Do you want the instant warmth of a space heater? I think you should spare a few minutes to check out the best infrared heaters.
Also known as IR heaters, infrared heaters offer a ton of benefits over other conventional methods. They heat faster and output more heat for the same wattage. Aside from being energy-efficient, they stay cool to touch and operate with minimal noise. And thanks to the quartz heating element, infrared heaters provide warmth without drying out the air.
However, you’ll need the best infrared heater on the market to realize the full benefits. But it may prove difficult, not unless you dedicate a few minutes of your time reading this best infrared heaters review. Welcome, and let me help you find the best infrared heaters to consider.
10 Best Infrared Heater Reviews
Table of Contents
1. Dr. Infrared Heater DR-968 Portable Space Heater
DR-968 is easily the most popular infrared heater on the market. It’s one heater that allows you to save big on electricity bills.
Apparently, the DR-968 heater uses dual heating technology. It combines the comfort of convection heat and the energy efficiency of infrared heat.
Even more impressive, it uses a high-efficiency blower. It outputs 250°F at 3.5m/s, whereas competing heaters can only manage 155°F at 2.2m/s.
So, it’s pretty clear that DR-968 has a more advanced heating system. It delivers more heat for the same wattage, putting it one step ahead of the competition.
Though it moves large volumes of air, the 7-inch blower is pretty quiet. At 39 decibels, it’s barely twice as loud as a whisper.
Well, this infrared heater has 1000 square feet coverage, making it ideal for large rooms. The temperature ranges from a cool 50 °F to as high as 85 °F. And for added convenience, it has a 12-hour timer and remote control.
Even more, DR-968 offers three heating modes. It cycles between eco, high, and low heating modes. Hence, you only use as much power as you need.
DR-968 does not only push the boundaries in terms of heating efficiency. Apparently, it’s an infrared heater that is built to last. It has a lifetime filter and promises 80,000 hours of guaranteed operation. And to make sure of that, it has 3-year warranty coverage.
DR-968 infrared heater also has safety features in place. It has a cool-touch interior and boasts overheat and tip-over protection.
At 24 pounds, this infrared heater is relatively light. Still, it has casters that allow you to wheel it around with ease.
Verdict
Pretty much every review gives this infrared heater. The heat output, in particular, makes it a hot buy. Also, the multitude of features is just phenomenal. For that, I vote it the best overall infrared heater.
2. Duraflame DFI-5010 3D Infrared Electric Fireplace Stove
Not many infrared heaters boast the flame effect. And even if they do, most are pretty unrealistic. Well, DFI-5010 is among the few models that boast realistic 3D layered flame effect. In fact, you will be hard-pressed to find a better flame effect at this price range.
Indeed, this infrared heater is designed with aesthetics in mind. It has beveled glass and side viewing windows that offer a full 270-degree viewing.
It doesn’t, however, sacrifice performance. At 5200 BTU, it offers supplemental zone heating for spaces up to 1000 square feet. Also, it has a digital thermostat that lets you adjust the temperature from 68 °F – 82 °F.
Notably, DFI-5010 uses infrared quartz heat that maintains natural humidity. Hence, it heats efficiently without drying out the air. For that, it guarantees user comfort.
DFI-5010 infrared heater also has a 9-hour built-in timer. And with the included remote, it gives you complete control.
This infrared fireplace stove offers unmatched customization. It offers not only adjustable temperature settings but also flame level and intensity. On the whole, it offers five adjustable brightness settings.
Well, this infrared heater has an LCD for the timer and temperature settings. However, it’s hidden behind the door for the purpose of aesthetics.
The build quality is pretty impressive. It uses all-metal construction that promises years of durable performance. Even more, it offers a sturdy built.
This infrared fireplace stove has a cool-touch surface. Again, it comes with overheat protection for added safety.
Well, DFI-5010 infrared heater doesn’t have wheels. But at 28.6 pounds, it’s less cumbersome to move.
Verdict
As far as aesthetics go, Duraflame DFI-5010 needs no introduction. Even more, it has a powerful heating capability. If you want the best design that offers a cozy ambiance, DFI-5010 will suffice. Also, I vote it the best infrared fireplace heater.
3. Dr. Infrared Heater DR-988A Garage Shop Heater
DR-988A is an industrial-grade infrared heater for heavy-duty use. It’s the type of heater you want for construction sites, workshops, basements, and garages.
At 4800-5600 watts, this infrared heater packs incredible heating capacity. It’s capable of providing 19,100 BTU and heats spaces up to 600 square feet.
Well, the heater has two thermostat settings for customization as well as energy-saving auto mode. It’s capable of 45 °F at the low setting and 95 °F at the high setting. Also, compared to most infrared heaters, it has a wider temperature range.
The fan mechanism helps to circulate the air evenly. Hence, it maintains a stable temperature throughout. At 45 decibels, the fan is not that quiet. But considering the area of application, it’s less of a nuisance.
I like the impressive portable design. It combines a lightweight construction of 18 pounds and a built-in handle. So, even though it doesn’t have wheels, this infrared heater is easy to move around.
The discharge grills create a safe finger-proof intake. Also, this infrared heater has automatic overheat protection for added safety.
DR-988A sits inside a steel housing. So, as far as durability goes, this infrared heater ticks all the boxes. Even more, it has 1-year warranty coverage.
Verdict
At 5600 watts, DR-988A outputs more heat than other competition. Such heavy-duty performance makes it ideal for draftier spaces. If you want the best infrared heater for garages, DR-988A should be your top pick.
4. LifeSmart 6-Element Quartz Wood Cabinet Remote Infrared Heater
LifeSmart infrared heater has an undeniable appeal. The cabinet-style wooden construction, in particular, makes it a centerpiece.
But this infrared heater focuses not only on aesthetics. It provides faster and uniform heating, thanks to the six superior infrared elements.
Well, this infrared heater provides 1500 watts of heating at the high setting. But you can also choose the low setting or save energy with the eco mode.
The digital thermostat gives ultimate control. It has a temperature range of 50-90 °F. Hence, you can adjust it as needed. Also, there is a 12-hour timer. As such, you can program the heater to switch on and off as needed.
I like the convenience that the remote control provides. Even more outstanding is the LED control panel. It’s intuitive, stylish, and gives the heater a more advanced modern appearance.
LifeSmart 6-element heater delivers 5100 BTUs. For that, it can heat spaces up to 1000 square feet. Hence, it can handle any individual room.
LifeSmart infrared heater promises years of excellent performance. It has a lifetime washable filter and 1-year warranty on electronic components.
This infrared heater is equally as keen in terms of portability. It has wheels to already lightweight construction. Thus, moving it shouldn’t be a problem.
Verdict
LifeSmart 6-element infrared heater has decent built quality and reliability. Also, it’s among the most stylish portable infrared heaters. If you are tight on budget, LifeSmart 6-element infrared heater is an excellent choice.
5. New iLIVING 1500W Infrared Portable Space Heater
The New iLIVING infrared heater doesn’t have the elegance of the LifeSmart 6-element cabinet-style infrared heater. But that does not make it any less captivating. Apparently, it has the finesse and warmth of wooden furniture. Complete with a dark walnut finish, it makes a stylish addition to any living space.
This infrared heater packs incredible heating capacity behind the wooden shell. It boasts a dual heating system, allowing it to generate more heat. Even more, it transfers the heat faster.
But just how much heat does it produce?
Well, this infrared heater is rated at 5200BTUs. Well, that’s enough heating capacity for any individual room.
The thermostat is pretty accurate and designed to last. It has a heat range of 50 °F to 86 °F, allowing you to adjust as per your heating needs. Also, the heater has high and low heating modes, as well as a saving auto mode.
This infrared heater has an equally powerful blower for even distribution of heat. Still, with all its power, the blower runs quietly. At 39 decibels, it’s barely audible from a couple of feet away.
The New iLIVING infrared heater comes with remote control. It’s pretty much clutter-free and includes a button for the 12-hour automatic timer.
Tip-over protection and overheat protection make the heater safe around kids and pets. Even more, it scores well in terms of portability. It’s relatively light at 24 pounds and has casters for easy mobility.
Verdict
The New iLIVING has pretty much every feature you can ask for in a portable infrared heater. But what I like most is the 3-year warranty. So, if durability is a top priority, I recommend this infrared heater. Also, you might want to consider it for traditional, back-country décor.
6. Homegear Infrared Electric Portable Space Heater
Homegear infrared heater is definitely going to be a center of attention. It has a contemporary look that goes well with modern décor. Even more, it goes out of its way to provide an equally outstanding heating performance.
Well, most 1500 watts infrared heaters have a coverage of up to 1000 square feet. But this portable space heater takes it the extra mile. It heats rooms up to 1500 square feet.
Homegear infrared heater has dual heating technology. It combines mica and quartz heating tubes for efficient heating. Moreover, it has a quiet blower fan to eliminate hot spots and cold spots.
Though not indicated, this infrared heater has an automatic energy-saving mode. It kicks on and off constantly to maintain a stable temperature.
Well, this infrared heater doesn’t have wheels. However, you won’t be needing them as it weighs only 11.5 pounds. Also, it has non-slip feet in the place of casters to keep it in one place.
The control panel doesn’t have as many buttons, and the same goes for the remote control. Hence, operating it is pretty straightforward. Also, there is a timer function, just in case you have other chores to attend to.
Verdict
Homegear infrared heater is exceptionally well priced. Interestingly, it has the performance of infrared heaters that are twice as expensive. Hence, I consider it an excellent budget option.
7. LifeSmart Medium Room Infrared Heater
LifeSmart infrared heater for medium-sized rooms is renowned for its space-saving design. It has a compact footprint that takes the least amount of floor space. And at only 10 pounds, it provides much-needed portability.
Well, LifeSmart infrared heater has a 1500 watts heat output, but with multiple power settings: high, low, and eco. Hence, it offers just the right amount of heat needed.
This infrared heater uses three superior quartz elements. It heats not only fast but also doesn’t dry out the air. And as to how much space it can heat, this infrared heater has a coverage of 800 square feet.
The extra-large LED control panel is more user-friendly and has pretty much every setting you need. Among them is the 12-hour timer that allows you to set the heater and forget.
Well, this infrared heater stays at 68 °F in eco mode, drawing only 750 watts. It does, however, have an adjustable temperature of 50 °F to 90 °F. And with the remote control, it ensures easy customization.
I wouldn’t say it’s the best-looking infrared heater out there. However, the black cabinet looks pretty stylish. Even more, it is fireproof for long-lasting durability.
Verdict
LifeSmart medium room infrared heater stands out for its practical, straightforward design. If you want an affordable heater that is easy to use, look no further.
8. Duraflame 9HM8101-O142 Electric Infrared Quartz Heater
Unlike the Duraflame DFI-5010 heater, it doesn’t boast the 3D flame effect. Nor does it have any flame effect in place. Still, this infrared heater is a beauty and pretty remarkable at providing supplemental zone heating.
This infrared heater pretty much offers a mix and match design. It has an oak wood finish as well as tempered glass. As such, it complements any décor, both modern and classic.
I like the minimalist design of the control panel. It is clutter-free and looks great on the tempered glass. Though it doesn’t have as many functions, it has all the basics you need.
This infrared heater outputs 5200 BTUs. Also, it has a thermostat for adjusting the room temperature. At the maximum setting, it can heat up to 1000 square feet.
The quartz element allows for fast, efficient heating. Even more, it doesn’t take the moisture out of the room for additional comfort.
More than the polished look, this infrared heater offers much-needed durability. It comes in solid hardwood for guaranteed durability.
Duraflame infrared heater has a cool-touch surface. Thus, it’s safe around kids and pets. Also, it has the safety of fire protection and a tip-over switch.
Concealed casters don’t tamper with the refined look of this infrared heater. Still, they provide much-needed mobility around the house.
Verdict
Duraflame 9HM8101-O142 is a high-performance infrared heater. The touchscreen control panel, in particular, gives it a more advanced look. For an infrared heater that borders modern and classic style, this unit is hard to beat.
9. Heat Storm Deluxe Wall-Mounted Space Infrared Heater
Freestanding infrared heaters, though compact, can consume valuable floor space. But Heat Storm infrared heater changes all that.
Well, this infrared heater mounts on the wall, taking up zero floor space. Even more outstanding is that it uses less than two square feet of wall space.
Heat Storm Deluxe offers more than a space-saving design. It also has a modern design that complements the beauty of your room.
I want to commend Storm Heater for the thoughtfully designed LED control panel. It’s small but accommodates all functions without the cluttered look.
Moreover, the control panel has touchscreen support and can recall your last settings in the event of power loss. Such specs make it one step ahead of the competition.
This infrared heater uses patented HMS dual-wall technology, making it extremely energy efficient. At maximum setting, it provides 1000 watts of heating. Also, it includes a digital thermostat for making the necessary adjustments.
The cool-touch grill keeps your hands safe. Moreover, this infrared heater rewards you with a lifetime filter for years of operation.
Verdict
It’s not always that you have enough floor space for an infrared heater. Well, the Heat Storm wall-mount heater fills the gap. If you want the best wall-mount infrared heater, this is it.
10. COSTWAY Infrared Tower Heater
As far as the controls go, COSTWAY infrared heater is slightly on the analog side. It is, however, a decent infrared heater that offers value for money.
The adjustable thermostat has dial controls for high and low heat settings. It allows you to adjust the heating capacity from 600 watts to 1200 watts.
This infrared heater heats faster and uniformly, thanks to the mesh design. Moreover, it’s quiet enough and has a mute mode to keep it from interrupting your work or sleep.
Well, COSTWAY infrared heater doesn’t have the coverage of other bigger units. Instead, it heats up to 160 square feet, making it ideal for small rooms.
This infrared heater is among the most compact and lightweight. It weighs only 8.8 pounds and has a convenient carry-handle for ultra-portable design.
Even with the small footprint, this infrared heater is tip-resistant. Complete with overheat protection, it guarantees your safety and those of your kids.
Verdict
It does lack some high-end features. But even with the simple, straightforward operation, COSTWAY infrared heater has all it takes to keep you warm. I vote it the best budget infrared heater.
Best Infrared Heaters: Complete Guide
Type of Infrared Heater
Infrared heaters come in two main categories: portable and fixed infrared heaters.
Fixed infrared heaters are generally larger and more powerful. Also, they can warm more than one room in one go. For a permanent heating solution, fixed infrared heaters are an excellent choice.
Portable infrared heaters are pretty much on the smaller side. They are relatively light and come with wheels or carry handles. Well, if you want a room to room or zone heating, portable infrared heaters are the way to go.
Size
Consider the size in two ways: room size and the amount of space the heater will take.
Well, infrared heaters are relatively small and portable in most cases. So, the amount of floor space they take isn’t much of an issue, not unless you are tight on space. Apparently, wall-mount heaters work the best on cramped up spaces.
Also, consider the square footage of the room you want to warm. Often, infrared heaters have square foot coverage indicating the maximum amount of space they can warm. For best results, I recommend coverage that’s slightly larger than your room size.
Power
The larger space you want to warm, the more powerful a heater it will need. The power of infrared sauna heaters is often indicated in British Thermal Units (BTUs), which correlates to the number of watts it draws.
For reference, 1 watt equals 3.412 BTUs. And since most homes have a standard 110-volt outlet, the maximum you can get in most portable infrared heaters is 1500 watts.
Location
The location becomes an issue if you have an infrared heater that is more of a permanent fixture. In such a situation, you want to ensure the room has an unobstructed view. It will keep objects, such as furniture, from absorbing the infrared heat instead of you.
The location, however, isn’t much of a concern for a portable unit. After all, you can move it to any location you want.
Safety Features
Space heaters are among the top causes of house fires. Hence, the best infrared space heater should have safety features. The most notable include cool-touch housing, tip-over shut-off, overheat shut-off, and automatic timers.
Additional Features
It doesn’t hurt to have bells and whistles. After all, they help to increase functionality. But what extra features should you look for?
Some of the bonus features to consider are variable heat setting, built-in timer, thermostat, oscillating feature, and remote control.
Warranty
Infrared heaters often come with a warranty. But how good should the warranty be? Well, I recommend a warranty of at least one year for a decent infrared heater.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Question: Are infrared rays harmful to humans?
Answer: Contrary to most belief, infrared rays don’t have the damaging reputation of UV rays. Hence, there is no risk of cancer or body damage. That said, infrared heaters are nowhere close to the dangerous level.
Question: Are infrared heaters better than other space heaters?
Answer: Well, compared to other space heaters, infrared heaters offer invaluable benefits. They register no loss in heat transfer, making them more energy-efficient. Also, infrared heaters don’t get hot, which makes them considerably safer.
Question: Do infrared heaters consume as much power as conventional space heaters?
Answer: Compared to conventional space heaters, infrared heaters take just as much electricity to heat your space. However, they produce more heat for the same wattage, making them a more energy-efficient choice.
Question: How many watts of heating power do I need for every square foot?
Answer: As per expert recommendation, you’ll need 10 watts for every square foot. Hence, a 1000 watts infrared heater can serve as the primary heat source for a 100 square foot room. However, for supplemental heating, the coverage increases dramatically. A 1500 watts heater, for instance, can have a coverage of 1000 square feet when used for supplemental heating.
Conclusion
Well, that sums up our best infrared heaters review. I hope it has been of great help in picking the best infrared quartz heater for your needs. I, however, welcome any suggestions or additions to the review. So, feel free to comment.