Infrared heating panels transfer a substantial part of their heat by thermal radiation. Instead of using an integrated fan to circulate heated air, the panel emits radiant energy towards people and surfaces within its effective radiation field.

The warmed surfaces can subsequently transfer heat to the surrounding room. This makes the position of the panel an important part of the heating concept: output alone does not determine how effectively the heat reaches the area where it is required.

Infrared heating panels are available with different electrical heating outputs. The appropriate capacity depends on the heating task as well as the room size, insulation, ceiling height, outside temperature, desired indoor temperature and the surfaces that can receive the radiant heat.

A simple watts-per-square-metre value can provide only rough orientation because buildings and operating conditions differ. Use model-specific information as a starting point and consider the actual heat requirement rather than selecting a panel from floor area alone.

When comparing heating panels, distinguish carefully between the physical panel area and the area of a room that can be heated. A larger panel provides a larger radiating surface, but this does not mean that its surface area represents a guaranteed room coverage figure.

Compare panel dimensions and heating output as separate technical values. Where product data uses terms such as effective area, check what the figure describes before using it for sizing, particularly when the value is close to the physical surface area of the panel itself.

An infrared panel should be positioned so that the radiating surface can transfer heat towards the intended area without unnecessary obstruction. Furniture, partitions and other objects between the panel and the target surfaces can affect how the radiant heat is distributed.

Consider the proposed mounting position before selecting the panel. Follow the model-specific minimum distances from walls, furniture, textiles and other materials, and never cover the heating surface during operation.

Wall mounting provides a space-saving installation for heating panels designed for this purpose. Selected models can also be positioned as freestanding units when suitable feet or stands are approved for the exact panel.

Do not infer mounting compatibility from similar panel dimensions or model names. Check whether the required brackets, feet or other mounting components are included or available separately and follow the installation instructions for the selected model.

Temperature control is an important part of an electric room-heating system. Some infrared heating panels integrate electronic temperature control, while other models require a compatible external thermostat or controller.

Compare the complete control concept before buying. Check whether the thermostat is built into the panel or supplied separately, whether timer functions are available and whether a remote control or additional accessory is required. Do not transfer control features from one TIH series or model generation to another.

Selected heating panels may be suitable for use in bathrooms or wet rooms when their protection rating and installation conditions support the intended application. This does not mean that every infrared panel can be installed in every part of a bathroom.

Check the IP protection rating, permitted installation location and required distances from bathtubs, showers and other water sources for the exact model. Permanent electrical installations must also comply with the applicable local or national electrical requirements.

An infrared heating panel uses electricity while producing heat. Its electrical energy consumption therefore depends on its power input and operating time, while thermostat control can influence how long the heater remains active under the actual room conditions.

Do not assume that infrared technology alone guarantees lower electricity costs than another form of electric resistance heating. The relevant comparison is the heat required for the application, the selected output, the control strategy and the resulting operating time.

Not every infrared heating panel is designed for the same purpose. Panels intended for supplementary or room heating should be selected according to indoor comfort and temperature-control requirements, while specialised professional panels can be designed for targeted heating of walls or other surfaces during drying work.

Always check the manufacturer's intended use for the exact model. A professional surface-drying panel should not automatically be treated as a room heater simply because both product types use infrared radiation and have a similar panel-shaped design.

Start with the intended heating task and installation position, then compare the technical characteristics and control options of the available panels.

• Choose the heating output according to the actual room and operating conditions;
• Compare panel dimensions separately from heating capacity and room-heating requirements;
• Check what values described as effective area or similar terms actually represent;
• Plan the mounting position so that the radiant heat can reach the intended area effectively;
• Verify whether the selected model supports wall mounting, freestanding use or both;
• Check whether thermostat, timer and remote-control functions are integrated or require separate accessories;
• Confirm the IP rating and installation requirements before use in bathrooms or moisture-exposed rooms;
• Distinguish panels intended for room heating from professional models designed primarily for surface drying.