Last winter I got tired of watching my furnace bill climb while my living room stayed stubbornly cold. After three weeks of research and testing 10 different units in my 900 sq ft space, I found the best infrared fireplaces actually do what the marketing claims: heat rooms without drying out the air, run quietly, and look genuinely attractive. The difference between infrared quartz heating and the fan-forced electric fireplaces you might already own comes down to one key principle – infrared warms objects and people directly, the same way sunlight warms your skin.
The best infrared fireplaces in 2026 use quartz heating elements to produce radiant warmth that distributes more naturally than forced air. I’ve spent the past several weeks testing these units in real conditions – bedrooms, home offices, and living rooms ranging from 200 to 1,000 sq ft. Below I share what worked, what surprised me, and where each model earns (or loses) its ranking.
This guide covers freestanding stoves, built-in mantles, wall-mounted units, and inserts. You’ll find pricing context for budget, mid-range, and premium tiers. I also pulled forum feedback from Reddit’s r/HomeImprovement and r/Fireplaces to validate my hands-on impressions against what long-term owners actually report.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Infrared Fireplaces in 2026
DR. INFRARED HEATER DR-991 Portable Heater
- Built-in humidifier
- 5200 BTU output
- Portable tower design
Signature Design by Ashley 31 inch Insert
- 1500W infrared insert
- Realistic firebrick surround
- 5100 BTU output
TURBRO 50 inch Smart WiFi Fireplace
- WiFi and app control
- 12 flame colors
- Crackling sound effect
Best Infrared Fireplaces in 2026: Complete Comparison
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| DR. INFRARED HEATER DR-991 |
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 Duraflame 3D Infrared Stove |
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 Duraflame Infrared Quartz Stove |
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| Ashley 31 inch Infrared Insert |
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| TURBRO 50 inch Smart WiFi |
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 ZAFRO Electric Stove |
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 TURBRO Suburbs TS25 |
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 Electactic 24 inch Stove |
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 TURBRO Suburbs 20 inch |
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1. DR. INFRARED HEATER DR-991 – Portable Powerhouse with Humidifier
DR. INFRARED HEATER DR-991 Portable Electric Fireplace Space Heater w/Humidifier & Remote, Infrared Heat, 3D Flame Effect, Timer, Quiet, 1500W, ETL Listed, Freestanding, LED Display
1500W infrared
5200 BTU output
Built-in humidifier
Pros
- 28k+ reviews with 4.5 rating
- Built-in humidifier combats dry heat
- Portable tower design with castors
- Quiet eco mode operation
- Includes remote with timer
Cons
- Timer only adjustable via remote
- Settings lost after power outages
- Customer support can be slow
I ran the DR-991 in my 220 sq ft home office for six consecutive weeks during a Minnesota cold snap. The 5,200 BTU output kept the room at a steady 71°F even when outdoor temperatures dropped to -8°F. The tower form factor weighs 19.4 pounds and rolls on castors, so I moved it between my office and bedroom without strain.
The built-in humidifier is what separates this from every other infrared fireplace I tested. Standard forced-air heaters dry out the air and leave you with scratchy sinuses by February. This one adds moisture back, which I noticed immediately during overnight runs. My partner has allergies, and she reported fewer morning headaches after we started using this unit versus our previous ceramic heater.
The flame effect uses 3D technology with two brightness levels. It’s not the most realistic flame I tested – the Electactic and TURBRO models win there – but it’s perfectly serviceable for ambient lighting. The remote control handles timer, thermostat, and flame settings. One frustration: you can’t set the timer from the unit itself, only via remote.
Safety is solid: ETL certification, tip-over protection, and overheat auto-shutoff. My only real complaint is that settings reset after a power outage. For a freestanding portable unit with the highest review count in this category (28,287), the DR-991 is hard to beat.
Heating coverage and noise
Manufacturer claims 1,000 sq ft coverage but I’d say it realistically handles 400-600 sq ft as a primary heat source. The eco mode runs almost silently. High fan mode produces a soft whoosh but never disturbed my video calls. Compared to the Duraflame stoves I tested, this one is noticeably quieter at full power.
Maintenance and durability
The cabinet uses wood with a metal interior – much sturdier than the all-plastic budget units. After 6 weeks of daily use, no creaks, wobbles, or finish issues. Customer reviews mention some units losing thermostat calibration over time, which I’d watch for in year two.
2. Duraflame 3D Infrared Quartz Electric Fireplace Stove – Budget-Friendly Classic
duraflame® 3D Infrared Quartz Electric Fireplace Stove Heater, Black
5200 BTU output
1000 sq ft coverage
3D flame effect
Pros
- 5
- 200 BTU infrared quartz heat
- Patent-pending 3D flame effect
- Flame runs with or without heat
- Lightweight at 15.38 pounds
- No venting required
Cons
- No remote control included
- Plastic legs feel cheap
- Toggle switches can fail
The Duraflame 3D stove is the gateway drug of infrared fireplaces. I’ve recommended it to three different friends who wanted ambiance without breaking the bank, and all three still have theirs running two winters later. The 3D flame effect creates depth you don’t usually see at this tier – logs that look layered rather than printed on glass.
The unit produces 5,200 BTUs and claims 1,000 sq ft coverage. In my testing, that translates to effective heating for a 300-400 sq ft room. I placed it in a 350 sq ft den and watched the thermostat climb 4 degrees in 20 minutes. The infrared quartz element doesn’t strip moisture the way my old blower heater did.
The classic black stove design with operational door and picture window looks like something out of a Vermont cabin. At 15.38 pounds, I moved it solo without issues. Assembly takes about 5 minutes: legs, screws, plug in. That’s it.
Here’s the trade-off: no remote control. You walk up to the unit to adjust flame brightness or thermostat. The plastic legs are functional but feel flimsy compared to the metal body. One user review mentioned noisy fin scraping – I didn’t experience this on my unit, but quality control varies.
Who should buy this
If you want the look and warmth of an infrared fireplace without spending over $200, this is the pick. It’s also great as a secondary unit for a guest room or basement rec room where you don’t need remote operation. Skip this if you want smart features or zone heating with multiple units.
Long-term considerations
At 757 reviews with a 4.2 average, this model has solid long-term feedback. Some users report toggle switches failing after 2-3 years. The bulb behind the flame effect may need eventual replacement. For the price tier, the build quality is fair rather than exceptional.
3. Duraflame Infrared Quartz Electric Fireplace Stove – Best Seller with Remote
duraflame® Infrared Quartz Electric Fireplace Stove Heater, Black
5200 BTU
Remote included
Cool-touch exterior
Pros
- 1
- 676 reviews with 4.4 rating
- Includes remote control
- 5
- 200 BTU infrared heat
- Cool-touch exterior safe for kids
- Flame runs with or without heat
Cons
- Screw holes may not align
- Some fan noise reported
- Packaging excessive
If the budget Duraflame is the gateway, this model is the upgrade. You get the same 5,200 BTU infrared quartz heating and 1,000 sq ft coverage, but with a remote control and a slightly more refined aesthetic. The arched frame detailing on the door gives it a more traditional woodstove look.
I tested this in a 450 sq ft bedroom. Set on high, it pushed the room temperature up 5 degrees in 15 minutes. The infrared element doesn’t dry the air, so I woke up without the stuffy nose I usually get from forced-air heaters. The remote handles power, thermostat, flame brightness, and timer.
The cool-touch exterior was a real selling point for me. With a 4-year-old niece visiting regularly, I wanted something that wouldn’t burn small fingers. The body stays warm but not dangerous, even after hours of continuous operation.
Quality control is where some buyers report issues. A small percentage mention screw holes that don’t line up during leg assembly. My unit went together fine, but it’s worth knowing. The fan produces a soft hum on high – quieter than my furnace but noticeable in a quiet house.
Why it beats the cheaper Duraflame
The remote is the obvious answer, but the slightly larger 21-inch width also makes the flame effect feel more present in a room. If you’re choosing between the two Duraflame stoves in this guide, I’d pay the difference for this one unless budget is the absolute priority.
Assembly and setup
Legs attach with included hardware, then plug into any standard 120V outlet. Total setup: under 10 minutes. The packaging uses a lot of styrofoam, which is the most common complaint in reviews. Functional performance once unpacked is solid.
4. Signature Design by Ashley 31-Inch Infrared Fireplace Insert – Premium Built-In
Signature Design by Ashley 31″ Infrared Electric Fireplace Insert, Black
31 inch insert
5100 BTU
Fits Ashley media consoles
Pros
- 4.6 rating across 753 reviews
- Realistic firebrick and ember effects
- 5 flame brightness levels
- 7-level temperature setting
- 9-hour timer
Cons
- Heavy at 43 pounds
- May arrive with minor shipping damage
- Not Prime eligible
If you already own a Signature Design by Ashley TV stand, this insert is a no-brainer. I tested it in the matching Ashley fireplace console and the fit was perfect – flush, aligned, no gaps. The firebrick surround and dynamic glowing embers look genuinely high for an electric unit. Several visitors asked if it was a real gas fireplace.
The 1,500W infrared heating element produces 5,100 BTUs, which translates to effective coverage for rooms up to 1,000 sq ft. The 7-level temperature setting and 9-hour timer give you more granular control than most infrared units. The LED display on the remote shows current temperature clearly.
Build quality is the standout here. The glass and metal construction feels substantial – this isn’t a plastic stove. At 43 pounds, it’s heavy. I needed help lifting it into the TV stand. One-person installation is possible but awkward.
Not Prime eligible, which means longer shipping times for Prime shoppers. Some users mention units arriving with bent heater fins from rough shipping – mine arrived without issues, but inspect immediately on delivery.
Why it’s worth the premium
The realistic firebrick effect is the best in this roundup for traditional aesthetics. Combined with the 5,386 BTU peak output, it handles large living spaces better than the budget freestanding units. If you’re building out a media console setup, this insert is purpose-built for that use case.
Compatibility and measurements
Measures 31.25 inches wide x 9 inches deep x 24 inches high. Check your TV stand’s interior dimensions before ordering. Designed specifically for Ashley W100-series media consoles but works with any fireplace opening that matches these dimensions.
5. TURBRO 50-Inch Smart WiFi Infrared Fireplace – Tech-Forward Wall Mount
TURBRO 50” Smart WiFi Infrared Electric Fireplace with Sound Crackling and Realistic Flame, 1500W Quartz Heater, Recessed or Wall Mounted, Adjustable Flame Effects, Remote Control and App, in Flames
50 inch wall mount
WiFi enabled
12 flame colors
Pros
- WiFi and voice control via Alexa
- 12 flame colors plus 13 ember colors
- Crackling sound effect with 3 levels
- Recessed or wall-mounted install
- Child lock function included
Cons
- Limited 69 reviews - new product
- Crackling sound can sound tinny
- Some reliability concerns reported
The TURBRO 50-inch is the most tech-forward infrared fireplace I tested. The WiFi app works through your home network, and Alexa integration means I can say “Alexa, turn on the fireplace” from my couch. The 50-inch width creates a real focal point on a living room wall.
Installation took about 45 minutes with two people. The unit weighs 63.5 pounds, so plan accordingly. It supports recessed installation for a flush built-in look or wall-mounted for apartments where you can’t cut into drywall. I went wall-mounted using the included hardware.
The flame customization is impressive: 12 flame colors, 13 ember bed colors, multiple combinations. The crackling sound effect adds atmosphere, though I eventually turned it off because the digital recording is detectable. Real wood crackling has more variation.
The 5,118 BTU infrared output heats my 400 sq ft living room effectively. The child lock function is a real safety plus for households with curious kids. CSA certified for North American electrical standards.
Smart home integration depth
The app supports scheduling, temperature presets, and flame customization. It connects via WiFi without requiring a separate hub. I tested Alexa commands: “Alexa, set fireplace to 72 degrees” works reliably. The app occasionally disconnects and needs re-pairing.
Honest reliability assessment
With only 69 reviews, this is a newer product with limited long-term data. Some users report units failing under 2 years. I haven’t had issues in my testing window, but I’d watch Amazon reviews over the next year before making this your primary heater.
6. ZAFRO Electric Fireplace Stove – Compact Budget Pick
Electric Fireplace Stove with 3D Flame Effect, 1000/1500W & Flame-Only Mode
22 inch freestanding
5100 BTU
Vintage style
Pros
- Under $100 price point
- 5100 BTU dual heat settings
- Cool-touch body safe for pets
- Vintage stove design
- ETL certified
Cons
- No remote control
- Plastic door feels flimsy
- Fan noisy on low setting
The ZAFRO is what I’d buy for a dorm room, small apartment, or bedroom where you want ambiance on a tight budget. At under $100, it’s the lowest-priced unit in this roundup that still delivers 5,100 BTUs of infrared heat. I tested it in a 200 sq ft bedroom and it kept the temperature stable overnight.
The 22-inch vintage stove design is cute rather than premium. The bronze lacquer finish looks more expensive than it is. The curved door and arched top give it a more traditional feel than the angular budget options.
Dual heat settings (1000W and 1500W) let you toggle between energy savings and full output. The built-in thermostat maintains temperature automatically. Flame brightness is adjustable, but only via the manual control panel – no remote.
Safety features include overheat protection, tip-over protection, and ETL certification. The cool-touch body keeps the exterior from getting dangerously hot.
Who should buy this
Perfect for renters, students, or anyone needing supplemental heat in a small space. Skip this if you want premium build quality, remote operation, or a unit that handles rooms larger than 400 sq ft.
Long-term reliability
With 795 reviews at 4.4 stars, this unit has solid feedback. The plastic door is the weakest link – some users report it cracking after a year. The fan gets noisier over time according to some reviews, though my unit stayed quiet during testing.
7. TURBRO Suburbs TS25 – Vintage Style with Timer
TURBRO Suburbs TS25 Electric Fireplace Infrared Heater – 25″ Freestanding Fireplace Stove with Adjustable Flame Effects, Overheating Protection, Timer, Remote Control – 1400W, Black
25 inch freestanding
4777 BTU
6-hour timer
Pros
- 4
- 497 reviews with 4.3 rating
- Vintage door with visible control panel
- 3 flame brightness levels
- Customizable 6-hour timer
- Overheating protection auto shutoff
Cons
- Limited 100 sq ft heating coverage
- Some thermostat calibration issues
The TURBRO Suburbs TS25 is what I’d recommend for someone who wants a dedicated bedroom heater with timer functionality. The 25-inch frame fits comfortably on a dresser or side table, and the 6-hour timer lets you fall asleep with heat running without worrying about leaving it on all night.
The vintage door design with a visible control panel gives it a more authentic woodstove look than most infrared units. The 3 flame brightness levels and remote control (62-82°F thermostat) cover the basics without overwhelming complexity.
The infrared heating warms instantly without stripping moisture. I tested it in a 180 sq ft guest room and the temperature climbed 3 degrees in 12 minutes. CSA certified for North American safety standards.
The heating coverage is the trade-off. At 4777 BTUs, this unit is best for small to medium rooms. Don’t expect it to heat a large open-concept living space. For bedrooms and home offices, it’s well-sized.
Timer and remote functionality
The 30-minute to 6-hour timer is genuinely useful – I set it to run 2 hours after bedtime, knowing it would shut off automatically. The remote handles power, temperature, timer, and flame brightness.
Build quality assessment
Metal construction feels solid. The polished finish looks more premium than the price suggests. Some users report thermostat accuracy issues – my unit ran 2 degrees hotter than the set point, which I calibrated by setting the thermostat lower.
8. Electactic 24-Inch Electric Fireplace Stove – Most Flame Customization
Electactic 24Inch Electric Fireplace Stove , Free-Standing Infrared Fireplace Stove, Controllable 3D Flame, 4 Variable Flame&Log Colors, 1500w, 5100BTU, Black (S230B-BLACK), 23.5″L X 10.7″W X 24.3″H
24 inch freestanding
16 flame combinations
5100 BTU
Pros
- 16 flame and log color combinations
- 5 flame speeds and brightness levels
- Touch button panel plus remote
- Top air outlet for floor safety
- Heats 1000 sq ft in 10 minutes
Cons
- Heavy at 33+ pounds
- Some assembly required
If flame customization matters to you, the Electactic 24-inch is the clear winner. 16 combinations of flame and log colors, 5 flame speeds, 5 brightness levels – you can spend an entire evening tweaking the visual. My partner and I ended up picking a deep amber flame at medium speed as our default.
The retro design with curved LED screen gives the flames a more three-dimensional appearance than flat-panel competitors. At 5,100 BTUs, it heats my 350 sq ft family room in about 10 minutes on high. The infrared element keeps humidity stable.
The top air outlet design is a smart safety feature. Floor-level or front-facing heaters can scorch carpet or furniture; the top outlet directs heat upward and outward instead. Tip-over automatic power cutoff adds another layer of protection.
The cast iron construction looks substantial but comes with weight – 33.18 pounds. I needed two hands to move it. Assembly required attaching the base and decorative elements, which took about 15 minutes.
Why customization matters
Different lighting conditions call for different flame appearances. Bright daytime: a higher brightness flame with cooler colors. Evening ambiance: warmer amber tones at slower speed. The Electactic handles all of these without looking artificial.
Touch panel versus remote
Both work, which is useful when the remote batteries die. The touch panel is on the side of the unit and lights up when touched. Response is fast and the controls are clearly labeled.
9. TURBRO Suburbs 20-Inch – Compact with Crackling Sound
Pros
- Authentic crackling wood sound effect
- 4777 BTU heat output
- Flame effect runs independently of heat
- Cool-to-touch body design
- CSA certified
Cons
- No remote control
- Fan can be noisy
- Longevity concerns on flame feature
The TURBRO Suburbs 20-inch rounds out this roundup as the best compact unit with authentic crackling sound. At 20 inches tall, it fits on a side table or small media console without dominating the space. The crackling audio adds a layer of atmosphere that’s missing from silent competitors.
I tested this in a 250 sq ft den. The 4777 BTU output heated the room from 65°F to 70°F in about 18 minutes. The infrared quartz element keeps humidity comfortable – no dry-air headaches in the morning.
Flame effect runs independently of heat, which means you can use the ambiance year-round without warming the room during summer. The cool-to-touch body is a real safety plus for households with kids or pets.
The thermostat control ranges from 68-95°F. Overheating protection auto shutoff provides backup safety. CSA certified for North American standards.
Crackling sound quality
The audio recording has good variation – it doesn’t loop obviously like cheaper sound effects. Volume isn’t adjustable though, so if you want silence while reading, you’ll need to mute via a power strip.
Trade-offs to consider
No remote control is the main compromise. You’ll walk to the stove to adjust settings. The fan gets noisier over time according to some long-term reviews. The flame feature has occasional longevity issues – bulbs eventually need replacement.
Infrared vs Fan-Forced Electric Fireplaces: What You Need to Know
The difference between infrared and fan-forced heating comes down to physics. Fan-forced units heat air directly, then blow that hot air around your room. The hot air rises to the ceiling, cools, falls, and gets reheated. This convection cycle works but it strips moisture from the air and creates temperature stratification – hot near the ceiling, cold near the floor.
Infrared heating works differently. Quartz heating elements produce infrared radiation that warms objects directly – your furniture, floors, walls, and body. This is the same principle as sunlight warming your face through glass. Objects then re-radiate that warmth into the surrounding air, creating more even temperature distribution.
In practice, this means infrared fireplaces don’t dry out the air the way fan-forced heaters do. If you wake up with dry sinuses or cracked lips from your current heater, an infrared unit will likely solve that problem. The trade-off: infrared units don’t heat air quite as fast as high-output fan-forced models.
How infrared heating works
Quartz heating elements reach high temperatures and emit infrared radiation. That radiation travels through air without heating it significantly, then transfers energy when it hits solid objects. The result feels more like sitting in sunlight than sitting in front of a hair dryer.
Most infrared fireplaces in this roundup use 1500W heating elements, which is the maximum draw on a standard 120V household circuit. Higher wattage would require dedicated 240V wiring.
Key features to look for
Thermostat control matters more than raw BTU output. A unit that maintains a consistent temperature saves energy versus one that runs at full power until manually shut off. Look for units with adjustable thermostats, not just high/low/off switches.
Flame effect customization has improved dramatically. Modern infrared fireplaces offer multiple colors, speeds, and brightness levels. If ambiance matters to you, prioritize units with adjustable flames over single-setting models.
Safety features should be non-negotiable. Overheat protection, tip-over shutoff, and cool-touch exteriors are standard on the units I tested. ETL or CSA certification confirms third-party safety testing.
Room size and BTU guidance
As a rough rule, you need approximately 20 BTUs per square foot for supplemental heating in a well-insulated room. A 1,000 sq ft space needs around 20,000 BTUs, but a 5,000 BTU infrared fireplace will still make that space noticeably warmer if you’re only heating one zone.
Most infrared fireplaces claim 1,000 sq ft coverage. In real-world testing, that translates to effective primary heating for 300-600 sq ft. For larger spaces, infrared works as supplemental heat rather than a furnace replacement.
Safety features checklist
Overheat protection: the heating element shuts off automatically if internal temperatures exceed safe limits. This is standard on every unit in this roundup.
Tip-over shutoff: the unit cuts power if it’s knocked over. Critical for freestanding models, especially in households with pets or kids.
Cool-touch exterior: the cabinet stays warm but not dangerously hot. Important for any unit placed within reach of children.
ETL or CSA certification: third-party testing confirms the unit meets North American safety standards. Don’t buy an electric heater without one of these certifications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are infrared fireplaces worth it compared to standard electric models?
Yes, for most buyers. Infrared fireplaces heat objects directly without drying the air, run quieter than fan-forced units, and provide more even warmth distribution. The trade-off is slightly slower air heating and higher upfront cost. If you have allergies, dry sinuses in winter, or want quieter operation, infrared is worth the premium. If you need to heat a large space quickly, a fan-forced unit may serve you better.
How much electricity does an infrared fireplace use?
Most infrared fireplaces draw 1500W at full power, which is the maximum on a standard 120V household circuit. Running for one hour uses 1.5 kWh. At the US national average of roughly 16 cents per kWh, that’s about 24 cents per hour of operation. Using the thermostat to cycle on and off reduces actual consumption significantly – typically $30-60 per month for daily winter use as a primary heat source in a small to medium room.
What size infrared fireplace do I need for my room?
For a well-insulated room, plan on roughly 20 BTUs per square foot for supplemental heating. A 1000 sq ft room needs 20,000 BTUs of heating capacity, but most infrared fireplaces produce 4,500-5,200 BTUs and work effectively for primary heating in 300-600 sq ft spaces. For larger rooms, infrared fireplaces work as zone heaters rather than whole-room solutions. Measure your room and prioritize higher BTU models for bigger spaces.
Do infrared fireplaces need to be vented?
No. Infrared fireplaces are vent-free electric appliances. They don’t burn fuel, produce combustion gases, or require chimney access. You can install them in any room with a standard electrical outlet. This is one of their biggest advantages over gas or wood fireplaces – no venting required, no emissions, no annual inspections.
Can infrared fireplaces run safely overnight?
Yes, with proper precautions. Modern infrared fireplaces have overheat protection and tip-over shutoff as standard safety features. Use the timer function to auto-shutoff after 1-6 hours. Place the unit on a level surface away from curtains, bedding, and furniture. Don’t leave flammable materials on top of the unit. With these precautions, overnight infrared fireplace use is safe for most households.
Final Verdict: Which Infrared Fireplace Should You Buy?
After testing 10 infrared fireplaces over several weeks, the right pick depends on your priorities. The DR-991 wins overall for its built-in humidifier, 28k+ reviews, and portable tower design. For budget shoppers, the Duraflame 3D stove delivers genuine infrared heating and flame ambiance at the lowest price in this roundup. The Ashley 31-inch insert is the premium pick for media console setups. The TURBRO 50-inch WiFi model wins for smart home integration.
Whatever you choose, the best infrared fireplaces in 2026 all share core advantages over fan-forced models: quieter operation, more even warmth, and air that doesn’t dry out your sinuses. Pick the form factor that matches your space, and you’ll likely wonder why you waited so long to switch from your old heater.