Should you buy the RealSmart infrared space heater? A detailed review!

Description

Features

The RealSmart 1198QX infrared heater boasts a range of impressive features that make it a strong contender in the indoor heating market. Its six infrared quartz heating elements are designed to provide quick and efficient heat, covering up to 250 square feet with ease. I particularly appreciated the three heating modes—750W, 1500W, and a constant temperature setting. This versatile setup allowed me to adjust the heat output depending on the room’s size and my comfort level.

The programmable thermostat is another standout feature that simplifies temperature regulation. Whether you’re using the LED touch screen or the included remote control, adjusting the settings feels intuitive. The 12-hour programmable timer is a game-changer for anyone looking to schedule their heating needs, especially during those chilly mornings or late nights.

Noise

One of the aspects I always consider is noise level, particularly for a device that may run while I’m working or sleeping. Fortunately, this unit operates quietly for the most part, which was a relief. Whether it was in my home office during a virtual meeting or in the bedroom during a cold winter night, the heater didn’t create any annoying distractions. However, I did notice a faint hum when it was working at higher settings, but it wasn’t bothersome enough to detract from its overall performance.

Safety

Safety features are critical for a heating device, and this product delivers on that front. It includes both overheat and tip-over protection, which I found reassuring, especially with kids and pets in the house. During one incident when my dog accidentally nudged the heater, the tip-over protection kicked in immediately, shutting off the unit. This made me feel much more confident about using it regularly in different parts of the house.

Design

The sleek black steel finish of this heater blends well with almost any room decor. Its compact size and lightweight design made it easy for me to move it between rooms without any hassle. Measuring 9.3″ x 9.8″ x 12.4″, it fit perfectly in tighter spaces like my study and kitchen. Despite its small size, it managed to heat up larger areas efficiently, proving that good things sometimes do come in small packages.

Maintenance

Maintaining this heater has been straightforward so far. The plastic casing and steel parts wipe clean easily with a damp cloth. The lack of any complex, hard-to-clean components is a huge plus for someone like me who prefers low-maintenance devices. I haven’t had to deal with any issues related to dust accumulation or malfunctioning parts yet, which speaks to its quality construction.

How To Use

Using the RealSmart 1198QX is refreshingly simple. I first plugged it in, adjusted the thermostat using the LED touch screen, and used the remote to switch between modes. The large LED display was clear and easy to read, even from across the room. I also experimented with the programmable timer, setting it to turn on 30 minutes before I woke up. Walking into a warm room first thing in the morning was a luxury I quickly got used to.

Performance

Performance-wise, this heater exceeded my expectations. It heated my 200-square-foot living room surprisingly fast, even on the lower 750W setting. On colder nights, the 1500W mode provided a cozy level of warmth without making the air feel dry. I also tested its limits by trying it in my basement, and while it worked adequately, I felt it was most effective in smaller, well-insulated spaces.

Advantages

Here are some of the favorable aspects of this product:

• Compact and lightweight design makes it portable.
• Multiple safety features, including overheat and tip-over protection.
• Three heating modes provide versatility for different needs.
• Quiet operation, suitable for bedrooms and workspaces.
• Programmable timer and remote control add convenience.

Drawbacks

Despite its many strengths, there are a few areas for improvement:

• Limited heating range—struggles in spaces larger than 250 square feet.
• The fan continues to run for a few seconds after shutting off, which might confuse some users.
• Plastic casing feels less durable compared to metal alternatives.

Usability

The usability of this heater is top-notch. Its simple controls and remote functionality made it very easy for me to adjust settings without getting up. I used it across different rooms—bedroom, home office, and even the kitchen—and it performed consistently well. The lightweight design was a bonus, allowing me to move it around as needed without breaking a sweat.

Competing Products

When comparing this heater to other brands, I found it stacked up well against market leaders like Vornado and Dr. Infrared. While those brands often offer a slightly larger heating coverage, the RealSmart 1198QX excels in portability and user-friendly features like the large LED display and programmable timer. On the downside, its plastic casing feels less premium compared to the all-metal designs of some competitors. However, for anyone prioritizing safety and ease of use, this heater offers a compelling package.

Cost-Effectiveness

In terms of cost-effectiveness, this heater offers a solid bang for the buck. Its energy-efficient heating modes help keep electricity bills in check, and the programmable timer ensures you’re not wasting power unnecessarily. While it’s not the cheapest option out there, the range of features and safety mechanisms justify the investment, especially for anyone looking to heat a medium-sized room effectively.

Additional information