Heating consultation and planning: Infrared heating in residential construction & heating systems purchase cost comparison

Infrared heaters are increasingly being used in residential construction and offer several advantages. Here is some information on the use of infrared heaters in residential construction:

Efficient heat dissipation

Infrared heaters don't heat the air, but directly the surfaces and objects in the room. This allows for more efficient and targeted heat distribution. Compared to conventional heating systems, this can lead to energy savings, as less energy is needed to heat the entire air mass in the room.

Flexibility during installation

Infrared heaters offer flexible installation options, as they can be mounted on walls, ceilings, or used as freestanding units. They require no pipes or radiators, thus enabling easy integration into existing living spaces or new construction.

Individual room control

Infrared heaters can be individually controlled, either through integrated thermostats or via central control systems. This allows for precise temperature regulation in each room and adaptation to the individual needs of the occupants.

Reduced heat losses

Because infrared heaters directly heat the objects in the room, heat loss through windows or poor insulation is less affected. This minimizes potential heat loss, resulting in more efficient heating operation.

Additional benefits

Infrared heaters also offer other advantages such as a fast response time (the heat is immediately noticeable), low maintenance costs (no moving parts) and a pleasant sensation of warmth, as the heat is perceived similarly to solar radiation.

➡️ However, it is important to note that the use of infrared heaters in residential construction depends on various factors, including size.

The purchase price of infrared heaters can vary depending on the manufacturer, model, size, and additional features. There are different types of infrared heaters, including wall heaters, ceiling heaters, and freestanding heaters, each with its own price range.

Generally, the purchase price of infrared heaters is comparable to that of conventional heating systems such as gas or oil heaters. However, the exact cost depends on several factors. Here are some cost aspects to consider when purchasing infrared heaters:

Equipment costs

The cost of the infrared heater itself depends on its size, power output, and quality. Smaller models for individual rooms can start at a few hundred euros, while larger or more powerful models can cost several thousand euros.

Installation costs

Installation costs vary depending on the type of infrared heater and its desired location. Wall and ceiling heaters generally require professional installation, while freestanding units are easy to install. Additional costs may apply for electrical work, wall mounting, or other specific requirements.

Operating costs

When considering the purchase price, operating costs should also be taken into account. Infrared heaters run on electricity, so the ongoing electricity costs should be factored in. However, they are generally more efficient than conventional heating systems because they distribute heat more precisely and therefore may have lower operating costs.

Heating systems – comparison of purchase costs in Germany – Image: Xpert.Digital

These are company details

The information provided is for guidance only and includes installation. Additionally, the various heating systems must be adapted to the specific site conditions, which may result in further individual costs.

This statistic compares the purchase costs of various heating systems in Germany in 2022. The investment costs for a heat pump typically range between €18,750 and €37,500. An air-to-water heat pump is the most affordable option. This information is intended only as a preliminary guide.

Comparison of the acquisition costs of different heating systems in Germany in 2022

• Individual floor heating €4,800 – €8,800
• Solar thermal system €5,600 – €13,750
• Electric heating €6,250 – €10,000
• Infrared heating €6,250 – €10,000
• Gas heating €7,500 – €12,500
• Oil heating €8,750 – €11,250
• Wood gasifier €12,500 – €20,000
• Heat pump €18,750 – €37,500
• Pellet heating system €21,000 – €31,000
• Combined heat and power plant €25,000 – €50,000
• Wood chip heating system €27,500 – €35,000
• Fuel cell €31,000 – €70,000

Here is a rough comparison of the purchase costs of some common heating systems in Germany. Please note that the costs depend heavily on various factors and the amounts given are only intended as general guidelines:

Gas heating

The purchase price of a gas heating system varies depending on the type (condensing boiler, low-temperature boiler, combi boiler, etc.) and the size of the system. Costs can range from €3,000 to €10,000 or more, depending on whether a boiler, radiators, and additional installations are required.

Oil heating

Similar to gas heating systems, the purchase costs for oil heating systems vary depending on the size, type, and features of the system. Costs can range from €5,000 to €15,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the installation.

heat pump

The purchase price of a heat pump varies depending on the type (air-to-water, geothermal, water-to-water) and its performance. An air-to-water heat pump can cost between €8,000 and €15,000, while geothermal or water-to-water heat pumps are generally more expensive, costing between €15,000 and €30,000 or more.

Infrared heating

The purchase price of infrared heaters varies depending on the model, size, and power output. Smaller models for individual rooms can start at a few hundred euros, while larger or more powerful models can cost several thousand euros.

It is important to note that these are only rough estimates and the actual costs will depend on various factors, including the size of the area to be heated, the building's energy requirements, the installation, and individual preferences. It is recommended to obtain quotes from several suppliers and consult with professionals to determine the exact costs for your specific project.

There are various approaches and technologies for the heating systems of the future that offer high efficiency, sustainability, and comfort. Here are four promising heating systems that can be considered "heating systems of the future":

Infrared heaters

Infrared heaters have gained popularity in recent years and could play a role in certain applications in the future. They generate heat by emitting electromagnetic radiation in the infrared range, which is directly absorbed by surfaces in the room. Infrared heaters can deliver heat precisely where it is needed, providing a pleasant and rapid warmth. Furthermore, they can be powered by renewable electricity, making them a more environmentally friendly solution.

However, it is important to note that infrared heaters may not achieve the same overall energy efficiency and energy consumption as heat pumps or fuel cell heating systems. Efficiency and energy savings depend on various factors such as the building's thermal insulation, room size and usage, and individual preference.

➡️ Infrared heaters can be combined with other heating systems such as heat pumps or storage tanks to ensure a reliable and sustainable heat supply.

More information here:

• Heating: Combination of infrared heating and heat pump

Heat pumps

Heat pumps are considered one of the most promising heating solutions of the future. They utilize renewable energy sources such as air, water, or geothermal energy and convert it into heat. Heat pumps are extremely efficient and can generate several units of heat energy from one unit of electrical energy. They can be used for both heating and cooling a building and offer high energy efficiency and low CO2 emissions.

Fuel cell heating appliances

Fuel cell heating systems combine heat generation with electricity generation using hydrogen or natural gas. This technology converts the fuel into hydrogen, simultaneously generating heat and electrical energy. Fuel cell heating systems are characterized by high efficiency and can increase on-site electricity consumption within a building, thus reducing the need for external electricity purchases.

Solar heating systems

Solar heating systems use solar energy to generate heat and are considered a future-oriented technology. Solar thermal collectors capture solar energy and convert it into heat that can be used for space heating or hot water preparation.

➡️ Solar heating systems can be combined with other heating systems such as heat pumps or storage tanks to ensure a reliable and sustainable heat supply.

Heating systems of the future

These four heating systems offer advantages such as high efficiency, the use of renewable energy sources, and low CO2 emissions. They help to reduce energy consumption and environmental impact compared to conventional heating systems. It is important to note that the selection of the appropriate heating system depends on various factors, such as building location, size, individual needs, and local regulations. Therefore, professional advice from experts is recommended to determine the best heating system for a specific situation.