Buying Genuine Infrared Heating

A Simple Guide to Choosing Quality Panels That Last

Infrared heating is becoming increasingly popular across UK homes, garden rooms, studios and workplaces — and for good reason. It provides direct, comfortable warmth, works brilliantly for zonal heating, and can be very efficient when sized correctly.

But not all infrared heaters are created equal. Panels can look similar online while performing very differently in real life. This guide will help you understand what genuinely matters so you can choose heating that is reliable, efficient and built to last.

What Is Infrared Heating?

Traditional radiators and fan heaters warm the air first. Warm air rises, cooler air sinks, and the system keeps cycling to compensate.

Infrared heating works differently. It emits radiant heat that warms people, furniture and surfaces directly, which then gently release warmth back into the room. The result is often a more even, natural feeling comfort — similar to standing in soft sunshine rather than sitting next to a hot air blower.

Materials That Matter in Infrared Panel Construction

One of the biggest differences between a quality panel and a cheap imitation is the material used.

High-grade aluminium or well-engineered metal casings conduct heat evenly and resist warping or discolouration.
Lower-cost plastic or thin metal constructions may overheat at the back, waste energy and deteriorate more quickly.

Quality construction also improves efficiency — meaning more of the electricity you pay for turns into usable warmth in the room rather than being lost into the wall.

Front vs Rear Temperatures — A Quick Quality Check

A well-designed infrared heater should:

Direct the majority of its warmth forward into the room
Keep the rear temperature relatively low
Feel warm but safe to the touch on the front surface

If excessive heat is felt behind the panel, it often indicates poor insulation or inefficient internal design. Over time this can reduce performance and increase running costs.

How to Size Your Infrared Heater Properly

Correct sizing is one of the most important steps for comfort and efficiency.

A general starting point many people use is:

Well-insulated rooms: around 50–60 watts per m²
Moderate insulation: 60–70 watts per m²
Poor insulation / higher ceilings: 70–80 watts per m²

These are guidelines rather than strict rules. Ceiling height, window area and how often the room is used all play a part. Two smaller panels positioned well often provide better comfort than one oversized panel in the wrong place.

Infrared Heater Certifications Explained

Safety and compliance marks show that a product has passed recognised testing and meets essential standards.

Look for:

CE or UKCA marking: CE and UKCA markings indicate that a product complies with essential health, safety, and environmental regulations. CE marking is mandatory for the EU/EEA, while UKCA (UK Conformity Assessed) is the post-Brexit mark for Great Britain.
RoHS compliance: RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) compliance marking indicates that an electrical or electronic product complies with EU regulations restricting hazardous materials.
Lot 20 / EcoDesign compatibility: Lot 20 / EcoDesign compatibility refers to a set of mandatory European energy efficiency regulations that came into force on January 1, 2018, for electric heating products. It means that any "local space heater" (such as panel heaters, electric radiators, infrared panels, and storage heaters) sold in the UK or EU must meet minimum efficiency standards to reduce wasted energy and lower carbon emissions.
Essentially, a compliant heater cannot just be a basic on/off device; it must be "intelligent" and equipped with energy-saving features to ensure efficiency.
Clear manufacturer specifications and warranty information

These aren’t just technical labels — they are indicators of accountability, safety and long-term reliability. As many of these heaters are installed in homes and work places, safety is paramount.

Common Mistakes Buyers Make (and How to Avoid Them)

Choosing Only on Price

The lowest upfront cost can sometimes lead to higher long-term expenses through poor performance or early replacement.

Ignoring Build Quality

A heater that looks sleek online but uses inferior materials may warp, discolour or lose efficiency over time.

Oversizing or Undersizing

Too little output leaves a room chilly; too much wastes energy. Balanced sizing and correct placement are key.

Forgetting Controls

A good thermostat or smart controller dramatically improves efficiency by heating only when needed.

How Well-Made Infrared Heating Saves Money Over Time

While electricity prices vary, quality infrared systems often help reduce wasted energy through:

Zonal heating rather than whole-house heating
Efficient radiant transfer
Smart scheduling and temperature control
Longer product lifespan with fewer replacements

The result is not “free heat,” but better value heat — warmth where and when you actually need it.

Infrared Panel Performance Checklist

When comparing options, ask:

Is the panel made from quality heat-conductive materials?
Are rear temperatures kept low?
Are recognised certifications displayed?
Is sizing guidance clear?
Does the manufacturer provide transparent specifications?
Are thermostat and control options available?

If the answer is yes to most of these, you are likely looking at a genuine, well-engineered product rather than a short-term substitute.

Useful Pages

FAQs for “Buying Genuine Infrared Heating”

What does “genuine” infrared heating mean?

Genuine infrared heating refers to panels designed to deliver effective radiant warmth (heating people and surfaces directly) using quality components, safe construction, and transparent performance specs — not just a product labelled “infrared”.

How can I tell if an infrared heater is good quality?

Look for clear certifications (UKCA/CE), reputable manufacturer info, proper sizing guidance, realistic wattage claims, and a decent warranty. Build materials matter too — better panels distribute heat more evenly and tend to last longer.

Are cheap infrared panels a false economy?

They can be. Lower-cost panels sometimes cut corners on internal components and insulation, which may reduce efficiency, shorten lifespan, or lead to uneven heat. A quality panel often costs less over time because it performs better and lasts longer.

Does infrared heating reduce condensation or mould?

Infrared can help improve comfort by warming surfaces more directly, which may reduce cold surface “dew point” issues in some rooms. However, ventilation and moisture control still matter — it’s not a standalone cure for damp.

Is infrared heating safe to use in bedrooms and living rooms?

Yes, when installed and used correctly. Choose products with proper compliance markings and follow manufacturer clearances. If hard-wired, use a qualified electrician.

Do infrared panels work in draughty buildings?

They often feel better than convection in draughty spaces because they don’t rely on warming all the air first. That said, draught-proofing and insulation will still reduce running costs and improve results.

How do I choose the right wattage for a room?

A common starting point is watts per m² (higher for poor insulation or high ceilings). But the best approach is sizing based on insulation level, ceiling height, window area, and how the room is used.

Is one large panel better than two smaller ones?

Not always. Two smaller panels can give more even comfort and better coverage, especially in longer rooms or spaces with seating areas at opposite ends.

Do I need a thermostat for infrared heating?

Strongly recommended. A thermostat improves comfort and reduces wasted energy by controlling temperature and schedules accurately. Smart thermostats add convenience, but even a good basic thermostat is a big upgrade.

Where should infrared panels be positioned?

Aim the radiant heat towards where you spend time (sofa, desk, treatment bed, work zone). Avoid placing panels where large furniture blocks the “line of sight” of the heat.

Can infrared heating be the main heating for a home?

Yes — if it’s correctly sized room-by-room and the building fabric is reasonably insulated. Many people also use it as zonal heating to reduce whole-house demand.

What certifications should I look for on infrared heating products in the UK?

Look for UKCA or CE, plus clear electrical safety information and compliance details. Transparent specs and a meaningful warranty are also strong signals of quality.