Blog
The Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Purchasing an Electric Heater for Your Home
As the colder months approach, many homeowners are looking for the best way to keep their spaces warm and cosy. However, choosing the right electric heater isn't always straightforward. There are several common mistakes that can lead to inefficient heating, higher energy bills, or disappointment in your heater's performance. To help you avoid these pitfalls, we’ve compiled a list of the five most frequent mistakes people make when buying an electric heater and how you can choose the best option for your needs. 1. Choosing the Wrong Type of Heater for Your Space One of the most frequent mistakes is selecting the wrong type of heater for your specific needs. Not all heaters work in the same way, and each type has unique characteristics that suit different spaces and purposes. Let’s break it down: Convection Heaters: These heaters work by warming up the air in a room, making them ideal for small to medium-sized spaces where you need a consistent, ambient temperature. Near Infrared Heaters: These are perfect for localised heat. They warm up people or objects directly, offering immediate warmth for smaller, focused areas. Fan Heaters: If you’re looking for quick heat in a small space, fan heaters can be effective. However, they can be noisy and are generally less energy-efficient. Oil-Filled Radiators: These offer slow, steady warmth and are a great option for maintaining long-lasting heat without constantly running the heater. Far Infrared Heating Panels: These heaters target objects and people directly, creating a consistent temperature across a room while significantly reducing energy waste. They're ideal for larger spaces or homes looking for a more eco-friendly solution. Choosing the wrong heater for your space can result in uneven heating, increased energy consumption, and discomfort. 2. Underestimating the Heater's Size and Capacity Another common mistake is not paying enough attention to the heater’s size and heating capacity. A heater that’s too small won’t adequately warm your space, while one that’s too large could waste energy and lead to unnecessarily high electricity bills. A general rule of thumb for electric convection radiators is that you’ll need 100 watts per square metre to efficiently heat a room. However, if you're considering infrared panels, you’ll be pleased to know that they require 42% less wattage to heat the same area compared to traditional convection heaters. Infrared panels not only save you energy but also offer a more direct and comfortable form of heat. Always ensure you’re matching your heater’s wattage to your room’s size to avoid inefficiency or overheating. 3. Overlooking Energy Efficiency Energy efficiency is crucial when selecting an electric heater. Running a heater that isn’t energy-efficient can lead to skyrocketing electricity bills. This is where infrared heaters truly excel. Compared to fan heaters or even convection heaters, infrared heating panels are much more cost-effective to operate. They offer superior energy efficiency because they warm objects and people directly instead of heating the air, which can easily escape through draughts or open doors.Additionally, investing in a heater with proper thermostat controls will allow you to manage your home’s temperature more effectively, helping you cut down on energy costs without sacrificing comfort. 4. Focusing Solely on the Lowest Upfront Cost It’s easy to be tempted by the cheapest option available, but remember, you often get what you pay for. While a budget heater might save you money upfront, it could end up costing you much more in the long run due to poor energy efficiency, frequent repairs, or a shorter lifespan.Cheaper heaters are often built with lower-quality materials, meaning they wear out faster and may not deliver the same consistent heating as a more reliable model. Investing in a high-quality heater with a good manufacturer warranty ensures that you’re getting a product that will last and provide efficient heating over time. In the long term, this can lead to savings on both your energy bills and replacement costs. 5. Not Taking Noise Levels into Account If you’re planning to use your heater in a quiet space like a bedroom, office, or study, noise levels should be an important consideration. Some heaters, especially fan heaters and certain convection models, can be quite loud due to their moving parts. In contrast, infrared panels operate silently. Since they don’t rely on fans or blowers, they have no moving parts and therefore, they’re completely noiseless, making them ideal for environments where peace and quiet are essential. Whether you’re working from home, trying to sleep, or just enjoying a quiet evening, an infrared panel heater will ensure warmth without the disruption of constant noise. Final Thoughts By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that you choose the best electric heater for your space. Opting for a heater that fits your specific needs, focusing on energy efficiency, and investing in a quality product can make all the difference in keeping your home warm and your energy bills low this winter. Infrared heaters, in particular, stand out for their efficiency, quiet operation, and ability to deliver comfortable, consistent heat while reducing energy waste. If you’re looking for a heating solution that ticks all the boxes, infrared panels might be the perfect option for your home. Don’t let the cold catch you off guard—invest in the right heating solution for you. --- For more tips on choosing the best heater or to explore our range of efficient, high-quality infrared heating panels, browse our website. Our premium grade infrared panels have a 40+ year lifespan and come with a 10 year warranty! Stay warm, stay comfortable, and make this winter your cosiest yet!
Learn more
What’s Better, a Ceramic Heater or an Infrared Heater?
When it comes to heating your home, choosing the right solution is essential for comfort, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. Among the various options, infrared heaters are quickly becoming the preferred choice for modern homeowners due to their energy efficiency, immediate warmth, and overall comfort. While ceramic heaters are a traditional option, infrared heaters offer several advantages that make them a superior choice for most homes. How Infrared Heaters Work Infrared heaters use radiant heat to warm people, objects, and surfaces directly, rather than heating the air like conventional heaters. This is similar to the way the sun warms the Earth, providing a more immediate and natural feeling of warmth. Instant Heat: Infrared heaters start working as soon as they are switched on, delivering immediate warmth without the need to wait for the air in the room to heat up. Direct Comfort: They provide warmth directly to anyone or anything in their path, making them ideal for both small and large spaces where fast, focused heating is needed. Silent Operation: Unlike some heating systems that rely on fans, infrared heaters operate silently, making them perfect for bedrooms, living areas, or any space where peace and quiet is important. Why Infrared Heaters Are the Better Choice While ceramic heaters have their uses, infrared heaters stand out as the better option for several reasons: 1. Superior Energy Efficiency One of the main advantages of infrared heaters is their energy efficiency. Because they heat objects and people directly, they require less energy to provide a comfortable temperature. Conventional heaters like ceramic heaters warm the air, which can be lost through windows, doors, or ventilation. In contrast, infrared heat stays in the room, resulting in lower energy consumption and reduced heating costs. 2. Healthier Heating Infrared heaters do not circulate air, which means they don’t stir up dust, allergens, or pollutants. This makes them an excellent choice for people with asthma or allergies, as the air remains still and clean. You’ll enjoy a comfortable environment without the dry air that some conventional heaters produce. 3. Consistent and Even Heat Distribution Unlike ceramic heaters, which take time to warm up and often create hot and cold spots, infrared heaters offer consistent warmth throughout the room. They deliver direct, even heat to everything within their line of sight, ensuring a more comfortable and steady temperature. This is particularly useful in larger or open-plan spaces where convection heaters struggle to maintain a consistent warmth. 4. Versatility and Silent Operation Infrared heaters are incredibly versatile. Whether you need portable heaters or a permanent solution like wall-mounted infrared panels, there’s an infrared option to suit any room or design. They are also perfect for spaces where quiet is essential, such as bedrooms or offices, as they produce no noise when operating. 5. Long-Term Cost Savings Although the initial cost of an infrared heater may be slightly higher than a basic ceramic heater, the long-term savings are undeniable. With lower energy consumption and more efficient heat delivery, infrared heaters can significantly reduce your heating bills over time. Their ability to provide focused warmth where you need it most makes them more cost-effective, especially as energy prices continue to rise. Ideal Uses for Infrared Heaters Large or Open Spaces: Infrared heaters are perfect for heating larger spaces, like living rooms or open-plan areas, as they don’t rely on circulating air to spread heat. Rooms with High Ceilings: Because infrared heaters warm objects rather than air, they’re ideal for rooms with high ceilings or draughty spaces where traditional convection heating may not be as effective. Allergy Friendly Homes: If you or your family suffer from allergies, an infrared heater is the healthiest option, as it doesn’t circulate air that can spread dust or other allergens. The Clear Choice: Infrared Heaters When comparing ceramic heaters with infrared heaters, the infrared heater stands out as the clear winner for most homes. Offering immediate warmth, lower energy costs, healthier air quality, and quiet operation, infrared heaters are an excellent choice for modern heating. Whether you’re looking for a portable solution or a permanent fixture, infrared technology is designed to provide maximum comfort and efficiency. If you’re ready to explore how infrared heating can transform your home, contact Infrared Group today. Our team can help you find the perfect solution for your needs, ensuring that your home stays warm, comfortable, and energy-efficient all year round.
Learn more
Is Modern Electric Heating Any Good?
As energy costs and eco-consciousness continue to rise, many homeowners are re-evaluating their heating options. Modern electric heating has emerged as a popular choice, known for its efficiency, flexibility, and potential environmental benefits. But with so many heating systems on the market, its natural to wonder: is modern electric heating really any good? In this post, we'll explore the advantages, potential drawbacks, and best applications of electric heating to help you decide if it's the right choice for your home. What is Modern Electric Heating? Modern electric heating systems have come a long way from the simple space heaters of the past. Today’s electric heating solutions range from advanced infrared panels and electric radiators to underfloor heating systems. These options use electricity to generate heat through various methods, offering a versatile alternative to traditional gas or oil-based systems. Electric heating can be used to supplement existing systems or as a primary heat source, making it adaptable to almost any home setup. Benefits of Modern Electric Heating Modern electric heating offers several advantages that make it an attractive choice for today’s homeowners. Here are some of the main benefits: 1. Energy Efficiency Electric heating systems are generally highly efficient, with most systems converting almost 100% of the electricity they use into heat. Unlike gas boilers or furnaces, which can lose heat through vents, pipes, or ducts, electric heating delivers warmth directly to the room, minimising energy loss. Additionally, many modern electric heating systems are designed to be zone-controlled, allowing you to heat specific rooms as needed, further improving energy efficiency. 2. Easy Installation and Low Maintenance One of the biggest advantages of modern electric heating is its ease of installation. Unlike gas heating systems, which often require extensive piping, electric heaters can be installed quickly and easily. Options like wall-mounted infrared panels, plug-in radiators, and underfloor systems require minimal setup, with many options suitable for DIY installation. Electric heating also requires very little maintenance compared to traditional systems. There are no combustion parts, boilers, or moving parts to worry about, reducing the risk of breakdowns and the need for regular servicing. This can save homeowners significant time and money over the system’s lifespan. 3. Improved Safety Modern electric heating systems are safe and designed to meet today’s rigorous safety standards. Because they don’t rely on combustion, there’s no risk of gas leaks or carbon monoxide, making electric heating a safer alternative for families and households. Electric heaters often come with automatic shut-off features to prevent overheating, adding another layer of safety. 4. Eco-Friendliness and Potential for Renewable Energy With growing concerns over carbon emissions and climate change, many people are turning to electric heating for its potential to be a greener choice. Electric heating systems produce zero on-site emissions, unlike fossil-fuel-based systems. Additionally, when powered by renewable energy sources such as solar or wind, electric heating can be a carbon-neutral option. This aligns well with the UK’s shift towards greener energy solutions and is especially appealing to environmentally-conscious homeowners. 5. Flexible and Customisable Comfort Electric heating systems offer flexibility that traditional systems struggle to match. Options like electric radiators and infrared panels can be installed in various locations, and underfloor heating provides even, ambient warmth from below. Many electric heating systems are also compatible with smart home technology, allowing you to control the temperature in each room remotely via a smartphone app or home automation system. This level of control helps create a personalised and energy-efficient heating experience, with on-demand warmth where you need it most. Types of Modern Electric Heating Systems Modern electric heating encompasses a variety of options tailored to different needs and room configurations. Here are some of the most popular types: 1. Infrared Heating Panels Infrared heating is a relatively new technology that uses radiant heat to warm people and objects directly, rather than heating the air. This creates an immediate, comfortable warmth that doesn’t rely on air circulation, making it ideal for rooms with high ceilings or draughts. Infrared panels are sleek, silent, and can be wall-mounted or ceiling-mounted, adding a minimalist, aesthetic touch to any space. 2. Electric Radiators Electric radiators are one of the most common forms of modern electric heating and are available in a range of styles and sizes to suit different spaces. They work by heating up quickly and providing consistent warmth throughout a room. Advanced models come with thermostatic controls and smart home compatibility, allowing you to adjust the temperature for specific rooms or set schedules for optimal energy usage. 3. Underfloor Heating Electric underfloor heating systems are popular in bathrooms, kitchens, and other tiled areas. These systems use electric coils or heating mats installed under the floor surface to provide even, ambient warmth from below. This creates a comfortable and luxurious feeling, especially during the winter months, and eliminates the need for visible heaters in the room. Underfloor heating is particularly energy-efficient as it operates at lower temperatures but heats the room evenly. 4. Storage Heaters Storage heaters are designed to take advantage of off-peak electricity rates, which makes them a cost-effective option for homes on Economy 7 tariffs. These heaters store thermal energy during the night and release it throughout the day. Modern storage heaters include smart controls to release heat when needed, improving efficiency compared to older models. Are There Any Drawbacks to Electric Heating? While modern electric heating offers numerous benefits, it’s essential to consider the potential drawbacks to determine if it’s the right choice for your needs. 1. Higher Electricity Costs Electricity can be more expensive than gas per kilowatt-hour, which may lead to higher running costs, especially if electricity prices continue to rise. However, the efficiency of modern electric systems and options like zone heating can help to offset these costs. For households powered by renewable sources or on time-of-use tariffs, electric heating can still be an economical choice. 2. Limited Output for Very Large Spaces Electric heaters are excellent for small to medium-sized spaces, but in very large rooms or open-plan areas, they may struggle to provide the same level of warmth as a central heating system. This can sometimes mean that electric heating is better suited as a supplementary system in larger homes or in areas with particularly cold climates. 3. Initial Cost of Installation While many electric heating systems are easy to install, underfloor heating and higher-end infrared systems may have a higher initial cost compared to conventional radiators. However, this cost can be offset by long-term savings in energy efficiency and maintenance. Comparing Modern Electric Heating to Gas Heating Electric heating and gas heating each have their strengths and best-use scenarios. Here’s a quick comparison of how they stack up: Feature Electric Heating Gas Heating Efficiency Near 100% efficient, minimal heat loss Less efficient, some heat lost in pipes or vents Installation Simple and quick for most systems Complex, requires gas lines and boilers Maintenance Low maintenance, no moving parts Requires regular maintenance and servicing Eco-Friendliness Zero on-site emissions, compatible with renewables Emits carbon emissions, less eco-friendly Operating Cost Higher cost per kWh, offset by efficiency Lower cost per kWh, but higher maintenance Safety No combustion or carbon monoxide risk Risk of leaks and carbon monoxide Flexibility Highly customisable, ideal for zoning Centralised system, less flexible Overall, modern electric heating is a flexible, safe, and environmentally-friendly option that’s well-suited for today’s homes. While gas heating may still be a viable choice in some areas, electric heating has distinct advantages, especially for those seeking an energy-efficient, low-maintenance solution. When is Modern Electric Heating a Good Choice? Modern electric heating can be an excellent choice in several scenarios: New Builds and Renovations: Electric systems are easy to install and require minimal infrastructure, making them ideal for new builds or renovation projects where flexibility is key. Environmentally Conscious Homes: Homes looking to reduce their carbon footprint can benefit from electric heating, especially when paired with renewable energy sources like solar panels. Small and Medium Sized Spaces: Electric heating is effective for small to medium-sized rooms where fast, direct warmth is needed. This includes bathrooms, bedrooms, and offices. Smart Home Integration: If you’re interested in using smart home technology, modern electric systems are highly compatible with apps and automation systems for zoned heating. Conclusion: Is Modern Electric Heating Right for You? So, is modern electric heating any good? The answer is a resounding yes for most homeowners. With its efficiency, ease of installation, low maintenance, and eco-friendliness, modern electric heating is well-suited to meet the demands of today’s energy-conscious homes. While it may have a higher running cost per kilowatt-hour compared to gas, the benefits of zone control, reduced maintenance, and compatibility with renewable energy make it a worthwhile investment. If you’re considering upgrading your heating system, modern electric heating offers a safe, sustainable, and effective way to keep your home warm. Explore the options, weigh the costs, and consult with professionals to find the best system for your specific needs. Electric heating is not only an investment in comfort but in a cleaner, greener future for your home.
Learn more
Why don't we use more infrared heating in housing?
In recent years, infrared heating has been gaining attention as an efficient, eco-friendly alternative to traditional heating systems. But despite its benefits, many households have yet to adopt infrared technology on a larger scale. So, why isn’t infrared heating more commonly used in homes? In this post, we’ll explore the reasons, address common misconceptions, and explain why this innovative technology could play a bigger role in the future of home heating. 1. Lack of Awareness and Understanding: One of the main reasons why infrared heating isn’t widely used in housing is simply due to a lack of awareness. Many homeowners are unfamiliar with the concept of infrared heating and how it differs from traditional systems like radiators or central heating. How Infrared Heating Works: Unlike conventional systems that heat the air in a room, infrared heaters use electromagnetic waves to heat objects and people directly. This form of radiant heating mimics the natural warmth of the sun, providing an immediate and comfortable heat. However, because most people associate heating with warm air circulation, the idea of infrared heating is often misunderstood or overlooked. 2. Misconceptions About Safety Another factor preventing wider adoption is misconceptions about the safety of infrared technology. Some people mistakenly believe that infrared heating could be harmful, associating it with radiation risks. In reality, infrared heating is entirely safe. It emits far-infrared radiation, a type of non-ionising radiation, meaning it doesn't have enough energy to damage human tissue or cause harm. In fact, far-infrared heat is the same type of warmth we receive from the sun (without the harmful UV rays) and is even used in infrared saunas for its therapeutic benefits. 3. Perceived Initial Costs The upfront cost of installing infrared heating can also be a deterrent for some homeowners. While infrared heating panels are competitively priced when compared to installing boilers or central heating systems, people may still see them as more expensive than traditional convection heaters or electric radiators.However, what’s often overlooked is that infrared systems require less energy to operate, leading to long-term savings on energy bills. As energy prices continue to rise and eco-friendly living becomes more important, the cost-benefit analysis of infrared heating is likely to shift in its favour. 4. Unfamiliarity with the Benefits Despite being less commonly used, infrared heating offers significant benefits that many homeowners are unaware of, particularly when compared to conventional heating systems: - Energy Efficiency: Infrared heaters are highly efficient as they directly heat people and objects rather than wasting energy on heating air that can escape through draughts or open windows. - Improved Air Quality: Unlike convection systems, infrared heating doesn’t circulate air, reducing the spread of dust, allergens, and pollutants. This makes it an excellent choice for people with asthma or allergies. - Consistent and Comfortable Heat: Infrared heating provides an even warmth throughout a space without creating cold spots or overheating certain areas, resulting in a more comfortable environment. These benefits often only become apparent after installation, which is why the technology remains underutilised despite its clear advantages. 5. Preference for Conventional Systems In many homes, traditional heating systems such as gas boilers and electric radiators have been the standard for decades. This creates a form of inertia, where homeowners prefer to stick with the familiar, especially when it comes to something as essential as heating.Moreover, government incentives and schemes tend to favour conventional heating systems over newer technologies like infrared heating. In many areas, there is more financial support for the installation of gas boilers or heat pumps, making these options appear more attractive in the short term. 6. Installation Concerns and Availability A significant barrier to widespread adoption is that many homeowners are unsure how to install infrared heating systems. Infrared panels are less common, and most HVAC installers are trained primarily in the installation of conventional heating systems. As a result, people may not realise that infrared heating is an option for their home, or they may worry about finding the right professional to install it.At Infrared Group, we offer a comprehensive installation service, including the option for hard-wiring the infrared system into your home’s electrical setup. This ensures a seamless and professional installation, giving homeowners the confidence that their system is installed correctly and operates safely. Our team is fully equipped to manage the process from start to finish, making it easy for you to transition to infrared heating. The Future of Infrared Heating in Homes So, why don’t we use more infrared heating in housing? The reasons largely come down to unfamiliarity, misconceptions, and a tendency to stick with traditional systems. However, the future looks promising for infrared heating, as more people become aware of its energy efficiency, health benefits, and the cost savings it can provide in the long run.As energy efficiency standards tighten and the need for sustainable heating options grows, infrared heating is likely to gain more traction. Homeowners seeking a solution that offers reduced energy consumption, healthier living environments, and consistent warmth may soon find that infrared heating is the ideal choice for their needs.If you’re interested in exploring how infrared heating could work in your home, don’t hesitate to contact us at Infrared Group. We can provide expert advice, installation services, and help you take advantage of one of the most efficient heating technologies available today.
Learn more