Heat Storm 500 Watt

Everything You Need to Know Before Purchasing This Popular Electric Heater

The Heat Storm 500 Watt infrared space heater is one of the most popular electric heaters on the market today. With its sleek, modern design and powerful heating capabilities, it’s easy to see why so many people opt for this heater to warm up their homes.

But before you make your purchase, it’s important to understand all the key features, pros and cons of the Heat Storm 500W model. This buying guide will provide a comprehensive overview of this infrared heater so you can determine if it’s the right option for your heating needs.

Key Features of the Heat Storm 500 Watt Infrared Heater

Some of the stand-out features of the Heat Storm 500W heater include:

• 500 watts of heating power – This enables the heater to efficiently warm up medium to large rooms. The infrared heat technology heats objects directly without wasting energy just heating the air.
• Energy efficiency – It only uses 500W on the highest setting, saving you money on electricity bills compared to less efficient space heaters.
• Safe for indoor use – The Heat Storm heater has no exposed heating elements or hot surfaces, making it safe around children and pets. It also has tip-over and overheat protection.
• Adjustable thermostat – Set your desired temperature and the heater will automatically turn on/off to maintain the room temperature.
• Remote control – Control the heater from across the room with the included remote. Adjust temperature, timer, and modes from the comfort of your chair.
• Compact and portable – Weighing only 5 pounds, you can easily move the heater between rooms or bring it with you for supplemental zone heating.

Step-by-Step Guide on Installing the Heat Storm 500W Heater

Installing the Heat Storm 500W infrared heater is quick and easy:

1. Take the heater out of the box and remove any protective packaging.
2. Place the heater on a flat, level surface in the room you wish to heat. Make sure the heater is at least 3 feet away from any furniture or objects.
3. Plug the power cord into a grounded 110V electrical outlet.
4. Turn the power switch on the back of the heater to the ON position. The power light on the front should illuminate.
5. Use the buttons on the front control panel or remote control to set your desired temperature. The heater will automatically turn on its heating element to raise the room temperature to your set point.
6. Adjust any other settings like timer, thermostat mode, or oscillation as desired. Refer to your user’s manual for details.

That’s all there is to it! The Heat Storm heater will now work to efficiently heat your space.

Pricing and Where to Buy the Heat Storm 500W Infrared Heater

The Heat Storm 500W infrared heater typically retails between $120 and $150 at most major online retailers. Here are some of the best places to buy it and current pricing:

• Amazon – $119.99 with free shipping for Prime members
• Home Depot – $129 + free shipping
• Walmart – $124.99 + free site-to-store pickup
• Heat Storm – $139.99 + free shipping directly from the manufacturer
• Wayfair – $129.99 with free shipping

The heater often goes on sale, so be sure to check for any current deals and discounts before purchasing. Heat Storm’s official website may offer exclusive promos too.

Energy Efficiency and Running Costs of the Heat Storm 500W

One of the major benefits of the Heat Storm infrared heater is that it uses less electricity compared to traditional space heaters.

On the highest 500W setting, the heater uses about 0.5kWh if run continuously for 1 hour. Based on the average residential electricity rate of $0.14/kWh, it would cost around $0.07 to run the heater for one hour. This makes it an energy efficient and affordable option for supplemental heating.

For comparison, a 1500W ceramic space heater would cost over $0.21 per hour to operate on high. The Heat Storm heater can cut your heating costs by over 65%!

The programmable thermostat also helps manage electricity usage efficiently. You can set the heater to only turn on when needed, avoiding unnecessary energy waste.

Warranty Information for the Heat Storm Infrared Heater

Heat Storm provides a 1 year limited warranty on the 500W infrared space heater. This covers any defects in materials or workmanship within 1 year of the original purchase date.

Some key notes about the warranty:

• Only valid with proof of purchase and if the heater was used properly per the manual. Damage from accidents or misuse will not be covered.
• The warranty only applies to the original buyer and is non-transferable.
• Heat Storm will repair or replace the defective heater at their discretion.
• The warranty does not cover the filter or normal wear parts like the remote control.
• Shipping charges for returning the defective unit may apply.

Overall, the 1 year Heat Storm warranty provides decent protection in case you get a faulty heater. Be sure to register your warranty online to take full advantage of coverage.

Cleaning and Maintaining the Heat Storm 500W Space Heater

To keep your Heat Storm infrared heater working properly for many years, periodic cleaning is recommended. Here are some tips:

• Use a damp cloth to wipe down the exterior plastic housing as needed. This removes any dust, dirt or debris that may accumulate.
• Clean the air intake grille every 2-4 weeks using a vacuum hose attachment. This removes dust and pet hair that can obstruct airflow.
• Replace the rear air filter every 4-6 months. Clogged filters reduce heating efficiency. New official replacements can be ordered on the Heat Storm website.
• Inspect the heating elements and internal wiring yearly. Use compressed air to blow out any dust. Make sure wires are intact with no cracks.
• Never attempt to clean the interior with water, chemical cleaners or solvents. This can damage the heater.
• Store the heater in a clean, dry location when not in use to prevent dust buildup.

Proper cleaning keeps the Heat Storm heater functioning optimally while reducing fire and electrical hazards.

Safety Features of the Heat Storm Infrared Space Heater

Safety is a top priority for space heaters, which can pose risks if poorly designed. Here are some of the key safety features packed into the Heat Storm 500W model:

• Tip-over auto shutoff – If the heater tilts over more than 45 degrees, it will immediately shut down to prevent fire hazards.
• Overheat protection – A high-limit thermostat turns the heater off if internal temps exceed 105°F due to obstructed airflow or fan failure.
• Cool-touch exterior – The plastic housing remains cool to the touch for added burn safety.
• No exposed heating elements – The sealed infrared heating tube has no hot surfaces exposed that could cause contact burns.
• Built-in cord storage – The compact cord wraps neatly in the back of the unit for clutter-free safety.
• ETL certified – Independent testing confirms the heater meets the latest electrical and fire safety standards in the US and Canada.
• Automatic shutoff timer – Set the heater to automatically power off after 1-12 hours for added peace of mind.

With these robust safety systems in place, you can relax knowing the Heat Storm heater will operate securely. It’s safely kept kids and pets warm for years without incident.

Troubleshooting Common Heat Storm 500W Heater Problems

While the Heat Storm 500W infrared heater is generally very reliable, occasional issues can come up. Here are some common problems and solutions:

Heater is blowing cold air:

• Check that the thermostat isn’t set too low. Increase to your desired temp.
• Clean the filter and air intakes which may be obstructed.
• Make sure the electric outlet is working properly. Test with another device.

Heater keeps shutting off unexpectedly:

• Ensure the tip-over switch hasn’t tripped. Reset heater on a level surface.
• Check for blockages around the heat tube and intake. Clean out any dust or dirt.
• The overheat limiter may have tripped. Let the unit fully cool off and restart.

Remote control isn’t working:

• Point remote directly at the front of the heater. Get closer for better reception.
• Make sure remote has fresh batteries correctly inserted.
• Push buttons firmly. Buttons may become less responsive over time.
• If all else fails, you can manually control the heater from the front panel.

Follow troubleshooting tips in the user manual as well. If problems persist after trying the above, contact Heat Storm customer service for further assistance.

Wall Mounting the Heat Storm 500W Infrared Heater

While the Heat Storm 500W heater sits nicely on tables or floor spaces, you can also mount it securely on any wall for more positioning flexibility:

• Locate wall studs using a stud finder to find structurally sound mounting points. Mark locations with pencil.
• Hold the heater’s plastic mounting bracket up to the wall at desired height. Level and mark the screw holes.
• Using a drill, make pilot holes at the marked spots. Make sure holes go into the wall studs.
• Hold bracket to wall and insert mounting screws (not included). Secure bracket firmly in place .
• Align the heater with the bracket tabs and hang the heater on the bracket. The heater will now stay firmly on the wall.

Just take care to keep the heater at least 3 feet from curtains, furniture or shelves above. The wall mounting kit allows convenient floorspace savings.

Using the Heat Storm Heater in Small Spaces

A major advantage of the Heat Storm 500W infrared heater is that it can heat small spaces very effectively:

• Bathrooms – The waterproof exterior enables safe use in humid bathrooms. Mount on a wall or place in a corner to warm your towels.
• Home offices – Place under your desk to warm your feet and legs without wasting energy heating an entire room.
• Garages or basements – Mount on the ceiling or wall to provide targeted heat wherever you need it in large unfinished spaces.
• RVs or campers – It only weighs 5 pounds, making it ideal for providing portable supplemental heat in confined recreational vehicles.
• Zone heating – Focus the infrared heat directly where you need it instead of overheating unused spaces.

Thanks to the adjustable thermostat and directional heating, the Heat Storm 500W is engineered to provide just the right amount of heat for tight spots under 250 square feet.

Replacing Parts on the Heat Storm 500W Infrared Heater

While designed to last for years of use, some parts on the Heat Storm heater may eventually need replacing:

• Air filter – Needs replacing every 4-6 months depending on use to maintain airflow.
• Remote control – If lost or damaged, an official OEM remote can be ordered from the manufacturer.
• Power cord – Cord can wear out over time. Have it inspected and replace if damaged.
• Fuse – A blown fuse due to power surges can easily be swapped out.
• Heating element – Unlikely, but can burn out over time. Must be replaced by a technician.
• Fan motor – Motors have a finite lifespan. Replace if seized or making loud noises.

Always turn off and unplug the heater before any repairs. Use only genuine Heat Storm parts to ensure safety and performance. Components typically clip in or screw in for tool-free maintenance.

Heating Capacity and Room Coverage of the 500W Model

Equipped with a 500W heating element, the Heat Storm infrared heater can effectively warm rooms up to 250 square feet.

Some additional notes on heating capacity:

• It can raise ambient room temperatures by about 18°F above the existing temperature.
• Best for heating single rooms like bedrooms, offices, bathrooms or living rooms.
• Performs optimally in well-insulated spaces. Heat output may be reduced in drafty rooms.
• Can provide supplemental zone heating for up to 500 square feet if positioned close to people.
• Heats much faster than oil or ceramic heaters, providing rapid comfort.
• Mounting the heater on a wall amplifies heating coverage across a wider area.

While not intended as a whole home heater, the Heat Storm 500W excels at providing personalized, energy efficient warmth right where you need it.

Connecting the Heat Storm Heater to Wi-Fi and Smart Home Devices

The Heat Storm 500W heater does not currently have native Wi-Fi connectivity or smart home integration. However, there are a few workarounds:

• Use a Wi-Fi smart plug like those made by Kasa or Wemo. Plug the heater into the smart plug which will allow app and voice control.
• Connect a remote controlled outlet like Etekcity’s Voltson device. This lets you wirelessly turn the heater on and off remotely.
• Use an Alexa/Google Home compatible IR blaster to control the included infrared remote with voice commands.
• For full functionality like temperature adjustments, add an external Alexa or Google-enabled thermostat.

While not as seamless as native Wi-Fi, these options provide remote heater control. As the heater lacks a digital display, smart plugs give the best bang for buck.

Using the Heat Storm 500W Heater in Bedrooms

The Heat Storm 500 watt heater works exceptionally well as a safe and efficient bedroom heater:

• Provides plenty of heat for rooms up to 250 square feet – perfect for most bedrooms.
• Infrared heat warms objects instead of just the air, feeling more cozy.
• Whisper-quiet operation won’t disturb your sleep like some noisy space heaters.
• Compact, lightweight design can be placed near the bed for direct warmth.
• Adjustable thermostat maintains the ideal sleep temperature all night long.
• Built with fire-resistant materials for peace of mind while sleeping.
• Optional wall mounting frees up floor space in smaller bedrooms.
• Automatic shutoff timer adds another layer of safety if you forget to turn it off at night.

Just be sure to allow adequate clearance from bedding, keep it away from windows, and place on a flat surface. The Heat Storm 500W delivers cozy, comfortable heat for bedrooms of all sizes.

Customer Reviews of the Heat Storm Infrared Space Heater

The Heat Storm 500W infrared heater enjoys very positive reviews across major retail sites:

• Amazon – With over 5,300 global reviews, this heater has a total rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars. 86% of buyers gave it a full 5 star rating.
• Home Depot – Currently rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by over 1,100 buyers. Customers praise its heating power, quality, and ease of use.
• Walmart – Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars. 87% would recommend to a friend.
• Lowe’s – 4.5 out of 5 stars across hundreds of buyer reviews.

The most commonly cited pros in customer feedback are fast heat up time, energy efficiency, stylish design, and very quiet operation. Safety features also provide peace of mind.

Critical reviews mention occasional durability complaints or faulty units. However, the 1 year warranty adequately covers defects. Overall, reviews confirm the Heat Storm 500W as a quality infrared heater.

Heating Speed of the Heat Storm 500W Infrared Model

One spec that buyers love about the Heat Storm heater is how rapidly it can raise room temperatures:

• Engineered for instant heat the moment it’s turned on – no warmup period required.
• In an average room, buyers report temperature increases of 4-6°F in just 5 minutes of operation.
• Can heat a 10′ x 15′ room over 20°F in under 30 minutes on the highest setting.
• Thin, lightweight infrared heating panel enables faster heat transfer over bulky ceramic or oil-filled heaters.
• Designed for “heat on demand” – heats and cools quickly to maintain set temperature instead of running constantly.
• Powerful 500 watt heating element pumps out ample warmth for quick heat up times.

Thanks to infrared technology and thoughtful design, the Heat Storm provides near instantaneous heating when and where you need it. It’s a great option for quickly taking the chill out of a room.

Outdoor Heating Capabilities of the Heat Storm 500W Heater

While designed for indoor use, the Heat Storm heater does have some limited outdoor heating abilities:

• Water resistant exterior allows it to be used in covered outdoor areas protected from rain and snow.
• Ideal for heating enclosed patios, garages, pergolas or balconies with an overhead roof.
• Should not be used in any wet, uncovered areas outdoors. Moisture can damage the heater.
• Provides** supplemental zone heating** if positioned close to people in chillier climates. Not hot enough for large open patios.
• Cord must be protected from moisture and properly grounded with GFCI outlets only.
• Works well to take the edge off in screened porches or gazebos for extended season usability.

While not waterproof, the Heat Storm heater can provide a bit of extra outdoor warmth in certain covered spaces when used cautiously. But indoor use is still recommended for optimal safety and performance.

Adjusting Settings on the Heat Storm 500W Infrared Space Heater

One of the handiest features of the Heat Storm 500W heater is the ability to precisely control settings:

• Power switch – Turns the heater completely on or off. Located on the rear.
• Thermostat knob – Sets target temperature from 50-90°F. Clockwise increases temp.
• Mode button – Toggles between high heat, low heat, and auto eco modes.
• Oscillation – Turns on the 70° side-to-side rotation to distribute warmth.
• Timer – Sets auto shutoff after 1-12 hours. Prevents wasting electricity.
• Remote – Wireless remote replicates all functions. Requires 1 CR2025 battery.
• Power light – Indicates when main power is on. The heating light shows when actively heating.

Adjust to suit your needs – lower heat to just take the chill off or max power to warm up quickly. The Heat Storm makes it simple!

Safety Around Children and Pets

The Heat Storm 500W infrared space heater has several child and pet friendly safety features:

• Exterior stays cool to the touch even when running – prevents burns.
• No exposed heating elements or moving parts that could harm curious fingers.
• Tip over auto shutoff switch turns the heater off if accidentally knocked over.
• Short power cord reduces tripping hazards. Can be wrapped neatly when not in use.
• Automatic timer function prevents the heater from running all day unattended.
• Housing screws in place securely so kids can’t easily access internal components.
• Operates very quietly – won’t startle sleeping babies or pets.

Just keep an eye on young children and pets around any heater, keep the unit dust-free, and don’t let them play with the controls. Follow all warnings in the user manual. With basic precautions, the Heat Storm heater offers safe supplemental warmth for families.

Final Take – An Excellent Value for a 500W Infrared Space Heater

For its versatile heating performance, energy efficiency, and array of safety features, the Heat Storm 500W infrared heater earns its reputation as one of the best on the market.

It provides cost-effective supplemental warmth wherever you need it – bedrooms, bathrooms, offices and more. The adjustable thermostat and remote operation add convenience while the sleek design blends into any decor seamlessly.

While not a whole house heater, the Heat Storm 500W excels at targeted, instantaneous heat perfect for small to mid-sized rooms. Given its reasonable price point and good reliability, it’s easy to see why this model satisfies so many owners. If you’re looking for an affordable infrared space heater built to deliver years of cozy heat, put the Heat Storm 500W at the top of your list.