Size
Wattage
You may notice that the total recommended wattage is lower than the wattage required when using other heating solutions, such as radiators or storage heaters. This is testament to the superior energy efficiency of infrared panels. The first step to heating your room effectively is to choose a panel or combination of panels that adds up to your required wattage.
If you find yourself with a choice between panels of a higher or lower wattage than your recommended total, always choose higher. Under-specifying your heating will force your panels to work harder to heat the space, decreasing their efficiency and shortening their life span. More powerful panels will heat the space easily and, if fitted with a thermostat, will simply switch off when the room reaches temperature – providing you with comfort heating at optimum efficiency.
As well as choosing the right wattage, it’s also important to position your infrared panels such that heat is delivered to every corner of the room. Because infrared panels heat directly, they will not heat areas of the room which fall outside their heating span. In many rooms, a combination of smaller heaters will provide a better distribution of heat than a single, larger panel.
Physical Size
Infrared panels are usually either square or rectangular. The shape of your panel will determine its heat distribution span, so you should bear in mind the size and shape of your room when making your choice. A rectangular panel may be a better choice for a long thin room, for instance, while a square panel might provide the optimum spread of heat in a room with equal sides. Check individual product details to choose the best panel shape and heating span for your location. Most rectangular infrared panels can be mounted either horizontally or vertically, giving you the flexibility to adapt your heating to the available space.