Dr Infrared Heater DR-238
#8 in ElectricFull review
For a covered porch or pergola where you want quiet, plug in heat over one or two seats. It is cheap and weatherproof, but small.
Amazon $109.98$109.98
The Dr Infrared Heater DR-238 is the better patio heater overall, rated 3.2 to 2.8. The Dr Infrared Heater DR-238 leads on safety and value. The Dr Infrared Heater DR-238 costs $88.90 less ($109.98 vs $198.88).
Briza Infrared Patio Heater
#14 in ElectricFull review
A flexible tripod or wall heater for a patio. The Dr Infrared DR-338 is a better documented alternative.
Amazon $198.88$198.88
Prices were last checked October 31, 2026 and are subject to change; the price and availability shown by the retailer at the time of purchase apply.
Which should you buy?
- Choose the Dr Infrared Heater DR-238 for safety (mounted, so it can't tip, safety listed vs tip-over shutoff) and value ($21.49 per 1,000 BTU/h ($109.98, 5,120 BTU/h) vs $38.86 per 1,000 BTU/h ($198.88, 5,120 BTU/h)).
Scores side by side
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every electric patio heater; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | Dr Infrared Heater DR-238 | Briza Infrared Patio Heater |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.2/5 | 2.8/5 |
| Value 35% | 63 $21.49 per 1,000 BTU/h ($109.98, 5,120 BTU/h) | 35 $38.86 per 1,000 BTU/h ($198.88, 5,120 BTU/h) |
| Heat output 25% | 25 1,500 W | 25 1,500 W |
| Safety 20% | 100 mounted, so it can't tip, safety listed | 50 tip-over shutoff |
| Warranty 20% | 0 1-year warranty | 50 warranty not published (neutral score used) |
Specifications
| Dr Infrared Heater DR-238 | Briza Infrared Patio Heater | |
|---|---|---|
| Heating | ||
| Fuel | Electric | Electric |
| Power | 1,500 W | 1,500 W |
| Remote | Yes | Yes |
| Safety and build | ||
| Style | Wall | Standing |
| Tip-over shutoff | - | Yes |
| Safety listed | Yes | - |
| Ingress rating | IP55 | IP55 |
| Weight | 8 lb | 6.6 lb |
| Warranty | 1 year | - |
| Released | 2017-11-16 | - |