Infrared Heating vs Heat Pumps: Which Is Right for Your Home?

Making sense of modern heating solutions with Cobalt Carbon Free

With energy prices on the rise and a growing shift away from gas, many homeowners are exploring electric heating options that are not only energy-efficient but also future-friendly. Two of the most popular low-carbon options are heat pumps and infrared heating - each offering distinct benefits, depending on your home and lifestyle.

At Cobalt Carbon Free, we support a whole-home approach to energy efficiency. That starts with insulation and continues with the right heating system. We’re proud to work with trusted partners like iHelios, whose cutting-edge infrared heating film brings a sleek, invisible alternative to traditional heating into UK homes.

Let’s take a closer look at how infrared heating compares to heat pumps, and which might be the best fit for you.

How They Work

Heat Pumps

Heat pumps extract heat from the air (air source heat pumps) or ground (ground source heat pumps) and use it to warm your home. They’re highly efficient but work best in properties that are already well insulated and can accommodate their space and technical requirements.

Infrared Heating

Infrared heaters work differently - they don’t heat the air. Instead, they emit safe infrared radiation that gently warms people and objects directly, just like sunlight on your skin.

One of the most exciting developments in this space is iHelios infrared heating film - a thin, flexible material that can be installed directly into the ceiling or floor, creating an invisible, zoned heating system that works quietly and efficiently in the background.

Installation & Aesthetic

• Heat Pumps: Installing a heat pump usually involves outdoor units, indoor cylinders, pipework and, often, replacing radiators or fitting underfloor heating. This can be disruptive, especially in older homes.

• Infrared: iHelios infrared film is installed beneath your ceiling or floor finish and is completely invisible once fitted. It’s fast to install with minimal disruption and no bulky equipment. There’s also no need to rearrange your space to accommodate radiators or large units.

  
  

Comfort & Heating Style

• Heat Pumps: Best suited to slow, steady background warmth across the entire home. However, they take longer to heat up and work best when kept running consistently.

• Infrared (especially iHelios film): Offers immediate comfort, with warmth felt directly on your body and surfaces. It’s perfect for zoned heating, allowing different rooms to be warmed individually based on use and occupancy. This makes it highly efficient in everyday life.

  
  

Efficiency & Energy Use

• Heat Pumps: Can reduce energy use compared to gas boilers, but only when well-designed and properly installed in an insulated home.

• Infrared: Efficient at converting electricity into usable heat, especially in insulated homes. Because iHelios systems heat surfaces rather than air, there’s less energy loss through ventilation or draughts.

  
  

Better yet, infrared pairs exceptionally well with solar panels. When powered by your own solar electricity, iHelios infrared systems can provide gas-free, zero-emissions heating.

Maintenance & Running Costs

• Heat Pumps: Require annual servicing and occasional maintenance to keep the system running efficiently.

• Infrared Heating: Virtually maintenance-free. With no moving parts or filters, iHelios infrared heating film is designed to last for decades without fuss.

  
  

Installation Costs & Support

• Heat Pumps: Higher upfront costs, often requiring radiator upgrades and major works. Government support schemes can help offset costs.

• Infrared: More affordable to install, especially with iHelios infrared ceiling film. No need for plumbing, pipework, or radiator replacements. While grant support is currently limited, the simplicity and speed of installation keep costs down.

  
  

Our Approach: Insulation First, Smart Heating Next

At Cobalt Carbon Free, we always aim to start with insulation, because no heating system can perform efficiently in a home that loses heat. We can design your project to include the most effective insulation alongside the most suitable, modern heating solution, tailored to your lifestyle, design preferences, and energy goals.

If you're looking for a discreet, low-maintenance, and future-proof solution, contact us today! Our partnership with iHelios infrared heating opens the door to comfortable, stylish living without compromise.

Book Your Free Home Energy Consultation Today!