Infrared heater vs. space heater: running cost
An infrared heater is cheaper to run: about $148 a year versus $148 for a space heater at typical use and 17.99¢/kWh, a $0 difference.
| Infrared heater | Space heater | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical watts | 1,500 W | 1,500 W |
| Watt range | 500–1,500 W | 750–1,500 W |
| Typical use | 6 hours a day for 5 months a year | 6 hours a day for 5 months a year |
| Energy per year | 825 kWh | 825 kWh |
| Cost per hour | 16¢ | 16¢ |
| Cost per day | 97¢ | 97¢ |
| Cost per month | $29.67 | $29.67 |
| Cost per year | $148 | $148 |
| Per year in Hawaii (43.51¢) | $359 | $359 |
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What drives the difference
- Infrared heater: Infrared and quartz heaters use the same 1,500 W maximum as other plug-in heaters. Claims of 50% savings are not physically possible; savings only come from heating people directly instead of the whole room.
- Space heater: Nearly all plug-in space heaters draw 1,500 W on high, the most a standard 15-amp outlet can safely supply. Every model converts electricity to heat at the same 100% rate, so the thermostat setting and hours matter more than the brand.
Ways to cut either cost
Delivers heat to your body at around 100 W versus 1,500 W.
See options on AmazonMoves 2-3 kWh of heat per kWh of electricity, so heating a room costs a third to half as much.
See options on AmazonStores heat in oil so it holds room temperature on its lower 600-900 W settings and cycles less.
See options on AmazonWe may earn a commission from qualifying purchases. It never changes the numbers we show. Disclosure.
Frequently asked questions
Which costs more to run, an infrared heater or a space heater?
At typical use and the U.S. average rate (17.99¢/kWh), a space heater costs about $148 a year versus $148 for an infrared heater. That's $0 more.
How many watts do infrared heater and space heater use?
An infrared heater typically draws 1,500 W (range 500–1,500 W). A space heater draws 1,500 W (range 750–1,500 W). Watts alone don't decide cost. Hours of use, cycling and standby matter just as much.
Rates: EIA, 12 months ending 2026-07. Methodology.