There’s a lot of talk about heat pumps – is it all aload of hot (or not so hot) air?
Heat pumps provide heating and cooling options for homes and use the same technology as refrigerators. However their operation is much more complex and requires advanced technology to ensure optimal performance. Even so, if the conditions for installation are not properly assessed, the heat pump may underperform if under-specified and be costly if over-specified – as the UK industry is still in its infancy, generally there is a tendency to over-specify.
7 Reasons we believe why Infra-Red Heating systems are better than Heat Pumps
Thermal efficiency and instant heat
Infra-Red heaters emit radiation, which directly heats objects and surfaces in their line of sight, creating a warm and comfortable environment. These heaters are efficient, as they don’t rely on heating the air but instead transfer heat directly to the objects, minimizing energy loss. On the other hand, heat pumps utilize a refrigeration cycle to extract heat from the air or ground and transfer it indoors. They take some time to achieve the desired temperature due to the nature of the heat transfer process. Heat pumps experience fluctuations during repeated heating and cooling cycles and become less efficient in lower temperatures.
Zonal Heating
Infra-Red heaters provide zonal heating where they selectively warm specific areas or zones, without having to heat the entire area uniformly. This focused heat-transfer allows users to target and warm particular zones, such as seating areas or workspaces, without affecting the entire room. In contrast heat pumps operate by transferring heat through a central system, making zonal heating more challenging.
Installation Cost
Due to the differences in the technology and installation requirements, the installation cost of Infra-Red heaters is much cheaper than that of heat pumps. The simple design and function of Infra-Red heaters require less complex installation procedures as they don’t rely on ductwork or intricate systems for heat distribution – essentially all they need is an electrician. Heat pumps usually require ductwork for air distribution, and involve a more elaborate process that requires specialized skills, additional components, and is a more labour-intensive task with concomitant elevated costs.
Zero Maintenance
Infra-Red heaters require minimal maintenance as they have a simple design and do not have complex mechanical systems or moving parts. This results in fewer points of potential failure. Heat pumps require intricate systems with compressors, fans, and refrigerants, which may require periodic checks, filter replacements, and professional servicing to ensure optimal performance.
Zero Maintenance
Infra-Red heaters require minimal maintenance as they have a simple design and do not have complex mechanical systems or moving parts. This results in fewer points of potential failure. Heat pumps require intricate systems with compressors, fans, and refrigerants, which may require periodic checks, filter replacements, and professional servicing to ensure optimal performance.
Energy Efficiency
The targeted nature of Infra-Red heaters results in minimal energy waste, as there is no loss through ducts or inefficiencies associated with heating air. Heat pumps rely on a more complicated process of transferring heat from the air or ground, which may incur wasted energy consumption. In extremely cold conditions, heat pumps may struggle to extract sufficient heat from the air affecting their efficiency.
Modifications Post-installation
Infra-Red heaters operate as stand-alone units. As such new configurations and additions are simple and cheap to make. Heat pumps are a combination of complicated systems and altering the configuration may involve adjustments to ducts, refrigerant lines, and other technical elements, requiring professional expertise.
Design and Style
Kiasa’s Infra-Red heaters and bars are stylish and ergonomic, with sleek and versatile designs that blend seamlessly with a range of indoor and outdoor settings. With a range of decorative elements, these designs prioritize aesthetics without compromising on functionality. Heat pumps, on the other hand, are bulkier and may require outdoor units, limiting their aesthetic appeal.
All things considered we believe Infra-Red heaters beat heat pumps hands-down when it comes to any significant development or redevelopment project. To discuss your requirements contact our team at 0116 488 5150 or via email at customer.support@kiasa.co.uk
