Wall-Mounted vs. Freestanding Infrared Panels: A Buyer’s Guide

Infrared heating panels have become a go-to solution for Aussies looking for energy-efficient, comfortable, and stylish ways to warm their homes and workspaces.

Infrared heating panels come in sleek designs, and they are known for their low running costs, making them a great choice for homeowners and renters across the country.

However, a common question asked is whether to opt for a wall-mounted or freestanding infrared panel. 

Understanding the differences can help you make an informed decision that aligns with your lifestyle and space requirements.

Should you choose a Wall-mounted or Freestanding Infrared Panel?

As Australians increasingly seek energy-efficient and stylish heating solutions, infrared panels have emerged as a popular choice. 

In particular, their sleek design makes them a great choice as they free up valuable floor space, allowing for more flexible interior design. 

This is particularly beneficial in smaller homes and apartments where space is at a premium.

Both wall-mounted and freestanding heaters deliver the same core benefit, but how you install and use them can make a difference in convenience and cost-effectiveness.

Here’s a closer look at the pros and cons of each, so you can choose the option that best suits your lifestyle, space, and budget.

Wall-Mounted vs Freestanding Infrared Panels: Pros, Cons & Use Cases

1. Wall-Mounted

Wall-mounted heating panels are ideal if you're looking for a permanent, unobtrusive heating solution. 

They’re usually installed high up on the wall, similar to a flatscreen TV, which allows them to radiate warmth across the room without taking up any floor space.

In modern homes or offices where style and space are important, this can be a huge advantage.

Pros:

• Out of the way: Great for small rooms, kids’ bedrooms, hallways, basements, and busy living areas where you don’t want to lose floor space.
• Stylish and discreet: Many panels are frameless and ultra-slim, blending into your wall like a piece of art. Some even come with a mirror finish or a high-resolution picture printed on the panel, so it really does look like a piece of art.
• Efficient heat distribution: Wall placement gives the panel a wide angle of radiation, warming your space evenly and effectively.
• Safer for families and pets: Wall-mounted heaters mean there are no cords to trip over.
• Low maintenance: Once installed, there’s nothing to move, unplug, or store.

Considerations:

Once the heater is installed, it stays put. Although possible, it is not ideal if you like to rearrange rooms often or need to move the panel from one space to another.

Wall-mounting your heater does involve a drill and a bit of planning, it’s pretty simple but a consideration none the less.

2. Freestanding

Freestanding heaters offer portable warmth that you can move from room to room. Heaters simply plug straight into a standard power outlet and come with wheels or legs for easy mobility.

They’re ideal for renters, occasional use, or anyone needing a flexible heating solution that can move between rooms. 

Since they don’t require installation, they’re perfect for temporary setups or spaces without central heating. 

Whether you need warmth in your bedroom, home office, or garage, freestanding heaters provide convenient, targeted heat where and when you need it most, making them a smart, adaptable option for various living situations.

Pros:

• No installation required: No need to drill, wire, or plan layout changes. Simply plug it in and feel the warmth.
• Easily movable to where you need it: Use it in the study during the day and wheel it into the bedroom at night. 
• Ideal for renters: Despite its reputation as a hot country, the winter in Australia can be brutal! Rental homes rarely come with heating so a portable panel is a fantastic solution to coping with the cold temperatures – and you can take it with you when you move. No landlord approval needed.
• Perfect for occasional spaces: Super useful when you have a house guest, or for a holiday home, studio, shed, or home gym where heating is only needed now and then.

Considerations:

Freestanding heaters take up some space and may be something to think about in smaller rooms or busy walkways. Visible cords could also be a hazard for small children.

Freestanding panels aren’t the most effective in large spaces, unless you have multiple units. They are best suited to small and medium spaces.

Energy Efficiency

Whether wall-mounted or freestanding, infrared panels are incredibly efficient. This is because they directly heat you and the objects in the room, not the air, which quickly cools or escapes through drafts.

To maximise energy efficiency, both options can be paired with thermostats and timers, which will help you reduce your electricity bills and lower your carbon footprint. 

In fact, in many Aussie homes, replacing older electric heaters with infrared panels can lead to noticeable savings over time.

Wall-Mounted vs Freestanding Infrared Panels: Which One Fits Your Lifestyle?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to whether wall-mounted or free-standing is best. Both wall-mounted and freestanding infrared panels have their unique advantages.

Your choice depends on your specific needs, space, lifestyle, aesthetic preferences, and budget.

If you want something discreet, fixed, and stylish for everyday use, wall-mounted is the way to go.

If you need portability, plug-and-play ease, or a temporary solution, freestanding ticks all the boxes.

Whichever you choose, both will keep you comfortably warm using cutting-edge technology that’s kinder to the planet and your pocket.

Still Need Help Deciding? Check Out this Simple Table: