Infrared Panel Heater User Guide
Infrared Panel Heater User Guide
How to Position, Control & Get the Best Performance from Your Infrared Panels
Infrared panel heaters are designed to provide comfortable, energy-efficient warmth by heating people and surfaces directly rather than warming the air. When positioned and controlled correctly, they can deliver steady, natural-feeling heat while reducing energy waste and running costs.
This guide explains how to install, position, and use infrared panel heaters for the best results in homes, offices, and commercial spaces.
How Infrared Panel Heaters Work (Quick Overview)
Unlike traditional radiators or fan heaters that heat the air first, infrared panels emit gentle radiant heat. This warmth travels in straight lines and is absorbed by walls, furniture, and people, creating an even, comfortable environment without strong air circulation or dust movement.
Benefits include:
- Faster perceived warmth
- Fewer cold spots
- Reduced air movement
- Silent operation
- Lower maintenance
For a deeper technical explanation, refer to our Infrared Heating Guide page.
Where to Position Infrared Panel Heaters
Correct positioning is the biggest factor in performance.
Wall Mounting
Wall mounting works well in:
- Living rooms
- Bedrooms
- Offices
- Hallways
Best practice:
- Install on an external or cold wall
- Aim toward the main occupied area
- Keep 20–30 cm clearance from furniture
Ceiling Mounting
Ceiling mounting provides the most even coverage and is ideal for:
- Open-plan rooms
- Kitchens
- Commercial spaces
- Workshops
- Churches and halls
Best practice:
- Position centrally where possible
- Avoid placing directly above tall cupboards
- Maintain recommended height (usually 2.2–3 m)
Room Sizing & Panel Wattage
Choosing the correct wattage ensures efficiency and comfort.
General Guide (Well-Insulated Rooms)
- Bedrooms: 50–60 W per m²
- Living Rooms: 60–75 W per m²
- Bathrooms: 75–100 W per m²
- Offices: 60–70 W per m²
Poor insulation or high ceilings may require additional output or multiple panels.
You can internally link here to:
- Carbon Neutral Heating Guide
- Buying Genuine Infrared Heating
- Any wattage calculator page you have
Thermostats & Controls
A thermostat is essential for efficiency. Infrared panels are most effective when paired with programmable or smart controls.
Recommended Control Types
- Digital programmable thermostats
- Wi-Fi / Smart thermostats
- Zoned heating controls
- Timer switches for bathrooms
Benefits of good controls:
- Prevents overheating
- Reduces energy bills
- Enables zoning
- Improves comfort consistency
You can browse our Thermostat & Controls Collection to find your ideal thermostat.
Energy-Saving Tips
Heat rooms you use, not the whole building
- Use timers rather than manual switching
- Combine panels with good insulation
- Close doors to retain radiant warmth
- Lower thermostat slightly — radiant heat often feels warmer than air heat
Safety & Clearance Guidelines
Infrared panels are very safe when installed correctly.
Key safety tips:
Do not cover the panel
- Keep soft furnishings 20–30 cm away
- Avoid direct water exposure unless IP-rated
- Use qualified electricians for hard-wired installs
- Always follow manufacturer guidelines
Bathrooms and wet areas should only use IP-rated panels or towel heaters.
Foe a deeper understanding you can refer to our Bathroom Heating Users Guide.
If you are also planning on installing underfloor heating our Electric Underfloor Heating Collections Guide is invaluable.
Cleaning & Maintenance
Infrared panels require minimal upkeep. They are almost maintenance free.
Routine care:
- Wipe with a soft, dry cloth
- Avoid abrasive cleaners
- Check brackets annually
- Inspect cables periodically
There are no moving parts, filters, or fluids to maintain. Here at Eco friendly we have had customers come back after 25 years just looking to replace their thermostat for a more modern looking one.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Installing too low behind furniture
- Undersizing wattage for the room
- Not using a thermostat
- Mounting panels facing away from the occupied area
- Expecting instant “air heat” instead of radiant warmth
Correct positioning and controls usually solve most performance concerns.
When to Use Multiple Panels
Multiple smaller panels often perform better than one large unit in:
- L-shaped rooms
- Long hallways
- Large offices
- Poorly insulated spaces
They also allow zoning and greater flexibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do infrared panels heat the whole room?
Yes — surfaces warm first, then gently release heat into the air, creating even comfort. Our clients describe it as "Being warmed up by the sun".
Are they safe for children and pets?
Yes. Surface temperatures are warm but typically lower than traditional radiators. Always maintain recommended clearances.
Can I leave them on all day?
With a thermostat, yes. Smart controls prevent waste and overheating.
Do they work with solar power?
Very well. Infrared heating pairs effectively with solar PV systems and renewable tariffs. Solar and Electric infrared Panel heating or underfloor heating is almost an irresistible combination. We even wrote a blog post to highlight this.
Final Thoughts
Infrared panel heaters provide a modern, efficient, and comfortable heating solution when correctly sized, positioned, and controlled. They are quiet, low-maintenance, and ideal for both residential and commercial environments seeking better energy performance and consistent warmth.
For best results, combine quality panels with intelligent thermostats, good insulation, and thoughtful placement. Small adjustments in setup often lead to noticeable improvements in comfort and running costs.
Below are some of our most popular infrared panel heaters used in homes and workplaces across the UK.
Best For Homes
Best for Bedrooms
Best for Offices or Commercial Spaces
Best for Bathrooms
