Do Electric Infrared Heaters Use A Lot Of Electricity? Types Discussed

When winter arrives, staying warm becomes a must. But let’s be honest, no one wants to see their electricity bill skyrocket just to stay comfortable. This is where an electric infrared heater might seem like a good option, but the real question is: Does it use too much electricity?

With so many types of heaters—whether you need one for the patio, garage, or inside your home—it can get confusing to know which one will work best for your space. You want warmth, but you also want to keep costs under control. That’s exactly what we’ll uncover in this guide.

We’ll walk through how electric infrared heaters work, explore the types available, and figure out if they really make a difference in energy usage. Whether you’re looking to heat your living room, extend your patio time in winter, or warm up your garage, you’ll find the answers you need.

We’ll even cover some handy tips for choosing the right outdoor heating solution so you stay comfortable all season long. Let’s get started.

How Does an Electric Infrared Heater Work?

Electric infrared heaters work differently from traditional heaters. Instead of warming the air around you, they heat objects, people, and surfaces directly. It’s similar to standing in the sun on a cold day, you feel warm right away, even if the air is still chilly.

These heaters emit invisible infrared waves that provide instant heat. This makes them more efficient, especially in spaces where heating the air isn’t practical, like outdoor patios or garages. Unlike conventional heaters that take time to warm up a room, infrared heaters offer warmth the moment you switch them on.

What’s more, they help reduce energy waste by focusing heat only where it’s needed. Many models come with built-in thermostats, giving you control over the temperature and ensuring you don’t use more electricity than necessary. If you’re considering outdoor heating options, exploring the best patio heaters that work efficiently in winter could make a big difference.

Do Electric Infrared Heaters Really Use a Lot of Electricity?

A common concern with electric infrared heaters is whether they will increase your electricity bill. The good news is that these heaters are generally energy-efficient. Unlike traditional heaters, they don’t waste energy heating air that can escape through open windows or doors. Instead, they focus on heating objects and people directly, so you get more out of the energy you use.

In Image: Bromic Tungsten 6000W Smart-Heat Dual Element Electric Infrared Patio Heater 

However, how much electricity they consume depends on the size of the space and how you use them. Larger areas, like garages or patios, will need more energy, while smaller spaces—such as a living room or office—will use less. On average, running a 1,500-watt infrared heater costs around 15-20 cents per hour, though this can vary based on local electricity rates.

Using a heater with a built-in thermostat can help you save more. Once the room reaches your desired temperature, the heater automatically shuts off, preventing unnecessary energy use. If you’re looking to keep outdoor spaces warm without driving up energy costs, it’s worth checking out efficient heating solutions for patios to make the right choice for your space.

Types of Electric Infrared Heaters: Find the Right One for Your Space

Choosing the right heater for your needs can be confusing. There are electric infrared heaters for different settings, each designed with specific features in mind. Whether you need something for indoors, outdoors, or even commercial use, this section will guide you.

1. Indoor Electric Infrared Heaters

In Image: Bromic Tungsten 56-Inch Smart-Heat 6000W Dual Element 277V Electric Infrared Patio Heater

Indoor electric infrared heaters are compact and provide quick warmth to enclosed spaces like bedrooms, living rooms, or home offices. They deliver heat directly to people and objects, so you don’t need to worry about warmth escaping through drafty windows or doors.

With built-in thermostats, many models allow you to control the temperature, helping you maintain a comfortable environment without using more electricity than needed. These heaters also operate quietly, making them a good choice for homes with children, light sleepers, or anyone working from home.

If you’re looking for a way to stay warm without worrying about wasted energy, especially during those long winter months, an infrared heater can make all the difference. And if you’re interested in heating outdoor areas too, efficient patio heaters that keep your outdoor spaces cozy all season long can also be a good choice.

2. Outdoor and Patio Infrared Heaters

In Image: Bromic Tungsten Smart-Heat 44-Inch 2000W Single Element 240V Electric Infrared Patio Heater

If you enjoy spending time outdoors, winter can make things tough. But with outdoor infrared patio heaters, you don’t have to give up your patio just yet. These heaters warm objects and people directly, so wind won’t blow the heat away like it does with other heaters.

They are a great choice for patio dinners or small gatherings, providing consistent warmth even when the temperature drops. Many restaurants and cafes also use electric infrared patio heaters to keep customers comfortable in cold weather. These heaters are built to handle outdoor conditions, with weather-resistant designs that ensure they last through changing seasons.

3. Garage and Workshop Infrared Heaters

In Image: Bromic Platinum Smart-Heat 2300W Marine Grade 208V Electric Infrared Heater

Heating garages and workshops can be difficult because these spaces often have poor insulation. An electric infrared heater for garage use solves this problem by focusing heat exactly where it’s needed, like on a workbench or seating area, without wasting energy on the entire space.

These heaters are especially useful for hobbyists who work in uninsulated areas, as they quickly warm up tools and materials, so you can get started without waiting. If you have a large workspace, using multiple smaller heaters can ensure even heat distribution.

4. Commercial Electric Infrared Heaters

Commercial spaces like warehouses and event venues need powerful heating solutions. Electric infrared heaters for commercial use are designed to heat large areas efficiently. They provide warmth right away, without needing time to heat the entire space, which is perfect for places with high ceilings or open layouts.

In Picture: Bromic Platinum Smart-Heat 4500W Marine Grade Dual Element Electric Commercial Infrared Heater

Some models come with infrared heaters with blowers to help distribute heat across wider areas. This makes them especially useful for spaces where doors are frequently opened, as they keep the warmth consistent even with airflow changes.

Electric Infrared Heater vs. Other Heaters: Which One is Better?

If you’re trying to decide between an infrared heater vs electric heater, you’re not alone. Both types have their uses, but they work differently. Traditional electric heaters warm the air, which can create a cozy environment, but it takes time to heat the whole room. In comparison, electric infrared heaters provide instant warmth by heating people and objects directly.

The right choice depends on where you need the heat. For targeted warmth in places like a garage or patio, infrared heaters are usually more effective. But if you’re looking to warm an entire room evenly, a traditional electric heater might be the better option.

In Image: Bromic Eclipse Smart-Heat 28-Inch 2900W Dual Element 240V Electric Infrared Heater W/ Twin Pole

Stay Warm Without Breaking the Bank

Electric infrared heaters are an effective way to stay warm, whether you need heat indoors, outdoors, or in a commercial setting. While they do use electricity, how much you spend depends on how you use them. Picking the right model for your space and using features like thermostats can help you stay warm without driving up your energy bills.

These heaters work well in a variety of settings. Whether it’s keeping your garage warm, making a patio gathering comfortable, or heating your living room, they offer practical solutions for winter. Choose the right heater for your needs, and you’ll stay comfortable throughout the season without worrying about high energy costs.