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March 19, 2026

Does Infrared Heating Just Heat the Air? The Truth Behind How Infrared Heats a Room

by aaron joseph in Blog

Does Infrared Heating Just Heat the Air? The Truth About How Infrared Warms a Room

Infrared heating has quickly become one of the most popular alternatives to conventional central heating and older electric convection systems. Even so, one question still comes up time and time again online:

Does infrared heating only warm objects and surfaces, or does it heat the air too?

This is one of the most common misunderstandings around infrared heating, and it often concerns people who are familiar with radiators, storage heaters, or fan heaters that heat the air directly. Some even assume you need to stand directly in front of an infrared panel to feel any benefit, or that the rest of the room remains cold.

In truth, that is not how it works at all.

This article explains exactly how infrared heating warms a whole room, why the room often feels warmer than it would with convection heating at the same temperature, and why infrared systems create a more even and comfortable warmth, often with much lower running costs.

Infrared Heating vs Convection Heating: What’s the Difference?

Before looking at how infrared warms a room, it is useful to understand how traditional heating systems operate.

How Convection Heating Warms a Room

Convection heating, used by radiators, storage heaters, fan heaters, and most standard electric heaters, works by warming the air. That heated air rises, cools, circulates, and is then reheated again and again. This leads to several familiar issues:

Stratification: warm air near the ceiling, colder air at floor level
Drafts and uneven cold spots
Dust and allergens moving around the room
Longer warm-up times
Higher running costs due to constant reheating

This is why many properties heated by convection can feel stuffy, dry, or uneven in temperature.

How Infrared Heating Works

Infrared heating works in a completely different way. Rather than depending on moving air, infrared panels emit gentle far infrared radiant heat that warms the walls, floors, furniture, surfaces, and people within the room.

Those warmed surfaces then slowly give heat back into the space, helping distribute warmth more evenly. This creates a steadier, longer-lasting heat than a convection-based system.

The result:

No cold spots
No drafts
No unnecessarily overheated air
A more natural, soothing warmth
Comfort at a lower perceived temperature
Reduced energy use thanks to lower wattage heating

The main misunderstanding is this: many people think infrared only heats objects and not the room itself, and that simply is not true.

Does Infrared Heating Warm the Air?

Yes, infrared heating does warm the air, but it does so in a more efficient way than convection heating.

Because infrared warms objects and surfaces first, many people assume the air never gets warm. In reality, the air does warm up, just through a more gradual and effective process.

The Secondary Heating Effect

Far infrared warms the surfaces in the room, and those surfaces then re-radiate heat and gradually raise the air temperature around them. This happens more slowly than convection, but it is far more energy-efficient. The room retains warmth for longer because its thermal mass has absorbed and stored that heat.

That is why infrared-heated spaces often remain warm well after the heating has switched off, unlike convection systems where warm air can disappear very quickly.

Why Infrared Feels Warmer at Lower Temperatures

What is even more interesting is that your body often feels warmer at a lower air temperature when using infrared heating.

Infrared heat warms your body and the surrounding surfaces directly, increasing what is known as the perceived temperature. In practice, a room at 18°C with infrared heating can often feel more like 20–21°C with conventional central heating.

That means:

Quicker comfort
Less energy needed
Lower ongoing energy costs

So yes, infrared does warm the air, it simply does so in a more efficient, gradual, and less wasteful way.

Does Infrared Heating Warm the Whole Room?

Another common myth is that infrared heaters only work if you stand directly in front of them. People often imagine infrared heat as being like a fireplace, where the warmth is immediate and highly directional.

But far infrared panels behave very differently to glowing quartz near-infrared heaters.

How Infrared Heat Spreads Around a Room

Far infrared moves around the room using a gentle bounce effect. The waves reflect softly from surfaces, floors, ceilings, and objects, spreading throughout the space until the whole room reaches temperature. The result is highly consistent warmth from wall to wall and from floor to ceiling.

What an Infrared-Heated Room Feels Like

Many people expect an infrared-heated room to feel cold unless they are directly in front of the panel. In reality, that is not the case. When you enter a room heated by far infrared:

The surfaces are already warm
The room holds heat for longer
The air has warmed naturally
The space feels balanced and comfortable

It feels very similar to stepping into a room heated by central heating, but without the stuffiness, dry air, or constant temperature swings.

Why Infrared Heating Feels Better Than Convection Heating

Infrared heating creates a type of comfort that feels noticeably different to radiators or traditional electric heaters.

More Even Heat Throughout the Room

Because infrared warms surfaces, the room itself becomes a kind of thermal store. This helps remove common problems such as:

One part of the room feeling warmer than another
Warm air gathering at ceiling level
Cold floors or chilly corners

Less Stuffiness and Improved Air Quality

Because infrared does not rely on heating the air directly or creating air movement, it can help reduce:

Dust circulation
Dry air
Airborne allergens
Humidity fluctuations

Many people with asthma or allergies say infrared heating feels far more comfortable.

Reduced Damp and Mould Risk

Cold surfaces are one of the main causes of condensation and mould. Because infrared warms those surfaces directly, it can help stop moisture from settling, making it ideal for bathrooms, holiday lets, older properties, and homes with poor insulation.

Is Infrared Heating Cheaper to Run?

Saving energy is one of the biggest reasons people move to infrared heating.

Lower Wattage Requirements

A typical 12 m² room may often need:

1.2–1.8 kW with electric convection heating
600–900 W with infrared panels

That is because infrared heats the room’s thermal mass, rather than constantly reheating air that easily escapes.

Faster Comfort Means Shorter Heating Times

Because you feel warm more quickly, the heaters usually run for less time. Shorter heating cycles can lead to significantly lower electricity usage.

Better Heating Control and Zoning

Infrared systems work especially well with:

Smart thermostats
Room-by-room zoning
Scheduling
Energy monitoring

This gives you much greater control than storage heaters or older radiators, where energy is often wasted.

Do You Need to Stand in Front of an Infrared Heater to Feel Warm?

Absolutely not.

This myth usually comes from people confusing far infrared heating panels with glowing near-infrared heaters. Genuine far infrared panels distribute heat evenly throughout the room, so you feel warm wherever you are.

Real-World Example of How Infrared Heating Works

Picture a ceiling-mounted infrared panel in a living room. The panel warms:

The floor
The sofa
The walls
The coffee table
The people in the room

Each of these then gives off gentle, steady warmth back into the space.

Whether you are sitting by the door, relaxing on the sofa, or working at a desk, the room feels evenly and naturally warm.

Infrared Heating vs Storage Heaters and Traditional Electric Heating

If you are comparing heating systems, it helps to understand how infrared compares with other electric options.

Infrared vs Storage Heaters

Storage heaters work by heating bricks overnight and releasing that heat gradually. They:

Are inefficient
Create temperature fluctuations
Can be costly to run
Lose heat at the wrong times
Are hard to control

Infrared heating, on the other hand, gives you precise control, quick comfort, and lower running costs.

Infrared vs Fan Heaters and Panel Heaters

Fan heaters and convection panel heaters can warm the air quickly, but that warmth escapes just as quickly too. They may be useful for short bursts of heat, but they are not especially efficient for full-room or whole-home heating.

Infrared provides a deeper, more lasting warmth while using less energy.

Infrared vs Central Heating Radiators

Radiators heat the air first, which can lead to uneven temperatures and greater heat loss. Infrared delivers a more balanced and comfortable warmth and can operate at a lower perceived temperature.

Conclusion: Does Infrared Heating Heat the Air and the Room?

The belief that infrared heating does not warm the air is a myth based on a misunderstanding of how the technology works. In reality, what happens is much more efficient:

Infrared warms people and surfaces directly
Those surfaces then warm the air gradually and naturally
The room feels warm throughout, not only in front of the panel
You stay comfortable at a lower thermostat setting
The heat feels more even, stable, and pleasant

Whether you are replacing old storage heaters, upgrading outdated electric heating, or searching for an efficient alternative to central heating, infrared heating offers a modern, comfortable, and energy-efficient solution.

Frequently Asked Questions About Infrared Heating

Does infrared heating only heat objects?

No. Infrared heating warms surfaces and people first, and those warmed surfaces then gradually heat the air in the room as well.

Does infrared heating make a room feel warm?

Yes. Infrared heating creates a balanced, comfortable warmth across the whole room, not just in front of the panel.

Is infrared heating better than convection heating?

In many properties, yes. Infrared heating can provide more even warmth, lower running costs, less dust circulation, and improved comfort compared to traditional convection systems.

Is infrared heating good for old houses?

Yes, especially because it warms surfaces directly, which can help reduce condensation, damp, and mould on colder walls.

Tags: Efficiency Energy

May 9, 2025

Economy 7 Night Storage Heaters: Costs, Benefits, Disadvantages, and FAQs

Introduction: The Legacy of Storage Heaters in the UK Storage heaters have been a familiar sight in UK homes since the mid-20th century. Originally introduced in the 1960s and 70s — particularly in social housing — these units were promoted as a convenient way to take advantage of Economy 7 tariffs. The concept was simple: store heat overnight when electricity was cheaper and release it throughout the day. Fast forward to today, and night storage heaters are increasingly seen as outdated and inefficient. In an era where energy prices are rising and smart technology is redefining home heating, many are asking: are storage heaters still a viable solution, or is it time to upgrade? In this post, we’ll break down the costs, benefits, disadvantages, and alternatives to storage heating, helping you make an informed decision for your home or business. What Is a Storage Heater and How Does It Work? The Basics A storage heater is an electric heater that stores thermal energy by heating internal ceramic bricks during off-peak electricity hours (typically overnight). The idea is that this stored heat can then be gradually released throughout the day, reducing the need for on-demand heating during peak hours. The Role of Economy 7 These systems were designed to work hand-in-hand with Economy 7 (ECO7) tariffs — a type of electricity plan that offers cheaper rates during night-time hours (usually a seven-hour window between midnight and 7 AM). Households with storage heaters often rely on ECO7 meters to benefit from these cheaper rates. Different Types of Storage Heaters 1. Traditional Night Storage Heaters These are the most common and often the oldest type. They heat up overnight and passively release heat during the day with limited control. 2. High Heat Retention Storage Heaters A more modern version, high heat retention storage heaters come with better insulation, fans for improved heat distribution, and smarter controls — but they are also significantly more expensive. 3. Combination Heaters Some newer models combine storage elements with electric radiators for top-up heating when stored heat runs out. The Pros of Storage Heaters Cheaper Night-Time Electricity If you are on an Economy 7 tariff and can manage your energy use carefully, storage heaters can offer some savings — at least in theory. Simple Operation Most older systems are easy to operate, with basic input/output dials. No Boiler or Plumbing Needed Since storage heaters are self-contained and electric, they do not require central heating systems or pipework. The Growing List of Disadvantages Poor Control and Inefficiency Storage heaters release heat gradually throughout the day — whether you need it or not. By the evening, when most people want their homes warmest, the stored heat may already be depleted. This often leads to reliance on expensive peak-rate top-up heating. Unsuitable for Modern Lifestyles With more people working from home or keeping irregular schedules, the rigid timing of storage heaters no longer suits modern energy usage patterns. Expensive to Run in Practice While Economy 7 tariffs offer lower night-time rates, day rates are significantly higher, making any additional heating very costly. Users often end up paying more in the long run — especially during colder months. Negative Impact on EPC Rating Homes relying on older night storage heaters often receive lower EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) scores, making them less attractive to buyers or tenants and harder to upgrade under energy efficiency standards. Bulky and Unattractive Traditional units are large, clunky, and often placed in inconvenient locations. Unlike modern electric radiators or infrared panels, they take up significant wall space. Maintenance and Ageing Systems Many storage heaters installed decades ago are nearing the end of their lifespan and may no longer be safe or effective. Spare parts for older models are becoming increasingly difficult to source. Are High Heat Retention Storage Heaters the Solution? Some manufacturers have tried to modernise the concept with high heat retention storage heaters. These newer systems feature better insulation, smarter thermostats, and fans for heat distribution. However: They are expensive to purchase and install — often £1,500 to £2,500 per unit They still rely on the same underlying principle: storing heat at night, hoping it lasts all day They still need an ECO7 tariff to be remotely cost-effective If used inefficiently, they can be just as expensive to run as older models While a small improvement over traditional systems, they are not the revolution in heating technology many hoped for. What Are the Alternatives? With energy efficiency becoming more important than ever — especially for those concerned about EPC ratings, energy bills, or carbon emissions — many homeowners are now exploring better options. Electric-Only Properties: Why Upgrading Your Heating System Matters Homes that rely solely on electricity for heating — known as electric-only properties — do not have access to a mains gas supply. These properties are often found in rural or remote areas and commonly use outdated systems such as storage heaters or traditional electric radiators. Some homeowners may turn to oil-fired heating, but this option is typically costly, inconvenient, and requires regular fuel deliveries and storage space. Traditional electric heating methods, including night storage heaters and older radiators, are significantly less energy-efficient — consuming up to 42% more electricity compared to modern infrared heating panels. As UK energy prices continue to rise, switching to a high-efficiency heating solution like infrared heating can dramatically lower electricity consumption and reduce monthly energy bills, making it a smart upgrade for electric-only households. Infrared Heating: A Smarter, More Efficient Choice Infrared heating is an emerging technology that offers precise, on-demand heating without the disadvantages of storage systems. How It Works Infrared panels use far infrared radiation to directly heat people, furniture, and surfaces — not the air. This results in fast, efficient warmth that does not dissipate as quickly as convective heating. Why It’s Better Than Storage Heating On-Demand Heating: Heat rooms only when and where you need it. No pre-heating or wasted energy Lower Running Costs: Infrared systems use less electricity overall compared to storage heaters and work efficiently with standard tariffs, not just ECO7 Slimline Design: Panels are sleek, modern, and can be wall- or ceiling-mounted, freeing up valuable space Improved Comfort: Provides consistent warmth without the hot/cold cycle typical of night storage heaters Higher EPC Rating: When installed properly, infrared heating can improve your home’s EPC, especially when paired with renewable energy sources such as solar panels FAQs About Storage Heaters Are storage heaters being phased out? While not banned, they are increasingly seen as outdated. Many energy assessors and landlords are replacing them with more modern alternatives to improve EPC ratings. Do storage heaters work without Economy 7? Technically yes, but they become extremely expensive to run on standard tariffs. Is Economy 7 being phased out? Economy 7 tariffs themselves are not being discontinued; however, the underlying technology that enables them — specifically the Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS) — is being phased out. This system, which allows certain meters to automatically switch between peak and off-peak rates, is set to be switched off by 30 June 2025. The withdrawal of RTS meters means an upgrade is required to keep your tariff working as intended. If your energy supplier hasn’t yet been in touch, it’s recommended that you contact them to arrange the necessary meter replacement and avoid any disruption. Can I replace a storage heater with an electric radiator or infrared panel? Yes, and it is often the more efficient and cost-effective solution. Electric radiators and infrared heating offer better control, lower running costs, and require minimal installation. Do high heat retention storage heaters qualify for grants? Occasionally under ECO schemes, but less so now that more efficient technologies such as infrared heating are being prioritised. Conclusion: Should You Stick with Storage Heaters? While storage heaters once had a role in energy-efficient home heating, particularly during the rise of Economy 7 tariffs, their time has largely passed. Between poor control, high running costs, and bulky designs, they no longer meet the demands of modern homes or energy-conscious homeowners. With the rise of smart, responsive, and efficient alternatives like infrared heating, sticking with old technology is not only inconvenient — it could be costing you money. Want to Upgrade from Storage Heaters? If you are still using night storage heaters and want a more efficient, affordable, and stylish alternative, we are here to help. Contact Infrared Group today for expert advice and a tailored quote. 0333 090 7160 info@infraredgroup.co.uk www.infraredgroup.co.uk

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May 1, 2025

Energy Prices: What Can I Do to Lower Energy Bills?

Energy Prices: What Can I Do to Lower Costs? Introduction: The Reality of Rising Energy Bills Energy bills are climbing higher than ever, and for millions of UK households, the impact is being felt with every passing month. As the cost of living rises and inflation bites, one of the most significant contributors to household expenditure is energy—specifically, heating and electricity. But why are prices rising so fast, and what can you do to protect yourself from future increases? Why Are Energy Prices So Unstable? The Ukraine-Russia War and Its Global Impact A major driver behind the surge in energy prices is geopolitical instability. The ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine has disrupted global energy markets. Russia, one of the world’s largest exporters of natural gas and oil, has restricted supply to Europe in response to sanctions and political tensions. This has caused widespread supply chain issues and increased competition for energy resources, pushing prices up on a global scale. The Power of Energy Providers Another contributing factor is the influence energy providers wield. In many markets, a handful of major suppliers dominate, allowing them to set prices with little consumer recourse. These companies purchase energy on wholesale markets, and when wholesale prices rise—even temporarily—those increases are passed on to consumers. The UK Energy Price Cap The UK’s domestic energy price cap, designed to protect consumers from excessive charges, has failed to stop significant increases. The cap has risen consecutively in recent years, reflecting higher wholesale costs. While it offers some protection, it also legitimises higher prices, creating a cycle where each rise becomes the new normal. Energy prices have continued to rise year after year, and energy providers are seeing their profits soar—often at the expense of homeowners. While switching energy suppliers may offer short-term relief by locking in a fixed tariff, these deals are still subject to future market fluctuations. As we've seen in previous years, those increases can be steep and unexpected. The most effective way to combat rising costs is to address the root of the issue: your energy consumption. Heating typically accounts for 60–70% of total household energy usage, making it the most impactful area to focus on for savings. By adopting smarter, more efficient heating technologies, households can dramatically reduce their monthly and annual energy bills, regardless of external market conditions. What Can You Do to Reduce Your Energy Bills? While switching providers may offer some temporary relief, it’s often not enough. In fact, the most effective way to lower your energy bills is to focus on reducing your energy consumption, especially when it comes to heating, which accounts for around 50%-70% of total household energy usage. When researching the cheapest energy options or doing an energy comparison, remember that efficiency matters just as much as the rates you're paying. Heating: The Key to Lowering Your Energy Costs Gas vs. Electricity Traditionally, gas has been the go-to for UK home heating, but gas prices have become increasingly volatile due to global dependency and geopolitical conflict. Electricity, on the other hand, can be generated from a variety of sources, including renewables like solar and wind. As the UK continues to decarbonise, electricity is becoming the cleaner, more stable option. When doing an electricity price comparison, you’ll often find that renewable-powered tariffs are not only greener but can be more cost-effective in the long run. Infrared Heating: Cut Heating Costs by Up to 60% Infrared heating is one of the smartest and most energy-efficient ways to heat your home in today’s market. Unlike conventional heating systems that warm the air, infrared panels heat people and objects directly—just like the sun. This means less energy is wasted, and your rooms stay warm for longer. Benefits of Infrared Heating: 1. Energy Efficiency Infrared panels consume significantly less electricity compared to traditional electric heaters or gas boilers. This can lead to substantial reductions in your energy bills—by as much as 60% in some cases. 2. Targeted Heating You can heat specific rooms or zones without wasting energy on empty spaces. This is ideal for modern lifestyles where people spend time in different parts of the home throughout the day. 3. Low Maintenance Infrared panels have no moving parts, fluids, or filters, making them incredibly low-maintenance. Once installed, they require virtually no upkeep. Just the occasional wipe down. 4. Sleek, Modern Design Our panels come in a variety of finishes—including mirrors and custom prints—so they complement your decor while also serving a functional purpose. 5. Better Air Quality Because infrared heating doesn’t circulate air, it reduces the movement of dust and allergens, creating a healthier living environment—especially beneficial for allergy sufferers. 6. Controllability Our infrared heating panels come equipped with advanced control features, including programmable thermostats, smart home integration, and zone-based settings. These tools allow users to fine-tune energy usage, ensuring optimal efficiency and even greater savings. The Importance of Efficient Heating Systems When it comes to reducing your energy costs, the type of heating system you use plays a crucial role. It's not just about cheaper tariffs—it's about using less energy to begin with. When considering your options, look for a modern, efficient system like infrared heating. Infrared has a key advantage: it heats a room to the desired temperature in just 15–20 minutes, and thanks to superior heat retention, there's much less need for continuous operation. That means lower energy usage overall, as the system doesn't need to be running constantly for you to feel warm. Infrared panel heaters also require 42% less wattage than traditional electric radiators to heat an equivalent space. That's a 42% saving on your heating costs before you've even switched them on. Adopting this kind of technology is a smart way to react to rising energy prices and future-proof your home—and your family—for the years ahead. Real Savings, Real Results Many of our customers report energy savings of 30–70% after switching to infrared heating. These aren’t just theoretical figures—our systems are designed to perform efficiently in real-world conditions, and the results speak for themselves. This makes infrared heating not just a smart heating solution, but also a key consideration when comparing gas and electricity deals. Make the Switch Today If you’re looking for a long-term solution to rising energy bills, it’s time to consider a smarter approach. Focussing on the root of the issue, your consumption itself, is the best way to start. Gas and electric heating systems are dominating your energy usage and draining your wallet. Infrared heating not only lowers your consumption, but it also provides a more comfortable, stylish, and sustainable way to heat your home. Whether you're reviewing the cheapest energy options or doing a detailed energy comparison, consider the efficiency and benefits of switching to infrared heating. Ready to Learn More? Contact Infrared Group today for a personalised quote and discover how infrared heating can transform your home—and your energy bills.

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April 10, 2025

Do Heat Pumps Work in the UK? Costs, Benefits, Disadvantages & FAQs

Do Heat Pumps Work in the UK? Costs, Benefits, Disadvantages & FAQs The Push for Net Zero: A Changing Landscape for UK Home Heating The UK government has committed to reaching net zero carbon emissions by 2050, a target that has drastically reshaped the country's approach to heating. With heating accounting for over a third of total household carbon emissions, a transition away from fossil fuels, especially gas, is now a top priority. As part of this shift, the sale of new gas boilers in new-build homes will be banned from 2025, with broader restrictions planned for existing homes soon after. Amid these sweeping regulatory changes, heat pumps have been presented as the primary solution for low-carbon heating. But are they truly a good fit for the UK’s unique climate and housing stock? Heat Pumps: The Government’s Chosen Solution Several years ago, heat pumps were thrust into the spotlight as the government’s preferred answer to gas boiler replacements. Backed by incentive schemes like the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, heat pumps quickly became the poster child of green home heating. But many homeowners who rushed to install them are now left frustrated by performance issues, especially during winter — the time they’re needed most. These aren’t isolated incidents. Reports of inefficiency, high running costs, and breakdowns in cold weather have been widely circulated. So what’s going wrong? What Is a Heat Pump and How Does It Work? Heat pumps are devices that extract thermal energy from the environment — usually the air or the ground — and use it to heat your home and water. They work by moving heat rather than generating it, making them potentially very efficient under ideal conditions. There are several types of heat pumps: Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHP): The most common in the UK. These absorb heat from the outside air. Ground Source Heat Pumps (GSHP): Extract heat from the ground using buried pipes. These are more efficient but significantly more expensive and disruptive to install. Air-to-Air Heat Pumps: Work like an air conditioner in reverse — they blow warm air into a home but don’t heat water. Air-to-Water Heat Pumps: These supply heat to a home's wet central heating system, like underfloor heating or radiators. So Why the Disappointment? On paper, a top of the range heat pump can deliver an efficiency of up to 5:1 (for every unit of electricity used, five units of heat are generated). But these figures are achieved under ideal conditions — conditions which are not often found in the UK. Temperature Dependency Heat pumps perform best in mild climates. The UK, however, has a humid and fluctuating climate, frequently dipping below zero in winter. The colder the air, the harder the system must work to extract usable heat. This leads to reduced efficiency — and increased electricity use — just when heating demand is at its highest. Defrost Cycles and Moisture Issues UK humidity presents another unique challenge. Moisture from the air can freeze within the heat pump’s outdoor unit, causing it to enter regular defrost cycles. These cycles consume additional energy and can bring the system to a halt temporarily, leaving homes without heat. Many heat pump owners have reported a significant spike in running costs when their systems become stuck in frequent defrost cycles. With energy bills already peaking during the winter months, the last thing homeowners need is for their heating system to drive costs even higher just to stay operational. In fact, hundreds of heat pump users across the UK have reported waking up to a frost-covered, non-functioning unit in the middle of winter. And because heat pumps are mounted outdoors, they’re fully exposed to the elements, from heavy rain to snow — all of which can contribute to malfunctions or additional maintenance requirements. Not Ideal When You Need It Most Simply put, the more you need heat, the less efficient your heat pump becomes. That’s the inverse of what most people want in a heating system. In addition, with both heat pumps and traditional gas central heating systems, even if individual radiators are turned off using their valves, the system still circulates hot water throughout the entire pipe network. This means energy is being used to heat and pump water through areas of the system that aren’t delivering heat to rooms — effectively wasting energy. This is especially inefficient in larger homes or those with extended pipework, where unused spaces still cause energy consumption. Other Common Disadvantages of Heat Pumps Beyond performance issues in cold, wet weather, there are other significant drawbacks: High Up-Front Costs: Often £7,000 to £15,000 for installation — and even more for ground source systems. Special Infrastructure Requirements: May require new radiators or underfloor heating due to lower output temperatures. Costly Servicing and Maintenance: Annual servicing is recommended and parts and labour can be expensive. Running Cost Unpredictability: Efficiency and operating costs vary wildly based on location, insulation, weather, and external temperatures. Visual Impact: Large, often unattractive units need to be mounted outside the property. Unsuitability for Flats and Smaller Homes: Many properties lack the space or permissions for installation. But Are There Any Advantages? Yes — when installed in the right conditions, heat pumps can be an efficient and environmentally friendly solution. Their ability to move heat rather than generate it means they can be cheaper to run than many electric radiators, gas, or oil systems in mild climates. They also qualify for government grants, and their carbon footprint is significantly lower than gas boilers. However, in less-than-ideal environments like much of the UK, performance often falls short of expectations. So, What’s the Alternative? The Rise of Infrared Heating While heat pumps have dominated headlines, infrared heating is quietly gaining ground as a more reliable and cost-effective alternative. Far infrared heating (not to be confused with glowing near-infrared outdoor heaters) is increasingly recognised as a leading option for UK homes. In fact, research conducted at the Salford Energy House focussed primarily on air source heat pumps and infrared panels identified infrared heating as one of the most efficient heating systems available, especially for retrofits. How Does Infrared Heating Work? Infrared panels heat objects and people directly, before heating the air. This is fundamentally different from conventional or convective systems (like traditional radiators or heat pumps), which warm the air in a room first. Imagine the heat from sunlight on a warm day, this warmth is trapped in objects and surfaces like your walls and your sofa and slowly released even after the infrared panel has been turned off. With infrared, warmth is immediate and long-lasting, even after the system has been turned off. Furthermore, Due to the rapid way in which they deliver heat, infrared panels require 42% less wattage than traditional electric radiators to heat an equal sized area, translating to immediate savings on running costs. Why Infrared Heating Outperforms Heat Pumps in the UK Totally Unaffected by Outdoor Temperatures: Works the same in sub-zero conditions as it does in summer. No Moving Parts: Nothing to freeze, break down, or maintain. Lower Upfront Costs: Typically £2,000 to £4,000 for a full home installation. No Servicing or Maintenance: Infrared panels have a 40+ year lifespan and come with 10-year warranties. Discreet and Stylish: Slimline panels that can be wall- or ceiling-mounted, with custom designs or finishes. Suitable for All Property Types: Including flats, listed buildings, and properties where external units are not permitted. Zone Heating: Only heat the rooms you’re using, reducing waste and lowering bills. Conclusion: A Better Way Forward? In an ideal world — with consistently mild weather, new-build insulation standards, and perfect installation — heat pumps could live up to their promise. But for the average UK home dealing with cold winters, high humidity, and space constraints, heat pumps are often an expensive gamble. Too many homeowners have found themselves disappointed and cold, burdened with high bills and unreliable heating when they need it most. Infrared heating presents a viable, dependable, and future-proof alternative. It performs consistently, regardless of the weather, requires no maintenance, and costs far less to install and run. For many homes across the UK, it’s the smarter choice in a heating landscape that’s still evolving. Ready to take control of your energy bills?To explore how an advanced infrared heating system could lower your heating costs and offer reliable warmth all year round, get in touch with our team today. 0333 090 7160 info@infraredgroup.co.uk

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Does Infrared Heating Just Heat the Air? The Truth Behind How Infrared Heats a Room

Does Infrared Heating Just Heat the Air? The Truth About How Infrared Warms a Room