Infrared vs Ceramic Heater: Which is Better?

According to the US Energy Information Administration, heating is the largest source of energy consumption in American homes. Of these, space heating accounts for 12%.  And as the cost of home heating continues to rise, many homeowners are turning to supplemental heating options to stay warm without overspending. 

Two such popular systems of supplement heat are infrared and ceramic heaters, each offering unique benefits. This guide will explain the differences between infrared and ceramic heaters, compare their pros and cons, and discuss their ideal use cases as well as running costs.

What is an Infrared Heater?

An infrared heater is a type of space heater used to provide supplemental heat to individual rooms or spaces. It generates heat by emitting infrared radiation, which directly warms objects and people instead of the surrounding air. Most infrared heaters use quartz bulbs or metal coils to produce the infrared waves.

The heat works similarly to the sun’s rays, providing warmth that penetrates surfaces rather than just heating the air. This allows for almost immediate warmth in the targeted areas, even in cold or drafty spaces. 

What is a Ceramic Heater?

A ceramic heater is also another supplemental heating appliance. However, it uses convection, meaning it warms up the surrounding air, which is then circulated to heat an area. 

The ceramic heater takes its name from the ceramic heating elements (often plates). An electric current is passed through the plates, which heats them up. A fan then blows over the hot ceramic surface, distributing warm air into the room. This type of heating gradually warms up the space, making it comfortable over time.

Infrared vs Ceramic Heater Comparison

Infrared Heaters

Pros:

• Quick direct heat: Infrared heaters warm objects and people directly, making them ideal for immediate, targeted warmth.
• Energy efficiency: Because they do not need to warm the entire room, infrared heaters require less energy for localized heating.
• Silent operation: Most infrared heaters are fanless, making them very quiet.
• No air disturbance: Since they don’t use fans, infrared heaters do not stir up dust, making them ideal for people with allergies or respiratory issues.

Cons:

• Limited range: Infrared heaters are most effective within their direct line of sight. As such they may not evenly heat a large space or distant areas.
• Burn risk: Some infrared heaters can get hot to the touch, posing a burn risk.
• Not for long-term heating: Infrared heaters are best for temporary or spot heating rather than long-term use in a larger space.

Ceramic Heaters

Pros:

• Steady room heating: Ceramic heaters are efficient at warming the air in an entire room, providing an even, steady heat.
• Safe to touch: Many ceramic heaters have plastic casings and lower surface temperatures, posing less burn risk.
• Portable and lightweight: Often designed as compact units, ceramic heaters are flexible and easy to move from room to room.
• Fan speed and temperature control: Most models come with adjustable settings, allowing for personalized comfort.

Cons:

• Fan noise: Since ceramic heaters use blowers to circulate the heated air, they emit more noise than infrared models.
• Slower to warm: Ceramic heaters take longer to heat up a room compared to infrared, so there’s a bit of a wait for noticeable warmth.
• Air circulation: The fan can stir up dust, which may not be ideal for those with allergies.
• Dry air: The convection heating method it uses can dry out the air, lowering the relative humidity in the room and making the indoor air even drier during cold weather.

When to Use Each Heater Type

We recommend using infrared heaters for:

Spot heating: When only a specific area needs to be warmed instead of the whole room.

Drafty spaces: Because they warm directly, infrared heaters work well in garages, basements, and workshops.

Immediate warmth: Such as living spaces of home offices where people want instant warmth in a specific spot.

Outdoor areas: Since they don’t rely on heating the air, infrared heaters can provide warmth outdoors in sheltered spaces.

Conversely, ceramic heaters are best suited for:

Room-wide heating: Ideal for bedrooms, living rooms, or small to medium-sized spaces where even, distributed warmth is preferred.

Extended use: For spaces where continuous heating is needed, ceramic heaters provide sustained warmth without excessive energy consumption.

Homes with young children or pets: Due to their safety features, ceramic heaters are generally safer to use in family environments.

Cost Comparison

Initial Cost

Infrared Heaters: Typically, infrared heaters come at a moderate upfront cost but can vary based on design and materials. They may be slightly more expensive than basic ceramic heaters due to technology variations.

Ceramic Heaters: Ceramic heaters are usually more affordable, especially for basic models, though high-end versions with advanced features may cost more.

Operating Costs

Infrared Heaters: Known for energy efficiency when used for spot heating, infrared heaters are economical for intermittent use, especially when heating specific areas.

Ceramic Heaters: While slightly less energy efficient due to the need to warm up entire rooms, ceramic heaters are economical if used in a space where continuous, even heat is needed.

Our Recommended Space Heaters

Infrared Heaters

Entry level:

Heatstar HSSVFRD30LPBT 30000 BTU Vent Free Infrared/Radiant Heater with Thermostat and Blower

This 30,000 BTU radiant heater features a blower fan and thermostatic control, making it a great supplemental heat source for spaces up to 750 square feet. It comes with both a wall mount bracket as well as base feet for multiple installation options. 

It has an electronic “push-button” ignition as well as thermostatic control knob with 5 settings. The burner will cycle on and off based on the set temperature. While the blower fan will not operate during a power outage, the heater will still generate heat to keep you warm and comfortable. 

This model comes in both liquid propane and natural gas versions.

High-end:

Empire Comfort Systems SR-18TW Vent-Free 18000 BTU Infrared/Radiant Gas Heater/Thermostat Control

This 18,000 BTU infrared heater is highly compact in size and can be installed on a wall. It has top mounted, easily accessible thermostatic controls and will add radiant heat for medium sized rooms.

It has 99.9% AFUE efficiency and features a durable, scratch-resistant finish coated in an attractive white package. A push-button ignitor lights the pilot, eliminating the need for matches, and all units are test-fired in the factory.

This unit is available in Natural Gas SR-18TWN and Liquid Propane SR-18TWL versions.

Ceramic Heaters

Sunstar SGM6 52,000 BTU Ceramic Infrared/Radiant Heater

Sunstar’s SGM Series can save from 30% to 50% in fuel costs over forced air convection heating. It is the perfect solution for heating warehouses, factory floors or machine shops, as well as many other large, hard to heat indoor spaces.

This industrial-grade ceramic heater has 52,000 BTUs of heat, aluminum reflectors and a Millivolt Standing Pilot. It is constructed of aluminized steel for added durability and is designed for industrial use, not residential. This model is available in Natural Gas (SGM6N1A) or Liquid Propane (SGM6L1) versions.

Conclusion

Both infrared and ceramic heaters offer practical ways to reduce home heating costs. For those seeking immediate, focused warmth in a targeted area, infrared heaters are an excellent choice. Meanwhile, ceramic heaters are ideal for providing consistent, ambient warmth throughout a room. 

When deciding, consider the specific needs of your space, whether you’re looking for spot or room heating, and any safety requirements. This choice can make a significant difference in both comfort and heating expenses during the colder months.