Cold entrances can make coming home uncomfortable, especially in winter. Choosing the right heater and knowing where to place it can make a significant difference in comfort levels.
Infrared Heater vs Portable Heater at a Glance
| Feature | Infrared Heater | Portable Heater |
|---|---|---|
| Heat Output and Room Size | 1000 watts warms small to medium entrances efficiently | Up to 1500 watts with two heat settings for quick warmth |
| Running Cost | Uses 1000 watts, saving energy by warming objects directly | Higher wattage can increase costs with longer run times |
| Safety Features | Safe-touch grill and tip-over shutoff with UL listing | Tip-over and overheat protection, flame retardant material |
| Noise Level | Runs quietly at about 35 decibels, nearly silent | Quiet fan but louder than infrared, still suitable for bedrooms |
| Portability and Convenience | Wall-mounted, saves floor space but fixed location | Lightweight with handle, easy to move and store |
| Lifespan and Maintenance | Lasts 8 to 10 years with minimal upkeep | Typically shorter lifespan, needs regular cleaning |
Heat Storm Infrared Wall Heater Deluxe
- Power1000 Watts
- Dimensions13 x 4 x 17 inches
- TypeInfrared, wall mount
- SafetySafe-touch grill, tip-over auto shut-off
- ControlsRemote control, adjustable thermostat with LED
- Infrared heat warms objects, not just air
- Compact wall mount saves floor space
- Remote control with adjustable thermostat and LED display
- Lower wattage at 1000 W limits rapid heating speed
- Requires wall installation
GiveBest Portable Ceramic Space Heater
- Power1500 W or 750 W
- TypeCeramic portable heater with fan
- SafetyTip-over and overheat auto shut-offs, flame retardant materi
- Cord lengthCord length: 5 feet
- FeaturesDual heat modes, cool fan, automatic thermostat control
- High wattage (1500 W) for fast heating
- Portable with built-in carry handle
- Quiet operation suitable for bedrooms or workspaces
- Uses floor space and requires manual placement
- Cord length and two-prong plug limit outlet options
Where to Place My Heater in My Entrance Where It Gets Cold
Place your heater near the coldest part of the entrance, usually by the door or stairway, to warm the space effectively. Choose a wall-mounted heater for permanent heat or a portable model for flexibility and quick repositioning.
Cold entrances lose heat quickly, especially near doors that open often or stairways that bring in cold air from outside. Positioning the heater close to these spots helps stop drafts and raises the overall temperature.
Wall-mounted infrared heaters like the Heat Storm Wall Gray HS-1000-WX fit well in small entrances or stairwells. They save floor space and provide direct radiant heat to people and objects, even if the air stays cool. Portable heaters, such as the GiveBest Space Heater, work well in larger or irregularly shaped entrances because you can move them to where heat is most needed.
- Measure the EntranceCheck the floor area and ceiling height to decide heater size and power.
- Check ClearanceLeave at least 3 feet of clear space around the heater to avoid fire hazards and allow air circulation.
- Avoid ObstructionsDo not block the heater with furniture, plants, or rugs that reduce heat spread or cause overheating.
Heat Output and Room Size
Choose a heater with wattage or BTU output that matches your entrance size for effective warmth. A typical cold room coil heater runs at 1,000 to 1,500 watts, enough to heat 100 to 150 square feet.
Infrared heaters produce radiant heat that warms objects and people directly, making them efficient in drafty or high-ceiling entrances. Convection heaters like portable fan models warm the air, which can be slower and less effective if the room is large or has poor insulation.
| Heater Type | Heat Output (Watts) | Coverage Area (Square Feet) | Heating Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Infrared Wall Heater | 1,000 | Up to 150 | Radiant heat warms objects and people directly |
| Portable Space Heater | 1,500 | Up to 150 | Convection heats the air, then the room |
For a cold room, infrared heaters provide fast warmth where you stand or pass through. Portable heaters cover more air volume but need time to circulate warm air. Choose based on your entrance layout and heating speed preference.
Running Cost
The monthly running cost depends on the heater’s wattage, usage hours, and your electricity rate. The Heat Storm Wall Gray infrared heater uses about 1,000 watts, while the GiveBest portable heater draws 1,500 watts at full power.
Assuming 8 hours of daily use and an electricity rate of 17 cents per kilowatt-hour, the infrared heater costs less to run. Use the formula: watts ÷ 1,000 × hours × days × rate. For example, the infrared heater costs 1,000 ÷ 1,000 × 8 × 30 × 0.17 = $40.80 per month. The portable heater costs 1,500 ÷ 1,000 × 8 × 30 × 0.17 = $61.20 per month.
| Heater | Wattage | Daily Hours | Monthly Cost Estimate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Heat Storm Wall Gray Infrared | 1,000 | 8 | Energy cost for running this heater for 8 hours daily over 30 days at 17¢/kWh |
| GiveBest Portable Heater | 1,500 | 8 | Energy cost for running this heater for 8 hours daily over 30 days at 17¢/kWh |
Infrared heaters convert electricity directly into radiant heat, warming objects and people without heating all the air. This can feel warmer at lower air temperatures, saving energy. The portable heater heats air via convection, which can take longer and use more power to reach the same comfort level.
Energy efficiency ratings for electric heaters are similar since nearly all convert almost 100% of electricity into heat. The difference lies in how the heat is delivered and retained in the space.
If you run your heater for short periods to prevent dry nose or discomfort from cold, the portable heater’s quick heat-up time suits you. For longer use, the infrared heater warms steadily with less electricity.
Safety Features
Both the Heat Storm Wall Gray infrared and the GiveBest portable heater carry UL safety certifications, confirming they meet US electrical and fire safety standards.
Automatic shut-off features are critical. The portable heater includes tip-over and overheat protection that cuts power if it falls or overheats. The infrared unit has a built-in overheat sensor but no tip-over switch since it mounts on the wall.
Infrared heaters have cooler surfaces compared to traditional coil or ceramic heaters, reducing burn risk. The portable heater’s surface can get hot, especially near the grill, so keep children and pets away.
Wall mounting the infrared heater keeps it out of reach and prevents accidental contact, but installation must follow the manual to avoid electrical hazards.
Do not leave either heater running unattended or while sleeping unless the manufacturer explicitly states it is safe to do so.
Noise Level
The Heat Storm Wall Gray HS-1000-WX infrared heater runs quietly, producing about 35 decibels, roughly the sound of a whisper or a quiet library. This low noise level suits entrances near bedrooms or offices where silence matters. It emits warmth without a fan, so it avoids the humming or buzzing common in some space heaters.
The GiveBest portable heater uses a fan to circulate air, which raises its noise level to around 50 decibels, similar to a moderate conversation. This sound may be noticeable in small spaces or near seating areas but is unlikely to be disruptive in a busy entrance. The fan noise can help distribute heat faster but reduces comfort if you prefer quiet.
If your entrance connects directly to sleeping areas, the infrared heater’s quiet operation is a strong advantage. The GiveBest’s fan noise might disturb light sleepers if placed too close. Consider placing the portable heater farther from bedrooms or using it only during active hours to avoid noise issues.
Noise affects usability. A quieter heater lets you leave it running while passing through or waiting at the door without distraction. The infrared heater’s silent operation fits this well. The portable heater suits entrances where you want quick warmth and don’t mind some background noise. Both models have safety certifications, so noise does not indicate any mechanical problem.
Portability and Convenience
The GiveBest portable heater weighs about 5 pounds and has a compact design with a handle, making it easy to carry from room to room or store when not in use. Its plug-and-play setup requires no assembly, just plug into a nearby outlet and turn it on. The 5-foot cord limits placement flexibility if outlets are sparse, so choose a spot close to a wall outlet.
The Heat Storm Wall Gray infrared heater mounts on the wall, fixed in place once installed. It weighs more and requires mounting hardware and some tools for setup, so it is not portable. Once installed, it frees floor space and does not need moving. Its power cord is shorter, about 3 feet, because it stays near the outlet.
Portability favors the GiveBest heater if you want to move heat where needed or store the unit during warmer months. The infrared heater suits entrances where a permanent, out-of-the-way heat source is preferred. Both heaters operate on standard 120 V outlets, so no special wiring is needed.
Consider convenience factors like automatic shut-off and control options. The GiveBest model includes a tip-over switch and adjustable thermostat for easy use. The Heat Storm Wall Gray offers a remote control and programmable timer, adding convenience but requiring wall placement. Cord length and outlet location should guide your placement choice to avoid extension cords, which are unsafe for heaters.
For more tips on placing heaters in entryways, see 7 Ways to Heat a Cold Hallway or Entryway.
Lifespan and Maintenance
Infrared heaters like the Heat Storm Wall Gray HS-1000-WX typically last 8 to 10 years with proper care. Their solid-state components and sealed heating elements reduce wear and tear. Portable fan heaters, such as the GiveBest model, generally have a shorter lifespan of about 5 to 7 years due to moving parts like fans that wear out faster.
Maintenance for infrared heaters is minimal. Wiping the surface occasionally to remove dust and ensuring the vents stay clear is usually enough. Portable heaters require more upkeep: clean the fan blades and grills regularly to prevent dust buildup that can reduce airflow and cause overheating.
Both heater types benefit from storing them in a dry place during the off-season to avoid corrosion or electrical issues. Check the power cord and plug for damage before each use. Replace any damaged parts promptly rather than attempting repairs yourself to maintain safety.
Warranty coverage varies by brand but most indoor electric heaters come with a 1- to 3-year warranty. The Heat Storm Wall Gray infrared heater often includes a 3-year limited warranty, reflecting its longer expected lifespan and robust build. The GiveBest portable heater usually offers a 1-year warranty, which matches its typical durability.
Customer support responsiveness varies. Infrared heater manufacturers often provide detailed manuals and direct support lines, useful for troubleshooting and part replacements. Portable heater brands may offer less extensive support but typically cover basic warranty claims and safety questions.
