Best Electric Fireplace 2017

What is an Electric Fireplace?

Electric fireplaces can be installed where you want

There is nothing quite like having a roaring fire to snuggle down to in the deep of winter. They not only provide radiant heat, but they provide a particularly warm glow making you feel wonderfully relaxed and comfortable.

Unfortunately not everyone is able to have a real fire. In fact a large number of people live in accommodation where it is either impossible or impractical to have a real fire. For instance, many apartments simply do not have the structure to incorporate hearths and chimneys. The result is that they simply cannot install a fireplace.

In addition, having a real fire takes work. What sort of work? Well, the first thing is that they need a constant supply of fuel. Typically, fires use coal or wood to burn. But coal tends to be dirty and wood tends to be bulky. This fuel needs storage, and in the case of wood it often needs seasoning before it is dry enough to be burnt.

Assuming you have established a reliable supply of fuel and a suitable storage location you must still remember that the fire needs to be set each and every time you light it, it also needs cleaning up after a fire has burnt out. The chimney is likely to require sweeping every year in order to keep it clear and ventilating adequately. And finally, there are times when you want to warm up but just can’t be bothered to set the fire and wait until it has caught and begins to heat the room, sometimes as long as 30 minutes.

In short, having a real fire, pleasant as it might be, does in fact take a lot of effort. What’s the solution? Well, the solution may well be an electric fireplace.

An electric fireplace is essentially an electric heater that is enclosed in a case that is made to look like a conventional fireplace. Inside the case a variety of lighting techniques combined with mirrors create the effect of flames flickering as they would in a real fire. So an electric fireplace uses electricity to produce the heat you want while at the same time simulating the visual effect of having a real fire.

The very best electric fireplaces are really very convincing and do in fact look very much like a real fire. But, they also benefit from modern electrical controls. For instance, most electric fireplaces use thermostats to heat the room to your desired temperature. They can be controlled by timers and remote controls and some of the very best ones controlled by a smartphone app.

So, in summary an electric fireplace is a substitute for a real fire, where circumstances prevent a real fire from being practical. They can be purchased in a number of different styles, modern or contemporary, or traditional. They are capable, typically of heating a good sized room, but as with many more portable space heaters are unlikely to be able to heat the whole house. Electric fireplaces are a great, practical alternative to a real fire.

Are Electric Fireplaces Energy Efficient?

When considering the question of energy efficiency, you must really ask the question, “compared to what?” The reason for this qualification is that there is clearly going to be a difference between the energy efficiency of a traditional fireplace and the energy efficiency of a portable infrared space heater.

For the sake of argument we will assume that we are comparing with more traditional real fuel fires. This will keep the arguments simple and starker.

To address the question of energy efficiency we really need to consider the cost of heating your room. The lower the overall costs, all other factors being equal, the more certain we can state that the heater is energy efficient.

It is a well-known problem of traditional fireplaces that much of the heat generated is lost up the chimney and out of the home. In fact there are many estimates out there that suggest that up to 90% of the heat is lost outside. To put this in perspective, if you were to spend $100 on solid fuel for your fire, then you would in fact only benefit from $10, the remainder would be wasted.

Wood burning stoves or pellet stoves can significantly improve these figures as the burner is encased within a metal case. And this is definitely an option you can consider as an alternative to an open fire. See our article looking in detail at the best pellet stoves available at the moment.

Electricity on the other hand is one of the cleanest and cheapest sources of energy available today. In addition, the heat generated is felt immediately meaning that there is no fuel wasted as the fire gets up to the desired temperature. The cost of running an electric fireplace therefore can be very low. They provide heat when you need and want it, and when you don’t the fireplace costs nothing.

Overall, the cost of providing heat from an electric fireplace can be as little as 7-10c an hour. It is possible if you have a bountiful supply of wood on hand that the cost of a real fuel fire would be lower, but this will not be true for everyone, and overlooks the other problems of fires such as storage, cleaning and maintenance.

In summary, electric fireplaces use clean, cheap energy, they are extremely efficient at turning the electrical energy into heat and the only cost money when you use them. In our opinion, the from an energy efficiency perspective, the electric fireplace is by far the most energy efficient fireplace option.

The Benefits of an Electric Fireplace

Having a real fire is lovely. But in many homes completely impractical. If you don’t own your home, or you live in a condo in multiple occupancy housing you may not have the opportunity to install a fireplace, not to mention a chimney. Electric fireplaces are a really good alternative. They give you the opportunity to experience the effects of a real fire, ranging from soft gentle heat, to the flickering flames, but without any of the associated complexity of a real fire.

Let’s look at some of the benefits of owning an electric fireplace.

The Look and Feel of a Real Fire

Some electric fireplaces are so convincing in creating the look and feel of a real fire many people would not be able to tell the difference at first glance.

Obviously, cost is an issue here. If you are looking for a small portable electric fireplace in the shape of a stove or small fireplace insert then your electric fireplace may be adequate but not completely convincing. But at the higher end of the electric fireplace market you can get some fantastic fireplaces that look amazingly like a real fire.

Classic Flame and Dimplex are both suppliers of top of the line electric fireplaces. They make a range of fireplaces in a number of styles ranging from contemporary to traditional and with freestanding, inserts or wall hanging models. If you have the budget for it we recommend you check them out.

Little or No Maintenance

Anyone who has had a real fire knows the effort needed in order to keep it running. First there is sourcing the fuel. Wood has to be sourced, cut up and seasoned before being ready for the fire. Even if you have a good and reliable wood source, it still needs to be stored. Similar problems are experienced with coal, which has the added complexity of being dirty.

In addition to the problem of sourcing and storing the fuel the fireplace needs to be regularly cleaned, the chimney periodically swept and the fire set every time.

Compare this to the use of an electric fireplace. The fuel is electricity which is always available. The heater is simply turned on and the thermostat set at the required temperature. And that really is it. There is little to no maintenance, with it being limited to ensuring the vents are obstruction free.

So even if you live in accommodation that can have a real fire, an electric fireplace is often a clear winner from the value and convenience perspective.

Straightforward Installation

Perhaps the biggest obstacle in people’s minds to buying an electric fireplace is the cost and complexity of installation. But installation is surprisingly straightforward, even with electric fireplace inserts.

Freestanding electric fireplaces require no installation. They just need to be positioned in the room, plugged into the socket and turned on. Many electric fireplaces combine entertainment and media centers and look great.

Wall hung electric fireplaces are simple to install with brackets being attached to the wall in a secure location and then the fireplace fitted to the bracket.

Even electric fireplace inserts are not particularly difficult to install, the main complexity is if they are hardwired, which would require the services of a licensed electrician. But this is no more complex than if you need to move an electric outlet.

The point is that installation of most electric fireplaces is not as difficult as many believe.

Vent Free

Electric fireplaces are essentially electric space heater, either fan forced ceramic heaters or quartz infrared heaters. These do not produce fumes of any sort and as a result do not require venting.

Not having to install a vent means that your electric fireplace can be installed in a position that is ideal for you and you are not constrained by the positioning of a vent.

Electric Fireplaces are Energy Efficient

Energy efficiency is a particular concern of many householders. There are two factors to consider when thinking about buying an electric fireplace.

The first is that electric space heaters are very efficient converters of electric power into heat. This means that you benefit directly from the electricity supplied, and no more. In comparison the fuel efficiency of a real fire is much lower with estimates that up to 90% of heat generated from burning fuel being lost up the chimney.

Second, if you leave a room being heated by an electric fireplace, you can simply turn the fireplace off. If you intend to return then when you do you can simply turn the fire back on.

Compare this to a room in which a real fire is burning. If you are leaving the room and intend to return then it is likely you will have to stoke the fire with more fuel, place a guard around it and hope that it is still alight when you return. When you do return, the room will have been heated the whole time of your absence essentially wasting your fuel.

Electric Fireplace Safety

We examine electric fireplace safety below in more detail, but it is worth taking a little time to highlight the difference between the safety aspects of an electric fireplace and those of a real fire.

Clearly, real fires represent an ongoing hazard when in use. The fire should never be left unattended and unguarded. It should never be over fed with fuel in case anything falls out. The chimney or vent must be kept clear of blockages to prevent the risk of smoke billowing into the room or worse, chimney fires.

Electric fireplaces on the other hand are relatively benign in comparison. Most include auto-shut off features in the event that they overheat. Although they may get warm, modern infrared electric fireplace are rarely hot to the touch and so are far safer in households where there may be children or pets. Finally, there is no smoke or indeed any fume at all.

All in all, the management of risk in the use of electric fireplaces is far more straightforward than the risks of having a real fire.

Cost

There are two aspects to the cost argument.

First, the cost of installation. If you were to install a fireplace from scratch in a home the costs can run into many thousands of dollars. In comparison, electric fireplaces are relatively inexpensive to purchase and install.

Secondly, the cost of fuel for keeping a real fire running can add up quickly. Contrast this with running an electric heater. The electricity costs a few pennies an hour and the costs are only incurred when the heater is in use. Overall, the running costs of electric fireplaces can be significantly lower than those of a real fire.

There are other benefits, such as “all year round” use, and on-demand heating that you get from installing and using an electric fireplace, but hopefully by now you get the picture.

Types of Electric Fireplace

There are essentially four different types of electric fireplace. We will go through each one in turn.

Electric Fireplace Inserts

An electric fireplace insert is suitable for two situations. The first is that you already have a fireplace and fire surround, but want to replace the existing fire with an electric equivalent. The second is that you have a completely new site for your fire, and want to install a fire without having too much space taken up.

In essence an electric fireplace insert is simple a heater that when installed is inserted into a cavity in either the wall or in the space where an existing fireplace used to reside. The main bulk of the heater sits inside the cavity and is not visible. What is visible is an attractive fire front, with potentially flickering flames and a lovely warm glow.

Benefits

Installed into the wall, making the heater very low profile.

Provide a very modern and comtemporary look.

Can be used to replace an existing fire.

Drawbacks

Installation is a non-trivial task.

Due to their compact nature and attractive designs, these heaters tend to be more expensive.

The Mantel Electric Fireplace

These fireplaces come as complete units. They are intended to replace an existing fireplace and the surround. They incorporate the electric heater and include a fire surround. In effect they look very similar to a real fire, except they are not.

This type of heater is perfect for a completely new installation where the homeowner does not want to go to the trouble and expense of installing a fully fledged fireplace. In essence the mantel electric fireplace may be installed anywhere there is a blank wall and a nearby electric outlet.

Benefits

Takes a lot of the worry our of installation as these are, in effect, self contained heaters.

There are a wide range of options for the look and feel of these heaters, ranging from the traditional to the ultra-contemporary.

Drawbacks

These types of heater are at the more expensive end of the range.

Wall Mounted or Hung Fireplaces

An innovation that could really only come about due the convenience of electric fireplaces is the wall mounted electric fireplace. In essence, these are standalone heaters that are installed by attaching them to brackets that are fixed to a wall.

They come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes and designs and really represent the ultimate in electric fireplace flexibility. They can be mounted onto almost any wall and the only limitation is the need for a nearby electrical supply.

Perhaps not surprisingly, this type of fireplace is very popular due to the lack of complexity in installation and the variety of models available.

Benefits

Great way to add that missing something to an otherwise ordinary room.

Wall hung and so has very limited space requirements in a room

Straightforward installation.

Drawbacks

Some models are expensive, but there are many options available.

Electric Fireplace TV or Media Stand

One of the newer innovations is the combination of the electric fireplace with a media center or TV stand. This has the great benefit of combining two units which would otherwise each take up their own space, into a single unit, thus saving significantly on floor space while also providing an attractive room focal point, even when the television is turned off.

For all existing properties which may be struggling with existing furniture footprints this may well be a Godsend. And, since they have hit the space heater market they have been extremely popular.

This sort of fireplace can combine modern contemporary looks for your fireplace with the modern day living room focal point, the TV. Almost certainly a winning combination and may well, for many, be the best electric fireplace choice yet.

Benefits

Clever way to combine two essential living room items.

An efficient use of space

Provides additional storage

Drawbacks

At the more expensive end, these units can be quite expensive.

Factors To Consider When Buying A Space Heater

Electric fireplaces can easily be installed in the corner of a room

Heater Output

Electric Fireplaces range in size and heating power. They also range from standalone to installed inset fireplaces.

The first consideration you need to make is the size of the room. Knowing the size of the room allows you to evaluate the heater power you will need to comfortably heat it. As a general rule, a 1500 watt heater is capable of heating a 400 sq. ft. room to a comfortable level. This data point should help you determine what sort of power your heater needs to be drawing. Obviously the larger the room, the more powerful heater you will need.

Size and Location

You need to decide where within the room the heater will be best located. This will also help you determine size of the fireplace. Some electric fireplaces are large and will take up a good portion of a wall. You should ensure that the heater does not overly dominate as this will make staging the room with furniture difficult.

Some electric fireplaces are designed to fit into corners, so don’t always assume that you need a blank wall to locate your heater.

Cost

The range of products available in the electric fireplace market is considerable. Cost does to a large extent depend upon the exact type of fireplace you are looking for. Some standalone electric fireplaces are inexpensive, costing no more than $100. But at the high end, with very real effect fires combined with a TV center then you can easily pay over $1000. The choice is up to you.

In this article we try to give you a sense of the price point for each of our best electric fireplace choices. Use that information as a start point for further research. You should quickly be able to determine which models fit within your budget and which are too expensive.

Look and Feel

With the use of LED lights electric fireplaces look very real

A huge part of the decision to purchase an electric fireplace is to get the convenience of a conventional space heater while at the same time not giving up the look and feel of having a real fire.

Remember, if you are trying to make your home warm and welcoming then being able to turn on a heater and have a wonderful fire going very quickly is great. It should make you feel good and make you want to spend time in that room.

So make sure that when you choose your electric fireplace you choose a model that provides the most realistic fire that you can afford.

Fully Featured

In our opinion, why go to the trouble and expense of installing an electric fireplace if it doesn’t offer you the convenience of operating the way you want it to. We believe the heater should have the following features as a minimum:

Remote Control

Remote control will make the whole process of using your heater easy. We find that the remote control helps to ensure that you will turn the heater off when it is no longer required.

Light and Flame Settings

Some fireplaces allow you to change the fire effect. This is a reflection of the way a real fire might behave. As a real fire burns down, the glow tends to shift from a bright, flickering yellow glow, to a deep red pulsing glow. Some fireplaces allow you to do set your preferred light effect.

Timer and Programmable Thermostat

It is always useful to put your heater on a timer to ensure that you will not leave it running. For all the energy efficiency of modern space heaters, the cost will add up if you accidentally leave it on when you are not present or do not need it. This also applies to the temperature settings.

Common Questions about Electric Fireplaces

Can you place a TV over a mantel fireplace?

The short answer to this question is, yes. The risk with placing a TV on a traditional fireplace is that heat from the fire will cause damage to the TV. But with electric fireplaces the main heating method is either infrared or fan forced ceramic heating elements. Most such heaters heat without the casing being overly hot to the touch. This means that placing electronic items, such as a TV, is safe as there is no damage or fire risk.

One word of caution however. You should make sure that the surface is stable and the TV set is not too heavy. Although heat damage is unlikely you would not want the whole thing to become overbalanced or fall.

How large a room will my electric fireplace heat?

As a general rule, a modern space heater will comfortably warm a room with a floor area of around 400 sq. ft. This means that most rooms in all but the largest homes will be heated satisfactorily.

The power consumption of such heaters is usually 1500 watts with a heat output of around 5000 BTU’s. Heaters often have a low power setting which will consume less power and electric fireplaces often have a no-heat option which allows you to experience the look of the fire without actually providing any heat.

Are electric fireplaces really safe?

The simple answer to this is that any device generating heat needs to be operated with care.

However, having said that, modern space heaters with overheat and tip-over cut-outs, programmable timers and no longer having exposed heating elements, are generally far safer than they used to be and certainly a great deal safer than running a real fire.

Will the fireplace need any venting, or require a chimney?

No. Electric fireplaces do not burn fuel. Instead they use electrical power to heat an element, normally a quartz infrared element or a ceramic element. Neither of these elements give off fumes when heated.

The flames are not real and will not burn or require replacing. You could even install your heater upside down and it would still probably work just fine.

The only circumstance you may want to install a chimney is if you want your electric fireplace to look even more as though it is a real fire, with a real chimney. But this is not necessary.

Will I need to get a permit to install my electric fireplace?

Normally, no. But you should check your local electric installation regulations.

Unless your electric fireplace is hardwired to the electric output you will not need any permits to install the heater. If it is to be hardwired then we recommend you use a licensed electrical professional to ensure the work is carried out to an adequate standard.

Will my electric fireplace be energy efficient to operate?

Yes. Electric fireplaces are a great way to supplement the central heating system in your home. The reason for this is that they add an element of zone heating that would otherwise not be available.

Zone heating is where you heat one part of a house, but leave the rest of the house unheated. Only the more sophisticated and modern heating installations offer zone heating options. For this reason using an electric fireplace can make a lot of sense.

In general, space heaters, especially the infrared kind are extremely energy efficient. They provide instant heat when you want it and no heat when it is turned off. In addition, the convert almost all the energy consumed into heat (the flame effect does use some of the consumed energy) meaning that you rarely end up paying for electricity that is not benefiting you.

In any event, most modern home heaters on high power draw 1500 watts of power every hour. If you check your electrical bill you will see that the cost of electricity per kilowatt hour is only a few cents, meaning that running your heater for a few hours each day does not cost very much at all.

How easy will I be able to move my fireplace if I want to change its location?

If the heater is an inset heater then moving it will require disconnection from the power supply and the creation of a new cavity to which the heater will be placed. But as a general rule, as most electric heaters simply plug into a power outlet, moving them is straight-forward. Because no venting is required they can literally be positioned almost anywhere in a home and still operate successfully (safety first, remember).

How to Install an Electric Fireplace

There are essentially two types of installable electric fireplaces. We are ignoring the portable electric fireplace category as these are essentially the same as any other portable space heater.

The model of electric fireplace that most people identify is the electric fireplace insert. Clearly, as the name suggests, the main heater case is inserted into a wall or fireplace cavity leaving just the fireplace front facing outwards. Due to the potential for cutting, wiring and repairing this is the most complex type of electric fireplace installation

The second type of model requiring installation is the hanging electric fireplace. This type of electric fireplace is very similar to a large screen television, although some of these fireplaces are considerably heavier than conventional flat screen televisions.

Installing an Electric Fireplace Insert

The first thing to note is that this would rank as a moderately difficult do-it-yourself task, and you should consider getting some professional assistance to ensure you get the best result. All electric fireplace inserts come with manufacturers’ installation instructions and you should make sure that you read these through in detail before starting any installation work.

Selecting the Best Location

Electric fireplace inserts are heavy. They must be properly supported when installed otherwise they can be a significant safety hazard. To be properly installed they should be fixed to the studs, or supports behind the sheetrock. They should never be installed on a drywall.

You will also need to ensure that there is an electrical outlet close to the installation location. This should be located either below of off to the side of the fireplace insert as you do not want the heat emitted by the heater to directly affect the outlet. To be safe, it is recommended to use non-flammable outlet coverings.

Hardwire and Plugin Fireplace Inserts

Electric fireplace inserts are either plugin which have a standard 120v plug that is simply plugged in to the chosen electric socket. This is clearly the most straightforward electric installation, but will require a trailing wire to be visible. For this reason you can also choose a hardwire electric fireplace insert.

Hardwire electric fireplace inserts look significantly better than their plugin cousins, but of course they will need to be installed by a licensed electrician and this will add to the cost.

Cut the Cavity and Build a Frame

Use a reciprocating saw to cut through into the wall. Locate the supporting studs and build a supporting frame, based on the manufacturers’ size recommendations out of 2x4’s. Secure the frame to the studs.

Once in place you insert the electric fireplace unit into the frame, ensure that it is adequately level and secure with the screws and brackets provided.

Wiring the Electric Fireplace

As previously noted, we recommend for hardwire electric fireplace inserts you employ an licensed electrical professional.

However, in any event you must ensure that the connections you make are sound and properly insulated. You should also test the connection before turning the fireplace on, as you would not want to damage your insert due to errors.

Once you are satisfied that the installation is correct, we recommend you turn on the fireplace and go through the controls to ensure that the electric fireplace is fully functional.

Finishing Off

Once the electric fireplace is secured into the cavity, the wiring is complete and the heater has been tested and is fully functional you should now move to repairing any peripheral damage to the surrounding wall.

Installing a Hung Electric Fireplace

The installation process for hanging an electric fireplace is far simpler than that involved in installing an insert fireplace.

The key criteria here is to make sure that the brackets are secured properly to studs.

First you must locate the studs behind the drywall or sheetrock. The best way to do this is using a stud finder. This should save you from having to make a number of small holes in the wall as you attempt to locate the studs.

Once you have located the studs you can safely install the brackets that will hold the electric fireplace. Make sure you use the recommended screw length as you want to make sure that the screws are firmly secured into the studs behind and not just in the drywall surface.

Once the brackets are in place the electric fireplace can be attached. The fireplace can then be plugged into the nearest electric outlet and the fireplace heater is ready to go.

Final Points on Installing your Electric Fireplace

Modern electric fireplace heaters look great. There is no question about it. They can look contemporary, or traditional, whatever your particular choice is. They are relatively easy to install and once securely in position are able to provide energy efficient, low cost heat for your enjoyment.

Summing It Up

Electric fireplaces create the same atmosphere as a real fire

With the advent of realistic flame effects the electric fireplace has become a very popular alternative to a real fire. The reason for this popularity is clear. An electric fireplace can replace an existing fire, can be installed in apartments that have no chimney, require no venting, are very low maintenance, are energy efficient and very cheap to run.

You can choose from a wide variety of designs. You can get ultra-contemporary designs or you can get traditional looking stoves. You can choose the fireplace design that fits best in your home and all for a comparatively low cost.

Fuel for you electric fireplace is always available and the heater once installed requires almost no maintenance. You can operate the fireplace by remote control and can turn it off when not in use.

This brief recap should provide you with an excellent set of reasons why you will not regret choosing an electric fireplace for your home. We recommend you read our electric fireplace reviews and choose the best electric fireplace on the market for your home.

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Review: Heat Storm Sahara Lightweight Portable Infrared Space Heater

OUR RATING

Value

Design

Quality

Summary

4.2

Click for more images

The Heat Storm Sahara Infrared Space Heater is a new design of infrared heater. These heaters have come to the market only recently. They have a distinct, pleasing design.

The Heat Storm heater has a compact, almost squat design. The face has a glowing grill showing the quartz heating elements inside. It also has a circular digital display positioned above. The display shows the temperature and other settings.

The Heat Storm also includes some useful features. It has a remote control. It incorporates an air purifier. And it is lightweight enough to move from room to room, either by lifting or by rolling on its castors.

Construction

Easy to read display supports straightforward operation

The Heat Storm Sahara is a compact infrared heater. The heat provided is from quartz infrared heating elements. These heat objects close to the heater, including people if they are close enough. This type of heat is called radiant heat. It differs from convection heaters which heat the air in the space.

The size of the heater measures approximately 14 inches wide, by 12 inches high and 17 inches deep. Many space heaters are heavy, especially oil filled heaters. The Heat Storm, however, weighs only 12 pounds which makes carrying the heater easy. Carrying is also helped by the lift up handle on the top of the heater. Castors are also included making pushing the heater an option too.

The air intake is either side of the heater. The intake is protected by grey grills ensuring you cannot reach the inside of the heater. The side air intake does mean that you must ensure the heater is clear of other objects when in use. Having said that, we would never suggest operating a space heater if it was in contact with another object. From a pure safety perspective. So we do not see this as a particular issue.

The Saraha is a 1500 watt heater. As a rule, this means that it should heat spaces up to 1000 sq. ft. Despite being principally a radiant heater, the heater incorporates a small fan which helps heat the air too. The fan is very quiet in operation.

The heater comes with a 3 year manufacturer warranty.

All in all, the Heat Storm Lightweight Portable Infrared Space Heater is well built, has a great looking design and is easy to move around.

Read our article on the best infrared heaters available

Operation

The Heat Storm Sahara is cool to the touch making it great for use in family environments

As previously noted, the Saraha comes with a remote control unit. This provides full control of the heater from a distance. Operation is straightforward. Use the arrow keys on the remote control to set the temperature higher or lower. The built in thermostat will do the rest.

You can set the heater on a high, or a low setting. This affects the speed of heating, and not ultimately the efficiency and effectiveness of the heater.

The display shows the current temperature. This allows you to check the heater performance periodically.

Some space heaters can dry out the air in a room. To counter this, the Saraha Infrared Space Heater only gently heats the air in the room, providing most of the heat radiantly. This soft heat means that occupants of the room tend to be much more comfortable. It also incorporates an air purifier with a lifetime filter. This removes any dust particles from being blow into the room.

During operation the casing is quite cool to the touch. This makes is a good space heater for areas where there may be hazards, such as pets or children.

Positives

The Sahara has the following positive benefits:

• Size and Weight - The heaters size and weight make it very portable. It is easily lifted, or pushed around on castors if lifting is inconvenient. Despite its size, the heater is a 1500 watt heater capable of heating a room of 1000 sq. ft.
• Large Display - The display is large and visible. Ambient room temperature is checked easily simply by glancing at the display.
• Simple Operation - Operation is very straightforward. Set the temperature using the arrow keys on the remote control or on the face of the heater. The thermostatic control will operate the heater until the temperature reaches the target.
• Instant Heat - The heater is an infrared, radiant heater. This means that heat is provided immediately. With convection heaters, the heater takes time to warm the air in the room. This can mean that a delay of 15-20 minutes can be experienced before any heat is felt.
• Sleek, Stylish Design - The heater has an attractive, sleek casing. It is designed to have a low centre of gravity meaning it is not easy to knock over.
• Warranty - The Sahara comes with a three year manufacturers warranty. This means you need have no worries of problems in the early month of use.

Points to Note

• Not Silent - The main complaint against the Heat Storm Saraha is that it is not silent during operation. This is due to the fan. The fan complements the radiant heat by gently pushing any warm air away from the heating elements and into the room.
• Fan Cooling - The fan also continues to blow after the thermostat has switched the heater off. This lasts for approximately one minute, but the air blown during this time is cooler. This can seem to have the effect of cooling the newly heated space. Quite irritating sometimes.

Summary

Infrared heaters have become very popular these days. We have looked at some of the best infrared heaters on the market elsewhere on the site. We like them a lot, due to their energy efficiency, their instant heating capability and their size and portability.

The Heat Storm Sahara Light Weight Portable Infrared Space Heater is a great example of one of the modern infrared heaters. No longer do you have a scalding hot heating element, behind wire bars. Now you have a lightweight, compact and pleasing design. A heater that is very easy to operate and to move from place to place to get the best use of it.

We have no difficulty giving the Heat Storm Sahara a thumbs up. If you are looking for a small but effective infrared heater then this model could be just what you are looking for.

See on Amazon

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Best Oil Filled Heater 2017

Oil filled heaters are a great way to heat cold spots in your home

When looking for a space heater, it’s difficult to find one that fits all your needs. Having said that there is one type of space heater that is just great for many applications. The oil filled heater.

They’re energy efficient, effective, and safe. Unlike standard radiator heaters, oil-filled heaters are portable. They operate by plugging into an outlet rather than having to hook them up to a complex system.

However, finding the perfect oil-filled heater for your home isn’t as simple as going to your local department store and purchasing one. Finding a high-quality oil-filled heater could mean the difference between heating your home efficiently and cost-effectively, or spending much more than necessary. There are so many models to choose from, it’s difficult to figure out which one is right for your home.

In this article, you’ll find the information you need to make an informed decision. You’ll find out how an oil-filled heater works, as well as how to choose the one right for you. This article will inform you of what can go wrong with an oil-filled heater, too.

We also hope to give you some simple troubleshooting information. We hope this will help you figure out how to fix your heater without having to call the manufacturer a million times.

How do Oil Filled Heaters Work?

Oil-filled heaters or radiators will look like the old-fashioned radiators, but they’re a lot smaller. They’re made up of fins or columns that join up together, sometimes with an open space between them. These fins or columns join together at the bottom, and the front of the unit is fitted with a control panel. Some oil-filled heaters are constructed to be a single, flat panel.

Unlike the traditional radiators, oil-filled ones are mobile. They connect to an ordinary wall plug, so they’re able to be moved anywhere they’re needed. Most of them have handles for you to carry them, and the larger models have wheels to position them easily.

Inside the fin or the column is diathermic oil. The most common concern with these heaters is whether or not you have to refill the oil, and the answer is no. The oil is not a fuel, but rather a heat reservoir. Therefore, it will never be used up. It will continue to circulate through the heater as long as it’s being used.

Here’s a brief review of how these heaters work.

The warmed oil begins to circulate around the fins, the heat is then transferred to the surrounding air

1. The electricity is sent to a resistor inside the heater, which will turn the energy into heat.
2. The diathermic oil absorbs the heat inside the heater.
3. While the oil heats up, it starts to circulate throughout the columns or fins.
4. While the oil movies through the fins, it transfers the heat to the fins.
5. While the fins heat up, they radiate heat into the area. This heat circulates through the room using natural convection in the air.

How to Choose the Best Oil Filled Radiator

In this section, you will learn about the different models, features, benefits, frustrations, installation, and maintenance of the oil-filled heater.

The Different Types of Oil Heater

All oil-filled heaters work the same; however, that doesn’t mean all oil-filled heaters are the same when it comes to quality. When you’re purchasing an oil-filled heater, you want to look for safety features above all else.

Heaters designed with wider fins and longer heating tubes help the heat spread out over a larger surface area, which will radiate heat more efficiently. Look for a heater with a taller fin because this will be cooler to the touch than a smaller heater, but it will produce the same amount of heat for the space it’s in.

If style is important to you, then you may want to look for a heater that is wall-mountable or will fit in with your décor. Remember, price does not necessarily translate to quality, so be sure you look for a heater that will fulfill your needs while giving you peace of mind.

Key Features of Oil Filled Radiators

• Temperature Settings – Oil-filled radiator heaters often have a swivel knob to set the temperature, a specific setting of high or low, or specific temperature settings with a digital display. The one your unit has will depend on the brand you purchase, as well as the amount of money you’re willing to spend on your heater. Some come with a comfort setting that allows you to keep a room between 68 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit, which can save you a lot on your energy bill.
• Thermal Shutoff – To protect your children and pets from accidental burns, most heaters have rounded designs that put off enough heat to heat a room, but they don’t have a hot surface temperature. The heating elements are completely enclosed to prevent any direct contact, so everyone stays safe. To protect your family and home, these units have automatic shutoff functions to cut the power to the unit if the heater gets too hot.
• Antifreeze Setting – If you’re using your heater in an area where pipes may be prone to freezing, some heaters come with a feature that’s automatic. When the temperature reaches below 44 degrees Fahrenheit, the heater will automatically turn on to keep the room from getting too cold.
• Timer – Some units will come with a timer so you can set different temperatures for different times of the day. For example, you can set the temperature to be a little lower at night and increase in the morning, so you don’t have to get out of bed to cold floors!

The Advantages of Owning an Oil Filled Heater

This brief video gives a summary of the benefits of oil filled heaters. Following it we look at a more comprehensive list of why oil filled radiators are one of the best space heaters to purchase.

• Silent – Traditional space heaters with exposed heating elements use fans to blow the hot air around the room. Oil-filled heaters do not have fans, and the only noise you’ll ever hear one make is a gentle clicking sound as the thermostat adjusts and the unit turns on or off. You most likely won’t notice it.
• Humidity-Friendly – Oil-filled heaters don’t use fans to circulate the air around the room; therefore, they won’t dry out the air in your home.
• Energy Efficient – Electric heaters are just about 100% efficient, which means all the energy they use is converted into heat. Oil-filled heaters don’t have to provide power for a fan motor, so they’re even more efficient than conventional space heaters.
• Slow to Cool – Even after the power has been turned off, oil-filled heaters continue to radiate heat.
• Thermostat Controllers – Once your room reaches a comfortable temperature, your heater will automatically turn off or on to maintain that temperature, rather than running constantly. This saves you money and keeps your rooms from overheating.
• No Refills – There’s no need to replace the oil in these radiator heaters because the oil is never used as fuel.
• Portable and Compact – These are lightweight, easy to move heaters, and most are small enough to fight beneath a desk safely.
• Non-Scorching Surface – The metal surface can get warm to the touch, but it’ll never be hot enough to burn you if you brush against it accidentally.
• Unexposed Heat Elements – The heating elements are sealed within the fins of the heater, so there isn’t a chance it’ll touch anything flammable. This makes them safe for children and pets.
• No Vents or Grilles – Oil-filled heaters are completely enclosed, so there isn’t a need to worry about debris or dust getting inside of them, as well as little fingers poking through exposed grilles. In addition, there's no concern about blocked air flow through intake or outtake vents.
• No Fumes or Gas – Because these heaters do not burn oil or gas, they’re completely safe to use inside.
• Safety-Features – Most models have built-in overheat protecting features and tilt-switches that will turn your heater off in case there is a problem.

Matters to Consider before Buying an Oil Filled Heater

As with any product, there are some frustrations with oil-filled heaters. Fortunately, most of their advantages override these frustrations, but you should still be aware of them. The following list give you an idea of some of the frustrations of using oil-filled heaters:

There are many advantages to owning and using an oil filled space heater, but it is also worth looking at the drawbacks of owning these space heaters too

• Longer to Heat and Slower to Cool – Oil-filled heaters will take longer to heat up than a traditional fan-forced heater. They have to heat the oil first, and then warm the air around them. Fan-forced heaters will deliver an immediate blast of hot air, but they tend to dry out the air at the same time. In addition, oil-filled heaters take a little longer to cool down. Some see this as a disadvantage because they find it might get a little warmer than wanted in a room.

• Large – Oil-filled heaters are larger than the traditional portable heater, which can be a problem in very tight spaces. However, there are now tabletop oil-filled heaters, which might help with space problems.

• Heavier – This type of heater is a little heavier than their forced-air counterparts. However, most models come with wheels to make them easier to transport around your home.

What about Installation?

When it comes to portable oil-filled heaters, there isn’t a lot of concern when it comes to installation; however, some do have questions about the oil and basic installation matters. When you take the heater out of its box, make sure to put the wheels on the bottom. Usually, these snap into place without tools.

The other question many people have is whether or not they need to put oil into the heater. The answer is no; you do not need to put oil into these heaters. They do not burn the oil as a fuel, but rather, they use the oil as a means of circulating the heat around the fins of the heater.

If you ever see oil coming out of the heater, then stop using it immediately and take it to a repair center or call the manufacturer for instructions on how to repair or replace the heater.

Maintenance Issues

The good news is oil-filled heaters are pretty much maintenance free. Other than checking for leaks and making sure the power cord is in good shape before you turn the heater on, there isn’t much.

The one thing you do want to keep in mind is dust can gather on the metal fins, so be sure to clean them off with a damp cloth before you start the unit. This won’t obstruct the unit’s operation capabilities; however, the dust buildup can create an odor when the unit is turned on.

Summing It All Up

Oil filled heaters are economical, portable and an effective way to supplement the heating in your home

Oil-filled heaters are one of the best types of portable, supplemental heaters to purchase because they are low-maintenance, very safe, and economical. The operating cost of these heaters is very low, so you save money on your main heating bill without having to use too much electricity. The design of these heaters is truly genius when it comes to circulating heat around a home without causing discomfort and concern.

When you purchase an oil-filled heater, you’ll find many options available to you. While some people would prefer a heater with a specific temperature setting, not all oil-filled heaters come with this option. In addition, some come with a timer while others do not.

These settings really depend on your preferences because, when it comes to safety, all oil-filled heaters have the safety options that keep them from overheating during a malfunction, and they’re all relatively cool to the touch. Some will fit on a countertop or a desk, while others do better placed on a floor.

Of course, the smaller ones that go on your countertop will heat a smaller space, while the larger floor models tend to heat larger spaces. Choose the heater appropriate for the space you want to heat to get the maximum efficiency out of it.

The DeLonghi brand of oil filled heaters are definitely the most recommended. The best portable oil-filled heater is the DeLonghi EW7707CM Safe Heat 1500W ComforTemp Portable Oil-Filled Radiator. With 1500 watts of power, this heater can heat large rooms to 68 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit, or more, easily. It operates relatively silently and has very few noise complaints. This heater is made from the highest quality materials – steel assembly and smart-snap wheels. It has the comfortemp button, which allows you to maintain an optimal room temperature automatically and an adjustable thermostat if you want to change the room temperature to be lower or higher. This heater comes with the antifreeze setting, as well as a thermal cutoff in case the unit malfunctions. This is one of the highest rated, safe oil-filled heaters available on the market today.

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Best Electric Baseboard Heaters 2017

Electric baseboard heaters are a low profile attractive heating option

Are you ready for the winter? With winter come the ice storms, polar vortexes, and all that is freezing cold. It may be time to evaluate your heating system to see if it can stand up to the winter, while not costing you an arm and a leg. Energy conservation is playing a big role in the way heating systems are designed, and even if you already have a system, it may be worthwhile to explore your options.

Electric baseboard heaters are one option to consider. An electric baseboard heating system can act as a great supplement to a central heating system, or can even be used in place of a central system. It is cost effective when used wisely since you can focus the energy used to heat on the primary living areas rather than an entire home.

In this article we give you the chance to quickly and easily judge which electric baseboard heaters is for you from our comprehensive list of the best electric baseboard heaters.

Are Electric Baseboard Heaters Right For Me?

In older homes where duct-work is not possible, or would be extremely expensive, lower voltage electric baseboards can be an excellent option for a heating system. Modern baseboard heaters come in a wide variety of sizes, so they can be used to put a little extra heat in smaller spaces while running the central system on a low setting. With the wide range of designs that are on the market, most of us can find a heater to suit their needs.

It is important to recognize that electric baseboard heaters may not be the best option for everyone. Depending on the size of your home, what sort of insulation you have, and your energy budget, baseboard heaters may not be suited for you. In cold climates, it can be very expensive to rely solely on baseboard heaters. This type of application is recommended in warmer climates where the winters are not very cold, or in smaller homes and apartments.

Challenges to Buying the Best Electric Baseboard Heaters: So Many Options!

​While it is wonderful to have a wide selection of electric baseboard heaters on the market, one downside to this is that it can be difficult to determine which is best for you. There are different sizes and voltages to take under consideration. Naturally, smaller units with lower voltages are appropriate for smaller spaces and larger, more powerful units are intended for larger rooms.

Selection of electric baseboard heater manufacturer logos

​One of the biggest challenges to finding the best heating system is understanding your home’s design and electrical capabilities. It isn’t as simple as just installing the unit, you need to be aware of whether your electrical circuitry can handle higher voltages. Many homes are equipped to handle 120 voltage wiring, and will probably require additional electrical work. It is best to consult an electrician when encountering a situation like this, as improperly installed electrical wiring is very dangerous.

​Since there are so many options and variables to consider, this guide has been designed to highlight which features to look for while choosing your heating system. Only the best electric baseboard heaters have been reviewed for this guide, and a breakdown of each unit is listed. Along with descriptions and product specifications, these heating units are presented in a side-by-side comparison so you can determine which model would best suit your needs.

​How do Electric Baseboard Heaters Work?

​In electric baseboard heaters, air his heated by way of passive convection. An electrical current flows through a heating element encased by the unit. The air inside the unit is them heated, and rises out of the heater. This allows the heater to run without a fan for quiet operation. It is typically recommended that the unit is installed on the coldest wall of the room, as this facilitates the process of convection. Cold air falls into the unit, passively forcing the heated air up and into the room.

Electric baseboard heaters are controlled by thermostats that turn the unit on when the ambient air drops below a specified temperature. Depending on the model, the thermostats are built into the unit of must be installed separately.

Most electric baseboard heaters are hard-wired, meaning that they are directly connected to the home’s electrical circuitry. It is best to consult an electrician for this type of installation for safety purposed and to make sure your home is electrically equipped to handle the new heaters. Portable, plug-in versions of baseboard heaters are available. While portable heaters are convenient in that they do not require installation, they are no suitable for everyone especially those with small children.

Best Electric Baseboard Heaters Buying Guide​

​Types of Electric Baseboard Heaters

​Hardwired

​These heaters are connected directly to the home’s electric circuitry and are mounted to a wall, usually below a window. This placement is recommended because cold air that drafts in from the window falls down into the unit, is heated by the element, and rises into the room. The placement is convenient since it uses a minimum amount of space and most designs are simple enough to complement any home. It is advisable to have an electrician install hardwired units, as it can be dangerous for the inexperienced handyman.

​Portable

​The portable version of electric baseboard heater uses the same type of technology in that air is heated by convection. Portable heaters may be more convenient for those who live in milder climates and have no need for a permanent installation. The downside to portable heaters is that they can pose a trip hazard if they are placed in a high traffic area.

​Metal Coil versus Ceramic Core

​Traditionally, electric baseboard heaters have been constructed with metal heating elements. This is perfectly functional and durable, but some newer models have been designed with ceramic heating cores. It is thought that ceramic heats up more evenly and retains heat longer than traditional metal cores, so ultimately less energy is used. Both options work well-this is a matter of personal preference.

Key ​Features

​Energy Efficient

​Electric baseboards can provide an energy efficient heating system if used wisely. They are best used for supplemental heat, with a central system on a lower setting, or in specific living areas where a central heating system is not needed. Different sizes and voltages are available for customized installation in different room sizes.

​Good for Older Homes

Adding ducting is not always easy, practical or cheap

​If your home pre-dates air-con and home furnaces it may not be practical to retro-fit ducting. It is possible as this article demonstrates, but it may not be straightforward

For older homes where installation of ducting is impossible, electric baseboards are an excellent option. Lower voltage heaters are available for easy installation in older homes; otherwise, additional wiring can be installed in order to accommodate the more powerful 240-volt heaters. It is best to consult an electrician when installing a baseboard heater in an older home because of these possible complications. Also, an electrician can make sure the wiring in your home is still safe.

​Customized Climate Control - Inexpensive Zoned Heating

You can create your own heating zones with electric baseboard heaters

​Since these are localized heating units, they are great solutions for those living in mild climates without harsh winters. Electric baseboard heaters can eliminate the need for a central heating system in a milder zone.

​For those living in colder climates, individual heaters can be used to draw electricity to where you need it, with a central system running on a lower setting. Because these heaters are installed in individual rooms, you can according to individual preferences. This makes everyone happy since they can control the temperature in their own room!

​Easy to Install

​For those who don’t have a lot of experience with electrical work, it is recommended that an electrician is employed for the install. Most models are prepared for installation, and just need to be wired to the circuitry and mounted to the wall.

​It is best to consult an electrician because electrical work can be dangerous for the inexperienced. A professional will be able to determine if your electrical system already has the appropriate wiring for the unit. This is especially important in older homes, which are typically wired for lower voltage.

​Benefits of Baseboard Heaters

Cheap to Install

Most electric baseboard heaters are ready for installation, and only need tools to mount the unit. Hardware should be included with the heater. Of course, there will be cost involved if using an electrician for the install, but your safety is priceless! If a thermostat has to be purchased separately, chances are it needs to be wall mounted and this requires a little extra work.

​With portable electric baseboard heaters, there is no installation cost! Simply plug into an outlet and heat the area. While these are convenient, it is essential to take care when deciding where to place the heater. Because they are not mounted, portable heaters can pose trip hazards, and like all heaters, they should have a good clearance away from flammable materials.

​Safer than Space Heaters

​Space heaters are notorious for being unsafe. The National Fire Protection Agency estimates that 32% of home fires are caused by space heaters, along with 79% of home fire fatalities. While most of these fires are caused by improper use of space heaters, the fact that they are portable and not mounted away from foot traffic make them more susceptible to damage.

​Electric baseboard heaters are mounted away from foot traffic and are stationary. They cannot get knocked over, and do not have fans that can short out. The heating elements in electric baseboard heaters are either crushproof or protected by metal sheathing for additional safety. As long as they are installed correctly, and within the appropriate clearance of flammable obstacles, electric baseboard heaters are a safe option.

​No Restrictions to Installing in Bedrooms

​Electric baseboard heaters are safe for bedrooms, including a child’s bedroom or nursery. These units do not get hot to the touch, the heating element is contained within the unit, and its stationary position helps prevent dangerous accidents.

Of course, the case is different with portable baseboard heaters. While portable versions of this type of heater do not get hot to the touch, they can pose a trip hazard. This should be taken into consideration when heating a child’s bedroom or a high-traffic area.

Drawbacks to Baseboards Heaters​

Thermostats are Sold Separately in Most Cases

Unfortunately, most electric baseboard heaters do not include the necessary thermostat. While they are inexpensive, the thermostats do have to be purchased separately. Depending on the heating unit, the thermostat can be wall mounted or installed directly onto the heater. This should be taken into account when planning installation, as wall mounted thermostats need to be hardwired separately.

This is not the case with portable baseboard heaters, as most of these models have thermostats built in. A common complaint about the thermostats found in portable heaters is that they don’t maintain an accurate temperature. This can be a hassle if you are unable to supervise the heater.

Special Wiring has to be Installed Sometimes

In some houses, older homes, in particular, the electrical wiring cannot support the more powerful baseboard heaters that are on the market. This can be a hassle if you need a powerful heater because you live in a cold climate, or in an older home that cannot support ductwork for a central heating system. The wiring requirements should be taken into consideration when choosing the units and while planning installation.

Works Best in Well-Insulated Rooms

Because heat rises, a poorly insulated structure will not be able to contain the heated air. This will cause a higher expenditure of energy and will be expensive in the end. If you’re considering installing a system of electric baseboard heaters, it’s best to evaluate whether your home has adequate insulation first. No matter which type of heating system you decide to go with, upgrading your insulation can save a lot of energy and money over time.

Installation

​If you decide to go with an electric baseboard heating system, it is best to consult an electrician if you do not have a lot of experience with electrical work. There are wiring requirements to be aware of, and some of the powerful heaters use a voltage that can be dangerous to work with. You also need to make sure that there are enough circuit spaces in the service panel to accommodate your heaters-220 volt circuits require to breakers.

Here's a great video by a quality electric baseboard manufacturer giving instructions on a simple installation.​

Be careful while planning your thermostat positioning, since positioning it near the heating unit may result in an inaccurately high temperature reading. It is typically recommended that the heater is placed on the coldest wall in the room, and low to the ground since heat rises.

Be sure to avoid installing the unit near electrical outlets, as this poses a fire hazard. Follow all recommendations at to clearance, as obstacles like furniture and drapery can be dangerous or block the air flow.

Maintenance

Keeping the fins free of dust and debris will increase the efficiency of your heaters

​Electric baseboard heaters are very easy to maintain. To keep your unit running efficiently, regularly clean the outside cover to remove dust, pet hair, and debris. Be sure to lower the thermostat before cleaning the fins. To access the heater fins, you must remove the front cover of the unit. Vacuum and thoroughly clean the baseboard heater fins using compressed air or pipe cleaners. Inspect the fins for any damage or bending. If fins bend during the cleaning process, carefully straighten them with fliers.

Make sure there is at least 12 inches of clearance between the unit and any curtains that hang above it. This ensures proper distribution of heated air and is important for fire safety. Keeping the unit clear of obstructions also helps to keep dust and debris away from the heater. While dust does not pose a safety issue, it can impact the efficiency of the heater.

During the warmer seasons when the heaters are not in use, it may be a good idea to get a cover specifically for baseboard heaters to prevent dust buildup throughout the year. The units should also be vacuumed before the cold season to remove any buildup. Also inspect the unit for any evidence of damaged wires or heating elements, as this can pose a fire hazard.

​Best Electric Baseboard Heaters Safety Tips

• ​Fire prevention: Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s recommendation as to how much clearance the unit requires. Typically, furniture needs to be at least 6 inches away from the unit and curtains should not hang in front of or on top of the heater.
• Be careful with children: Children love to hide toys and small things wherever they can, so make sure this does not happen since any foreign object in a heater presents a fire hazard
• Make sure the unit is installed correctly: Faulty wiring can cause a unit to overheat, installing a unit below an electrical outlet is a fire hazard.

Summing it Up

Electric baseboard heaters can be a convenient, economical way to heat your home. Whether used for supplemental heating in addition to a central system, or for selective heating, there are plenty of models on the market to suit everyone’s needs.

As we are becoming more conscious of energy consumption, it is important to think out of the box in terms of climate control for the home. It is well known that central heating and air systems use a tremendous amount of energy, and a supplemental system such as the electric baseboard unit allows for conservative use of the central heating system. For smaller spaces such as apartments or in warmer climates, it is possible to rely solely on electric baseboard heaters.

As with any heating system, planning is necessary as well as general knowledge of how your home is laid out. It is important to know which models are appropriate for your needs-room size, electrical capabilities, and safety concerns should all be taken into consideration when choosing an electrical baseboard heating system.

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Guide to the Benefits of Infrared Space Heaters

Is it unbearably cold in the winter and ridiculously hot during the summer where you live? Is it necessary to have either your cool or heating air conditioning unit running at all times year round?

If so, then you are probably concerned with the effect on your wallet when you receive your monthly electricity bill.

Did you know there is a way to alleviate your financial woes by saving plenty of money that you would essentially waste on heat?

Infrared heaters are the solution you have been looking for! While small, lightweight, and portable, Infrared heaters are also silent, do not waste energy on heating the air (energy efficient), safe around children, and save you money! What could be better than saving money in today’s economy?

Infrared heaters have long been found at airports and bus stop waiting areas, and now you have the opportunity to have these same heating devices at your disposal!

Best Infrared Heaters

Check out our comprehensive infrared heater buying guide. Find out how they work, what features are important and where to get the best prices on the internet.

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Infrared Heaters in the Home

One of the most important things that our homes should have is a heater.

We cannot always stand very cold weather and it would create an inconvenience for us if we wore our sweatshirt, jacket or coat inside the house. We have to keep ourselves warm. The way to do it is to have a heater inside the house. Some houses still make use of the traditional fire place to keep them warm during cold weather. Some already make use of electric heaters that are capable of making an entire room warm.

Keeping our body warm during cold weather should not sacrifice the other things that we need to maintain inside the house. Most often, a warm house becomes a dwelling place for insects or pests that live on warm places, pests that include cockroaches, dust motes, bed bugs and the like. A warm house may also be prone to moisture, which often results to an unlikely smell, especially if most parts of the house are made out of wood.

To resolve the problem, you can buy infrared heaters.

Infrared heaters produce heat by creating an invisible light. The light directly penetrates our skin and warms our body. As a result, infrared heaters are able to keep us warm without affecting the room’s temperature. The light that infrared heaters produce are also said to be as healthy as the light that comes directly from the sun.

There are different types of infrared heaters. There are those that are powered by propane or natural gas and there are also those that are powered by electricity. Although infrared heaters require those elements for them to work, because of the fact that they technically only produce light, they only make use a very minimal amount of gas or electricity.

Most infrared heaters are made with very appealing designs that match whatever home designs. So having them installed in your home would also not sacrifice the way that your home design looks. They are also designed to occupy lesser space than other types of heaters.

Infrared heaters can keep your body as warm as a traditional fire place can when its light penetrates your skin. However, it does not heat the entire room so it does not invite insects and other pests to share your home. They also consume less energy so you are technically able to save more by using them instead of the other types of heaters that are being used today.

There are also different types of infrared heaters like electric infrared heaters, infrared portable heaters, sunheat infrared heaters and quartz infrared heaters. Because they are found to be safe for our health and a lot cheaper, most houses today are now equipped with infrared heaters and even some business establishments especially hotels that offer sauna and other similar services.

With all the price increases today and the unhealthy side effects of most of the modern technology products, we ought to be practical in choosing what we use inside the house. We ought to be practical and choose an infrared heater.

Where Could You Use an Infrared Heater?

· Living rooma instead of a fireplace

· In your garage

· In a showroom

· In a greenhouse

· Indoor arenas

· Recreational facilities

· Restaurants/bars

· ANYWHERE

The Benefits of Infrared Heaters

The benefits of our Infrared Heaters are abundant:

· Energy efficient (Saves you $$)

· Child/User friendly as the lamp is not too hot

· Lightweight and mobile

· Heats objects rather than air

· Easy to set up and use

The Science Behind Infrared Heaters

Infrared heaters are considered very efficient heating sources as they can heat a specified area using a fraction of the energy (and therefore cost) that is generally required by central heating systems. Standard central heating units pump out tons gallons of heated air until an entire area has been warmed. However, if you are in only a small specific area, is it really necessary to heat the entire house or building? It is these circumstances that infrared heaters are shown to be a valuable asset, but how do they really work?

Heating works in one of a three ways: conduction, convection, and radiation. Conduction is defined as the tendency of heat to move throughout specific materials. Imagine leaving a long metal sword over a fire. Even if you only put the tip of the sword directly over the fire, if you leave it long enough, eventually the even the handle of the sword will become hot. This is because certain objects conduct heat. A standard central heating unit uses convection to heat large areas. In convectional heating, units blow air through warm coils which creates hot air. If you blow enough of this hot air into a specific area, the area will obviously get warmer. The third type of heating methods is radiation. Radiation happens when molecules absorb infrared heat at a given wavelength. The heat transmitted thus warms the receiving molecules.

The biggest reason why infrared heaters are the most efficient type of heat source is due to the fact that no heat is ever wasted. When looking at convectional and conductive heating sources, a significant percentage of heat is lost because they pump out a large volume of heat, but do not direct it at a specific recipient. Infrared heaters are very easily fine tuned to heat one specific object or area.

Another huge benefit of infrared heating technology is that almost 100% of infrared heaters are portable. That being said, they are effective and safe both indoors and outdoors as well.

Do not waste your time by buying 50 infrared heaters to heat your entire household. Heating specific areas and rooms can be done more efficiently and efficiently through the effective use of infrared heaters. Look into an infrared heater today, and thank us tomorrow.

The Health Benefits of Infrared Heaters

While the number one reason that many people end up purchasing infrared heaters is due to being energy efficient, they would probably be glad to learn that there are numerous other benefits that infrared heaters provide to consumers rather than just alleviating their checkbook. Just as much as infrared heaters save you money, they also help improve your health in a variety of ways. Due to their great health benefits, it is not surprising that we have seen a drastic rise in the number of infrared heaters purchased in recent years.

Scientific research has proven that infrared heaters offer benefits such as reduced stress levels, noticeable pain relief, and more. When the radiation given off by infrared heaters penetrates the human skin, infrared waves then heat the body from within. As the human body warms, circulation of the blood is increased. Due to this scientific principle, infrared heaters are very successful in alleviating spasms and other muscle pains as well as helping to alleviate swelling.

Infrared heaters have also been proven to promote your health by reducing blood pressure, flushing toxins for the body, boosting metabolism, and even reducing the risk of blood clots! Even further, infrared heaters are believed to greatly improve one’s epidermis by improving elasticity, healing scars/burns, and more.

The biggest benefit that leads to infrared heaters being located in gyms and saunas around the world is because they help users to lose weight. As the core of your body heats up and you start to sweat, your metabolism raises and you burn calories. Saunas that are powered by infrared heaters are also better than others because infrared heaters do not heat the air, which has been a major problem for sauna uses with breathing problems. What can be better for people looking to lose weight than to do so by just sitting around?

As you can easily see from the above listed benefits, it is no shock that infrared heaters have become very popular as of recently. When you add the health benefits listed above with the efficiency benefits, how easy they are to use, their safety, etc. it is no surprise that infrared heaters are considered the best heating source for the future!

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Best Bathroom Heater Reviews 2017

Bathroom heaters can make bathing bearable in winter

We all know that feeling. You’ve just had a relaxing, warm shower and as soon as you open that shower door, all the heat rushes out and you’re left standing in the chilly air, rushing to finish. If this scene sounds familiar to you then maybe it’s time to consider a bathroom heater.

Bathroom heaters are a great way to heat your bathroom without having to run your entire central heating system in the morning. They will keep your bathroom nice and warm and you will notice your energy bills drop in the colder months. Plus, your morning shower will be far more enjoyable.

Best Bathroom Heater Buying Guide

Buying a bathroom heater can be a daunting task as there are so many things you must consider:

• How do I decide which type to buy?
• Where should I put it?
• Will it heat my entire bathroom?
• Can I fit it myself?

A bathroom heater can be an expensive purchase; therefore it is important to know exactly what you’re buying and how it works.

We’ve done the research for you to help make your decision easier. By reading through pages of reviews and researching every type of bathroom heater, we’ve made sure this guide will be all you need to read to decide what is the best product for you.

Types of Bathroom Heater

​The term bathroom heaters cover a wide variety of products. There are 5 main types of bathroom heater- and no, a radiator is not one that appears on our list.

Bathroom heaters should be able to heat your bathroom quickly and with the minimum of fuss. With radiators you must turn on the whole central heating system. This is costly and can take time to actually heat your bathroom. For this reason we don’t feature them.

​Bathroom heaters are designed to heat your bathroom quickly, and in some cases, provide light and work as an exhaust fan. Depending on the type you buy, it will either be wall mounted, ceiling mounted, or a portable heater.

​Of course, with some types of bathroom heater there will be restrictions on how you can use them. For example, a portable heater will need to be kept away from water.

​The typical bathroom heater is easy to use and add a little luxury to the bathroom. Their controls are as easy as turning a thermostat on the side of the heater or, in the case of ceiling mounted heaters, a thermostat located somewhere else in your bathroom.

​After considering our research, we have included the main 5 types of bathroom heater in our guide. Below we have listed a brief overview of each type of bathroom heater and considerations that you need to take into account.

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Wall Heaters

​These do not cost a great deal of money and are easy to install. All you need is some wall space available to mount it on and it should not be in the way of any bathroom furniture or other objects in the room such as the door.

This can be a problem, especially if you have a particularly small bathroom space. Wall heaters are suited to the smaller bathroom because they may not be powerful enough to adequately heat a large space. We recommend wall heaters as they do not pose an electrical risk as some other options may do.

Advantages/Disadvantages of Wall Heaters

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• ​Attach to the wall, easy to install unless you want it recessed between wall studs.
• Energy efficient which can save you money, especially in the colder months.
• Typically safer as they are usually placed further from baths and sinks.
• Quiet operation.
• Relatively inexpensive.

​Heater/Extractor Fan Combo

​This type of bathroom heater is a great option if you want to keep your bathroom warm but you want to remove the damp from the air.

They are harder to install as you need to install a moisture duct to carry the moisture to the outside of your home, so before you buy this type, make sure you can do this.

Advantages/Disadvantages of Heater/Extractor Fan Combos

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• Can be difficult to install and may require an expert fitter. Needs to have a duct to take moisture to the outside of your house.
• Will warm up the room instantly but will use more electricity if you use it constantly, will also instantly cool down when you turn it off.
• Have a dual purpose as they will remove moisture from the room as well as heating it. Thermostat needs to be placed in a position where it can accurately and reliably measure the room temperature.
• Slightly louder operation as they use an extractor fan and blow hot air into the room. They can usually be operated separately if you don’t need to use both at the same time.
• A fairly expensive option for bathroom heater due to installation costs and higher electric bills than a wall mounted heater.

Portable Space Heaters​

​Does what it says on the tin. Portable space heaters are great if you are renting your property and can’t install a heater on the wall or in the ceiling.

They also don’t have to be confined to the bathroom and can be used in other rooms. With this type of heater, you need to be careful when you place it as they tend to have lower levels of water resistance.

Portable heaters tend to be the cheapest option out of all the bathroom heaters.

Advantages/Disadvantages of Portable Space Heaters​

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• Require no installation, all you need is a plug socket in the bathroom.
• Warm up the room quickly and come in either forced air or radiant heat models. Forced air heaters are louder than their radiant heat competitors.
• They are not as water resistant as wall mounted options so placement in the room needs to be considered more carefully.
• A good option if you rent your house and cannot install a more permanent bathroom heater. This also means that you can move a portable heater around the house if you need more heat in another room.
• The cheapest option for bathroom heater.

​Radiant Under Floor Heating

This is a good option if you have a larger budget and don’t want to visibly see your bathroom heater. They don’t use as much electricity as many people think but they can take time to heat up enough to send heat into the room.

A good choice if you are planning to leave them on for most of the day but not the best option if you will only use it when you shower.

Advantages/Disadvantages of Radiant Under Floor Heating

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• Requires installation, often requires a professional which can make the initial cost of under floor heating very expensive. If it develops a problem, it can also be very expensive to fix.
• Can take up to 2 hours to heat up enough to heat the room. A good option if you plan to leave on for long periods.
• Cannot be seen and do not require any wall or ceiling space. Do not have to worry about keeping it away from water.
• Overall, an expensive initial cost but will not push up your electricity bills in the long run.

​Ceiling Mounted Heaters

For anyone who doesn't want to clutter the look of their bathroom, ceiling mounted heaters are a great choice. They are considered a generally safe option as the heater is kept well away from water.

When installing this, you will need to ensure the thermostat is in an easy to reach a location that isn’t too high up as it can interfere with the temperature reading.

Advantages/Disadvantages of ​Ceiling Mounted Heaters

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• Requires installation but this can be done without professional help.
• Heats the room instantly but will cool down as soon as it is turned off.
• Uses a lot of electricity if run constantly.
• Price tends to be more expensive than a wall mounted heater but less than a heater/extractor fan combo.

Best Bathroom Heater Buying Factors

Wall Mounted Bathroom Heater

​Putting your central heating system on every morning can become expensive, especially if you are only putting it on so the house is warm after you get out of the shower. As the vast majority of us leave for work soon after we shower, it doesn’t make a lot of sense to heat the whole house and waste so much heat and energy.

​This is the one main benefit of installing a bathroom heater in your bathroom. A bathroom heater keeps your bathroom warm and means you don’t use the central heating system every morning. It can save you money when used as a substitute for your central heating system. But, if you are using both at the same time it will increase your energy bills.

​There are very few downsides to installing a bathroom heater apart from the initial cost. The biggest issue facing customers is not measuring their bathroom accurately. This can mean ending up with a product that is not suitable for the size of their bathroom. To avoid this, make sure you measure your bathroom carefully. Don’t forget to consider the ceiling height as well as just the floor space.

​With bathroom heaters, the main consideration you will have is the installation. Portable heaters are the only type of heater that doesn’t require some form of fitting. Under floor heating is the most complex to install and will likely need the help of an expert. The same is true of the heater/extractor fan combo. Fitting yourself is always an option. But, beware, if you install them incorrectly it could be a very costly mistake.

​Ceiling and wall mounted bathroom heaters also require fitting but this is generally a lot easier and can be done without the help of an expert. However, if you want them to protrude into the room less and are considering one that can be fitted into a recess between studs in the wall then you may need to consider getting expert help. It is important to always check the manufacturer’s instructions when fitting a bathroom heater.

​Maintenance costs are only something you need to consider if you buy under floor heating. This type of bathroom heater is expensive to install. It is also expensive to fix if something goes wrong. Most heater/extractor fan and mounted heaters have permanently lubricated motors which eliminate the need for servicing.

Bathroom Heater Summary

You may think that there isn’t a bathroom heater out there for your bathroom, but by considering every option, we believe you will find one that suits the space you have. The majority of bathroom heaters are able to heat spaces of up to 250 sq. ft, which is larger than most bathroom sizes. This means that unless you have a particularly large bathroom space, most heaters will meet your needs in this way.

​As you can see from this buying guide, the biggest benefit to you is that you can save money on your heating bill, especially in the colder months. Of course, the other added benefit is that you no longer have to rush as you get out of the shower.

​Don’t forget, measure your room accurately. You want a heater powerful enough to heat the whole room. It is also sensible to set a budget for the whole project. A budget is particularly important if you are considering under floor heating or a heater/extractor fan combo.

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