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 2.9. The Dr Infrared Heater DR-238 leads on safety. The Heat Storm Tradesman HS-1500-OTR-R costs $9.99 less ($99.99 vs $109.98).
Heat Storm Tradesman HS-1500-OTR-R
#13 in ElectricFull review
For a budget wall or ceiling heater over a garage bench or a covered seat. Cheap and simple, with a short warranty.
Amazon $99.99$99.99
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 mounted, so it can't tip).
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 | Heat Storm Tradesman HS-1500-OTR-R |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.2/5 | 2.9/5 |
| Value 35% | 63 $21.49 per 1,000 BTU/h ($109.98, 5,120 BTU/h) | 68 $19.54 per 1,000 BTU/h ($99.99, 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 mounted, so it can't tip |
| Warranty 20% | 0 1-year warranty | 0 1-year warranty |
Specifications
| Dr Infrared Heater DR-238 | Heat Storm Tradesman HS-1500-OTR-R | |
|---|---|---|
| Heating | ||
| Fuel | Electric | Electric |
| Power | 1,500 W | 1,500 W |
| Remote | Yes | Yes |
| Safety and build | ||
| Style | Wall | Wall |
| Safety listed | Yes | - |
| Ingress rating | IP55 | IPX4 |
| Weight | 8 lb | 5.3 lb |
| Warranty | 1 year | 1 year |
| Released | 2017-11-16 | - |