By James Mitchell, Lead Writer, Renewable Energy · Energy efficiency analyst — Last reviewed
Heat Pump vs Infrared Heating: A Fair Comparison
TL;DR
- Heat pumps (£7k-£14k installed) are 3-4x more efficient than gas boilers but require radiator upgrades and a hot water cylinder. Infrared panels (£1.5k-£4k) provide instant radiant heat but cannot supply hot water and are best for small spaces or hybrid systems.
- The £7,500 Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) grant reduces heat pump costs by 50-70%, while infrared heating receives no UK grants in 2025.
- Best for: Heat pumps excel in whole-home heating and hot water, while infrared suits small spaces, extensions, or hybrid setups. Hybrid systems (heat pump + infrared) can reduce bills by up to 30%.
- Running costs: Heat pumps cost £500-£900/year in well-insulated homes, while infrared costs £800-£1,500/year, similar to gas boilers.
- Carbon footprint: Heat pumps reduce emissions by 70-80% compared to gas, while infrared cuts emissions by 50-60%. Pairing either system with renewable electricity maximises environmental benefits.
TITLE_TAG: Heat Pump vs Infrared Heating: Costs, Grants & Best Choice 2025 META_DESCRIPTION: Compare heat pumps and infrared heating on cost (£7k-£14k vs £1.5k-£4k), grants (£7,500 BUS), comfort, and efficiency for UK homes. Learn which system suits your property and budget.
If you’re weighing up a heat pump vs infrared heating for your UK home, you’re part of a growing trend. Recent data from energy analysts shows that searches for "low-carbon heating alternatives" have surged by over 150% since 2023, as homeowners seek efficient, sustainable solutions. However, while heat pumps dominate government incentives and media coverage, infrared heating is emerging as a compelling option for specific scenarios.
This guide provides a detailed comparison of installation costs (£7,000-£14,000 for heat pumps vs £1,500-£4,000 for infrared), running costs (£500-£900/year vs £800-£1,500/year), and available grants (£7,500 for heat pumps, £0 for infrared in 2025). You’ll also explore which system best suits your home type, why hot water is a critical consideration, and how hybrid setups can optimise both comfort and savings.
By the end, you’ll have the insights needed to decide whether to invest in a heat pump grant, opt for infrared panels, or combine both for maximum efficiency.
Executive Summary: Heat Pump vs Infrared in 30 Seconds
| Factor | Heat Pump | Infrared Heating | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | Whole-home heating + hot water | Small spaces, extensions, hybrid use | Depends on needs |
| Installation cost | £7,000-£14,000 | £1,500-£4,000 | Infrared |
| Running cost (year) | £500-£900 (well-insulated home) | £800-£1,500 | Heat pump |
| Grants available | £7,500 (Boiler Upgrade Scheme) | £0 | Heat pump |
| Hot water? | Yes (with cylinder) | No | Heat pump |
| Maintenance | Annual service (£100-£200) | None | Infrared |
| Carbon footprint | 70-80% lower than gas | 50-60% lower than gas | Heat pump |
Key takeaways:
- Heat pumps are the only viable option if you need hot water or whole-home heating. The £7,500 BUS grant significantly reduces upfront costs.
- Infrared panels are ideal for small spaces (e.g., a home office or extension) or as a supplement to a heat pump. The lack of grants means higher upfront costs are not offset.
- Hybrid systems (heat pump + infrared) can reduce energy bills by up to 30% while maintaining high comfort levels, making them particularly suitable for older, draughty properties like Victorian homes.
How Do They Work? Convection vs Radiant Heat Explained
Heat Pumps: The "Reverse Fridge" Principle
Heat pumps operate on a principle similar to a refrigerator but in reverse. Instead of removing heat from an enclosed space, they extract warmth from the external environment (air or ground) and transfer it indoors. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the process:
- Outdoor unit: A fan draws in air (or a ground loop absorbs heat from the earth), and a refrigerant absorbs the thermal energy, even at temperatures as low as -15°C.
- Compressor: The refrigerant is compressed, raising its temperature significantly.
- Indoor unit: The heated refrigerant passes through a heat exchanger, releasing warmth into your home’s heating system (radiators or underfloor heating).
- Expansion valve: The refrigerant cools and expands, ready to repeat the cycle.
Efficiency: Heat pumps are highly efficient, delivering 2.5-4 kWh of heat for every 1 kWh of electricity consumed. This efficiency is measured by the Coefficient of Performance (COP), which typically ranges from 2.5 to 4.0, making heat pumps 3-4 times more efficient than traditional gas boilers.
Limitations:
- System compatibility: Heat pumps work best with low-temperature heating systems, such as underfloor heating or large radiators. Older radiators may need upgrading to handle the lower flow temperatures.
- Heat-up time: Heat pumps take 30-60 minutes to reach the desired temperature, which is slower than infrared heating or gas boilers.
- Noise: The outdoor unit can generate noise, typically around 40-60 decibels, similar to a quiet conversation. It’s essential to check MCS noise guidelines and position the unit away from bedrooms or neighbouring properties.
Infrared Heating: Like the Sun’s Warmth
Infrared heating panels emit radiant heat, which warms objects and people directly rather than heating the air. This principle is akin to standing in sunlight on a cold day-you feel warm even if the surrounding air is chilly.
How it works:
- Panel: Electricity heats a carbon film, ceramic element, or quartz tube within the panel.
- Radiation: The panel emits infrared waves (similar to sunlight) that travel through the air and are absorbed by surfaces they encounter.
- Absorption: Walls, floors, furniture, and even people absorb the infrared energy, which is then re-radiated slowly, creating a consistent warmth.
Efficiency: Infrared panels are 100% efficient at converting electricity into heat, as there is no energy loss during the conversion process. However, because they do not heat the air, rooms can feel cold when you’re not in the direct line of sight of the panels. This makes them less effective in large or poorly insulated spaces.
Limitations:
- No hot water: Infrared panels cannot heat water, so you’ll need a separate system (e.g., an immersion heater, gas boiler, or solar thermal) for hot water needs.
- Uneven heat distribution: Infrared heating works best in small, well-insulated spaces, such as a bedroom or home office. In larger or draughty rooms, heat distribution can be uneven.
- Higher running costs: Electricity is 3-4 times more expensive per kWh than gas, so running costs can add up quickly, especially in poorly insulated homes.
Pro tip: To maximise efficiency, pair infrared panels with a smart thermostat to avoid overheating. The Energy Saving Trust recommends setting them to 18-20°C for optimal comfort and energy savings.
Cost Breakdown: Installation, Running Costs & Lifetime Value
Upfront Costs: Heat Pumps Are 3-5 Times More Expensive
The initial cost of installing a heat pump or infrared heating system varies significantly. Below is a detailed breakdown of the expenses associated with each option:
| Cost Factor | Air Source Heat Pump | Ground Source Heat Pump | Infrared Heating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unit cost | £5,000-£10,000 | £10,000-£20,000 | £150-£500 per panel |
| Installation | £2,000-£4,000 | £10,000-£15,000 | £500-£1,500 |
| Radiator upgrades | £1,000-£3,000 | £1,000-£3,000 | £0 |
| Hot water cylinder | £800-£1,500 | £800-£1,500 | £0 |
| Total installed cost | £7,000-£14,000 | £20,000-£35,000 | £1,500-£4,000 |
Why the big difference?
- Heat pumps require new radiators (or underfloor heating), a hot water cylinder, and professional installation by an MCS-certified installer. Ground source heat pumps also involve expensive groundworks, such as drilling boreholes or laying horizontal loops.
- Infrared panels are plug-and-play: they can be mounted on walls or ceilings and wired directly to your fuse box. No pipework, radiator upgrades, or hot water cylinders are needed, making installation quicker and less invasive.
Hidden costs to watch for:
- Heat pumps:
- If your home has old or corroded pipework, you may need to replace it, adding £2,000-£5,000 to the total cost.
- Planning permission may be required for the outdoor unit, particularly in conservation areas or listed buildings.
- Infrared:
- If you want smart controls (e.g., app-based zoning or voice activation), budget an extra £200-£500.
- Electrical upgrades may be necessary if your fuse box cannot handle the additional load, adding £300-£800 to the cost.
Running Costs: Heat Pumps Win (But It Depends on Insulation)
Running costs are influenced by three key factors:
- Energy prices (electricity vs gas).
- System efficiency (COP for heat pumps, 100% for infrared).
- Heat loss (how well your home is insulated).
To illustrate the impact of insulation, we’ll compare two scenarios: a well-insulated 3-bed semi-detached home and a poorly insulated Victorian terrace.
Scenario 1: Well-Insulated 3-Bed Semi (120 m², EPC B)
| System | Annual kWh | Cost per kWh | Annual Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Air source heat pump | 6,000 kWh | £0.24 | £576 | COP of 3.0 |
| Infrared heating | 12,000 kWh | £0.24 | £1,440 | 100% efficiency, but higher demand |
| Gas boiler | 15,000 kWh | £0.07 | £1,050 | Current OFGEM price cap |
Scenario 2: Poorly Insulated Victorian Terrace (100 m², EPC E)
| System | Annual kWh | Cost per kWh | Annual Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Air source heat pump | 12,000 kWh | £0.24 | £1,152 | COP drops to 2.0 in cold weather |
| Infrared heating | 18,000 kWh | £0.24 | £2,160 | Heat loss is higher |
| Gas boiler | 22,500 kWh | £0.07 | £1,575 |
Key takeaways:
- Heat pumps are 50-60% cheaper to run than infrared in well-insulated homes, thanks to their high efficiency.
- Infrared can cost more to run than a gas boiler in poorly insulated homes, as heat loss increases electricity demand.
- Hybrid systems (heat pump + infrared) can cut costs by up to 30% by using infrared only in occupied rooms, reducing the load on the heat pump.
Pro tip: Use our savings calculator to estimate your running costs based on your home’s EPC rating and insulation levels.
Lifetime Value: Heat Pumps Pay Off in 7-12 Years
To assess the long-term financial viability of each system, we’ll compare the total costs over 15 years, including installation, running costs, and maintenance. We’ll assume the following:
- Heat pump: £10,000 installed, £7,500 BUS grant, £600/year running cost, £150/year maintenance.
- Infrared: £3,000 installed, £1,200/year running cost, £0 maintenance.
- Gas boiler: £2,500 installed, £1,000/year running cost, £100/year maintenance.
| Year | Heat Pump Total Cost | Infrared Total Cost | Gas Boiler Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | £2,500 | £3,000 | £2,500 |
| 5 | £5,750 | £9,000 | £7,500 |
| 10 | £9,000 | £15,000 | £12,500 |
| 15 | £12,250 | £21,000 | £17,500 |
Break-even point:
- Heat pump vs gas boiler: 7-10 years (with the BUS grant).
- Heat pump vs infrared: 12-15 years (if running costs remain low).
Why heat pumps win long-term:
- Lower running costs: Heat pumps cost £500-£900/year to run, compared to £1,200-£1,500/year for infrared.
- Longer lifespan: Heat pumps last 15-20 years, while infrared panels typically last 10-15 years.
- Higher home value: Installing a heat pump can boost your EPC rating by 1-2 bands, making your home more attractive to buyers and potentially increasing its market value.
When infrared wins:
- Short-term use: If you plan to rent or sell your home within 5 years, infrared may be more cost-effective.
- Small spaces: Infrared is ideal for home offices, extensions, or holiday homes where whole-home heating isn’t required.
- No hot water needed: If you already have a separate hot water system (e.g., solar thermal or immersion heater), infrared can be a simple, low-maintenance solution.
The Grant Factor: How the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) Changes the Math
Heat Pumps: £7,500 Grant Cuts Costs by 50-70%
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) is a UK government initiative offering £7,500 off the cost of an air source or ground source heat pump. Here’s how it works and how to make the most of it:
-
Eligibility:
- Your home must have a valid Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) with no outstanding recommendations for loft or cavity wall insulation.
- You must be replacing an existing fossil fuel system (e.g., gas, oil, or LPG boiler). New builds are not eligible.
- The heat pump must be MCS-certified and installed by an MCS-approved installer.
-
How to apply:
- Your installer applies for the grant on your behalf after assessing your home’s suitability.
- The £7,500 is deducted from your bill at the point of installation, so you don’t need to pay upfront and claim later.
-
Example savings:
- Before grant: £12,000 installed cost.
- After grant: £4,500 (a 62% discount).
Pro tip: The BUS grant does not cover hybrid systems (e.g., heat pump + infrared). If you want both, you’ll need to pay the full cost for the infrared panels. However, you can still claim the grant for the heat pump portion of the system.
Infrared Heating: No UK Grants in 2025
Unlike heat pumps, infrared heating receives no government grants in the UK. Here’s why:
- Not low-carbon enough: Infrared panels run on electricity, which, as of 2025, is still 50% generated from fossil fuels. Heat pumps are 3-4 times more efficient, so they are prioritised for government incentives.
- No hot water: The UK government’s focus is on whole-home solutions that can replace gas boilers entirely. Infrared heating cannot provide hot water, making it ineligible for grants.
- Limited scalability: Infrared panels are most effective in small spaces and are not designed for whole-home heating, which is the primary goal of government incentives.
Workarounds to reduce costs:
- Local council grants: Some local authorities offer £500-£1,500 for energy-efficient upgrades. Check your council’s website for available schemes. For example, the London Borough of Camden offers grants for low-income households to install infrared panels.
- 0% VAT: Infrared panels are zero-rated for VAT if installed in a new build or as part of a renovation project. This can save you 20% on the installation cost.
- Solar panels: Pairing infrared heating with solar photovoltaic (PV) panels can significantly reduce running costs. A 4 kW solar array can generate enough electricity to halve your infrared heating bills.
Pro tip: If you’re considering infrared heating, use our home suitability check to assess whether it’s the right choice for your property.
Which is Best for YOUR Home? New Builds vs Victorian Terraces vs Flats
New Builds (EPC A/B): Heat Pump is the Clear Winner
Why?
- Low heat demand: New builds are highly insulated and often have underfloor heating (UFH), which is ideal for heat pumps. This allows the heat pump to operate at peak efficiency (COP of 3.5-4.0).
- Future-proofing: Heat pumps comply with 2025 Building Regulations, which ban gas boilers in new builds. Installing a heat pump ensures your home meets future standards.
- Increased home value: Heat pumps can boost your EPC rating to A or B, making your home more attractive to buyers and potentially increasing its market value.
Example: A 4-bed new build in Manchester
- Heat pump cost: £9,000 installed (£1,500 after the £7,500 BUS grant).
- Running cost: £450/year (vs £1,200 for a gas boiler).
- Payback period: 4-5 years (compared to 10-12 years for a gas boiler).
When to consider infrared:
- Supplementary heating: Use infrared panels in bathrooms for instant warmth or in bedrooms to top up heat during colder months.
- Off-grid homes: If your new build is not connected to the gas grid, infrared heating can be a cheaper alternative to LPG or oil.
Victorian Terraces (EPC D/E): Hybrid Systems Shine
Why?
- High heat demand: Victorian homes are often poorly insulated and lose heat quickly, making it challenging for a heat pump to maintain comfortable temperatures in winter.
- Draughty rooms: Infrared panels can top up heat in cold spots, such as bay windows or uninsulated extensions.
- Hot water needs: Heat pumps can handle hot water, while infrared cannot, making a hybrid system a practical solution.
Example: A 3-bed Victorian terrace in London
- Hybrid system: £8,000 for a heat pump (£500 after the £7,500 BUS grant) + £2,000 for infrared panels.
- Running cost: £700/year (vs £1,500 for a gas boiler).
- Payback period: 8-10 years.
Pro tip: Use smart zoning to control infrared panels room-by-room. For example:
- Heat pump: Runs 24/7 at a low temperature (e.g., 18°C) to maintain background heat.
- Infrared panels: Turn on 30 minutes before bedtime to warm bedrooms to 20°C, reducing the load on the heat pump.
Flats (EPC C/D): Infrared Can Be a Smart Choice
Why?
- Limited space: Heat pumps require an outdoor unit (which may not be allowed in flats) and a hot water cylinder (which takes up valuable space).
- Quick install: Infrared panels can be mounted on walls or ceilings with minimal disruption, making them ideal for flats.
- No planning permission: Unlike heat pumps, infrared panels do not require planning permission unless you live in a listed building or conservation area.
Example: A 2-bed flat in Edinburgh
- Infrared cost: £2,500 installed.
- Running cost: £900/year (vs £1,100 for a gas boiler).
- Payback period: 10-12 years (vs never for a heat pump, due to space constraints).
When to avoid infrared:
- If you need hot water: You’ll still need a separate system (e.g., immersion heater or gas boiler), which can add to running costs.
- If your flat is poorly insulated: Running costs will increase significantly in winter, making infrared less cost-effective.
When to choose a heat pump:
- You need hot water and have space for a cylinder.
- Your flat is poorly insulated, and you want a more efficient heating solution.
- You plan to stay long-term and want to increase your home’s value.
Pro tip: If you’re unsure which system is best for your flat, use our home suitability check to compare options based on your property’s size, insulation, and layout.
The Hot Water Problem: A Critical Point Most Overlook
Heat Pumps: Hot Water Included (But You’ll Need a Cylinder)
Heat pumps can heat your water, but there are important considerations to keep in mind:
-
How it works:
- A hot water cylinder (£800-£1,500) stores heated water. The heat pump heats the cylinder to 50-60°C, which is slightly lower than the 70°C typical of gas boilers.
- You’ll need extra space for the cylinder, which is roughly the size of a fridge (around 60 cm wide and 150 cm tall).
-
Pros:
- No need for a separate boiler: This saves £1,000-£2,000 on installation costs.
- Energy-efficient: Heat pumps use less energy than gas boilers to heat water, reducing running costs.
-
Cons:
- Slower reheat time: If you use all the hot water, it can take 1-2 hours to reheat the cylinder, which may be inconvenient for larger households.
- Legionella risk: To prevent the growth of Legionella bacteria, you’ll need to heat the cylinder to 60°C at least once a week. This can slightly reduce the system’s efficiency.
Pro tip: Choose a stainless steel cylinder (more durable than copper) and insulate it well to reduce heat loss by up to 30%. Consider a twin-coil cylinder if you plan to add solar thermal panels in the future.
Infrared Heating: No Hot Water (You’ll Need a Backup)
Infrared panels cannot heat water, which means you’ll need a separate system for hot water. Here are your options:
-
Immersion heater:
- Cost: £200-£500 installed.
- Running cost: £1-£1.50/hour, making it expensive for regular use.
- Best for: Occasional use or as a backup.
-
Gas boiler:
- Cost: £2,500-£4,000 installed.
- Running cost: £500-£800/year for hot water alone.
- Best for: Homes already connected to the gas grid.
-
Solar thermal:
- Cost: £3,000-£5,000 installed.
- Running cost: £0 (after installation), but only works in daylight.
- Best for: Homes with a south-facing roof and space for a hot water cylinder.
Running costs add up:
- A typical family of four will spend £500-£800/year on hot water alone if using an immersion heater or gas boiler.
- Workarounds:
- Hybrid system: Use a heat pump for hot water and infrared for space heating.
- Point-of-use heaters: Install electric showers (£200-£400) to reduce hot water demand.
Case Study: Sarah’s Hybrid Solution Sarah is a homeowner in Bristol with a 3-bed 1930s semi-detached house (EPC D). She’s deciding between a heat pump, infrared panels, or a hybrid system.
-
Option 1: Heat pump only
- Cost: £10,000 installed (£2,500 after the £7,500 BUS grant).
- Running cost: £600/year.
- Hot water: Included (but requires a cylinder).
- Comfort: Slow to heat up, but consistent once at temperature.
-
Option 2: Infrared only
- Cost: £3,000 installed.
- Running cost: £1,200/year.
- Hot water: Needs an immersion heater (£500/year extra).
- Comfort: Instant heat, but cold spots in draughty rooms.
-
Option 3: Hybrid system
- Cost: £8,000 for a heat pump (£500 after grant) + £2,000 for infrared panels.
- Running cost: £700/year.
- Hot water: Handled by the heat pump.
- Comfort: Best of both worlds - instant heat in bedrooms (infrared) and consistent warmth elsewhere (heat pump).
Sarah chooses the hybrid system. After 5 years, she’s saved £2,500 compared to a gas boiler and enjoys warmer mornings in her bedroom (thanks to infrared) without sacrificing hot water.
Hybrid Systems: The Best of Both Worlds?
How Hybrid Systems Work
A hybrid heating system combines:
- A heat pump (for whole-home heating + hot water).
- Infrared panels (for instant heat in key rooms).
Example setup:
- Heat pump: Covers radiators in living areas (e.g., lounge, kitchen) and hot water.
- Infrared panels: Installed in bedrooms and bathrooms for instant warmth.
Benefits of Hybrid Systems
| Benefit | How It Works |
|---|---|
| Lower running costs | The heat pump runs at base load, while infrared panels top up heat only when needed, reducing overall energy use. |
| Faster heat-up times | Infrared panels heat occupied rooms instantly, eliminating the wait for radiators to warm up. |
| No cold spots | Infrared panels can target draughty areas (e.g., bay windows or extensions) that the heat pump struggles to heat. |
| Future-proof | The heat pump covers hot water needs, while infrared panels can be added or removed as required. |
Costs and Savings
| Factor | Heat Pump Only | Hybrid System | Infrared Only |
|---|---|---|---|
| Installation cost | £10,000 | £10,000 + £2,000 | £3,000 |
| Running cost (year) | £600 | £700 | £1,200 |
| Hot water? | Yes | Yes | No |
| Comfort | Good | Excellent | Variable |
Pro tip: Use a smart thermostat (e.g., Hive or Nest) to automate the switch between the heat pump and infrared panels. For example:
- Heat pump: Runs 24/7 at a low temperature (e.g., 18°C) to maintain background heat.
- Infrared panels: Turn on 30 minutes before bedtime to warm bedrooms to 20°C, ensuring comfort without overworking the heat pump.
Finding a Qualified Installer: Why It’s More Important Than the Hardware
Heat Pump Installers: Look for MCS Certification
A poorly installed heat pump can double your running costs and lead to frequent breakdowns. Here’s how to ensure you choose the right installer:
-
Check MCS certification:
- The Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) sets strict standards for heat pump installers. Only MCS-certified installers can apply for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) grant.
- Use our MCS installer finder to compare local options and read customer reviews.
-
Ask these questions:
- What’s the estimated COP for my home? A good installer will calculate this based on your home’s insulation and heating system. For air source heat pumps, the COP should be 3.0 or higher; for ground source, it should be 3.5 or higher.
- Will you upgrade my radiators? If your radiators are too small, the heat pump will struggle to heat your home efficiently. Upgrading to larger radiators or underfloor heating may be necessary.
- What’s the warranty? The heat pump should come with a 5-7 year warranty, and the installation should be covered for at least 2 years.
- Can you provide references? Ask for case studies or customer testimonials from similar properties.
-
Red flags:
- No EPC check: A reputable installer will inspect your home and review your Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) before providing a quote.
- Cheap quotes: If a quote is 30% lower than the average, the installer may be cutting corners (e.g., using undersized radiators or poor-quality pipework).
- No references: Avoid installers who cannot provide examples of previous work or customer contact details.
Pro tip: Get at least three quotes and compare them using our cost guide. Look for installers who offer free home surveys and detailed written quotes.
Infrared Installers: Simpler, But Still Critical
While infrared panels are easier to install than heat pumps, hiring a qualified electrician is essential to ensure safety and efficiency:
-
What to look for:
- Part P certification: This ensures the electrician is legally allowed to work on your home’s electrical system, including the fuse box.
- Experience with infrared: Some electricians may not be familiar with optimal panel placement for even heat distribution. Ask for examples of previous infrared installations.
-
Ask these questions:
- Where will you mount the panels? Panels should be installed on external walls (where possible) to maximise efficiency. Ceiling-mounted panels are also effective but may require additional structural support.
- Will you install a smart thermostat? Smart thermostats allow you to control panels individually, reducing running costs by up to 30%.
- What’s the warranty? Panels should come with a 5-10 year warranty, and the installation should be covered for at least 1 year.
-
Red flags:
- No site visit: A good installer will measure your rooms and assess your home’s insulation before providing a quote.
- No thermal imaging: Some installers use thermal cameras to identify cold spots and optimise panel placement. This is a sign of a thorough installer.
- No electrical safety certificate: The installer should provide a Part P certificate after completing the work, confirming that the installation meets UK electrical safety standards.
Pro tip: Use our home suitability check to assess whether infrared panels are the right choice for your property before contacting an installer.
FAQ
1. Are heat pumps really cheaper to run than infrared heating?
Yes, heat pumps are generally cheaper to run than infrared heating, but the savings depend on your home’s insulation and heating habits. Heat pumps have a Coefficient of Performance (COP) of 2.5-4.0, meaning they deliver 2.5-4 kWh of heat for every 1 kWh of electricity consumed. In contrast, infrared panels are 100% efficient at converting electricity to heat, but because they do not heat the air, they may need to run for longer in poorly insulated homes.
Example comparisons:
- Well-insulated 3-bed semi (EPC B):
- Heat pump: £500-£700/year.
- Infrared: £1,000-£1,200/year.
- Poorly insulated Victorian terrace (EPC E):
- Heat pump: £900-£1,100/year.
- Infrared: £1,500-£2,000/year.
Key factors affecting running costs:
- Insulation: The better your home’s insulation, the more efficient both systems will be.
- Energy prices: Electricity is 3-4 times more expensive per kWh than gas, so heat pumps (which use less electricity) have a significant advantage.
- System size: Oversized or undersized systems will increase running costs. A professional installer should perform a heat loss calculation to determine the correct system size for your home.
Source: Energy Saving Trust - Heat Pump Running Costs.
2. Can I get a grant for infrared heating?
No, infrared heating is not eligible for UK government grants in 2025. The Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) only covers heat pumps (air source and ground source) because they are more efficient and can replace gas boilers entirely. Infrared heating is excluded for the following reasons:
- It cannot provide hot water, which is a key requirement for government incentives.
- It is not low-carbon enough, as electricity is still partially generated from fossil fuels.
- It is not scalable for whole-home heating, which is the focus of government policies.
Workarounds to reduce costs:
- Local council grants: Some local authorities offer £500-£1,500 for energy-efficient upgrades. For example, the London Borough of Islington provides grants for low-income households to install infrared panels.
- 0% VAT: Infrared panels are zero-rated for VAT if installed in a new build or as part of a renovation project. This can save you 20% on the installation cost.
- Solar panels: Pairing infrared heating with solar PV panels can significantly reduce running costs. A 4 kW solar array can generate enough electricity to halve your infrared heating bills.
Source: GOV.UK - Boiler Upgrade Scheme.
3. Which is better for a small flat: heat pump or infrared?
Infrared heating is usually the better choice for small flats, but the decision depends on your specific needs and circumstances:
| Factor | Heat Pump | Infrared Heating |
|---|---|---|
| Space needed | Outdoor unit + hot water cylinder | Wall/ceiling panels only |
| Installation cost | £7,000-£14,000 | £1,500-£4,000 |
| Running cost | £500-£900/year | £800-£1,500/year |
| Hot water? | Yes | No |
| Planning permission | Often required | Usually not required |
When to choose infrared:
- You don’t need hot water (or have a separate system, such as an electric shower).
- Your flat is small and well-insulated (e.g., a studio or 1-bed flat).
- You cannot install an outdoor unit (e.g., no balcony or garden).
- You plan to move within 5-10 years and want a low-maintenance, low-cost solution.
When to choose a heat pump:
- You need hot water and have space for a cylinder.
- Your flat is poorly insulated, and you want a more efficient heating solution.
- You plan to stay long-term and want to increase your home’s value.
- You have access to outdoor space for the heat pump unit.
Pro tip: Use our home suitability check to compare both options based on your flat’s size, insulation, and layout.
4. Do heat pumps work in cold weather?
Yes, modern heat pumps work in cold weather, but their efficiency decreases as temperatures drop. Heat pumps can operate in temperatures as low as -15°C, but their Coefficient of Performance (COP) falls in colder conditions:
| Outdoor Temperature | COP (Air Source Heat Pump) | COP (Ground Source Heat Pump) |
|---|---|---|
| 10°C | 3.5-4.0 | 4.0-4.5 |
| 0°C | 2.5-3.0 | 3.5-4.0 |
| -10°C | 2.0-2.5 | 3.0-3.5 |
How to improve performance in cold weather:
- Upgrade your radiators: Larger radiators or underfloor heating help the heat pump work more efficiently by distributing heat at lower temperatures.
- Improve insulation: Reduce heat loss with loft insulation, cavity wall insulation, or double glazing. The better your home’s insulation, the less the heat pump will need to work.
- Use a hybrid system: Pair the heat pump with infrared panels for instant heat in key rooms, reducing the demand on the heat pump during cold snaps.
- Choose a cold-climate heat pump: Some models are designed for colder climates and maintain higher efficiency at low temperatures. Look for inverter-driven heat pumps with a low ambient temperature rating.
Source: Energy Saving Trust - Heat Pump Efficiency.
5. Can I combine a heat pump and infrared heating?
Yes, combining a heat pump and infrared heating in a hybrid system is an excellent way to optimise comfort and reduce running costs. Here’s how it works:
How a hybrid system works:
- Heat pump: Provides whole-home heating + hot water at a low, consistent temperature (e.g., 18°C).
- Infrared panels: Installed in key rooms (e.g., bedrooms, bathrooms) for instant heat when needed.
Benefits of a hybrid system:
- Lower running costs: The heat pump runs at base load, while infrared panels top up heat only in occupied rooms, reducing overall energy use.
- Faster heat-up times: Infrared panels heat rooms instantly, eliminating the wait for radiators to warm up.
- No cold spots: Infrared panels can target draughty areas (e.g., bay windows or extensions) that the heat pump struggles to heat.
- Future-proof: The heat pump covers hot water needs, while infrared panels can be added or removed as required.
Example setup:
- Heat pump: Covers radiators in living areas (e.g., lounge, kitchen) and hot water.
- Infrared panels: Installed in bedrooms and bathrooms (2-3 panels per room).
Costs and savings:
- Heat pump: £10,000 installed (£2,500 after the £7,500 BUS grant).
- Infrared panels: £2,000 installed.
- Total cost: £4,500 (after grant).
- Running cost: £700/year (vs £1,200 for a gas boiler).
Pro tip: Use a smart thermostat to automate the switch between the heat pump and infrared panels. For example:
- Heat pump: Runs 24/7 at a low temperature (e.g., 18°C) to maintain background heat.
- Infrared panels: Turn on 30 minutes before bedtime to warm bedrooms to 20°C, ensuring comfort without overworking the heat pump.
Sources
- GOV.UK - Boiler Upgrade Scheme: Apply for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme - UK Government, 2025. Details on eligibility, application process, and grant amounts for heat pumps.
- Energy Saving Trust - Air Source Heat Pumps - Energy Saving Trust, 2025. Comprehensive guide on heat pump efficiency, costs, and suitability for UK homes.
- Energy Saving Trust - Boiler Upgrade Scheme - Energy Saving Trust, 2025. Overview of the BUS grant and how it can reduce heat pump installation costs.
- OFGEM - Check if the Energy Price Cap Affects You - OFGEM, 2025. Information on current energy prices and how they impact heating costs.
- MCS - Find an Installer - Microgeneration Certification Scheme, 2025. Directory of MCS-certified heat pump installers in the UK.
- Which? - Heat Pumps vs Gas Boilers: Which is Cheaper? - Which?, 2024. Independent comparison of heat pumps and gas boilers, including running costs and efficiency.
- The Guardian - Heat Pumps: The Pros and Cons - The Guardian, 2024. Analysis of heat pump benefits, drawbacks, and real-world performance.
- BBC Future - The Truth About Infrared Heating - BBC, 2023. Exploration of infrared heating technology, efficiency, and suitability for different home types.
- UK Parliament - Heat Pumps and the Future of Home Heating - UK Parliament, 2024. Policy report on the role of heat pumps in decarbonising UK homes.
- National Energy Foundation - Infrared Heating Guide - National Energy Foundation, 2025. Guide to infrared heating, including installation tips and cost comparisons.