Buying Guide for the Best Infrared Heaters
You need a infrared space heater but still don’t know which one? Don’t worry, we have you covered. Infrared heaters create heat that is similar to that of the sun. Infrared light isn't visible and this invisible light gets absorbed by our skin, clothes and other objects, heating up the things, including you, surrounding the heater. They bring you hours of warmth, are quiet and offer good value. To assist you in finding the perfect infrared heater, we have put together this shopping guide, making deciding much simpler.
Types
Deciding on the type of infrared heater is dependent on your heating needs. They come in two main types: electric infrared heaters, which are small and compact and perfect for home use, and gas, which are for commercial or outdoor use.
Room Infrared Heaters: These heaters are compact and usually have wheels for easy maneuverability around the house. They are designed to heat larger rooms and offer stylish designs. With fans to circulate warmth and temperature controls, they are easy to use and offer variability. As an added benefit, their exteriors are cool to the touch, making them a safe choice for families with small children.
Partial Infrared Heaters: Light and compact, you can carry this heater to any room. They use infrared and either convection or radiant heat technology and require very little maintenance. Partial infrared heaters are economical to purchase and their portability allows you to travel easily with them to the office or on vacation.
Gas/Propane Infrared Heaters: These are strictly for outdoor commercial use and are great for places like outdoor construction sites where some warmth is much needed on a cold winter’s morning.
What Reviewers Have to Say
Based on all the consumers' reviews we've scanned, these are the top things they mentioned about their new stuff:
- Features: Most infrared heaters do come with temperature settings, but owners who have opted for the higher quality heaters that come with remote controls and built in thermostats rate their heaters much higher! A remote means you do not have to get up from your warm spot to change a setting, and the thermostat gives you more control over when the heating is activated and how high. Both these features will make you very satisfied with your new heater.
- Operation: Reviewers noted that their infrared heaters are quieter than their previous space heaters. Lower noise disturbance means they can be used in the bedroom without disturbance and in general will give you lots more enjoyable use. If quiet operation is important to you, check the online reviews of your prospective heater - quieter fans get much better reviews.
- Size: Reviewers prefer heaters that blend in well and aren’t an eye-sore. Infrared heaters are small (and safe) and attractive enough to be placed on bookshelves, tables and in corners out of the way. Choosing a heater that is aesthetically pleasing means it will not be a distraction from your current decor.
- Safety: When it comes to heaters, safety is a huge issue among users. Owners review infrared heaters much higher in this regard. As they are much cooler to touch, they are safer than many other heaters if you have pets and children in the house.
Important Features
- Infrared Heaters use between 300 to 1500 watts, depending on their size. The more wattage the heater has, the more heat it will produce. For larger rooms, aim for the higher end of the spectrum with a room infrared heater, as they can heat up to 1000 square feet. Smaller infrared heaters use only 300 watts of power and no heat is wasted. Depending on your heating needs, picking the right size for the room is essential.
- Infrared heaters do not reduce oxygen or humidity in the room, which make them a healthier heating option and better for your sinuses and skin. Certain models come with a built in humidifier for those extra dry winters, offering you much more value.
- Infrared heater bulbs/tubes have a lifespan between 20,000 and 60,000 hours before they need replacing. Buying a better quality heater will ensure longer lasting bulbs!
- A good infrared heater model should include a built-in thermostat and controls, fan, quartz bulbs, easy to set controls, automatic tip-over switch, wheels and a warranty.
- For added safety, tip-over switches are designed to shut off your heater if they get accidently bumped over and are perfect for a home with kids and pets.
- For added longevity, look out for infrared heaters with a replaceable air filter.
- Heaters do get left out in winter and are not hidden from view. For that reason, consider the the design of your space heater. There is a color and shape for any style!
Top-Rated Brands
LifeSmart: Formerly Source Network Sales and Marketing, Lifesmart Corp. manufacturers infrared heaters, spas/hot tubs, saunas, and air conditioners.
EdenPURE: A division of Suarez Corporation Industries (SCI), EdenPURE manufactures portable heaters, air purifiers, and housewares out of Canton, OH.
Duraflame: Headquartered in Stockton, CA and with over 250 North American employees, the Duraflame name is synonymous with fire logs.
Lasko: Henry Lasko founded Lasko Metal Products in Philadelphia in 1906. In the mid-1900s, Lasko expanded their offerings to include small appliances, fans and household portable heaters.