Is infrared heating economical?

Is infrared heating economical?

, by Eugene Verbraak, 2 min read

At Warmteshop, we get asked the question "Is infrared heating energy-efficient?" every day. The short answer is: yes, provided the output is properly matched to the space and its intended use. Infrared heating is designed to provide targeted heating without unnecessary energy loss. Instead of heating the air, it directly warms people, walls, and furniture – making the system remarkably efficient.

1. How does infrared heating work?

Infrared heating uses radiant heat, similar to solar heat. As soon as you turn on the panel, you'll feel the warmth almost immediately. Because the system heats surfaces rather than the air, the heat lasts longer—even after the panel is turned off. This means less energy is needed to maintain a comfortable temperature.

For those curious about the technical operation, you can find more information on our infrared panels .

2. What is the average consumption?

Consumption depends on the panel's power and how long it's in use. A 1000W infrared panel consumes 1 kWh per hour at full capacity. If you use this panel for 3 hours a day, it will cost approximately €0.90 per day at an electricity price of €0.30 per kWh. However, thanks to its direct operation, the panel is rarely constantly running at 100% capacity—usually only 50 to 70% of the time.

On average, this amounts to a real cost of €0.45 to €0.60 per day for a living room or bedroom.

3. Savings through targeted heating

Infrared panels heat only the room you're using. This makes them particularly efficient for homes where not all rooms need to be heated continuously. For example, you can heat the bathroom only when you're using it, or the bedroom just before bed. This "zone heating" principle can reduce total energy consumption by 20 to 30% compared to central heating.

Combine infrared panels with a smart thermostat or motion sensor for maximum efficiency. This way, the heating automatically switches off when no one is present.

4. Comparison with traditional systems

A traditional radiator heats the air, which rises and then cools again. This leads to energy loss and temperature fluctuations. Infrared heating works more directly and consistently. Moreover, there's no maintenance, no pump or fan, and no downtime. When using green energy, the system is also completely CO₂ neutral.

Many customers combine infrared with solar panels, a sustainable and fully electric solution that further minimizes energy consumption.

5. Advice from Warmteshop

Warmteshop has been supplying the most energy-efficient infrared panels in the Benelux since 2006. With over 5,000 panels in stock and three warehouses in the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany, we offer fast delivery and expert advice. Our experts are happy to help you calculate the ideal output, tailored to your insulation, space, and consumption pattern.

Visit one of our 30+ showrooms in Antwerp, Ghent, Hasselt, Kortrijk, Brussels, Turnhout, or Culemborg and experience for yourself how efficient and comfortable infrared heating is. Warmteshop is certified by Trustprofile – your guarantee of reliability, quality, and customer satisfaction.

Read more: Compare infrared heating · Best infrared panel 2025 · Infrared heating or heat pump · 1000 W panels · Panels with thermostat

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