At Trust Electric Heating, we understand that choosing a new central heating system isn’t as straightforward as ABC. Decisions about home heating involve balancing various factors – energy-efficiency, running costs, environmental impact, and more. To assist you in this decision-making process, we’ve created a series of insightful comparisons. Today, we’ll dive into the world of Infrared heating, exploring the types of infrared heaters, its benefits, drawbacks, and see how it stacks up against the UK’s most awarded electric radiator – the NEOS.
Infrared heating, recognised for its quick and direct heat delivery, is a method that’s increasingly catching the attention of homeowners. But what exactly is infrared heating?
At its core, infrared heating operates by emitting infrared radiation, a type of energy that directly warms objects and people in its path, rather than heating the surrounding air. This process of emitting infrared waves is similar to how the sun warms the Earth, making infrared heaters highly efficient at providing quick warmth. Known for their sleek design, these heaters, particularly infrared heating panels, are becoming a preferred choice for targeted heating. They excel in delivering warmth exactly where it’s needed, without the usual wait time associated with traditional heating methods.
When looking at the range of infrared heaters on the market, it’s important to note that the variety in infrared heaters caters to a range of needs and spaces. Here’s a breakdown of the common types:
Compact Infrared Panel Heaters: Infrared panels are ideal for smaller spaces like offices or cosy rooms. Their compact size makes them a discreet and efficient choice for targeted heating. Some infrared panels can be wall-mounted, making them a popular choice for a long-term heating system.
Larger Infrared Bar Heaters: Suited for larger areas, these heaters, which often glow with infrared light, are a great fit for spacious living rooms or outdoor patios, providing broad and even heat distribution.
Portable Infrared Heaters: For those who require flexibility, portable infrared heaters offer a mobile solution, allowing you to bring infrared heat to different areas as needed.
Ceiling-Mounted Models: Perfect for maximising floor space, these are installed overhead, effectively heating larger areas evenly with infrared radiation.
Each type of infrared heater, from compact infrared panels to larger bar models, are purposefully designed to address specific heating requirements, whether for a cosy home setting, a dynamic commercial space, or versatile outdoor areas.
Infrared heaters have gained popularity among homeowners for their direct heating qualities. Let’s explore the advantages and challenges of these systems to understand them better.
Quick and Focused Heat: Infrared heaters excel at providing rapid heat directly to people and objects, making them efficient for immediate warmth.
Easy Installation: Installing infrared heating, whether wall-mounted or freestanding, is generally straightforward.
Space-Saving Design: Many infrared heaters, especially ceiling-mounted and infrared panel models, are sleek and compact, saving valuable floor space.
Energy-Efficiency: Infrared heaters often consumes less energy compared to traditional heating systems, as they heat objects and people directly with infrared radiation.
Improved Air Quality: Infrared heating does not circulate air, which can reduce the spread of allergens.
While infrared heaters do have their benefits, it’s also crucial to consider some of the challenges of infrared heating systems.
Limited Area Coverage: Infrared heaters typically warm only the area directly in front of them, which might not be sufficient for larger spaces.
Initial Costs: High-quality infrared heaters, especially those providing far infrared heat, can be expensive to purchase initially.
Surface Temperature: The surfaces of infrared heaters can become quite hot, posing a burn risk, especially in homes with small children or pets.
No Heat Storage: Once turned off, the heat dissipates quickly, unlike traditional radiators that can retain warmth for a while, meaning you will need to have your infrared heater turned on all the time during colder months to feel the benefit.
Variability in Quality: The market has a wide range of infrared heaters, from basic infrared light heaters to advanced infrared panels, which vary in efficiency. You may find that cheaper models might not be as efficient or durable.
As we delve deeper, we will see how NEOS radiators offer an alternative, aligning seamlessly with goals of eco-consciousness and efficient home heating.
The NEOS radiator, celebrated as the UK’s most awarded electric radiator, represents the pinnacle of heating technology innovation. It stands as a beacon of efficiency and effectiveness in the realm of home heating solutions. Developed through a Knowledge Transfer Partnership with the University of Huddersfield, NEOS radiators embody the perfect blend of cutting-edge design, efficient energy heating, and practical functionality.
Just as we’ve explored the ins and outs of infrared heating, let’s now unravel the innovative technology behind the NEOS. While the radiator is turned on, a heating element heats cold air that enters the radiator, this then rises through the radiator which heats the heart of the radiator - it’s soapstone core. This is where the magic happens. The soapstone core continues emitting heat even when the radiator is not actively using electricity, reducing your energy bills. This innovative design feature not only enhances your comfort but also makes the NEOS radiator an environmentally-friendly and cost-effective choice.
While the NEOS may sound like a typical modern storage heater, it is much more than that, thanks to the remarkable innovation that defines its design. Let’s explore the science that makes the NEOS stand out:
The NEOS radiator’s journey begins with its robust aluminium casing. While this might seem like a standard component, it’s important to note that many other storage heaters use mild steel, a material that pales in comparison when it comes to heat conduction. Aluminium, in fact, is approximately 290% more conductive than mild steel, meaning that the NEOS heats your room quicker than a standard modern storage heater.
What truly sets the NEOS apart is its soapstone core, a marvel of natural heat retention that outshines the typical ceramic core used in many other heating systems. Unlike ceramic cores, which are porous and prone to cracking, soapstone stands as a non-porous and highly durable alternative. This ingenious feature is the key to energy efficiency and substantial cost savings of the NEOS, due to it’s high heat retention allowing the NEOS to emit heat without using electricity.
At the heart of the NEOS radiator’s lies it’s Quadvex technology, an innovation that doubles the amount of convection, setting it far apart from conventional radiators. While most heating systems typically have just 1 to 2 points of convection, the NEOS boasts an impressive 4 points, resulting in 40% more heat output. Now, let’s break these points of convection down.
Dual Convection - 2 points: By adding a front panel to the radiator’s flutes, we have effectively doubled the amount of convection. This ingenious design enhancement results in a quicker warm-up rate and a staggering 40% more heat output.
Serpentine Convection - 1 Point: The patented dimpled back wall technology forces air to rise in a serpentine movement within the radiator. This unique airflow pattern ensures that the hot air remains in contact with the soapstone core for a more extended period. The outcome? Warmer air that envelops your living space, providing a higher level of comfort.
Cool Wall Technology - 1 Point: This innovation utilises small holes at the tip of each dimple in the radiator’s back wall. These tiny openings create venturis that draw in latent cold air from the rear wall. By doing so, the NEOS radiator maximises the amount of warm air circulating in your room and minimising heat loss to the back wall.
Now that you are well educated on Infrared heating and the NEOS, it’s time to compare the two. Let’s break down the key differences between the NEOS radiator and Infrared heating in three crucial aspects: convection heating, vs. radiant heating, cost-effectiveness, and environmental impacts.
Effective heating is not just about warmth but also about how that warmth is delivered. Understanding the distinction between convection and radiant heaters is vital for achieving comfort and efficiency in your home.
Utilises both convected heat and radiant heat.
Provides a comfortable and uniform temperature throughout your living space, meaning you don’t need to be stood directly next to the radiator to feel its benefits.
Directly heats objects and people close by.
Emits infrared radiation that directly heats objects and people in its path, offering targeted warmth where it’s needed.
Only uses radiant heat which can result in uneven heating, with areas in the direct line of sight receiving more warmth.
One of the significant considerations when choosing a heating system is its long-term cost-effectiveness. Your heating solution should not only keep you warm but also save you money in the long run.
Known for minimising heat loss and maximising heat output, resulting in less energy wastage.
The soapstone core’s heat retention ensures that warmth continues even when not actively using electricity, meaning you don’t get 24 hours of bills for 24 hours of heat.
Want to know more about the reduced running cost’s of the NEOS?
Consumes more electricity due to the radiant heating method. The infrared heater has to be turned on to feel the benefits meaning that for 24 hours of heat, you incur 24 hours of heating bills.
Reducing your carbon footprint is an increasingly important consideration when selecting a heating system, especially with the governments net zero target looming. The environmental impact of your choice can play a significant role in sustainability efforts.
The energy-efficient design minimises your carbon footprint, aligning with eco-conscious living.
Reduced electricity consumption contributes to a greener, more sustainable environment.
Integrated into our Zebra solution, the NEOS radiator plays a crucial role in taking your home off the grid, further reducing your environmental impact.
May have a higher electricity demand, potentially leading to increased carbon emissions.
Limited heat retention can result in more frequent heating cycles, impacting the environment.
With the NEOS radiator, you can trust in its advanced technology, durability, and the satisfaction of countless customers who have experienced its benefits firsthand. It’s more than just a heating solution; it’s a commitment to quality and excellence in home heating - here’s why:
Research-Backed Innovation: In partnership with the University of Huddersfield, we have conducted extensive research that backs the remarkable performance of the NEOS radiator. Our findings reveal that the technology of the NEOS ensures not only faster and more even heat distribution but also leads to an outstanding 59.4% reduction in running costs.
Unmatched Confidence in Quality: NEOS radiators are crafted from robust materials like soapstone and aluminium, ensuring their durability and longevity. We believe so strongly in the quality and endurance of our products that we offer an industry-leading 25-year guarantee.
Customer Satisfaction: Don’t just take our word for it – our customer reviews consistently highlight the effectiveness, efficiency, and reliability of NEOS radiators. These testimonials stand as a testament to the NEOS radiator’s superior performance and its ability to meet the needs of eco-conscious, cost-effective, and discerning homeowners.
So now that we have guided you through infrared heating, the NEOS, their similarities, and their differences, you should be better equipped to make an informed decision for your home heating needs. In this complex world of heating choices, trust in the NEOS radiator as your reliable partner, offering excellence, efficiency, and sustainability for your comfort. It’s more than just a heating solution; it’s a heating system you can trust in.
Ready to make the smart choice for your home heating? Discover the efficiency, comfort, and sustainability of the NEOS radiator today. Book a consultation with our heating experts to explore how the NEOS can enhance your home comfort.
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