Picture this: a crisp evening on the patio, friends gathered under soft lighting, and you’re all cozy—even as the mercury dips. Could the Dr Infrared DR‑238 be your secret weapon? Let’s find out.
Our Top Pick
Product Summary
Model: DR‑238 Carbon Infrared Heater
Output: 900 W / 1,200 W / 1,500 W
Mounting: Wall or ceiling (brackets included)
Safety: ETL-certified, IP55 weather resistance
Extras: Remote control, plug‑in 120 V operation
Design & Build Quality
The DR‑238 sports a clean, professional look. Its anodized aluminum casing resists weather and stays cool to the touch. The included brackets let you angle the heater as needed. Some users reported minor wobbling when not mounted on solid studs, but most praise its sturdy feel.
Heating Technology & Performance
Thanks to carbon infrared tech, the heater delivers warmth almost instantly. On high, users report feeling heat up to 10 feet away. A mirror reflector boosts efficiency, reflecting around 90 percent of the output. Demo videos show it works well in real-world settings.
Installation & Setup
Out of the box, you’re almost ready. You’ll need a drill and stud-finding skills. Brackets support both wall and ceiling mounting. Some buyers mention tricky instructions and difficulty on masonry surfaces. Setup takes about 20–30 minutes for a handy person. A quick tip: pilot holes help, or call in a pro.
Controls & Usability
The remote is a handy feature—no getting up to change settings. However, a few users reported remote failure after six months. Operation is whisper-quiet, with a low hum on high settings. Indicator lights clearly show mode selection.
Performance in Real Life
Home Depot and Amazon reviews vary. For a 10 × 10 ft space, users find it perfect—instantly warm and easy to install. In garages, many say it’s ideal for winter workshops. But out in an open courtyard, it’s less effective—“decent warmth 5 ft away.”
Safety Features
Safety ticks all the boxes. It’s ETL-certified with IP55 protection against dust and water. It includes automatic shutoff in case of tip-over, and stays cool outside the heating element area. Just follow distance guidelines from the manual.
Energy Use & Operating Cost
Pulling 1.5 kW per hour, cost depends on local electricity rate. If you pay around ₨0.25–₨0.35 per unit, that’s just a couple of rupees per hour. Medium power saves energy but still delivers warmth where you need it most.
Maintenance & Longevity
Just wipe off dust now and then. The carbon element should last years. Replacement parts and brackets are available. With a one‑year warranty and responsive support, most buyers report satisfaction.
Dr Infrared DR-238 Carbon Infrared Outdoor Heater
Wall- or ceiling-mounted 1,500 W carbon infrared heater that delivers instant, odorless warmth for outdoor and indoor spaces.
Conclusion
The Dr Infrared DR‑238 does exactly what it sets out to do—it delivers fast, targeted warmth in a sleek, whisper-quiet package. Users consistently praise its comfort under covered patios and in garages, noting that it “works as advertised” and proves ideal for small areas where efficiency matters. While it won’t cram a wide-open yard with heat, it shines in cozy corners where good design meets reliable performance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How big an area can it heat?
Around 10 ft cone on high—roughly 100 sq ft coverage.
Can I mount it on a tripod?
Yes, but it must be secure. Remember, once hot, it’s not easy to move.
Remote stopped working—what now?
Swap batteries first. If that fails, replacement remotes are easy to find.
Safe to use under eaves?
Yes—IP55 means it can handle splashes. Just avoid direct rainfall or strong jets.