Radiators vs Infrared Panel Heaters: Which Is Best for Your Home?
Choosing the right heating solution for your home can be daunting, especially with so many options on the market. At Quality Heating, we aim to help you make an informed decision. Today, we’re comparing traditional radiators with modern infrared panel heaters – two popular choices for British households seeking comfort, efficiency and style.
What’s the Difference?
Radiators warm the air in a room, typically using hot water or electricity to produce heat via convection. This process warms the ambient air, circulating throughout the space and slowly bringing the temperature up.
Infrared panel heaters, on the other hand, use radiant energy to directly heat people, objects, and surfaces. Instead of heating the air, infrared panels deliver warmth exactly where it’s needed, similar to how the sun warms you on a crisp winter’s day.
Discover more about picking the right heating solution for your home.
Key Benefits of Infrared Panel Heaters
- Rapid Warmth: Infrared panels can heat up in just a few minutes, providing instant comfort compared to traditional radiators, which can take half an hour or more to heat larger spaces.
- Energy Efficiency: These heaters are highly efficient, converting 100% of electricity into usable heat. Since they heat objects directly, there’s less energy lost to draughts or open doors, helping lower your energy bills.
- Healthier Air: Infrared heaters don’t circulate dust or allergens, making them ideal for people with asthma and allergies. They’re also effective at reducing damp.
- Flexible Installation: Infrared panels are slim, discreet, and can be mounted on walls or ceilings, freeing up valuable floor space.
- No Maintenance: With no moving parts or water involved, infrared heaters require little to no upkeep.
Browse our collection of infrared panel heaters designed for modern British homes.
Advantages of Traditional Radiators
- Consistent Warmth: Radiators excel at maintaining a steady ambient temperature, making them suited for larger or multi-room homes.
- Proven Reliability: Traditional radiators are a time-tested solution, with many stylish options available to suit period and modern interiors.
- Heat Retention: Oil-filled radiators, for example, can act as heat reservoirs, staying warm for longer even after being switched off.
- Wide Variety: You can choose from electric radiators, oil-filled, and convection models to fit every room size and need.
Shop our electric radiators for efficient, reliable warmth.
Explore traditional radiators for period properties and classic interiors.
Which Is Best for Your Home?
Infrared panels are ideal for:
- Quick heat in lofts, offices, bathrooms, and conservatories.
- Tackling persistent damp and condensation.
- Maximising space with wall or ceiling installation.
- Those seeking a modern aesthetic.
Traditional radiators are better for:
- Rooms needing consistent air temperature.
- Large or multi-roomed homes.
- Homes with heritage features or classic décor.
- Those wanting warmth that lasts even after switching off.
Energy Efficiency & Cost
Modern electric radiators and infrared panels are both 100% energy efficient at the point of use – meaning every pound spent goes directly into heat, with minimal waste. Infrared panels can reduce overall heating costs by as much as 30–50% in certain settings, especially when used for targeted or zoned heating. However, traditional radiators can be more cost-effective for heating larger volumes of air over long periods.
Find Your Perfect Heating Solution
Whether you favour the sleek efficiency of infrared panels or the reliable comfort of traditional radiators, Quality Heating has the right option for every home.
For personalised recommendations, read our guide to picking heaters and radiators. You can also browse all infrared heaters, electric radiators, and traditional radiators today.
Upgrade your comfort and energy savings with our expertly chosen range – and stay warm, stylish, and efficient every season.