The question of whether infrared heating can serve as primary heating is one of the most discussed topics within the energy transition. The short answer is: yes, absolutely. Heating an entire house with infrared is by now a proven and extremely comfortable method for living completely gas-free. However, at Warmteshop, we see that the success and efficiency of infrared as a primary heat source depends on proper preparation, correct sizing, and the insulation value of your home.
When is heating an entire house with infrared cost-effective?
To successfully use infrared panels as primary heating, we must consider how heat is retained. Because infrared heats the mass (walls, floors, furniture), the system works optimally in homes that are reasonably to well insulated (from energy label C, but preferably A or B). In a well-insulated building envelope, the walls store radiant heat and release it slowly. This creates a constant, homogeneous temperature, meaning the panels only need to 'brush' to maintain the heat level, minimizing power consumption.
- No central heating boiler or heat pump needed: You save thousands of euros on purchase, extensive installation work, and annual maintenance.
- Room-controlled climate: Unlike a central heating boiler, infrared heats extremely locally. The bedroom does not need to rotate with the living room.
- Aesthetic freedom: No more unsightly radiators on the wall; our panels are mounted flush with the ceiling or disguised as a mirror or painting.
Calculation example: Calculate required power
When installing infrared heating as the primary heating system, an exact capacity calculation is crucial to prevent under- or overdimensioning. On average, for a well-insulated home, we use the following guidelines per cubic meter ($m³):
| Room Type | Required Power per $m^3$ | Sample space ($40 m³) |
|---|---|---|
| Living room / Kitchen | $30 - 35 Watt$ | $1200 - 1400 Watts (e.g. 2 panels of 700W) |
| Bedroom | $25 - 30 Watt$ | $1,000 - 1,200 Watts (e.g., 2 panels of 500W) |
| Bathroom (fast heating time) | $60 - 70 Watt$ | $2400 - 2800 Watts (focused on the shower/washbasin zone) |
By strategically distributing this power across multiple ceiling panels, perfect cross-radiation is created that provides the entire room with comfortable, natural warmth without cold zones.
Smart thermostats as the linchpin of the system
If you heat your entire home with infrared, an intelligent control system is indispensable. Each panel or zone is controlled by its own thermostat, which is connected to a central Wi-Fi network. You can set weekly schedules for each room via an app on your smartphone or tablet. Does the thermostat in the living room switch on? Then the panels in the guest room remain cold as long as no one is there. This level of control ensures that your actual power consumption is much lower than with a centrally controlled system.
Why choose Warmteshop? Specialist in Infrared
Since 2006, Warmteshop has been the pioneer and market leader in the Benelux in the field of infrared main heating. Making an entire house gas-free requires expertise, high-quality hardware, and precise engineering. We do not sell individual panels, but a complete, calculated heating system that is guaranteed to heat your home to a comfortable temperature.
Are you considering switching to infrared as your primary heating source? Then visit one of our 30+ showrooms in the Netherlands and Belgium, such as in Antwerp, Ghent, Brussels, or Culemborg. Our experts will be happy to create a free, no-obligation savings and installation plan for your entire home. Check out the experiences of thousands of gas-free households on our profile at Trustprofile.
Explore more about central heating and costs
Would you like to deepen your knowledge or view specific scenarios for your home? Then also consult these pages:
- Are you curious about the exact monthly consumption costs? View infrared heating costs.
- Are you building a new home? Discover the benefits of infrared heating for new builds.
- Would you like to combine the panels directly with your own electricity? Read more about infrared heating with solar panels.
- For a complete overview of our decorative fireplaces, go to the main collection: decorative fireplace.