As awareness surrounding climate change and the need for eco-friendly solutions increases, iHelios Living explores how infrared heating technology could protect the planet and save money
When it comes to building homes, commercial builders have a lot of factors to consider – cost, efficiency and sustainability being some of the most important ones. One such solution is infrared heating technology, which has been gaining popularity in recent years.
In fact, it recently featured on the popular home renovation TV show Grand Designs, with homeowner Daniel Fenwick using it in his low-budget build treehouse-inspired design in Scunthorpe.
Despite its cost-effectiveness, this technology does not compromise on quality and offers numerous benefits for both the environment and homeowners.
Infrared heating technology for a comfortable and healthy home
Danny says of his infrared heating system: “The heating system easily copes with the
open plan layout of the build, as well as the large amount of glazing. This is down to the
nature of the technology in that it heats things up as opposed to the air. The heating
is clever in that you just feel really comfortable, and the air feels clean. There is no humidity or condensation, and the environment retains its feeling of freshness.
“It feels very healthy inside the house with the heating and no feeling of stuffiness. The absence of radiators and pipes also enables a simple, uncluttered look to the house, as well as the obvious cost benefits of cheaper installation and a complete eradication of any ongoing maintenance or replacement of parts.”
Cost-effective heating
“In terms of bills and running costs, at this stage, these seem reasonable. Obviously, the
electric bills are higher as this is a solely electrically run system; however, this is not excessive. There is also no gas bill, so when this is factored in, it is a cost-effective
solution.” says Danny.
Health benefits of infrared heating
Infrared technology offers health benefits. As Danny mentioned, the air feels cleaner. Unlike traditional and air source heat pump radiators that heat the air, infrared heating
avoids wasting heat and prevents uneven temperature distribution, eliminating humidity issues and potential mould growth.
Moreover, it doesn’t stir up dust particles, making it suitable for those with allergies, eczema, asthma and other air quality sensitive conditions.
Sylwester Raczynski, inventor and founder of the infrared technology iHelios Living
reinvented, a company based in Hull that was used for Danny’s project, says: “As we head into another winter, more people are looking for cost-effective solutions to navigate their fuel costs, and they want greater control over their electric usage.
“Added to this is the increase in eco-anxiety. I am finding more companies and individuals are contacting us as they explore alternative non-traditional heating solutions.”
The installation costs involved
The cost of installing the iHelios system in Danny’s home totalled £2,980 plus £1,500 install. Installing gas to a home where gas is available is around the same price, but as
there was no gas connection on Danny’s land, installing a gas connection would have added an extra cost of around £5,000.
Infrared technology has been utilised in Europe for 70+ years to heat homes, and the technology has also been used in baby units and to support muscle recovery in therapy
centres for decades.
While the UK has been slow to adopt the technology for heating, more and more schools and social housing projects have started implementing the technology, along with private homes and luxury developments.
The power of solar panels with infrared technology
In addition to its efficiency and cost-effectiveness, iHelios also works well with solar panels. By pairing the two together, homeowners can use the energy stored in batteries directly from solar panels, significantly reducing their energy bills. This combination can even result in a return on investment in solar panels within just a few years.
Infrared is making waves
Infrared technology is making waves in the UK as an alternative heating solution to air source heat pumps that is not only cost-effective but eco-friendly and beneficial for health.
Other advantages of the iHelios infrared heating system include low maintenance costs. Not only is it cost-effective to install but also significantly cheaper to maintain compared with traditional gas central heating systems and air source heat pumps.
“Despite its cost-effectiveness, infrared heating technology does not compromise on quality and offers numerous benefits for both the environment and homeowners.”
The system has no moving parts, making it completely maintenance-free, has a minimum 50-year lifespan and comes with a 20-year guarantee. Not only is the system maintenance-free, but it’s also wholly concealed, providing the added peace of mind that nobody will be able to tamper with it.
With its many advantages, it is no surprise that more and more commercial businesses
and homeowners are choosing to switch to infrared heating systems like iHelios. As the
trend continues to grow, we can expect to see a significant impact on both household
budgets and the environment.
iHelios Living Reinvented
Tel: +44 (0)1482 699314
*Please note: This is a commercial profile.