Most of the disadvantages you hear about infrared panels are in reality not product defects but the result of poor design or mediocre insulation. You are probably considering the switch to a gas-free …

Most of the disadvantages you hear about infrared panels are in reality not product defects, but the result of poor design or mediocre insulation. You are probably considering the switch to a gas-free home, but the fear of a high electricity bill or a house that never truly becomes comfortable is holding you back. It is understandable that you have doubts. After all, stories about the disadvantages of infrared heating vary widely online and are not always entirely honest.

In this comprehensive overview for 2026, we lay all our cards on the table so you know exactly where the limitations of this technology lie. We promise you a transparent view of the costs and technical requirements, ensuring you are never faced with surprises. We discuss current electricity prices averaging 0.274 euros per kilowatt-hour and explain how building code regulations influence your choice. You will learn how to make smart choices regarding placement and insulation, allowing you to easily turn known pitfalls into a comfortable and energy-efficient home.

What exactly are the disadvantages of infrared heating?

Infrared is not a magic wand that instantly makes every home energy-neutral. It is an advanced technology that heats objects and people rather than the air. When searching for the disadvantages of infrared heating, you often come across stories about cold corners or disappointing results. In reality, an infrared heater an extremely efficient device, provided you understand how the technology works. The biggest misconception is that it is a direct, one-to-one replacement for central heating that circulates the air all day long. It is not. It requires a specific perspective on your home and comfort preferences.

Direct heat versus heating the air

Air has almost no thermal mass. With a traditional radiator, it takes a long time for the room to warm up, but the air retains that heat for a while. With infrared, you feel the sun on your skin as soon as the panel is switched on. If the radiation stops, the immediate feeling of comfort stops just as quickly. This is one of the reasons why proper placement is crucial. We make an important distinction here between short-wave and long-wave infrared radiation. For indoor use, we use exclusively long-wave (IR-C). This radiation penetrates the walls, floors, and furniture, which then slowly release the heat back into the room. However, if your panels are hung incorrectly, you miss this effect and it feels uncomfortable as soon as you step outside the radiation range.

The investment at the beginning

Quality comes at a price. You often see cheap panels in hardware stores for a fraction of the price of a professional system. These cheap options often have lower efficiency and a shorter lifespan. A high-quality infrared panel made of glass or metal is an investment in a healthy and sustainable future. Glass panels retain heat slightly longer due to their mass, while metal panels react more quickly. In this case, cheap is often expensive; poor-quality panels simply consume more electricity to achieve the same level of warmth.

In addition, legislation plays a role. According to the Dutch Building Decree, you may not simply use electric heating, including infrared, as the sole primary heating source in a new-build home. This is only permitted in exceptionally well-insulated houses. This is one of the disadvantages of infrared heating that you must take into account during a major renovation or new construction project. Would you like to know the best approach for your specific situation? Our advisors will visit you free of charge to draw up a fair plan that suits your home and budget.

A closer look at the most commonly heard disadvantages of infrared panels

When looking at the criticism of these systems, it often revolves around the fear of an unaffordable energy bill. Critics frequently cite this as one of the biggest disadvantages of infrared heating, but the reality is more nuanced. It is about how you deploy the technology and whether you have the right expectations regarding the heating experience in your specific home.

Electricity costs and consumption in 2026

In 2026, you will pay an average of 0.274 euros per kilowatt-hour for electricity. At first glance, that seems like a lot compared to the price of gas, but an infrared panel does not need to run at full power all day to provide comfort. The biggest pitfall is undersizing. If you install a panel with insufficient wattage in a large room, the device has to run constantly without ever reaching the desired temperature. This drives up costs unnecessarily. However, with the current 0 percent VAT on solar panels, it is easier than ever to generate your own electricity, drastically reducing the operating costs of your heating panels. As supplementary heating in the bathroom or home office, infrared almost always offers a financial benefit because you can turn down the central heating.

The effect of the 'heat shadow'

Infrared radiation travels in a straight line, similar to light. Anything standing between you and the panel blocks the heat. We call this a thermal shadow. If you place a solid table between yourself and a wall panel, your legs will remain cold. The radiation angle of most panels is between 110 and 120 degrees. In very large, open spaces without partitions, this may mean that you need to combine multiple panels to experience comfort everywhere. According to the Energy Saving Trust on infrared heating, the risk of cold spots is real if you do not coordinate the layout of your room with the position of the panels. This is a technical disadvantage that you can easily solve by creating a well-thought-out installation plan.

Another point to consider is the lack of residual heat. A traditional radiator remains warm for a while after the thermostat switches off, whereas an infrared panel cools down faster. You can mitigate this disadvantage by allowing the walls and floors to absorb the radiation. Good insulation is essential here; without insulation, the heat stored in the objects escapes too quickly. Understanding the downsides of infrared heating beforehand will prevent disappointment. Would you like to know how to handle this smartly in your home? Then take a look at our specific solutions for living room heating for optimal results.

Why the disadvantages often depend on your living situation

The disadvantages of infrared heating are not the same for everyone. Your living situation determines whether a technical feature is a limitation or a strength. In a monumental building with thick, uninsulated walls, the technology requires a different approach than in an airtight new-build home. One of the biggest factors that is often overlooked is ceiling height. In a loft or an old mansion with four-meter-high ceilings, a wall panel struggles to reach the floor. Here, ceiling heating often the only right solution to prevent the heat from lingering above your head.

Insulation as a decisive factor

Insulation determines whether your system is cost-effective or becomes an expense. In a house with single glazing, you experience the disadvantages of infrared heating immediately; the radiation passes straight through the glass to the outside without heating the room. Infrared heats the mass in a room, such as the walls and furniture. If those walls are not insulated, the heat escapes faster than the panel can provide additional heating. Nevertheless, the technology offers a unique advantage in older homes. The radiation dries out the walls, preventing moisture problems and mold formation. This ensures a healthier living environment, something that traditional convectors often exacerbate by circulating dust and moisture.

The function of the space determines the success

Not every room has the same comfort requirements. In the bedroom, you often want a quick boost before getting dressed, while the living room requires constant warmth. The bathroom, however, is where infrared truly excels. An infrared mirror eliminates the drawbacks of traditional heating; you never have a foggy mirror again and immediately feel the pleasant radiation on your skin after showering. As described in this guide on infrared bathroom heating, you turn a technical disadvantage, such as a limited range, into an advantage by directing the heat precisely where you need it most.

According to this guide to infrared heating panels, it is essential to remember that infrared panels do not provide domestic hot water. This means that, in addition to your heating, you always need a separate solution for your shower or kitchen. This is a logistical disadvantage that you must factor into your overall renovation plan. By considering the function of each room separately, you avoid installing unnecessarily high capacity in areas where you only stay for a short time.

This is how you avoid the biggest pitfalls when buying

Many of the negative experiences shared online regarding the disadvantages of infrared heating are due to inadequate preparation. A panel hung haphazardly without considering the room's layout will never provide the desired comfort. The biggest pitfall is ignoring the so-called 'heat shadow'. Because infrared radiation works like light, any object blocking the beam creates a cold zone. If you place a panel behind a sofa or a cabinet, you heat the back of your furniture instead of yourself. This leads to frustration and unnecessarily high power consumption.

To prevent this, a professional heat loss calculation is essential before making a purchase. You need to know exactly how many watts are required to compensate for the specific heat losses of your walls, windows, and roof. At Warmteshop, we use our 18 years of experience to determine this accurate to the degree. This prevents you from installing insufficient capacity, causing the panels to constantly struggle to bring the room up to temperature.

The importance of professional placement

The position of your panels determines the success of your system. Although wall mounting is popular due to the design, ceiling heating technically superior in most cases. From the ceiling, the radiation has free rein and the floor is heated directly, creating an effect comparable to underfloor heating. Moreover, you do not have to worry about furniture blocking the heat on the ceiling. Another aesthetic disadvantage that many people encounter is visible power cables. A professional can help you conceal these cables invisibly in the ceiling or behind the wall, allowing you to enjoy a sleek and modern interior without unsightly cords.

Smart control and zone regulation

Simply operating an infrared panel with an on/off switch is the shortest route to a high energy bill. Given current electricity prices averaging €0.274 per kilowatt-hour in 2026, smart control is essential. By connecting your panels to a smart home system or an intelligent thermostat, you can determine when heat is needed per room (zone). You only heat the places where you are actually present. This makes the system extremely efficient and compensates for the higher price per kilowatt-hour compared to gas. Do you want to be sure you are making the right choices for your home? Then request a no-obligation quote for tailored advice at your home. Our experts will work with you to determine the best positions and the most energy-efficient configuration for your situation.

Your path to comfortable warmth without worries

Infrared heating is more than a technological choice; it is an investment in your daily well-being and living comfort. Although we have honestly highlighted the disadvantages of infrared heating in this overview, you will see that most limitations can easily be overcome with a smart design. By choosing a system that takes into account the specific needs of your home, you create a healthy living environment without dust circulation and with the security of direct radiant heat. It is all about the right balance between stylish heating and technical efficiency.

Personal advice makes the difference

An online calculator can be a handy first step, but it never replaces the insight of an on-site expert. Every home is unique. Factors such as the condition of the insulation or the exact layout of your furniture require a trained eye. Warmteshop leverages 18 years of expertise to create a plan with you that truly works. You can count on the assurance of extensive warranties and local support spread across our 30 showrooms in the Benelux. During a free home visit, we look not only at the required wattage but also at the most aesthetically pleasing way to integrate the panels into your interior.

Sustainability and the future of your home

In a world rapidly moving away from fossil fuels, infrared offers a future-proof solution. Combined with solar panels, you transform your home into an energy-efficient oasis. Visit BEHA to discover more about their innovative range of electrical systems for a comfortable indoor climate. A major advantage that is often overlooked is the maintenance-free nature of infrared panels. There are no moving parts, no filters to replace, and no expensive annual inspections required. This saves you significant time and hidden costs in the long run, more than justifying the initial investment.

The balance between cost, comfort, and the environment works out positively when you choose quality and expertise. We would like to invite you to come and experience the unique warmth of our systems for yourself at one of our locations. Visit a showroom to feel the difference and discover how a sustainable solution elevates your living comfort. Our advisors are ready to answer all your questions about the disadvantages and many benefits of infrared heating in a personal consultation.

Choose a warm and energy-efficient home today

Infrared heating offers a unique opportunity to make your home more sustainable without compromising on comfort or design. We have observed that most disadvantages of infrared heating stem primarily from incorrect installation or insufficient insulation. By focusing on smart zone control and accurate wattage calculation, you transform these technical challenges into an efficient heat source that perfectly aligns with your lifestyle and interior.

With over 18 years of experience in infrared technology, Warmteshop is ready to guide you every step of the way. Our professional installation service receives excellent reviews for good reason; we ensure that every panel is mounted in the ideal location for maximum efficiency. Would you prefer to experience the comforting warmth yourself first? You are most welcome to visit one of our 30 showrooms in the Benelux for personal advice specifically tailored to your living situation.

Take the step towards a gas-free future now and enjoy a healthy and comfortable indoor climate every day. Request your free in-home consultation from Warmteshop now and discover how we make your dream of a comfortable home a reality.

Frequently asked questions about the disadvantages of infrared heating

Is infrared heating more expensive to use than gas?

Infrared is not necessarily more expensive, but it requires a different heating method. While gas will cost an average of €1.493 per m³ in 2026, you will pay approximately €0.274 per kilowatt-hour for electricity. Because panels only heat the areas where you are actually present, you can drastically reduce total energy consumption. In a well-insulated house with solar panels, infrared is often even more cost-effective than a traditional gas system.

Will I get warm enough with just infrared panels?

Yes, you will absolutely get warm enough provided the system is correctly calculated for the specific room. Infrared radiation heats objects and walls directly, which then release the heat evenly into the room. This creates a deep, comfortable warmth comparable to the sun. One of the disadvantages of infrared heating is that you may experience cold zones if you install too few panels, so a well-thought-out layout plan is essential.

Are there health risks associated with infrared radiation?

No, there are no health risks; long-wave IR-C radiation is completely safe for humans and animals. In fact, infrared is often healthier than traditional heating because there is no air circulation. As a result, fewer dust particles and pollen float through the room, which is a great relief for people with allergies. Moreover, the radiation dries out the walls, effectively preventing mold growth in the home. A healthy indoor climate forms the basis for a holistic lifestyle, a vision also shared by the Instytut Medycyny Holistycznej.

Can I install infrared panels myself or do I need a professional?

You can often connect simple panels yourself using a plug, but for optimal results, we recommend hiring a professional. A professional installer ensures that the cables are concealed and that the panels are mounted in the technically best location for maximum heat distribution. Furthermore, proper connection to a smart thermostat is crucial to prevent unnecessarily high power consumption and guarantee your safety.

How many infrared panels do I need per m²?

On average, you need between 25 and 100 watts per square meter, depending on the insulation value and the ceiling height of the room. In a modern, well-insulated home, 30 to 40 watts per m² is often sufficient, while an older home with high ceilings requires significantly more power. It is often better to distribute multiple smaller panels than to hang one large panel to avoid bothersome heat shadows.

Does my house need to be perfectly insulated for infrared heating?

No, your house does not need to be perfectly insulated, but the level of insulation does determine the efficiency of the system. In less well-insulated homes, panels work excellently as supplementary heating in specific areas, such as above the sofa or a desk. If you want to use infrared as your primary heating source, good basic insulation and at least HR++ glass are necessary to prevent the generated radiant heat from escaping too quickly.

What is the biggest disadvantage of infrared heating as the primary heating system?

The biggest disadvantage of infrared as the sole primary heating system is that the system does not supply domestic hot water for your shower or kitchen. You need a separate solution for this, such as a heat pump water heater. Additionally, you must take into account the disadvantages of infrared heating regarding the Dutch Building Decree, which subjects electric primary heating in new construction to strict regulations. Thorough preparation with an expert is therefore always recommended.

Do infrared panels last a long time or do they need to be replaced often?

Infrared panels have a very long lifespan of 20 to 30 years on average without performance deterioration. Because there are no moving parts in the panel, there is hardly any wear or mechanical defects. Unlike a central heating boiler, the panels do not require annual maintenance. This makes it an extremely sustainable and low-maintenance long-term solution, where you only need to update the thermostat after a certain period of time.

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sustainable heating electric heating saving energy gas-free living infrared heating infrared heating disadvantages insulation heating costs heating panels

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