Choosing a ceiling infrared panel
A ceiling infrared panel keeps walls and floors clear while providing radiant heat above a seating, working or living area. Start with a model approved for ceiling mounting. Then compare the heat output required, the available ceiling space and the controls.
Want heating and light in the same position? Explore our infrared panels with LED lighting. This collection focuses on choosing and positioning a heating panel above your room.
Jump to: Compare models · Power and layout · Prepare for mounting · Thermostat and controls
Compare three ceiling panels
The current product specifications list the following models for both wall and ceiling mounting. Their dimensions and weight help you assess the space above furniture, doors and light fittings. Before installation, also check the manual, the specified bracket and the clearances for the exact model.
| Model | Power | Dimensions in mm | Weight | Ceiling selection |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ecaros metaal 800 W | 800 W | 592 × 1192 × 17 | 14 kg | Rectangular format for a wider ceiling area. |
| Welltherm PB0610 | 610 W | 392 × 1492 × 17 | 10.7 kg | Long and narrow: compare the space between light fittings. |
| Alkari ALK-NG-1000 | 1000 W | 592 × 1492 × 17 | 16.8 kg | Larger, higher-power panel; check support and heat distribution. |
These are three examples from the range, without built-in LED lighting. Wattage describes the electrical power a panel draws; it does not by itself establish whether heat will reach the whole room effectively. Follow the model links for current prices, delivery and accessories. You can also compare our metal infrared panels.
How much power and how many panels?
First calculate the room volume: length × width × height. As an initial guide, Warmteshop uses 25 W per m³ with favourable insulation and 30 W per m³ with extensive glazing or poorer insulation. A room measuring 4 × 5 × 2.5 metres is 50 m³, giving an indicative total of 1250 or 1500 W. These guidelines do not replace a heat-loss calculation, particularly for primary heating, high ceilings or a higher target temperature.
Distribute that total across the areas where heat is needed. Several panels may be more practical than one large panel in a long room. Mark the seating area, dining table or desks on a plan, along with tall cupboards, beams, lights and other obstructions. Have the positions and mounting height assessed together; there is no single maximum height for every model.
To compare materials and other versions, visit our full infrared panel range. A wall panel may suit the room if there is insufficient suitable ceiling space above the area you use.
Preparing for ceiling mounting
- Check the model: ceiling mounting must be explicitly permitted; check the orientation and mounting height in the manual too.
- Assess the support: establish the panel weight and the supporting structure. The surface of a suspended or plasterboard ceiling alone may not provide sufficient support.
- Plan the clearances: follow the product-specific distances from ceilings, walls, lighting and other materials. Do not cover the panel.
- Plan wiring and controls: allow for cable routing, receiver access and sufficient electrical capacity for all panels together.
If unsure, have the fixing and connection assessed through our infrared panel installation service. In a bathroom, the model, connection method and position must also be suitable; an IP rating alone does not determine the complete installation choice.
Thermostat and controls for each room
The three example panels require suitable external controls. Generally choose one room thermostat per room. In a wireless system using separate receivers, each panel needs a suitable receiver. Check compatibility, switching capacity and which components are included with a standalone panel or complete kit.
Browse our thermostats and controls. Place the temperature sensor in a representative position according to the control system instructions. Wi-Fi is a control option; it does not establish whether a heating panel is suitable for ceiling mounting.
Ceiling heating with or without LED lighting?
A panel without LEDs lets you choose separate lighting. A combined system can be useful when heat and light suit the same position. Compare light output, dimming and independent heating and lighting controls on our LED infrared panel page. A separate lighting frame must match the specified panel series and size.
Have your ceiling layout checked
For advice, prepare the room dimensions, ceiling height, insulation details, glazing area and a photo or sketch of the ceiling. Tell us whether you want to heat the whole room or one area, and whether you want combined lighting. You can also experience the heat at our showrooms.