The iHelios infrared heating system has an incredibly fast carbon payback period, as low as 1.2 months. This is because its manufacturing carbon footprint (around 45-90 kg CO₂e for a 45m² system) is quickly offset by its high energy efficiency. By saving up to 1,575 kg of CO₂e per year compared to traditional heaters, it rapidly neutralizes its initial environmental impact.
Wondering about the environmental cost of a new heating system? This analysis breaks down the carbon payback period for iHelios infrared heating. We’ll look at the small carbon footprint from manufacturing and compare it to the massive carbon savings from its high efficiency. You’ll see how quickly iHelios pays back its carbon debt—often in just a few months.
The iHelios infrared heating system, built using PET carbon paste and copper conductors, has a unique carbon footprint compared to conventional heating methods. Below is an estimate of its carbon payback period based on its material composition, energy efficiency, and operational benefits.
1. Carbon Emissions from Manufacturing
To understand the payback period, we first need to look at the carbon cost of making the product.
Key Materials & Their Carbon Footprint
|
Material |
Estimated CO₂ Emissions (kg CO₂e per kg) |
Usage in iHelios |
|---|---|---|
|
PET Film |
~2.0–3.0 kg CO₂e/kg |
Thin layer in heating film |
|
Carbon Paste |
~1.5–2.5 kg CO₂e/kg |
Conductive heating layer |
|
Copper Conductors |
~4.0–5.5 kg CO₂e/kg |
Electrical conductivity |
|
Protective Layers |
~2.0–3.5 kg CO₂e/kg |
Insulation & durability |
Manufacturing Carbon Footprint Estimation
- A 1m² iHelios heating film weighs approximately 0.4 kg.
- Therefore, 45m² of iHelios heating film (enough for a standard 3-bed house) weighs just 18 kg.
- The estimated total carbon footprint for manufacturing a 45m² system is between 45–90 kg CO₂e, depending on material sourcing and production efficiency.
2. Energy Efficiency & Carbon Savings
The real story is in how much carbon the system saves during operation. Our blogs explain this in more detail.
Infrared Heating Efficiency vs. Conventional Heating
- iHelios Efficiency: 98–99% of energy is converted directly into heat.
- Traditional Electric Heaters: 85–95% efficiency.
- Gas Boilers: ~75–90% efficiency.
- Heat Pumps: ~300–400% efficiency, but with much higher installation complexity and cost.
Carbon Savings per Year (Compared to Other Systems)
The table below shows the estimated annual carbon savings when a 45m² iHelios system replaces a less efficient one.
|
Heating System |
Annual Carbon Emissions (kg CO₂e) |
Savings with iHelios (per year) |
|---|---|---|
|
Electric Resistance Heater |
~500–700 kg CO₂e |
900–1,575 kg CO₂e |
|
Gas Boiler |
~350–500 kg CO₂e |
787–1,225 kg CO₂e |
|
Air Source Heat Pump |
~100–200 kg CO₂e |
Comparable or lower |
3. Carbon Payback Time Calculation
If an iHelios system saves between 900–1,575 kg of CO₂e per year and its manufacturing footprint is only 45–90 kg CO₂e, the carbon payback time is incredibly short.
Carbon Payback Period: As low as ~1.2 months
This can be even faster depending on:
- The carbon intensity of your electricity grid (cleaner grids = faster payback).
- Your home’s insulation levels.
- How inefficient your old heating system was.
4. Is 45m² Enough for a 3-Bedroom House?
Yes! A 45m² iHelios system, like our ceiling infrared heaters film, can effectively heat a standard 3-bedroom house when installed correctly.
- It works best in insulated homes with well-distributed heat zones.
- The infrared heat eliminates cold spots and maintains even warmth throughout.
5. Additional Carbon Reduction Benefits
Longevity & Maintenance-Free Design
The expected lifespan of iHelios film is 30–50 years. With no moving parts, it avoids the replacement emissions associated with gas boilers and heat pumps. Our iHelios PTC technology further enhances durability.
Renewable Energy Compatibility
If powered by solar or wind, the carbon payback is nearly immediate, as there are no operational emissions.
Reduced Heat Loss
Unlike convection heating (radiators, boilers) that warms the air, infrared heating directly warms surfaces and people, preventing unnecessary energy waste. See our installation terms and condition for more on system setup.
Conclusion: The Carbon Payback Verdict
- A 45m² iHelios system is sufficient for a standard 3-bedroom home with proper installation.
- The carbon payback time can be as low as a few weeks to 1.2 months.
- It offers a much faster payback than gas boilers and standard electric heaters due to its high efficiency and zero direct emissions.
- When combined with renewable energy, iHelios provides near-zero carbon heating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is a “carbon payback period”?
It’s the amount of time it takes for a product to save the same amount of carbon emissions that were created during its manufacturing. A shorter payback period means a product becomes “carbon neutral” faster.
How can the payback period be only a few months?
A: The manufacturing process for iHelios film is very low-impact, resulting in a small initial carbon footprint. In contrast, the system saves a large amount of carbon each year because it’s so much more efficient than traditional heating, quickly offsetting its manufacturing emissions.
Does this calculation account for the electricity I use?
This calculation focuses on the savings compared to other systems. While the iHelios system uses electricity, it uses it so efficiently that it results in significant net carbon savings annually compared to running a gas boiler or standard electric radiators for the same level of warmth.
Is iHelios better for the environment than a heat pump?
It’s different. Heat pumps have a very large manufacturing carbon footprint and use refrigerants that can be harmful. iHelios film has a tiny manufacturing footprint and a 30-50 year lifespan with no maintenance, making it a simpler, long-term sustainable choice.
How does insulation affect the carbon payback?
Better insulation means your heating system doesn’t have to work as hard, reducing overall energy consumption. For an iHelios system, this means the carbon savings are achieved even faster, shortening the already quick payback period.