Why Isn’t Infrared Heating More Popular? (And Why That Shouldn’t Stop You)

Infrared heating is efficient, sustainable, and stylish, yet it hasn’t hit the mainstream. If you’ve only recently heard of it, you’re not alone.

Countries like Germany and the Netherlands have embraced infrared heating. However, the UK market has been slower to catch on.

In this article, we’ll break down the real reasons why infrared heating isn’t more popular. From public misconceptions to policy hurdles, and show you why, despite that, it’s one of the smartest heating choices available today.

Reason 1: Lack of Awareness and Misunderstanding

Infrared heating remains a mystery to many homeowners. Unlike traditional systems that heat the air, infrared panels heat people and objects directly. This is how the sun warms your skin on a cool day. But because it’s unfamiliar, it often gets overlooked.

Many people confuse infrared with older, inefficient electric heating or even associate it with microwave radiation (it’s not the same!). This misunderstanding creates unnecessary fear, even though infrared is;

1. Perfectly safe
2. Widely tested, and
3. Already in use in hospitals, schools, and offices across Europe.

To make matters worse, most UK DIY stores and energy comparison websites barely mention infrared heating, leaving it out of the public conversation.

Without visibility, consumers don’t consider it an option. And if they do, they often assume it’s niche, experimental, or expensive.

Reason 2: Market Inertia and Traditional Preferences

The UK heating market is dominated by gas central heating and slow to embrace change. Most homes are built with gas boilers and radiators, and when systems need replacing, people tend to stick with what they know. This creates a cycle of familiarity and resistance to change.

Even those open to alternatives may hesitate because infrared doesn’t work like conventional systems. Infrared heat is quieter, cleaner, and often invisible. But because it doesn’t “blow warm air” or make radiator noises, some people assume it’s not working.

There’s also the issue of cost comparisons.

People often look at the upfront cost of an infrared panel and compare it to a single replacement radiator or a gas boiler fix, rather than looking at total lifetime savings, installation simplicity, or zone-based efficiency.

In short: familiarity breeds comfort. And comfort delays innovation.

Reason 3: Installation and Knowledge Barriers

Another reason infrared hasn’t taken off is the lack of knowledge among installers and tradespeople. Ask your average plumber or heating engineer about infrared heating, and you’re likely to get a blank stare. Or worse, misinformation.

Because it’s a newer technology in the UK, there aren’t many electricians who have physically installed infrared heating. This could bring concerns to homeowners who are wanting to install infrared heating but is unable to find someone with experience to install it.

In fact, infrared heaters are very easy install and any qualified electrician would be capable. Unlike most other forms of heating, a special fitter isn’t required.

On top of that, the online buying experience for infrared panels can be confusing. There are wattages, coverage areas, panel materials, and mounting options, and no clear guidance unless you’re buying from a specialist.

Reason 4: Industry and Policy Challenges

Infrared heating doesn’t have the heavyweight backing that other technologies do.

• The gas industry
• Electric boiler manufacturers, and even
• Heat pump producers

All benefit from strong lobbying and government incentive schemes.

Unfortunately, infrared isn’t included in UK government energy-efficiency grants and green home schemes. That means fewer incentives for homeowners and landlords to make the switch. Even though infrared could support the UK’s carbon-reduction goals.

The construction industry, too, tends to focus on “standard” solutions. This means new builds rarely include infrared heating, unless a forward-thinking architect specifies it. Without mainstream endorsement from developers and policy makers, it remains under the radar.

Reason 5: Why Infrared Heating Deserves a Second Look

Even though it’s not mainstream, infrared heating offers several benefits that deserve your attention:

1. Long-term energy savings
   Infrared panels use less energy to maintain comfortable temperatures. Especially when using zonal heating. They heat people and furniture directly, not the air, meaning you waste less heat through drafts or open doors.
2. Healthier indoor environments
   Unlike convection systems, infrared doesn’t circulate dust, allergens, or damp air. It can help kill and prevent mould and reduce humidity. This makes it ideal for allergy sufferers and older properties. It also has several other health benefits too.
3. Sustainable and low carbon
   Infrared heating runs on electricity. When paired with a renewable energy source like solar panels or a green tariff, it becomes a zero-emissions solution. It’s also 100% recyclable and doesn’t need servicing.
4. Stylish, space-saving design
   Gone are the clunky radiators and wall-mounted fan heaters. Infrared panels come in sleek, modern designs, including ceiling-mounted options, mirrored panels for bathrooms, and even printed artwork.
5. Precise and programmable
   Each panel can be controlled independently, allowing for room-by-room heating schedules. You’ll no longer waste energy heating the whole house when you’re only using one room.

Overcoming the Perception Gap

If you’re curious but hesitant, start small. Try installing an infrared panel in a bathroom, conservatory, or home office. These are the rooms where infrared often outperforms traditional heating the most.

Look at our reviews, case studies, and real-world installations.

Thousands of homeowners in the UK have already made the switch. Many of them report lower energy bills, more comfort, and more satisfaction.

Infrared may not be popular, yet, but those who use it rarely go back.

Final Thoughts: A Smarter Way Forward

Infrared heating isn’t popular. Not because it doesn’t work, but because it hasn’t had the chance to shine. Between outdated assumptions, industry inertia, and lack of public awareness, it’s easy to see why it flies under the radar.

But if you’re willing to look beyond that, infrared offers a compelling, modern, and eco-friendly way to heat your home.

The technology is sound. The benefits are real. And once you feel the warmth for yourself, you’ll wonder why everyone else is still stuck in the past.

Ready to learn more?
Compare infrared panels, get a free quote, or find out how much you could save by switching — before everyone else catches on.