Infrared Heating vs. Underfloor Heating: Which is Right for Your Home?

Underfloor heating is a popular way of heating your home, especially new build homes. However, more homeowners are switching to infrared heating systems. Their easy installation, energy efficiency and sleek designs have a strong appeal.

This guide compares infrared heating vs. underfloor heating to help you decide which is best for you.

Also read: 

• Infrared Heating vs. Heat Pumps
• Infrared Heating vs. Gas Central Heating
• Infrared Heating vs. Fan Heaters

Understanding Infrared Heating

Infrared heating systems use panels that emit infrared radiation. This heats objects, walls, and people directly, rather than heating the surrounding air. This method of heat transfer creates a comfortable environment quickly and efficiently.

Advantages

• Energy Efficiency: Infrared heaters convert 98.5% of electricity into heat with minimal loss.
• Quick Heat Delivery: Provides instant warmth without needing to heat the air first.
• Aesthetic Options: Sleek, wall or ceiling-mounted panels that blend seamlessly into modern interiors.
• Zoned Heating: Allows you to heat specific areas as needed, reducing unnecessary energy usage.
• Minimal Maintenance: With no moving parts, infrared systems require very little upkeep.

Disadvantages

• Initial Learning Curve: If you’re unfamiliar with infrared heating, it might take time to adapt to its localised heating approach.
• Placement Needs: Optimal efficiency requires careful placement of panels. Often needing professional advice to ensure proper installation. At Warm4Less, we can help with this.
• Separate Water Heater Required: Infrared heaters only provide space heating. If you rely solely on infrared for heating, you’ll need a separate water heating system.

Understanding Underfloor Heating

Underfloor heating distributes heat through floors, creating a warm surface that radiates heat upwards. There are two main types:

• Hydronic systems: Use warm water circulated through pipes embedded in the floor. They are efficient but require significant installation work.
• Electric systems: Use heating mats or cables installed under the flooring. These are easier to install but more expensive to run. Underfloor heating is often associated with consistent, even warmth, but it can take longer to heat up compared to infrared systems

Advantages

• Even Heat Distribution: Provides consistent warmth across the entire floor area.
• Invisible Setup: Eliminates the need for visible radiators or panels, increasing design flexibility.
• Comfortable Warmth: The heated floor creates a luxurious, cosy environment.

Disadvantages

• Slow Warm-Up Time: Takes longer to heat a room compared to infrared systems.
• Higher Installation Costs: Requires professional installation and may involve significant disruption to flooring.
• Maintenance Challenges: Wet systems may need servicing for pipes and pumps.
• Not Ideal for Retrofits: Installing underfloor heating in existing buildings can be costly and complex.

Key Differences: Infrared Heating vs. Underfloor Heating

Choosing between these systems depends on understanding their core differences. The table below outlines the main distinctions:

Energy Efficiency

Infrared heating is very energy efficient. It provides direct heat to people and objects with little energy waste. Underfloor heating, on the other hand, spreads warmth evenly across a floor. But it can lose heat through poor insulation and draughts. It also takes longer to heat up, which can be less efficient for occasional use.

Heating Performance

Infrared heaters provide almost instant heat. It provides focused and localised heat that you can control for specific zones.

In contrast, underfloor heating provides slow, uniform heating that radiates upward. While this creates a consistent ambient temperature, it may take hours to warm a room.

Installation and Maintenance Costs

Infrared panels are generally easier to install and often DIY-friendly. They don’t need any maintenance because they don’t have any moving parts.

Underfloor heating, however, involves significant upfront installation costs. It can be complex to retrofit into existing homes. Maintenance for water-based underfloor systems is higher than for electric systems because you’ll need to have your boiler serviced. Also, issues with the heating pipes or wiring could be expensive to fix.

Environmental Impact

Infrared heating produces no direct carbon emissions. This makes it a greener option, especially when powered by renewable electricity.

Underfloor heating can also be eco-friendly when paired with a renewable energy source. A heat pump for example.

Cost Analysis: Short- and Long-Term Perspectives

Evaluating the costs of heating systems involves more than just upfront expenses. This section explores both the short-term and long-term financial implications of underfloor heating and infrared heating. We’ve included installation, running costs, maintenance, and impact on property value.   ­

Upfront Installation Costs

Infrared heating has moderate installation costs. You can often install panels yourself.

Underfloor heating requires professional installation, which can be costly and disruptive.

Running Costs

Infrared systems are energy-efficient and cost-effective for zoned heating.

Underfloor heating can have low operating costs if paired with renewable energy. However, it’s less efficient in poorly insulated homes.

Maintenance Costs

Infrared systems don’t need any maintenance because there are no moving parts.

Underfloor heating, particularly wet systems, may need periodic servicing of pumps and pipes.

Conclusion: Making the Right Choice

Infrared heating is a compelling alternative to underfloor heating.

You don’t have to install a full house; you can go room by room, so installation costs don’t have to be so high, or intrusive.

Infrared heating systems are very energy efficient. They provide direct warmth to objects and people with very little heat loss. This means you’ll spend less on heating bills and because they don’t have moving parts, you’ll also save on maintenance costs.

It’s also environmentally friendly, especially when powered by renewable electricity. So if you’re looking for a green choice, it’s worth serious consideration.

Plus, their sleek, space-saving designs mean they blend into any environment.

Ultimately, the choice depends on you and personal priorities.

Speak to our heating professionals. We can help you make the best decision for your specific needs.