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Cost-effective, energy-efficient, fast, convenient, safe, comfortable, quiet, and environment-friendly, those are only some of the qualities of the most efficient infrared heaters. In fact, they also offer health benefits such as improved blood circulation and don’t cause respiratory and allergy issues. What more could one want in a space heater!
Whether you want a supplemental heat source, a heater for a small space, or want to save money with zone heating, you can’t go wrong with this source of warmth. If you are searching for an infrared heater for a room, apartment, basement, or workplace, this page simplifies the process of finding and choosing one amongst the wide range of models on the market.
Below, find reviews of our top ten picks of infrared heaters that are top quality, effective and efficient, and highly rated by consumers. Our buying guide lists the essential features to ensure the unit you go for has so it can meet your space heating needs, save you money, and keep you warm for years to come. Finally, our FAQ section answers any questions and addresses any concerns you may have about this type of heating.
Ready to get started? Let’s go.
OUR TOP PICK
Duraflame Fireplace Stove with 3D Flame Effect
- Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
- Realistic fireplace with outstanding 3D flame effects
- Adjustable thermostat with remote control
- Stylish and attractive design
- Stable, auto shut-off overheat protection and cool to the touch
- Sturdy and durable metal build
- Easy to assemble, use and control
- The hot air blower for distributing heat
Heat: 5,200 BTU, Up to 1,000 square feet
Temperature: 62F to 82F
Power: 120 volts, 12.5 Amps
Size: 13.1 x 24 x 23.4 inches, 28.6 pounds
EDITORS CHOICE
LifeSmart FireplaceDark Oak Large Room
- Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
- Stylish with a realistic fireplace
- High heat capacity
- Adjustable thermostat with remote control
- Scroll fan for heat circulation
- Comes with E-Z glide casters for ease of portability
- Easy to use and control
- 1-year warranty on all electrical components
Heat: 5100 BTUs, 3 heat modes, up to 1000 sq. feet
Power: Up to 1500 watts 15 amp, 110 volt
Size: 28”L X 11”W X 20”H, 40 pounds
BEST VALUE
Dr Heater Infrared Portable 1500W
- Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
- Dual heating system for high heat output
- Adjustable thermostat with three heat modes
- Quality and durable construction
- Safe design and UL certified
- Low noise heat blower
- Caster wheels included for mobility
- Comes with a washable lifetime filter
- Backed by a three-year warranty
Heat: 50 to 86 degrees, 3 heat modes, quartz, and PTC bulbs
Power: 1500 Watts, 12.5 Amps
Size: 13 x 11 x 16 inches, 24 lbs
Dr. Heater DR-988 Garage Shop
- Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
- Heavy duty industrial heating system
- Adjustable thermostat
- Powerful and effective fan
- Overheating safety feature
- Easy to move and store
- High heat output and fan distribution
- Affordable and great value
Heat: 45-95 degrees F.
Power: 5600W, 240V/ 208V, NEMA 6-30P power cord UL and C-UL listed, 220V plug
Size: 12 x 12 x 15 inches, 12 pounds
LifeSmart Big Room 6 Element
- Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
- Large room heating capacity
- Versatile settings for multiple rooms
- Comes with casters for portability
- Lifetime washable air filter
- Reasonably quiet scroll fan
- 1-year warranty for electrical components
Power: Up to 1500 wattage, 3 heat modes
Timer: 12 hour start and stop dual settings
Size: 16 x 13 x 16.5 inches, 21 pounds
LifeSmart LS-1000X-6W-IN 6 Element
- Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
- High heat output for warming large spaces
- Versatile and energy efficient with 3 heat modes
- Comes with wheels for easy movement
- Lifetime washable air filter
- Thermostat with three settings
- 1-year warranty for electrical components
- Led display
Heat: 5100 BTU, up to 1400 cubic. feet, low, high and eco settings
Power: Up to 1500W
Timer: 12-hour start and stop
Size: 13W x 16.25D x 17.5H in., 24 pounds
Homegear Compact 1500w Room Space / Cabinet
- Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
- Compact and lightweight and highly portable
- Safety features and ETL certified
- Versatile heater for winter
- Fan mode for summer
Heat: Max and eco modes
Power: 1500W
Size: 10 x 9 x 10.5in, 5.5lbs
LifeSmart Ultimate 8 Element
- Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
- Eight elements for high heat output
- Large space heating capacity
- Stable design, ETL listed, and cool to the touch
- Thermostat control with led display
- Air Ionizer purifies the air
- Reasonably quiet scroll fan
- EZ glide casters for easy movement
- ETL listed for safety
Range: Up to 1800 sq ft, high, low and eco mode
Power: 500W eco, up to 1500 watts
Timer: Dual start and stop settings
Size: 16.2 x 15.2 x 18.5 inches, 31 pounds
LifeSmart Medium Room
- Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
- Effective and energy efficient
- Compact and space efficient
- Thermostat with 3 heat modes
- Lightweight and highly portable
- Lifetime washable air filter
- Scroll fan distributes heat
- Easy to operate
- 1-year warranty on electrical parts
Heat: High, low and 500W eco mode
Power: 500 to 1500 watts
Timer: 12-hour start and stop Timer
Size: 12.5 x 7.5 x 13.5 inches, 11.5 pounds
iLIVING Portable Space
- Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
- Dual heat system for high heat output
- Reasonably quite blower for heat distribution
- Auto shut-off safety features and UL listed
- Three settings including auto energy saving mode
- Sufficiently long power cord
- Well made and durable
- Cleanable lifetime air filter
- Four caster wheels for portability
- Backe by a one year USA warranty
Heat: 5200 BTU, up to 1,000 square feet, 50 to 86 degree, three settings
Power: Watts: 1500, Amps: 12.5, 110v 3 prong outlet, 72″ long cord
Timer: 12hr automatic shut-off
Size: 13 x 12 x 15 inches, 24 pounds
How To Choose An Infrared Heater – Buying Guide
We hope our infrared heater reviews have given you an idea of which is the best infrared space heater for your needs. To ensure you pick the right infrared heater with the capability to meet your space heating needs among the array of options available, assess each unit you’re considering with the following factors in mind:
Portability
What degree of portability do you need? If you are looking for a mobile heater to use in different rooms, you need a highly portable unit that is compact and lightweight so it is convenient to move around. There are even some models with wheels for effortless movement. If you need to heat a larger area and only need to move the unit around the room every once in a while, you can go for a larger unit with limited portability. And if you want an infrared heater for a specific space such as a basement or a garage, you can go for a fixed heater designed to be installed in a room permanently. This is also a safe option as it can be mounted far away from reach.
Safety
Infrared heaters safety is actually superior compared to that of other types of heaters. There is no open flame, there are no harmful emissions, and they don’t get extremely hot.
However, this is a unit that emits heat and there are always risks especially if you have kids and/or pets. For maximum safety, ensure the unit you choose is equipped with safety features such as a stable design, automatic shut-off in case it is tipped over or overheats, a cool to the touch exterior, and cut-off timer so you can cozy up in peace.
It is also important to practice safe usage of your infrared heater by ensuring the heater is positioned on a stable surface with no objects around and away from hazardous materials and following the manufacturer’s safety precautions.
Warranty
You want to make a solid investment that will serve you for a long time without issues. These units can have manufacturing faults and it is important to choose an infrared unit that comes with a manufacturer’s warranty just in case. The longer the warranty, the better as this shows that the manufacturer has confidence in the quality and durability of their product. Check the terms of the warranty so you know what is covered and know what not to do to avoid voiding the warranty.
Running Cost
A major benefit infrared heaters offer is that they are highly energy-efficient and a cheaper source of warmth in winter or in cold climates. Since they warm people directly without heating the air in the room, they use less energy to provide warmth and they are not expensive to run.
A heater’s running cost is the cost of electricity it consumes in order to generate warmth. Different heaters have different heating capacities indicated in square feet. The larger the heater’s capacity, the higher its energy consumption and the higher its running costs. For minimal running costs, consider the space you want the heater for and choose the most efficient heater size and wattage for it.
If you want an infrared heater for a specific space, measure that room. If you want a portable heater for use all over the house, measure the largest room in your house. When looking for a heater, check its maximum and coverage area and choose a unit with a suitable capacity. For multiple rooms, you can also choose a dual-mode heater with low and high heat settings to suit small and large rooms. Infrared eaters with an auto energy saving mode also keep running costs down.
A heater that is too large for a room will use an unnecessarily large amount of energy and too small a heater for a room won’t be sufficient. Both will have higher running costs without offering any benefits. If you’re using your infrared heater for supplemental heating of specific areas to offer warmth where it is needed, you don’t need to have your central heating on all the time and this will reduce the overall heating costs.
Type
For warmth, the best type of infrared heater is one that utilizes far infrared elements. These operate in the wavelengths above 3 microns, emit light with much lower temperatures around 100°C, and have no visible light.
Far infrared wavelengths are energy-efficient and safe, have an 80% water composition so the human and animal skin absorb them well and their gentle temperature is more comfortable on the skin. Far infrared heating is also utilized in infrared saunas.
There are also different types of infrared heaters depending on the kind of heating elements they use. Quartz infrared heaters utilize quartz bulbs. They usually have a lifespan of 20,000 hours or less. PTC bulbs have a long lifespan of around 80,000 hours. PTC elements also provide infrared radiation of a wider spectrum than quartz bulbs provide. Some heaters feature a dual heat system that uses both bulbs for higher heat output, efficiency, and durability.
Design
While style won’t affect the effectiveness or efficiency of a heater, a heater is a noticeable addition to your space and it will have an effect on a room’s aesthetic. The good thing is that you don’t have to sacrifice design for warmth or vice versa.
Many heaters are designed to be sleek and attractive with wood finishes that suit many decor schemes. Others are made of metal and finished with various colors. You can find a heater that will serve you well while also being a stylish accessory that complements your existing home decor. You can even find one with realistic fireplace effects to add ambiance to your space.
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Heat Range
Different heaters have different heating ranges indicated in square feet. Measure the space you want the heater for and choose the most efficient heater size. If you want a heater for multiple spaces, measure the largest room in your house. You can also choose a dual-mode heater with low and high heat settings to suit small and large rooms.
Infrared heaters are able to provide warmth at lower temperatures and most have a comfortable temperature between 50°F and 86°F. Most also have low, energy-saving, and high heat settings and offer an adjustable thermostat that allows you to set the temperature you want.
Stability
For safety, you want a heater that will be stable in its position and stay upright. It shouldn’t be easily tipped over. This is especially important if you have kids and/or pets in the house. A wide and solid base is more stable than a narrow base or one with wheels. For more protection, most infrared heaters are also equipped with an automatic shut-off upon bumping or tip-over safety feature.
FAQs
Q: Are Infrared Heaters Green?
Yes, infrared heaters are green sources of warmth. First of all, they are energy efficient because they heat people and objects directly and don't waste energy heating the air. Electric infrared heaters also emit clean heat. They don't utilize fossil fuels, wood, or gases and don't emit smoke or harmful fumes that pollute the air or harm the environment. All these factors make infrared heaters ideal if you're looking for an environmental friendly heater with a minimal effect on the environment.
Q: When To Use Infrared Heaters?
Infrared heaters are best used for heating small spaces and for supplementing the central heat system. This is because they are generally meant to be space or room (zone) heaters. They are not meant for keeping an entire home warm. However, if you have a small one or two-person apartment, you can use a heater meant for a large space as the sole heating unit.
When you want to warm up quickly, a heater is your best option. As soon as you turn it on, it will start warming you up. This is because it warms you directly without having to warm the air in the room first.
When you want to heat a large space with people moving about, infrared heaters aren't the most effective. However, there are some powerful infrared heaters suitable for large spaces. These are equipped with built-in blowers for enhanced distribution of warmth. These are used in warehouses and outdoors to provide a directed heat source where it is needed.
Q: What Are The Benefits Of Infrared Heaters?
The benefits of infrared heaters is that they provide cost-effective, energy efficient, environmentally friendly, fast, quiet, and safe warmth. They offer more flexibility and control over how you heat spaces and help you save money through zone heating. They are energy efficient and cost effective as they warm people directly and do not waste energy by heating the air in the room. They save energy costs as they are a cheaper way to provide heat where needed without turning the central heating system. They are good for us and the environment as they do not produce noise, smoke, or harmful fumes. They also provide safe, healthy and comfortable heat and offer health benefits as follows.
Q: What Are The Health Benefits of Infrared Heaters?
In addition to warming you up effectively and efficiently, infrared heaters also have health benefits. The heat they emit is similar to the heat our bodies radiate and absorb and thus natural and safe. Infrared heat is absorbed by our body warming our core and promoting circulation of blood. This is very beneficial in the winter when the body is inactive and circulation slow.
Infrared heaters also provide safe, healthy and comfortable warmth and are safe to use for people with issues such as asthma, sinuses, and allergies. They do not dry the air, reduce the oxygen in a room, or create air currents. This means that they do not affect the quality of air in a room or promote the growth or mold and mildew.
Q: How Is An Infrared Space Heater Different From Other Space Heaters?
An infrared portable space heater is different from other space heaters in the following ways.
How It Works
A space heater emits infrared light which creates heat and warms your body directly just like the sun's rays do but without the harmful UV rays. Other space heaters heat the air first and then utilize convection currents to distribute the heat and warm you.
Energy Efficiency
Due to the way it provides warmth directly, an infrared portable space heater is more energy-efficient and cost-effective than other space heaters that use a lot of energy to warm the air and replace the warmth escaping through openings in the room.
Quality of Heat
A space heater emits safe, healthy, gentle, and comfortable warmth without affecting the air quality or moisture level in a room or causing static electricity. Other space heaters tend to dry the air and disturb settled dust leaving skin, nails, hair, and sinuses feeling dry and irritated. A space heater does not rely on a fan and produces heat silently. Even infrared units equipped with blowers or fans for distributing warmth evenly are quieter than other heaters that can be quite noisy.
Cost-Effectiveness
The targeted heating of a heater and lack of warmth escape means that no energy or money is wasted. Other heaters require large amounts of energy in order to produce heat and replace the one that is lost and are more expensive to run.
Warmup Duration
As soon as a space heater is turned on and the light hits you, you can feel the heat and get warm pretty fast. Other heaters have to warm up the air first and it can take longer to feel the warmth. On the downside, there's instant loss of warmth when you turn an infrared space heater off while warmth lingers when other heaters are turned off because the atmosphere in the room remains warm.
Environment Friendliness
A heater is an energy-efficient, clean and environmentally friendly source of heat that doesn't emit fumes that pollute the environment. Other heaters utilize a lot of oils, gasoline, wood and emit smoke or fumes that degrade the environment.
Q: Are Infrared Space Heaters Energy Efficient?
Yes, infrared space heaters are extremely energy efficient. They utilize less energy because of they warm objects and people directly. They do not waste energy heating the air in the room. Because they do not rely on circulating warm air, warmth doesn't escape through ventilation ducts, windows or doors. They also offer a way to warm specific areas where heat is needed without turning on the main heating system helping keep overall energy costs low. Top-rated infrared heaters are equipped with multiple heat settings including an energy-saving mode to keep energy consumption down.
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Whether you have a small apartment or a large home with a central heat system, buying one of the most efficient infrared heaters will prove a worthy investment. It will give you more flexibility and control over how you heat your home and reduce your energy costs through zone heating. We hope our heater reviews and buying guide are helpful in helping you find the best overall infrared heater for your space, heating needs, and budget so you can enjoy the cost and health benefits of infrared heating for years to come.
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Which of the infrared heaters on our list is your top choice? We would love to read your thoughts or experience with the infrared heaters we’ve reviewed! Let us know in the comment box below!