
Why choose infrared panels?
First and foremost, if you haven’t already switched to infrared panels, let’s look at the reasons why you should consider investing in these sophisticated heaters.
- Efficiency: always top on our list, infrared panels are 100% efficient at point of use. This is because they run on electricity, so once you plug them in they convert every watt of power taken from the wall into usable heat, without wasting any energy in the process. So, before you even pair them with renewables, these heaters already offer a better deal for the planet compared to other systems such as gas.
- Radiant warmth: infrared panels heat solely through radiation, which means the warmth they produce is easily absorbed by people and surfaces. It travels in a wave to heat objects directly, without relying on the surrounding air to transfer heat, so the warmth produced isn’t lost to draughts or through open windows. Instead, heat sinks deep into the walls and re-radiates back into the room for 360ᵒ warmth.
- Zoning: as standalone appliances, infrared panels can be used on an individual basis, which means you can set up unique settings in every room of your property. So, you don’t have to heat your entire home just to keep the living room warm – saving you on energy and minimising running costs.
- Unobtrusive heating: with ultra-slim profiles and elegant designs, infrared panels effortlessly blend into their surroundings, looking equally as discreet as a picture hanging from your wall. A space-saving heating solution, many can even be ceiling mounted, giving a tidier look to any room.
- Modern control: as contemporary appliances, many infrared panels come with some form of sophisticated control, whether it’s integrated WiFi compatibility, voice-activated control, 24/7 programming or a built-in receiver that enables you pair your heating with an external controller of your choice. This makes managing your energy use easier than ever, so you can curate an even more efficient system in your home.
Pairing infrared panels with renewable energy
Although infrared panels are considered energy efficient, there are still some aspects to consider. Like gas, a big chunk of electricity is still being produced through the burning of fossil fuels, producing greenhouse gases and polluting the atmosphere. So, although electric is efficient from point of use, it might not be equally as efficient from start to finish – meaning it has a reduced, but still present impact on the environment.
Fortunately, in 2020, renewable energy outperformed fossil fuels for the first time ever, powering roughly 43% of electricity in the UK. This number continues to increase, with more of us turning towards renewable sources to provide energy to our homes. By switching to a greener energy provider or pairing infrared panels with wind or solar power, they become a completely carbon neutral heating solution. So even though there’s still some way to go, this partnership certainly seems like a step in the right direction.
The benefits of using renewable energy
- Lowers carbon emissions: one of the most obvious benefits of using renewable energy is that it reduces our reliance on burning fossil fuels and instead generates clean energy. This will lower your carbon footprint which is ultimately better for you as well as the planet.
- It won’t run out: unlike fossil fuels, wind and solar power cannot be depleted, making them a much more reliable source of power.
- Cost: the price of renewable energy differs depending on the type. For example, current estimates put wind power at a cost of 4.6p/kWh – 5.8p/kWh, however this price will be different if you have solar panels attached to your property. What we can say for certain is the cost of renewable energy continues to decrease whereas other energy sources such as gas are only set to increase. With the government promoting the use of renewables through financial incentives such as the Domestic Renewable Heating Incentive, this source of energy is not only set to be a green option, but an affordable one too.
Which infrared panels are best paired with renewable energy?
The short answer is all of them. As every infrared panel in our collection runs on electricity, they can all be paired with renewable energy sources. Finding the right one for your home entirely depends on your style choices and control preference.
Some of our bestselling products include:
Ecostrad Opus iQ: an infrared panel with built-in WiFi control and Alexa and Google Home voice control compatibility. It sports a minimalist, white aesthetic with a frameless design for a seamless integration into any home.
Herschel Select Under Desk Heating Panel: a portable infrared panel that comes with its own feet and a foot pedal for convenient control. It also offers intelligent WiFi programming for more detailed management.
Herschel Inspire Mirror Panel: a two-in-one solution that doubles as an effective heater and a stylish mirror. Featuring anti-mist properties, its reflective surface doesn’t fog up when in use.
Heating your home the efficient way
If you’re looking for more efficient heating alternatives, you can’t go wrong with infrared panels – and by pairing them with renewable energy, you’ll be winning on the carbon-friendly front. There’s still some way to go for this type of system, but the outlook is certainly a positive one. So, take a step towards a greener future by browsing our range of infrared panels today.
