Infrared panels in Reading

Q: How much do infrared panels cost in Reading?

Infrared Panels in Reading typically cost between £170 and £2,170 installed, depending on system size (modelled estimate). A typical mid-range system costs around £690. Actual costs vary depending on property and installer.

Q: How do I find a good installer in Reading?

We recommend getting at least 3 quotes from qualified installers. Check online reviews and verify that the installer holds relevant qualifications before signing any contract.

£170 to £2,170 installed, and 45% of homes in the council area rated EPC D to G.

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By Home Energy Quotes · Updated September 2026 · Reading, Berkshire

What infrared heating costs in Reading

1–2 panels

£170–£370

We don’t publish a saving figure for this upgrade.

3–5 panels (most common)

£450–£880

We don’t publish a saving figure for this upgrade.

6+ panels

£1,130–£2,170

We don’t publish a saving figure for this upgrade.

Source: Home Energy Quotes Cost Index, costs modelled March 2026, savings at the October to December 2026 price cap. Prices are estimates and include installation and VAT. Actual costs may vary.

Reading in numbers

Published statistics for the Reading council area, not our estimates.

At the 2021 Census, 15.7% of households in the Reading council area used electric heating only and 71.9% mains gas only. 45% of homes with an EPC in the Reading council area are rated D to G, and the median energy score is 70, which is band C.

Reading council area	Figure	Source
Households on electric heating only	15.7%	Census 2021, ONS
Households on mains gas heating only	71.9%	Census 2021, ONS
Homes with an EPC rated D to G	45%	ONS, EPCs lodged to March 2025
Median EPC energy score	70 (band C)	ONS, EPCs lodged to March 2025
Electricity network operator	SSEN Distribution (Southern England)	NESO licence area boundaries

These are published official statistics for the Reading council area, which covers Reading, not Home Energy Quotes estimates. Sources checked 6 October 2026.

Grants and funding in Reading

No infrared heating grant

There is no government grant for infrared heating panels in Reading, and they do not qualify for 0% VAT on energy-saving materials, so standard-rate VAT applies.

Source: HMRC — VAT Notice 708/6

Standard VAT

Infrared panels are not on HMRC's list of energy-saving materials, so 20% VAT applies and is inside the prices above.

Source: HMRC — VAT Notice 708/6

Warm Homes: Local Grant

The council is part of a Warm Homes: Local Grant consortium led by Portsmouth, allocated £34,807,254 in principle across the consortium for April 2025 to March 2028. Income and EPC rules apply.

Source: DESNZ, list updated July 2026

Is Reading a good place for infrared panels?

The area’s housing stock includes a range of properties suited to infrared panels installations throughout Reading. Combined with South East’s energy prices, infrared panels installations here may offer good value (individual results will vary).

Reading has a population of 318,000, and the area falls within the South East region. We recommend getting at least 3 quotes to compare prices.

Find Installers in Reading

We recommend getting at least 3 quotes from qualified installers before making a decision. Check reviews, ask for local references, and make sure warranties are clearly stated in writing.

Request a free quote →

What to check before hiring an installer in Reading

Qualifications — check the installer holds relevant qualifications and certifications for infrared panels before signing any contract
Local references — ask for completed jobs in Reading or Berkshire
Reviews — check online reviews before committing
Warranty — product and workmanship warranties should be clearly stated in writing
3 quotes minimum — we recommend comparing at least three quotes to ensure you get a fair price

Questions about infrared panels in Reading

How much do infrared panels cost in Reading?

Infrared Panels in Reading cost between £170 and £2,170 installed, depending on system size. A typical mid-range system costs around £690 including installation and VAT (modelled estimate).

How are homes in Reading heated?

At the 2021 Census, 71.9% of households in the Reading council area, which covers Reading, used mains gas as their only central heating, 0.1% oil only and 15.7% electricity only.

Is there a grant for infrared panels in Reading?

There is no government grant for infrared heating panels in Reading, and they do not qualify for 0% VAT on energy-saving materials, so standard-rate VAT applies.

How long is the payback period in Reading?

We don’t publish a payback for infrared panels: no official source gives a reliable yearly saving. How we calculate costs explains why.

Do I need planning permission in Reading?

Most infrared panels installations fall under permitted development rights and do not require planning permission. However, listed buildings, conservation areas and flats may need approval. Always check with your local planning authority in Reading before installation.

How do I find a good installer in Reading?

We recommend getting at least 3 quotes from qualified installers. Check online reviews and verify that the installer holds relevant qualifications before signing any contract.

Get quotes for your home in Reading

Up to three approved installers who cover Reading may contact you. Free, no obligation.

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Reading on the map

Reading, Berkshire and the surrounding area.

Infrared Panels in nearby towns

Last reviewed: 15 September 2026. Costs are modelled estimates from the Home Energy Quotes Cost Index — see how we calculate them. Grant rates are checked against GOV.UK.