Infrared Heating vs. Oil-Filled Radiators: Which is Right for Your Home?
Oil-filled radiators are a familiar sight in homes across the UK. Especially as a plug-in, portable solution for quick warmth.
But as heating technology evolves, more people are turning to infrared heating systems. With their energy efficiency, low running costs, space-saving design, infrared panels are slowly becoming a modern alternative.
In this guide we’ll compare infrared heating vs. oil-filled radiators to help you decide which is best for your home.
Also Read:
- Infrared vs. Storage Heaters
- Infrared vs. Gas Central Heating
- Infrared Heating vs. Heat Pumps
- Infrared vs. Underfloor Heating
- Infrared vs. Fan Heaters
- Infrared vs. Ceramic Heaters
Understanding Infrared Heating
Infrared heating uses panels that emit radiant heat. This warms objects, surfaces, and people directly, exactly like the sun. Rather than heating the air, it heats what it touches. This results in quick, efficient warmth that feels natural and consistent.
Advantages of Infrared Heating
- Instant Heat: Heats people and surfaces directly, without waiting for the air to warm.
- Modern Design: Wall or ceiling-mounted panels that blend into any décor.
- Zoned Heating: Lets you heat specific areas, reducing energy waste.
- No Maintenance: With no moving parts or fluid, panels are maintenance-free.
Disadvantages of Infrared Heating Initial Learning Curve:
- Learning Curve: People new to infrared may need time to learn how to set it up and use it.
- Placement Matters: Panel positioning is important for best performance. Our team can help with this.
- No Water Heating: Infrared is space heating only. You’ll need a separate water heating system.
Understanding Oil-Filled Radiators
Oil-filled radiators use electricity to heat internal oil. The heated oil warms the metal exterior. This, in turn, heats the surrounding air through convection. They’re often portable, making them a popular choice for temporary or spot heating.
Advantages of Oil Filled Radiators
- Heat Retention: Oil stays warm after the unit is turned off, continuing to radiate heat.
- Portability: Easy to move between rooms.
- Silent Operation: No fan means minimal noise.
Disadvantages of Oil Filled Radiators
- Slow Heat-Up: Takes time to heat the oil, then the casing, then the room.
- Bulky and Floor-Based: Takes up floor space and can be visually intrusive.
- Uneven Heating: Like gas central heating and fan heaters, air circulation leads to warm ceilings and cool floors.
- Safety Risks: Surface can become hot to the touch; not ideal around children or pets.
- Higher Running Costs: Continuous operation may be needed to maintain comfort.
Key Differences: Infrared Heating vs. Oil-Filled Radiators
| Feature | Infrared Heating | Fan Heaters |
|---|---|---|
| Efficiency | High, direct heat with minimal loss | Moderate, air-based heating loses energy |
| Heat Delivery | Instant radiant heat to people and objects | Slower convection heat via air |
| Installation Costs | Moderate: most panels are wall/ceiling mounted but also portable | Low; plug-in and portable |
| Maintenance | None; no moving parts | May require servicing over time |
| Retrofit Suitability | Ideal; minimal disruption | Portable but less suitable for full-home use |
| Aesthetics | Discreet, modern designs | Bulky, floor-standing units |
| Lifespan | 15–20 years, virtually no maintenance | 5–10 years, wear-and-tear dependent |
Energy Efficiency
Infrared panels are extremely efficient, and generally run at a lower wattage in comparison to most other forms of heating. Because they don’t waste energy heating the air, there’s little heat loss. They also work well even in draughty spaces. They also allow zonal control, meaning you only heat the rooms you use, saving even more energy.
Oil-filled radiators, while better than some convection systems, heat the air first. Warm air rises and escapes more easily, especially in poorly insulated rooms. They also take longer to warm up and may need to run for hours to maintain comfort.
Heating Performance
Infrared heating gives you almost instant warmth. It heats objects and people directly. This means you feel the benefit almost immediately. The radiant heat creates a natural, sun-like warmth without blowing air or stirring up dust.
Oil-filled radiators take a while to get going. Once the oil is hot, the warmth spreads slowly. Because it’s based on air circulation, you might notice uneven temperatures. Especially in rooms with high ceilings or poor insulation.
Installation and Maintenance Costs
Infrared panels are easy to install. Especially our portable heaters. Our wall mounted panels and ceiling heaters are easy to install. And with no moving parts, they don’t need ongoing maintenance.
Oil-filled radiators don’t need installation, they’re ‘plug-and-play’. But they can get in the way and take up space. Over time, components like thermostats or timers may wear out. If you use them often, their lifespan is shorter than infrared systems. This means you’ll likely need to replace them more often.
Environmental Impact
Infrared heating produces no emissions and works efficiently. Especially if you power your home with renewable electricity. It’s a clean, sustainable way to heat your home.
Oil-filled radiators are also electric, so their environmental impact depends on the electricity source. But because they use more energy to maintain temperature, they tend to have a higher carbon footprint over time.
Aesthetics and Space
Infrared panels are sleek and unobtrusive. You can disguise them as mirrors or artwork, or recessed into ceilings. This makes them ideal for design-conscious homes where space is at a premium.
Oil-filled radiators, while functional, are not subtle. They take floor space, can restrict furniture placement, and rarely complement your decor.
Cost Analysis: Short- and Long-Term Perspectives
Upfront Installation Costs
Infrared panels typically cost more, especially if you’re installing a fully integrated system. You can install most individual panels without professional help.
Oil-filled radiators are cheaper to buy. But their short lifespan may result in more frequent replacements.
Running Costs
Infrared systems are cheaper to run due to faster heat-up times, zonal control, and direct heating.
Oil-filled radiators consume more energy over time. Especially in rooms or areas with poor insulation.
Maintenance Costs
As infrared heaters have no moving parts, they don’t need any maintenance.
Oil-filled radiators can need potential repairs or replacement every few years.
Conclusion: Making the Right Choice
Oil-filled radiators are a solid option for short-term or occasional use. But for those looking for a long-term, efficient, and stylish heating solution, infrared heating has a clear advantage.
Infrared panels offer instant comfort, better energy performance, and lower long-term costs. They also look better, save space, and don’t need any maintenance.
If you’re planning to upgrade your heating or reduce your energy bills, speak to our heating experts. We’ll help you find the ideal infrared heating setup for your space and budget.
Oil-Filled Radiators vs Infrared Heating: Frequently Asked Questions
Can infrared heating replace oil-filled radiators completely?
Yes. Infrared systems can provide full-house heating. Or you can use them zonally to replace plug-in oil heaters in specific rooms.
Which is more cost-effective to run: infrared or oil-filled?
Infrared is generally cheaper to run. Infrared heat is quick and efficient. Oil-filled radiators may need hours of operation to maintain warmth.
Are infrared panels safe to touch?
Yes. Most panels are warm but not dangerously hot. They’re also often mounted out of reach on walls or ceilings. Unlike oil radiators, which can get very hot.
Do infrared heaters help reduce damp and mould?
Yes. Infrared heats walls and surfaces, keeping them dry and reducing condensation. As a result, the can reduce, sometime completely get rid of mould.
Can infrared panels be used in bathrooms?
Yes. Specific models are designed for use in humid spaces and are IP-rated for bathroom safety. Our infrared mirror heaters and towel rails are perfect for your bathroom.
How long do oil-filled radiators last compared to infrared?
Oil-filled radiators typically last 5–10 years. Infrared panels last 15–20 years with minimal maintenance.
Can I install infrared heating myself?
Most panels are DIY-friendly. However, for hardwired units or fully integrated systems, consult an electrician.
Do infrared heaters make any noise?
No. Infrared panels are completely silent, perfect for bedrooms or offices.
Which is better for allergies: infrared or oil-filled?
Infrared is better. It doesn’t move air, which helps reduce the spread of dust and allergens. In fact, infrared has several health benefits.
Can I use infrared heating and oil-filled radiators together?
You can, but most people find infrared alone meets their needs.
