How Good Are Infrared Quartz Heaters?

How They Work

• Quartz infrared heaters produce heat by electromagnetic radiation through rapidly vibrating or rotating molecules. These molecules travel in a straight line and heat objects -- and people -- in their path. The energy is not absorbed by the air and must contact an object to produce heat. This makes the heater ideal for warming the body on chilly evenings, but it is not an effective means of heating the home.

Advantages

• Infrared quartz heaters are lightweight and portable, which makes them easy to position wherever supplemental heat is needed. Because the heat is directed to the person -- and not the entire room -- you can feel warm and cozy, even in a cool room. This lets you set the thermostat lower and may reduce your overall heating bill. Because the heater is energy-efficient, operating costs are lower than traditional space heaters. Heat is produced immediately with no waiting for the air to warm up.

Disadvantages

• Quartz infrared heaters warm up any object in their path so they pose the risk of overheating and igniting flammable material if placed too close to an object. For those with circulation or neurological issues that may limit sensations in the legs -- such as those with diabetes -- this direct heat may burn sensitive skin. Moreover, since the heater warms up only the objects in its path, it is not an efficient means of heating an entire room. Once it is turned off, the area instantly cools.

Considerations

• If you are looking for a heater to warm chilly feet in the morning or provide quick heat in a seldom-used area for a short time, a quartz heater may be an efficient solution. It allows you to enjoy the comfort of immediate heat without the need to turn up the thermostat and wait for the entire home to heat. However, if you are looking for a heater to warm the entire room, you may want to consider other options, such as a convection space heater.