The Pros and Cons of Infrared Fireplace Inserts

I first noticed the inclusion of quartz infrared heaters in the design of fireplaces and electric inserts at the beginning of 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?

Pros:

Superior heat quality

If you already own an infrared heater, you don’t need to be convinced that its humid, 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 will be pleasantly surprised when you do.

More powerful heater

The typical electrical insert comes equipped with a standard electrical coil heater rated at 4,600 BTUs, or the equivalent of 1,350 watts.

A quartz infrared heater, by comparison, is rated at 5,200 BTUs or 1,500 watts, which equates to 10% more heating power.

And with a radiant heat source that directs its heat to 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 inserts of similarly sized models within a brand’s product line. For example, the same SpectraFire flame screen is used on all 28 “Classic Flame models.

Although the quality of the flame screen is not an issue for the purposes of this article, it is understandable why it would be more important than the type of heater to some consumers.

By the way, the reviews I’ve read about 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 1,500-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) that prevent a heater of this size from reaching every corner of a home design.

Or, if you have an open floor plan, there is no way no 1,500-watt space heater, quartz or otherwise, will meet the demand.

So the answer is yes, a radiant heater will work better for heating larger areas than most conventional heaters, but it won’t heat 1,000 square feet unless it’s a self-contained room in a home built to LEED standards.

Price

Although the people who have bought and reviewed them don’t mention the added cost of an infrared heater as a downside, it could be a handicap for some.

Fireplace inserts are versatile

Electric fireplace inserts are popular with RV owners as an after market installation. They can also be used as a standalone heating unit or if you like woodworking you can build a mantle and frame to your liking.