Infrared Heating Myths – These Misconceptions are Hard to Shake
When it comes to heating systems, there is a great deal of misinformation leading to false assumptions. Infrared heating in particular is often criticised without justification. Statements such as “infrared panel heaters are inefficient” or “infrared heating is a waste of electricity” are widespread – but what is actually true? In this article, we debunk the most common myths and show why infrared heating is a smart, economical and sustainable solution. Don’t let misleading claims confuse you – learn the real facts. We expose infrared heating myths and show the advantages that modern infrared panel heaters truly offer.
The Following Myths About Infrared Heating are Covered:
“Infrared panel heaters waste electricity” – The Truth About Efficiency
The claim that infrared heating wastes electricity is a classic infrared heating myth. In reality, infrared heating panels convert almost 100% of the electrical energy they draw into heat. This makes them particularly efficient. Unlike conventional convection heaters, they do not primarily warm the air, but the surfaces in the room. As a result, the stored heat is retained for a long time and is distributed evenly. Infrared panel heaters can also be used with programmable thermostats so that rooms are heated precisely when necessary. When combined with a photovoltaic system, heating costs can be reduced significantly, which further increases overall efficiency.
“Infrared heating panels distribute heat poorly”
Another common misconception is that an infrared panel heater does not warm a room evenly. This assumption is a widespread infrared heating myth. While convection heaters cause warm air to rise, leading to uneven temperatures, an infrared panel heater warms all surfaces in the room evenly. Walls, furniture and floors store the heat and release it slowly over time. This type of heating prevents cold spots and creates a pleasant indoor climate. In addition, the direct form of heating reduces air circulation, which means less dust is stirred up – an advantage for allergy sufferers.
“Infrared panel heaters are only suitable for supplementary heating”
Many people believe that an infrared heating panel can only be used during the transitional seasons or as a supplementary heater. This infrared heating myth is persistent, but it is simply not true. Infrared panel heaters are very well suited as a main heating system – especially in modern or refurbished buildings with moderate to good insulation. Because they only require electricity and no complex installation, they are an attractive alternative to hydronic oil or gas heating systems. Even in new builds, more and more homeowners and landlords are opting for full infrared heating, as no heating pipes or maintenance costs are incurred. Smart control with thermostats is recommended and ensures precise and efficient heating behaviour.
“Infrared panel heaters are only efficient in very well insulated new-build homes”
The required output and efficiency of any heating system strongly depends on the building’s insulation – this applies not only to infrared panel heaters. The infrared heating myth that they only work in very well insulated new-build homes is therefore not entirely accurate. While conventional heating systems lose a lot of energy because warm air escapes through leaky windows or walls, an infrared panel heater works differently: it directly heats the surfaces, bodies and objects inside the home, so the warmth does not simply escape outside. Even in moderately insulated houses, strategic placement of the heating panels can optimise heat distribution and ensure good heating efficiency.
“Infrared panel heaters must not be used as the main heating system” – a Baseless Infrared Heating Myth
A widely circulated infrared heating myth is that they cannot be used as the main heating system under the Building Energy Act (GEG). In fact, the new Building Energy Act (GEG) permits the use of electric direct heaters if the building is suitably insulated. In new builds, the structural thermal protection must exceed the minimum requirements by 45%. In renovated existing buildings, insulation that is 30% better than the reference building is sufficient. There are also exceptions, for example for buildings with a ceiling height above 4 metres or residential buildings with a maximum of two dwellings, one of which is occupied by the owner. This allows an efficient, economical heating solution without major structural intervention.
“Infrared heating panels are more expensive in the long run than heat pumps” – Debunking the Most Persistent Infrared Heating Myth
Often it is claimed that infrared panel heaters lead to higher long-term costs than heat pumps. This infrared heating myth is refuted by a study carried out by energy expert Prof Timo Leukefeld: while heat pumps may generate lower day-to-day heating costs, their service life is often too short to recoup the high purchase and installation costs. A heat pump not only costs several times more to buy than an infrared heating system, it also requires regular servicing and repairs, which become expensive over time. Infrared heating panels, on the other hand, are affordable to purchase, virtually maintenance-free and can be installed flexibly – without extensive construction work. Viewed over the entire life cycle, infrared heating therefore remains the more economically attractive system, especially as part of a sustainable building concept with photovoltaics.
“Infrared panel heaters are less efficient than gas heating systems”
The assumption that gas heating systems are more efficient than infrared heating panels can also be described as an infrared heating myth. A study by the Fraunhofer Institute for Building Physics (IBP) shows that infrared panel heaters in modern buildings use up to 32% less final energy than gas heating systems. The reason is that gas heating systems suffer heat losses through pipework, whereas infrared panel heaters deliver their heat directly into the room. Especially when combined with renewable electricity, infrared heating panels can be a sustainable and efficient solution. Another advantage: instead of using old, bulky radiators, slim infrared panels can be mounted discreetly and flexibly on the wall or ceiling.
“Infrared heating panels do not heat as well as convection heaters”
Many people believe that infrared panel heaters do not really warm up rooms properly. This infrared heating myth overlooks the difference between air heating and radiant heat. While convection heaters primarily warm the air in the home, infrared panel heaters generate deep, radiant warmth that people perceive as particularly pleasant. What is more, the warmth remains in the room for longer because it is stored in surfaces. As a result, there are no cold corners and fewer temperature variations, which improves thermal comfort and saves energy.
“All infrared heating panels are the same”
A common myth about infrared panel heaters is that there are no significant differences between the various models and manufacturers. However, this assumption is wrong. In reality, there are clear differences in quality, efficiency and service life. Low-cost models from unreliable suppliers are less effective at delivering heat and have a shorter lifespan, leading to disadvantages such as inefficiency and higher heating costs. It is therefore crucial to choose a reputable manufacturer known for reliable technology and many years of experience, to ensure that the infrared heating system delivers its full benefits.
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Conclusion – Do Not be Misled by Infrared Heating Myths!
The common myths surrounding infrared panel heaters are often based on outdated information or incorrect assumptions. Modern infrared heating panels are efficient, cost-effective and sustainable – especially when operated using electricity generated by photovoltaic systems. They provide pleasantly comfortable warmth through direct radiant heat, save money in the long term and reduce overall energy consumption. Anyone who is not deceived by infrared heating myths quickly recognises that these heaters are a future-proof alternative to traditional heating systems.
