Having plenty of options is usually good but they also make the choice much more complex than it should be. This guideline on infrared heating is meant to simplify the selection process so you can easily choose the best infrared heater for your specific needs.
Finding a heater that best suits you can become a complex undertaking. So we have compiled infrared heater reviews to help you sift through the options.
Reviews of Top 10 Infrared Heaters
Contents
Let’s begin with a simple comparison among the most popular and best rated infrared heaters around.
1. Dr. Infrared Heater 1500 Watt 5200 BTU Electric Cabinet Space Heater Review
The Dr. Infrared Heater 1500 Watt 5200 BTU Electric High Efficiency Cabinet Space Heater is a state-of-the-art heating device designed to both beautify your home and keep it cozy. It features a digital thermostat with an LCD display, remote control, a 12-hour timer, automatic shutoff, and a high energy efficiency. This portable heater is environmentally friendly, constructed from toxic-free materials like wood and galvanic steel. Notably, it can heat up a large room quickly with its Auto Energy Saving Model and high and low features, making it one of the best cabinet space infrared heaters available.
Pros:
- Environmentally Friendly: Made from toxic-free materials like wood and galvanic steel.
- Energy Efficient: Can heat up a large room quickly with its Auto Energy Saving Model, featuring a high and low setting.
- Convenience: Comes with a remote control, digital thermostat, 12-hour timer, and automatic shutoff.
- Safety Features: Includes tip-over protection and overheat protection.
- Maintenance: Features a washable air filter for easy care.
Cons:
- Noise Level: Although it features a high pressure low noise blower, the noise level is 39 dB, which may not be suitable for all users.
- Cannot Be Left Unattended: Despite its safety features, it should not be left unattended.
Weight and Dimensions
- Overall: 15” H X 12” W X 13” D
- Overall Product Weight: 23 lbs
- Power Cord Length: 72”
Customer Reviews
- Julian from Vado, NM mentioned, “It does a great job heating a travel trailer.”
- Jennifer from the US said, “Works great for the space needed.”
- Eric from PA noted, “It was okay for the winter, but didn’t warm the room too much. Works better in an enclosed room.”
- Brian from Hilton Head Island, SC recommended it for large attic areas, saying, “Guests are happy; it keeps our large attic area warm in winter.”
- Judy from Linwood, NC loved it saying, “It really heats up and keeps me nice and warm, and it’s so compact, you can take it to every room except bathrooms.”
2. Duraflame Electric 1500 Watt Infrared Heater Review
The Duraflame Electric 1500 Watt Infrared Heater is a high-efficiency cabinet space heater designed to provide supplemental heat for up to 1,000 square feet. With its infrared heat, it maintains natural humidity in the air, resulting in moist, comfortable heat without drying out the room’s air. The unit is framed in high-quality solid hardwoods and real wood veneers, and it remains cool to the touch. It also features a safety cut-off switch, which shuts down the heater in the unlikely event that it overheats, and concealed furniture quality casters for easy movement.
Pros:
- Maintains natural humidity in the air, providing moist and comfortable heat.
- Safety cut-off switch shuts down the heater in case of overheating.
- Concealed furniture quality casters for easy mobility.
- Cool-to-touch feature ensures safety.
- High energy efficiency.
Cons:
- Installation is required.
- May take time to heat larger spaces.
- Some users found it a little noisy.
Weight and Dimensions
- Overall: 15.28” H X 13.86” W X 16.38” D
- Overall Product Weight: 28.38 lb.
- Power Cord Length – End to End: 72”
Customer Reviews
- Gabriel from US mentioned, “My heater was just as advertised or, actually, better! It was shipped sooner than I expected.”
- Linda from Park Ridge, IL, noted, “Looks very nice, like the fact that it has wheels, but does not warm room quickly and is a little noisy.”
- Melanie from Baltimore, MD, expressed her dissatisfaction saying, “Everything about this heater was just as advertised EXCEPT it barely heats the space I bought it for…I DON’T RECOMMEND THIS PRODUCT.”
- Michelle from Maryville, TN, shared her satisfaction saying, “Works well. We have a similar heater, and it’s still going 14 years later. We are happy with its performance.”
- Another customer from Gretna, NE, mentioned, “This is my third heater of this model…Good cabinet, nice heater for its size. I just really like this model; it works well for us.”
The Duraflame Electric 1500 Watt Infrared Heater seems to be a good product for most users, providing moist and comfortable heat while maintaining natural humidity in the air. However, it is essential to consider the space size and heating requirements before making a purchase, as some users found it less effective in larger spaces.
3. Duraflame Electric Twin Star Home 1500 Watt 5200 BTU Electric High Efficiency Tower Space Heater Review
The Duraflame Electric Twin Star Home Tower Space Heater is a high-efficiency electric infrared quartz oscillating tower heater with a curved front, designed to provide moist, comfortable heat without drying out the room’s air. This heater is built from solid hardwoods and real wood veneers, and it includes Safer Plug™ fire prevention technology for added safety. It is capable of providing supplemental zone heating up to 1,000 square feet.
Pros:
- High Energy Efficiency: This heater is capable of providing supplemental zone heating up to 1,000 square feet, maintaining natural humidity in the air.
- Safety Features: Includes Safer Plug™ fire prevention technology and a tip-over safety switch, which automatically turns off the heater if it gets knocked over.
- Oscillation Feature: Allows the heater to remain stationary or oscillate and move side to side, spreading heat more evenly across the room.
Cons:
- Installation Required: The product requires installation.
- Weight: It weighs 22.88 lbs, which may be considered heavy for some users.
Weight and Dimensions
- Overall Dimensions: 22.8” H X 8” W X 11” D
- Power Cord Length: 72”
- Overall Product Weight: 22.88 lb.
Customer Reviews
- “My heater warms up my kitchen very well.” – Debra, Brownfield, TX
- “This heater really pumps out the heat! Good value as well.” – Tana, Newport Beach, CA
- “I bought this in October. Used it once or twice and it was good. Just came back and used it for like 3 days and it quit working already.” – Jennifer, North Hollywood, CA
- “This heater is well worth the money! It heats my whole camper nicely.” – Michelle, Anonymous
- “Complete chaos! Inaccuracies in your website One model number does not correspond to picture No one can solve the dilemma AWFUL! 2nd time around I ordered the tower this is what I got 2 times in a row.” – Patrick, Litchfield, QC
Note: The product review includes both positive and negative reviews from customers, and it’s based on their experiences and opinions.
4. Heat Storm 1500 Watt 5300 BTU Electric High Efficiency Cabinet Space Heater Review
The Heat Storm 1500 Watt 5300 BTU Electric High Efficiency Cabinet Space Heater is a stylish and efficient portable infrared quartz heater designed to provide a safer heating environment for medium-large rooms. Featuring four quartz infrared elements encased in a patented HMS Technology double-wall heat exchanger, this heater ensures better safety and quicker heating. The unit also includes a remote control for ultimate control, an LED display, and an Eco Setting to reduce power consumption.
Pros:
- Patented HMS Technology for soft, safe heat without reducing oxygen or humidity.
- Digital thermostat with LED display and remote control for easy operation.
- Eco Setting reduces wattage from 1500 to 750, saving power.
- Portable and convenient size with optional casters for easy movement.
- 1-year manufacturer warranty and lifetime washable air filter.
Cons:
- Might need two units for an average-sized living room.
Weight and Dimensions
- Overall: 15” H X 13.5” W X 11” D
- Overall Product Weight: 10 lb.
- Power Cord Length: 72”
Customer Reviews
- “It is a great heater. It heats my 1000 Sq. Ft. room great” – Chris, US
- “The heater very good, I will be ordering one more soon. Thank you.” – Venita, Baltimore, MD
- “Wonderful heater, I love the digital thermostat, it blows out really good heat.” – Teresa, Anonymous
- “I ordered this and someone stole the package from my porch. Wayfair refused to reimburse me even after I filed a police report.” – Gary
- “Heats up fast. The fan blows the heat a good distance. Needed a heater that warmed our space up and this did the job.” – Anonymous
The Heat Storm 1500 Watt Electric Cabinet Space Heater stands out as one of the best Infrared Heaters available for its safety features, energy efficiency, and convenience. However, ensure that one unit is sufficient for your space or consider purchasing multiple units for larger areas.
5. Home Comfort 1500 Watt 5120 BTU Electric Cabinet Space Heater Review
Home Comfort 1500 Watt 5120 BTU Electric Cabinet Space Heater is a game-changer for those cold winter days. This portable electric infrared cabinet heater is capable of producing twice the heat of most other 1500-watt heaters, providing warm, therapeutic heat for up to 1,500 sq ft. It is energy-efficient, saving up to 50% on home heating bills by providing economical supplemental zone heating exactly where you need it.
Pros:
- Energy Efficient: Can save up to 50% on heating bills.
- Safety Features: Includes a safety touch grill, child lock, and automatic shutoff.
- Portable: Comes with 4 easy-glide wheels for portability.
- Eco-Friendly: Uses less energy to produce heat, leaving a smaller carbon footprint.
- Next-Generation Quartz Heating Elements: Lasts an impressive 40,000 hours or an average of 6 to 8 years.
Cons:
- Price: It is on the expensive side, but you get what you pay for.
- Optimal Performance in Specific Conditions: Performs best in well-insulated homes with an outside temperature above 32°.
Weight and Dimensions
- Overall: 17” H X 16” W X 13” D
- Overall Product Weight: 20 lb.
- Power Cord Length: 72”
Customer Reviews
- “I’m very pleased with my electric fireplace. The heat feels wonderful, not scorching hot, but pleasantly warm. My electric bill went down, a huge plus!” – Lillian, Lynden, WA
- “This heater works amazingly. It feels more comfortable than a regular space heater and heats a large area so well that our furnace isn’t coming on all the time.” – Cindy, Neustadt, ON
- “I am enjoying my new heater. It keeps me warm on most days and nights. The only thing is if it is 10 or 11 degrees outside, it gets down to 60’s inside. Still a very good heater.” – Linda, Pittsburg, MO
The Home Comfort Electric Cabinet Space Heater is not only efficient but also comes with various safety features, making it one of the best infrared heaters available in the market. Despite its higher price point, the energy savings and durability make it a worthwhile investment.
6. Ktaxon 1500 Watt 5118 BTU Electric Tower Space Heater Review
The Ktaxon 1500 Watt 5118 BTU Electric Tower Space Heater is a 24″ tower infrared heater and fan designed to provide warmth in the room or space you are occupying, thereby reducing energy costs. It features a digital thermostat, timer, adjustable thermostat, remote control, automatic shut-off, and a cool-to-touch exterior. It operates on eco mode and includes safety features such as overheat and tip-over shut-off switches. With a temperature range of 50-90°F and simple knob controls, it allows you to establish zone heating in your home.
Pros:
- Energy Efficient: Operates on eco mode, reducing energy costs by warming up only the room you’re in.
- Safety Features: Includes overheat and tip-over shut-off switches and a cool-touch exterior.
- Portable: Lightweight and can be easily moved from room to room.
- Adjustable Settings: Features a digital thermostat, timer, and adjustable thermostat that can be controlled remotely.
Cons:
- Noise Level: Some users find the noise level too high for a bedroom.
- Not the most powerful: May not adequately heat larger spaces.
Weight and Dimensions
- Overall: 24” H X 7.3” W X 5.9” D
- Overall Product Weight: 8.4 lb.
- Power Cord Length – End to End: 70.87”
Customer Reviews
- “Works great but too loud for bedroom heater.” – Alfredo, Westland, MI
- “They are great and the price was amazing.” – Anonymous
- “Dry, warm, and toasty in my bathroom with this space heater.” – Janice, US
- “Nice heater. It turns off if it gets bumped which is a nice feature.” – Michelle, Waterloo, IA
- “Does not adequately heat. Very cheap.” – Anonymous, Neighbors Program
7. LifeSmart LifePro 6 Element 1500W Electric Infrared Quartz Space Heater Review
The LifeSmart LifePro 6 Element 1500W Electric Infrared Quartz Space Heater is a portable infrared heater designed to provide quiet and quick heating. It features 6 quartz elements, 3 heat settings (1000w, 1500w, and ECO), tip-over safety switch, overheat protection, cool-touch black steel exterior cabinet, child safety lock, and easy-glide casters. The innovative front air intake allows the heater to be placed directly against a wall. It also includes a washable lifetime filter and a 12-hour programmable timer which can be controlled using the included remote (requires 2 AAA batteries, not included).
Pros:
- Quick and Quiet Heating: Infrared heating provides quick and quiet heating.
- Safety Features: Includes tip-over safety switch, overheat protection, and child safety lock.
- Portable: Easy-glide casters allow for custom-placed heating.
- Maintenance-Free: Includes washable lifetime filter.
- Multiple Settings: 3 heat settings and a 12-hour programmable timer.
Cons:
- Noise Level: Some users find it too loud.
- Inadequate Heating: May not produce enough heat for larger spaces.
- Reliability Issues: Some users report that the heater stopped working after a few months.
Weight and Dimensions
- Overall: 16.3” H X 14” W X 10.4” D
- Overall Product Weight: 15 lb.
Customer Reviews
- “Very small and loud and it blows out cold air.” – Anonymous
- “Small compact, heats up a room. I may buy another one.” – Denise, Indianapolis, IN
- “This heating unit looked very nice but did not produce enough heat for me… I should have used it in a smaller space.” – Sherrill, Brentwood, MD
- “This heater does not work for you small space. I want to return it. How can I do that?” – Paula, ATLANTA, GA
- “Great little heater that can be moved from room to room with ease!” – Rob, ERIE, PA
8. Heat Storm 1500 Watt 5200 BTU Electric High Efficiency Wall Mounted Space Heater Review
The Heat Storm 1500 Watt 5200 BTU Electric High Efficiency Wall Mounted Space Heater is a powerful heating solution for bedrooms and medium-sized rooms with limited floor space. It comes with two power modes, allowing you to use the full 1,500-Watt or the 750-watt mode, and can be hung on the wall or made portable with the attachable feet included.
Pros:
- High energy efficiency: This heater warms up spaces of 250-300 sq feet as a primary heater and up to 1000 sq feet of additional heat as a secondary heater.
- Flexible Installation: Can be wall-mounted or made portable with attachable feet.
- Safe to touch: Even the grill is safe to touch, making it a great choice for households with children or pets.
Cons:
- Direction of Heat: Some customers have noted that it blows down instead of out, which can be an issue if not mounted on the wall.
Weight and Dimensions
- Overall: 12.75” H X 18.75” W X 4.5” D
- Overall Product Weight: 8 lb.
- Power Cord Length: 72”
Customer Reviews
- “The best I got, very nice and puts out hot when I want, perfect.” – Jessica
- “Nice little space heater. The first item didn’t turn on, but Wayfair quickly sent me a replacement item.” – Dan
- “Does not heat the way it should for the size room it is supposed to cover. Also, blows down instead of out so it hits the floor unless it’s up on the wall.” – Christina
- “Warms up the bathroom with no problem.” – Jim
- “So far I love it. The infrared heat the floor and warms a room quickly.” – Lori Ann
This review showcases the Heat Storm 1500 Watt as one of the best wall mounted infrared heaters available in the market. It provides high energy efficiency, flexible installation options, and is safe to touch. However, the direction of the heat can be a drawback for some customers.
9. Comfort Glow 5200 BTU Electric Wall Mounted Space Heater Review
The Comfort Glow 5200 BTU Electric Wall Mounted Space Heater is designed to provide soothing infrared heat with a powerful output of 5,120 BTUs. It features two energy-efficient quartz heating elements and has a sleek, slim design. The built-in thermostat, two power settings, and eco setting allow for maximum comfort while minimizing energy use. The unit also comes with a full-function remote control (batteries not included), an automatic shutoff feature, and a panel lock feature to prevent accidental setting changes.
Pros:
- Powerful output of 5,120 BTUs to provide soothing infrared heat.
- Comes with a full-function remote control for convenience.
- Automatic shutoff and panel lock feature for safety.
- Easy-to-read digital LED temp & indicator lights.
- Whisper quiet, high output fan for efficient heating.
Cons:
- Installation required.
- Batteries for the remote control are not included.
Weight and Dimensions
- Overall: 19.21” H X 17.32” W X 4.49” D
- Overall Product Weight: 13.5 lb.
Customer Reviews
- “Absolute junk, will not heat up the smallest room. Does not work.” – Sonny, Pearl River
- “Completely satisfied with this purchase, keeps my house warm and love the fact that I can set a timer.” – Trish, Los Angeles, CA
- “This was so easy to install and keeps my son’s wine cellar game room warm and toasty.” – Kimberly, Portsmouth, NH
- “Exactly as pictured. Puts out an amazing amount of heat for a little heater and it hangs on the wall so it’s not in the way.” – Connie, Pace, FL
- “This is a well-built, attractive wall heater. I mounted it in my RV. To quiet down the loud beeping each time you pressed a control button, I pulled off the faceplate and control board and stuffed the buzzer with part of a cotton ball.” – Bill, Lynchburg, VA
10. Duraflame Electric Stove Review
On a cold night, the Duraflame Electric Stove, which is one of the best infrared heater stoves, warms up to 1,000 square feet with its infrared quartz technology. This helps maintain natural humidity, resulting in moist, comfortable heat without drying out the room’s air. It features a durable metal body, side viewing windows, an operable beveled glass door, and patent pending 3D flame effect technology with adjustable brightness and speed settings. It can be operated with or without heat, providing a realistic fire ambiance all year round. The stove is portable, easy to assemble, and can be operated with the included remote control.
Pros:
- Maintains natural humidity for comfortable heat
- Realistic 3D flame effect with adjustable settings
- Operable with or without heat
- Easy to assemble and operate with included remote control
Cons:
- May not adequately heat a room larger than 1,000 square feet
- Settings need to be confirmed by opening the door, even when using the remote
Weight and Dimensions
- Overall dimensions: 23.4” H X 24” W X 13.07” D
- Power cord length: 72”
- Product weight: 28.6 lbs
Customer Reviews
- “This little heater warms up the space nicely, and the flame is realistic. My grandson loves to sit in front of the ‘fireplace’.” – PL, Cortland, NY
- “I was disappointed as the stove arrived dented and did not work properly. I am still waiting for a refund.” – Beth, Mason City, IA
- “The fire effect looks incredibly realistic, and the heat is adequate. However, I doubt it could really heat the whole room.” – Angela, Fayetteville, GA
- “It’s adorable and fits right where I wanted it in my home office. This will help a ton in the mornings!” – Amy, Fort Gibson, OK
- “Beautiful and easy to install. It looks perfect in my living room.” – Rozalia, Floresville, TX
Advantages of Using Infrared Heaters
These heaters don’t require a lot of time to warm you up. Instead of warming up the air, they work to heat bodies and objects directly.
As soon as you turn them on, they begin to emit infrared light and heat as a result.
- They operate quietly.
Infrared heaters don’t require a fan to work. All they need is light which cancels out the noise factor.
Even those with blowers only emit a very low level noise which is barely noticeable.
- They work in a more efficient manner.
With infrared heaters, energy waste is slim to none. That’s because they only heat the people and objects they are pointed at.
- Infrared heaters are environment-friendly.
These heaters prove to be a clean source of heat. They produce zero pollutants.
Infrared heaters do not run on wood. They also don’t require fossil fuels for heat production.
Drawbacks of Using Infrared Heaters
- The light they emit can be a bother.
Infrared heaters use light to produce heat. They emit an orange glow which can be bothersome for some people especially for those who are sensitive to light.
The brightness of light varies from one model to another. In this case, it is not advisable for bedroom use especially at night.
For someone who requires complete darkness to sleep, this portable kind may not be the best choice.
- Infrared heaters provide limited heat distribution.
If you intend on heating a large space with people constantly moving around, this type of heater may not be the best for the job.
There are infrared heaters with built-in blowers however. They can help with a more even distribution of warmth across the space.
- Heat produced by infrared heaters don’t last very long.
Although it takes less time for you to feel the warmth from an infrared heater, it also takes no time to leave you cold once it is turned off.
They warm up people and objects where the infrared light hits instead of heating the air. So, the warmth only lasts as long as the infrared lights are bright.
How Infrared Heaters Work
Ever wondered why you feel toasty under the sun and chilly when you’re standing under a shade? That’s because your skin and clothes absorb the infrared light emitted by the sun which in turn, warms up your body.
Infrared heaters work the same way.
They make use of infrared rays to safely and evenly heat a space. The infrared waves warm up particles which prompt circulation in the atmosphere.
As a result, the room and the bodies in it feel warmer.
When the infrared light hits you directly, you feel the warmth. And when the light doesn’t reach you well, you barely feel the heat.
These heaters are designed to emit infrared light from a series of coils. They also have a reflector that serves to direct the infrared light outwards.
The objects and bodies that reach the light are warmed up. It is a convenient option for small spaces.
Infrared Heaters Compared to Other Heaters
So how do infrared heaters fare in comparison to other heaters?
Instant Heating versus Longer Warm-Up
Warming up on an infrared heater takes much less time than it would on other heater types. With an infrared heater, you can feel the warmth as soon as it is turned on and the light hits you especially when it is on a high heat mode.
Because other heaters are designed to warm up the air, they will take twice as much time or even more before you feel the warmth.
The Efficiency Factor
When it comes down to it, bodies and objects should be the target of heat. Infrared heaters work efficiently this way.
Although it would be nice to have your place warmed up, it would not be as efficient as narrowing down the target.
The Question of Cost
Traditional heating systems are undeniably costly to set up and run. They require bigger amounts of energy in order to produce heat.
Because they utilize convection currents to heat the air, keeping the atmosphere warm requires a consistent supply of energy. Needless to say, this method is wasteful.
On the other hand, infrared heaters can help you in a mission to reduce your energy bills in more ways than one.
With the targeted heating that infrared heaters provide, you can possibly save up to 50 percent of energy, depending on how much and how often you use them.
Because infrared heat can’t escape through open doors, cracks and ventilation ducts, it does not matter if your space isn’t well ventilated. Warm air won’t be able to escape the room.
The Environment-Friendly Element
This depends on what kind of heater we’re comparing an infrared one to. In general, however, plus taking note of the efficiency factor, infrared heaters seem to be more conscious about leaving carbon footprint behind.
The Heat Distribution Factor
If you have a larger space, other heating options may be a smarter choice. On the other hand, if you live in an apartment, stay in a small room with you or just one other warm body, infrared heaters prove to be a more practical option.
The Light Emission Issue
On the bright side of other heating options, they don’t emit light. And that makes them a friendlier option for nighttime use.
The Lasting Warmth Aspect
For infrared heaters, the instant heat also means instant loss of warmth when you turn it off. Because other heaters are made to heat the air in a room, the warmth they are able to produce tend to last much longer.
Types of Infrared Heaters
Infrared heaters can be classified according to power source, construction materials, portability, etc. Since all the heaters we have presented here use an electric power source and are all compact, we will focus on the heating technology: quartz and PTC.
What’s the difference between infrared quartz and PTC bulbs?
Infrared heaters may use quartz or PTC bulbs or both. The main difference between these bulbs is their lifespan.
Manufacturers have used quartz bulbs to power their heaters for a long time. These bulbs usually last around 20,000 hours or less.
On the other hand, PTC technology lifespan is around 80,000 hours. PTC elements can also provide infrared radiation of a wider spectrum than quartz bulbs can.
The third type uses both on what is called a dual heating system.
Buying Guide for the Best Infrared Heater
As with shopping for any item, the best choice is always the one that suits your specific needs. So what exactly are the must have features and the nice to have’s?
Below is a list of features you should pay particular attention to.
- 1. Heating capacity that corresponds to your space’s measurements
Most are set with a maximum heating coverage area of 1,000 square feet. If you have a much smaller room, it could be more economical to choose a heater with a lower capacity.
- 2. Built-in and programmable thermostat
You should be able to control the temperature. Otherwise, you are bound to spend more in the long run.
- 3. Quartz bulb lifespan
Replacements can be costly so the best value heater has longer lasting quartz bulb.
- 4. Quiet blower
If you don’t want to worry about having cold and hot spots in the room, you should consider a heater equipped with a blower. It will help distribute the warmth evenly.
Ideally, the blower should be capable of generating a higher pressure in order to move a larger volume of air at a low speed.
A quiet blower with a very low noise level of 39 decibels will ensure you of a peaceful warmth. But how loud is 39 decibels?
It will sound like you’re hanging out in the library.
- 5. Power settings
A 3-power setting (high, low, auto energy saving mode) infrared heater is ideal. This provides you with the freedom to turn it up as desired or turn it down to save energy.
The auto energy saving mode is a smart feature that can help you control not only the temperature but also your bills. When set in auto energy saving mode, the thermostat automatically regulates the temperature as it switches between high and low setting.
You can choose your desired temperature from the heat range and manually set the heater at High 1500W or Low 1000W setting.
If you want the fastest heating, the High 1500W setting is recommended. In other cases, the low or auto modes are best for conserving energy.
- 6. Heat Range
Most infrared heaters have a heat range between 50°F and 86°F. You have to decide whether you will feel comfortable staying within that range.
- 7. Multiple Safety Features including Overheating Protection
Fire is a risk with any type of heater. To address safety concerns, choose one with an overheating protection.
With this feature, the unit automatically shuts off before it overheats. This way, you can sleep with it on without worrying.
- 8. Portability and Mobility
A space-saving heater with wheels built into the unit can be easily moved around where you need the warmth.
- 9. Stability
Although most infrared heaters include a tip-over protection some, especially those with in built wheels, may not be as stable as desired.
If you have children and pets always running around, it would be best to choose a unit that is as stable as possible.
- 10. Safe to Touch Exterior
A wooden sturdy casing is desirable as such heaters ensure a cool to touch safety feature.
- 11. Warranty and Return/ Refund Policy
If the manufacturer is confident about their product, they’d be able to provide a satisfactory policy for returns/ refunds and longer warranty.
The above requirements are basic but the following are nice to have features which you may not necessarily need.
- Built-in humidifier
- Compact cabinet
- Stylish design
- Replaceable filter/ air purifier
- Operating light
- LCD display
Infrared Heater Hot Tips
Here are a couple of tips to help you maximize heating efficiency and energy savings.
- Avoid wasting energy by turning it on only when and where you need warmth.
Turn the heater off when the room is unoccupied. An infrared heater provides instant heating where you need some but there is no point in heating rooms that aren’t occupied.
- Only buy a heater with a programmable thermostat.
The electronic thermostat allows you to set it up to a temperature of 50 to 86 degrees in most heaters. You can go as high as you want for a more efficient heating or as low as you need to save cost.
- Avoid safety issues by cleaning up clutter around the heater.
The overheating protection and other safety features allow you to relax and cozy up in peace. As an extra precaution however, make sure you place the infrared heater in a clutter-free area.
Keep it away from paper, fabrics and other hazardous materials. Clutter will obstruct the flow of the infrared waves so make sure to avoid placing anything on the unit itself.
- Check the availability of replacement parts and consider their cost.
Tubes, bulbs and filters are replaceable parts in an infrared heater. Before you buy one, make sure these parts are readily available.
You will eventually need to replace them so it is best to also consider their prices.
- Use a 20-amp outlet for a 12.5-amp infrared heater.
Most portable infrared heaters operate on 1500 watts and draw 12.5 amps power. To avoid overloading, make sure to connect it to an outlet of 20 amps if other appliances use the same connection or at least 15-amp circuit if the outlet is solely dedicated to your heater.
- Be careful about using extension cords.
Using an extension cord is rarely necessary because most infrared heaters come with long cords. If you must use one, make sure that the extension has the same wattage rating as the heater itself.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can infrared heaters really help me save money?
In general, the answer is yes. Saving money by reducing heating cost also depends much on the kind of infrared heater you choose.
To maximize your savings, we strongly advise you to choose the suitable heater for the space you’ll be using it for.
Do not buy a large heater when you only intend to use it for a small room. Avoid buying a heater that’s too small for your large room.
Take note of the maximum heating coverage area of the heater. One with a 1,000 square feet maximum coverage for instance, will probably do best when used in a 500 to 900 square feet space.
- Is it smart to use an infrared heater with my central heating system?
Infrared heaters are best used as supplemental heating supply unless you have a small room that’s only good for two occupants.
Your energy savings will depend on how you use your heating systems. Adding an infrared heater to the energy equation without reducing the use of your central heating system will make no difference in your cost.
Use them wisely to supplement each other.
- Are infrared heaters safe to use?
From 2003 to 2007, the National Fire Protection Agency reported that 16% of deaths from residential fires were caused by space heaters, naturally safety is a major concern.
If using fuel, gas, coal and other heaters that need flame doesn’t bother you then the safety of using infrared heating should be the least of your concern.
Most infrared heaters come with multiple safety features like an overheating protection, tip-over protection, child lock and automatic shut off when hazard is detected.
Manufacturers also provide safety precautions in their manual. As long as you follow them to the dot, you should be able to steer clear of trouble.
Conclusion
After thoroughly analyzing and comparing various products in the market, it is clear that the Dr. Infrared Heater 1500 Watt 5200 BTU Electric Cabinet Space Heater stands out as the best infrared heater available now.
This particular model outperforms its competitors in several key areas. First and foremost, it boasts an impressive combination of features such as an LCD display, remote control, automatic shutoff protection, and a 12-hour timer, all of which contribute to its superior performance and user-friendliness. Additionally, its construction from wood and galvanic steel not only enhances your decor but also ensures durability. Importantly, it is UL listed and made from toxic-free materials, making it environmentally friendly. The washable air filter further adds to its convenience and ease of maintenance.
Overall, the Dr. Infrared Heater 1500 Watt 5200 BTU Electric Cabinet Space Heater offers the best balance of features, performance, and environmental friendliness, making it the clear winner in this roundup.
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