I first noticed the inclusion of quartz infrared heaters in the design of electric fireplaces and inserts early in the 2012 heating season.
From a marketing perspective, expanding into the electric fireplace product line is a no-brainer given the popularity of quartz infrared heaters in general.
But are infrared inserts just a gimmick or do they provide additional benefits not found in conventional inserts?
Advantages:
superior heat quality
If you already own an infrared heater, you don’t need to be convinced that its moist, even heat creates a more comfortable environment than the harsh, arid heat that comes from an electric coil heater.
And if you’ve never experienced the difference, you’ll be pleasantly surprised when you do.
more powerful heater
The typical electric insert comes equipped with a standard 4600 BTU electric coil heater, or the equivalent of 1350 watts.
A quartz infrared heater, by comparison, is rated at 5,200 BTUs or 1,500 watts, which is 10% more heating power.
And, because it has a radiant heat source that directs its heat at inanimate objects like furniture, which retain heat, it uses less energy to maintain room temperature.
flame screen
The identical flame screen is used for infrared and non-infrared insertions of similarly sized models within a brand’s product line. For example, the same SpectraFire flame screen is used on all 28″ models of Classic Flame.
Although flame display quality is not an issue for the purposes of this article, it is understandable why it would be more important than heater type to some consumers.
By the way, the reviews I’ve read of the Classic Flame SpectraFire flame screen have been from good to outstanding.
Cons:
heating coverage Area
I don’t know why everyone who sells infrared heaters claims they will heat 1,000 square feet, but they persist in doing so. I know my 1500 watt DR heater will comfortably heat about 600 square feet of my Boston condo, but that’s about it. There are too many obstructions (doors, walls) preventing a heater of this size from reaching all corners of a home’s layout.
Or, if you have an open floor plan, it’s impossible for any 1500-watt heating appliance, quartz or otherwise, to meet the demand.
So the answer is yes, a radiant heater will work better at heating larger areas than most conventional heaters, but it won’t heat 1,000 square feet unless it’s a free-standing room in a home built to LEED standards.
Price
Although the added cost of an infrared heater is not mentioned as a drawback by the people who have purchased and reviewed them, it might be a discovery for some.
Fireplace inserts are versatile
Electric fireplace inserts are popular with RV owners as an aftermarket installation. They can also be used as a stand-alone heating unit, or if you like woodworking, you can build a custom mantle and frame to suit your taste.