Comparison
Heat Pumps vs Infrared Panels: Whole-Home vs Zone Heating?
Short answer
Heat pumps heat your whole home efficiently; infrared panels are better for heating individual rooms on demand.
Which suits you
Heat Pumps: Whole home heating
Infrared Panels: Single room zone heating
Side by side
| Criteria | Heat Pumps | Infrared Panels |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront cost | £6,181–£21,010 | £137–£2,320 |
| Could save (est.) | up to £272/yr | No reliable figure |
| Efficiency | 300%+ COP | 100% efficient |
| Government grant | up to £7,500 | none |
| Carbon impact | Low carbon | Higher carbon |
| Installation time | 1–3 days | 1–2 days |
| Best for | Whole home heating | Single room zone heating |
Which should you choose?
Heat pumps heat your whole home efficiently; infrared panels are better for heating individual rooms on demand.
If you’re primarily concerned with upfront cost, Infrared Panels (typically £800–£2500) is generally the lower-cost option. If you want potentially lower running costs and a smaller carbon footprint long-term, Heat Pumps may offer better long-term value.
Heat Pumps: pros and cons
Where it wins
- 300%+ COP efficiency
- Could save up to £272 a year
- Lower carbon footprint
Where it struggles
- Higher upfront cost (£7000–£15000)
- Best suited to Whole home heating
- May need a property assessment first
Infrared Panels: pros and cons
Where it wins
- Lower upfront cost (£800–£2500)
- No reliable saving figure
- Best suited to Single room zone heating
Where it struggles
- 100% efficient only
- Higher carbon emissions
- Less future-proof
Questions about heat pumps and infrared panels
Which is cheaper — heat pumps or infrared panels?
Heat Pumps typically cost £6,181 to £21,010, while infrared panels cost £137 to £2,320. Compare both based on your property and energy needs.
Which saves more money — heat pumps or infrared panels?
Heat Pumps could save up to £272 a year (estimated). We don’t publish a saving figure for infrared panels: no official source gives one. Actual savings depend on your property, usage and tariff.
Which is more efficient — heat pumps or infrared panels?
Heat Pumps have an efficiency of around 300%+ COP, compared to 100% efficient for infrared panels.
Can I install both heat pumps and infrared panels?
Yes, many homeowners combine both technologies. A combined system may help reduce your bills further and increase your home’s energy independence.
Do both qualify for government grants?
Both heat pumps and infrared panels may qualify for government grants or schemes depending on eligibility. Criteria may change, so always check the latest requirements before proceeding.
Get quotes for either, or both
Tell us about your home and installers who cover your postcode may contact you.