Hybrid infrared panel: the best of both worlds
A hybrid infrared panel combines two heating technologies in one device: infrared radiation that directly heats people and objects, and convection heat that warms the air in the room. The result is faster room heating than with a pure infrared panel, while you simultaneously benefit from the healthy radiant heat of infrared. At Warmteshop, you will find hybrid panels from Termofol in metal and ceramic versions, equipped as standard with a built-in WiFi thermostat. Always free shipping and personal advice in our 32 stores in the Netherlands and Belgium.
How does a hybrid infrared panel work?
A hybrid panel operates via two channels simultaneously. On the front, the panel emits long-wave infrared radiation that directly heats objects, walls, and people in the room, just like a standard infrared panel. At the same time, the housing of a hybrid panel features special openings at the top and bottom through which cold air is drawn in from below, flows past the heating element, and exits as warm air at the top. This convection principle heats the room air quickly, similar to a convector. The ratio is typically 70% radiant heat and 30% convective heat, creating a unique combination of direct and indirect heating.
When do you choose a hybrid panel?
A hybrid infrared panel is the better choice than a standard infrared panel in the following situations:
- Poorly insulated spaces where heat retention is more difficult
- Older homes where rapid air heating is desired
- Rooms that have been unused for a long time and need to reach temperature quickly
- Holiday homes, conservatory, garden house, or attic that you want to heat efficiently but temporarily
- Situations where you want to combine the benefits of infrared with the speed of a convector
For well-insulated modern homes, a standard infrared panel generally more energy-efficient. The hybrid variant consumes the same energy but distributes it throughout the room more quickly.
Types of hybrid infrared panels
Metal hybrid panels
metal hybrid panels are the most versatile version. They are suitable for wall and ceiling mounting and are available in power ratings from 500 to 1,000 watts. All models come standard with a built-in WiFi thermostat with a 7-day weekly program, open-window detection, vacation mode, and Tuya Smart app control. Compatible with Google Home and Amazon Alexa. Installation is easy using the included wall brackets.
Ceramic hybrid panels
The ceramic hybrid panels of the CS series combine a ceramic heating surface with convection. Ceramic has a higher heat accumulation capacity than metal: the panel retains heat longer after it has been switched off. Available with IP44 protection for use in damp rooms. The ceramic version has a sleeker, more decorative appearance that fits well in modern interiors.
Power and room size
Due to the combination of radiation and convection, a hybrid panel heats the same room faster than a pure infrared panel with the same output. As a guideline:
- 500 watts: suitable for rooms up to 10 to 15 m² with good insulation
- 750 watts: suitable for rooms up to 15 to 20 m²
- 1,000 watts: suitable for rooms up to 20 to 30 m² depending on insulation
For poorly insulated rooms or higher ceilings, adjust the values upwards by 25 to 50%. Our advisors will calculate the required power for you free of charge, tailored to your needs, at one of our stores.
Functions of the built-in WiFi thermostat
- 7-day programmable weekly schedule with 4 time zones per day
- Open window detection: automatic shutdown in the event of a sudden temperature drop
- Vacation mode: keeps the room at a minimum frost-free temperature
- Child lock: blocks operation via the panel itself
- App control via Tuya Smart, also remotely via 4G
- Compatible with Google Home, Amazon Alexa, and Apple HomeKit
- Energy consumption insight via the app
Hybrid panel vs standard infrared panel: comparison
- Heating speed: hybrid heats the room air faster through convection
- Heat sensation: standard infrared provides a more direct sensation of warmth on the skin
- Energy consumption: comparable at the same power
- Suitable for: hybrid better for poorly insulated spaces, standard better for well-insulated homes
- Installation: both suitable for wall and ceiling
- Thermostat: hybrid built-in as standard, standard infrared often without
Buy hybrid infrared panel at Warmteshop
Warmteshop has been a specialist in electric heating since 2006 and is the market leader in the Benelux. With thousands of panels in stock across three warehouses and certified via Trustprofile, you are assured of quality and service. Always free shipping. Also view our standard infrared panels or our electric convectors as an alternative. Still unsure? Visit one of our 32 stores in the Netherlands and Belgium for personal advice.
Frequently asked questions about hybrid infrared panels
What is the difference between a hybrid infrared panel and a regular convector?
A standard convector heats the air exclusively via convection and has no infrared component. A hybrid infrared panel does both simultaneously: it emits infrared heat that directly warms people and objects, and simultaneously heats the air via convection. The infrared component also ensures the warming of walls, which prevents moisture problems. A convector does not have this effect. Hybrid panels are also quieter than convectors because there is no fan present.
Is a hybrid panel suitable as primary heating?
Yes, for moderately insulated homes, a hybrid panel is a good choice as primary heating. Due to the convection component, the room heats up faster than with pure infrared, which increases comfort in less well-insulated rooms. For an entire home, you install one or more hybrid panels per room, tailored to the volume of the room. The built-in WiFi thermostat enables zone-controlled operation per room via the app.
Can a hybrid panel also be mounted on the ceiling?
Termofol's metal hybrid panels are suitable for both wall and ceiling mounting. Important note: the air vents at the top and bottom must not be blocked. For ceiling mounting, the panel must be kept at a sufficient distance from the ceiling surface to allow air to circulate freely. The ceramic CS series is primarily intended for wall mounting. Consult the product specifications or our advisors for exact installation instructions per model.
Does a hybrid panel require maintenance?
Hardly. Just like standard infrared panels, hybrid models have no moving parts and no filters. You can periodically dust the convection vents on the top and bottom to keep the airflow optimal. No further maintenance is required. The manufacturer's warranty on the Termofol hybrid models is 5 years.
Does the Tuya Smart app also work without internet?
The Tuya Smart app requires an internet connection for remote control. On the local home network, the app also works without an active internet connection. The weekly schedule and the set temperature always remain active in the panel itself, even in the event of an internet or power outage. After a power interruption, the panel automatically restores the stored settings