The Advantages of Infrared Heating

Infrared heaters offer multiple advantages over traditional central heating. However, most homeowners aren’t aware of just how great they are.

General Electric invented infrared heaters in the 1950s. Instead of warming spaces using convection and conduction, these systems relied on radiation – the direct transfer of energy via lightwaves.

This new technology brought many benefits to homeowners, which we discuss below.

Lower Energy Consumption

Infrared heaters don’t waste energy. One hundred per cent of the electricity they consume goes into making rooms warmer.

Compare that to traditional central heating systems where heat loss is common. These lose energy when pipes radiate heat out of the home (often through the walls), and when hot air escapes through gaps and cracks.

More Effective Heating

Infrared heaters also offer more effective heating, regardless of efficiency, because of how technology works. Unlike central heating systems that rely on heating the air, infrared heaters heat objects in rooms directly. Heating is more consistent, and rooms can remain warm for longer because of heat stored in the furniture, floor, walls, and ceiling.

Better For Health

Another advantage of infrared heaters is that they may be better for your health. They don’t need to move large volumes of air around to transfer heat energy, meaning they don’t expose you to hazardous dust particles or dry out the air.

Safer

Choosing an infrared heater may also be safer than traditional alternatives. Infrared heaters reach a maximum temperature of around 110°C at the surface, whereas open fires and gas boilers can be up to 800°C or more. Heating coils in infrared heaters never become ultra-hot, reducing the risk of injury and fire.

If you are worried about someone touching the panels, you can place them high up on the ceiling or walls.

Easy To Install

It costs the average homeowner between £3,000 and £7,500 to install a central heating system. That’s a lot of money.

By contrast, installing an infrared heater is virtually free. All you need to do is mount it on a wall and plug it into an electrical outlet – that’s it. There’s no plumbing, gas connections, or expensive radiators involved.

Reduce Mould Buildup

Mould reduction is another benefit of infrared heating. Because the technology works by warming objects directly (similar to the sun), heaters can eliminate dampness from furniture and walls quickly. This drying-out process makes it much harder for mould to get a foothold, preventing it from developing or spreading in ways you don’t want. Unlike conventional heating, the technology will not leave “cold spots” in corners or ceilings, giving you much better coverage.

Low Maintenance

Lastly, infrared heaters offer low maintenance. Because they have no moving parts, they don’t experience wear and tear, meaning you can run them for years without any issues. Compare that to traditional heating systems that require boiler maintenance, radiator bleeding, and regular cleaning.

Author Profile

Adam Regan

Deputy Editor

Features and account management. 3 years media experience. Previously covered features for online and print editions.

Email Adam@MarkMeets.com