Quartz infrared heaters have been around for years, but in 2007 consumers realized the beneficial qualities of quartz infrared heat with the introduction of the EdenPure heater.
This new space heating technology proved immensely popular and, like any good idea, quickly generated a number of competitors.
The heaters reviewed below share standard features like casters, washable filter, thermostat, and remote control. Each draws around 12 amps initially and then 6 or 7 amps to maintain temperature. At 12 cents per kWh (the national average), the cost to run these portable heaters is 16 cents per hour at full power, 12 cents per hour at 1000 watts, and 6 cents per hour at the low setting of 500 watts.
Since the standard 110-volt residential circuit is 15 amps, only one heater should be connected to each circuit if multiple heaters are used.
In general, modular type infrared heaters have an excellent safety record and are considered suitable for children and pets. According to one manufacturer: “Infrared quartz elements that generate heat never reach a temperature that could ignite a fire.” Although this is probably true, it is imperative to keep all space heaters at least 3 feet away from flammable objects like curtains and furniture.
Here are the top 3 best-selling quartz infrared heaters based on data compiled from Amazon.com.
3.iHeater IH 1500 (1,500 watts) $ 285
Although the iHeater 1500 finishes the sales race at No. 3, it is distant third behind No. 1 and No. 2.
The iHeater’s claim of fame is that it doesn’t use quartz bulbs to generate heat like the other infrared heaters. Instead, it employs a PTC (positive temperature coefficient) quartz infrared element. According to the iHeater website, the heating element is programmed to last around 60,000 hours compared to 20,000 – 30,000 hours for quartz bulbs.
Once the incoming air is heated by the quartz element, it passes through a copper plate chamber and is distributed by a “squirrel cage” fan.
There are three heat settings available with a commercial grade thermostat ranging from 500 to 1500 watts.
Units are shipped to the US and Canada and come with a one-year manufacturer’s warranty. An additional 2 years of warranty coverage is available for around $ 30. The heating element itself is UL approved, but the assembled unit is not. Replacement items for iHeater are available on their website: i-Heater.com. Rated with an average of 3½ stars.
2. EdenPure GEN3 Model 1000 (1,500 watts) $ 290
The GEN3 Model 1000 is the classic EdenPure heater and also its best-selling model. The GEN3 uses six quartz tubes and 3 copper heat exchangers for heat generation and a fan for heat distribution.
The “1000” designation represents the number of square feet this unit is supposed to heat. This product detail has been a source of controversy since the heater first went on sale.
The problem is, most people don’t have a 1,000-square-foot room, but rather 3 or 4 rooms that comprise 1,000 square feet with obstructions like doors and walls that impede the flow of heat. Additionally, it is nearly impossible for any 1,500-watt (5120 BTU) heater to adequately heat 1,000 square feet when you consider that an average 2,300-square-foot home would require a 60,000 to 80,000 BTU furnace.
The GEN3 offers a 3-year warranty, is UL listed, and is available in all 50 states and Canada through a separate 800 number. EdenPure bulbs and replacement parts are available at: edenpurestore.com. Rated with an average of 2½ stars.
1. Dr Heater DR-968 (1,500 watts) $ 195
Dr Heater, the latest to enter the quartz infrared heating market, ranks first in this review. With a 4½ out of 5-star customer satisfaction rating, the fact that it sells for $ 100 less than the others probably won’t hurt sales either.
The DR heater combines PTC technology and quartz infrared tubes for a dual heating system. The heat is distributed by a high-pressure, low-noise fan equipped with ball bearings.
The DR heater is warranted for 1 year, is UL listed, and is available in the US and Canada. Replacement parts are available by calling the 800 number listed at: drheaterusa.com.