How long does an infrared heater have to run during the day?
The question of how long an infrared heating system should run every day is one that concerns many users and interested parties. The answer is complex, as it depends on various factors – from the insulation of the room to user behavior and the technical equipment of the heating system. In this detailed guide, you will find in-depth knowledge, practical calculation examples, comparison tables, tips for increasing efficiency and, of course, individual solutions with Heat4All infrared heaters.
Table of contents
- How an infrared heater works
- Factors influencing the running time
- Typical heating times & practical examples
- Electricity consumption & costs at a glance
- Tips for optimizing the runtime
- FAQ: Your most frequently asked questions
- Pictures & Videos: Inspiration & Technology
- Heat4All – your benefits at a glance
1. how an infrared heater works
Infrared heaters do not heat the room air like classic convection heaters, but instead emit infrared heat waves that hit the walls, furniture and people directly. The stored heat is continuously emitted into the room, which ensures a pleasant and even room climate. As soon as the surfaces are warm, the heating only needs to be switched on at intervals to maintain the temperature.
2. factors influencing the daily runtime
The actual running time of an infrared heater per day depends on several parameters:
| Factor | Influence on runtime |
|---|---|
| Insulation | Well-insulated rooms require less heating time |
| Outdoor temperature | The colder it is, the longer heating is required |
| Room size/height | Larger rooms = more energy requirement |
| User behavior | Frequent ventilation, open doors increase demand |
| Thermostats | Modern control system reduces running time |
| Positioning | Free mounting increases efficiency |
Did you know?
In well-insulated new buildings, a heating time of 20-30 minutes per hour is often sufficient to maintain the desired temperature. In older buildings with poor insulation, the heating time can increase to up to 8 hours a day (source: Heat4All, Bosch, Buderus).
3. typical heating times & practical examples
Example 1: Newly built apartment (well insulated)
- Room size: 25 m², room height 2.5 m
- Recommended heat output: around 30-40 W/m²
- Daily running time: 4-5 hours per day (at outside temperatures around 0°C)
Example 2: Old apartment (poorly insulated)
- Room size: 25 m², room height 2.7 m
- Recommended heat output: 60-80 W/m²
- Daily running time: 6-8 hours per day
Table: Running times and consumption by building type
| Building type | Heat output (W/m²) | Recommended running time (hours/day) |
|---|---|---|
| Passive house | 20-30 | 2-3 |
| New construction | 30-40 | 4-5 |
| Old building (good) | 50-60 | 5-7 |
| Old building (schl.) | 70-90 | 7-10 |
4. electricity consumption & costs at a glance
The running time of your infrared heater largely determines the power consumption. The formula is
Power consumption (kWh/day) = heating output (kW) x running time (h/day)
Calculation example:
- Heating panel with 700 watts (0.7 kW), 5 hours a day:
- 0.7 kW x 5 h = 3.5 kWh per day
- At 0.32 €/kWh: 3.5 kWh x € 0.32 = € 1.12 per day
Annual costs:
- 3.5 kWh x 180 days = 630 kWh x € 0.32 = € 201.60 per year
Comparison table: Consumption by runtime and power
| Performance | 4 hours | 6 hours | 8 hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| 400 W | 1.6 kWh | 2.4 kWh | 3.2 kWh |
| 700 W | 2.8 kWh | 4.2 kWh | 5.6 kWh |
| 1000 W | 4.0 kWh | 6.0 kWh | 8.0 kWh |
5. tips for optimizing runtime and efficiency
- Use thermostats: Smart controls regulate the heating intervals and reduce unnecessary running times.
- Several small panels: even heat distribution saves energy.
- Free installation: Do not install behind furniture or curtains.
- Good insulation: Invest in window/door seals.
- Ventilation behavior: Shock ventilation instead of continuous ventilation.
- Use photovoltaics: Reduce your electricity costs with your own electricity.
6. FAQ: The most important questions about the term
How quickly does an infrared heater heat up?
- Usually within 5-20 minutes (depending on model and room).
Can the heating run continuously?
- Possible, but not efficient. Better: thermostat or timer operation.
How much electricity does an infrared heater consume per year?
- Example: 700 W, 6 hours a day, 180 heating days = 756 kWh/year (~242 € at 0.32 €/kWh).
Is an infrared heater suitable as a main heating system?
- Ideal in modern buildings or as additional heating. Costs increase with poor insulation.
7 Heat4All – your benefits at a glance
- Maximum efficiency: state-of-the-art infrared technology, produced in Austria.
- Design variety: from classic to individually printed.
- Comprehensive advice: personal needs assessment and planning.
- Smart controls: For maximum control and efficiency.
- Accessories & extras: From feet to app-controlled thermostats.
- Customer experiences: See for yourself in our customer testimonials.
Get individual advice now!
Would you like a personal calculation of your optimum running time and heating costs? Use our heating load calculator or contact our team for a customized offer.
Heat4All Vertriebs GmbH
- Phone: 0 800 150 2600
- Contact form
Further links
Heat4All – Efficient. Safe. Stylish.
