Are EdenPure space heaters just a lot of hot air?
Surely you've seen a full-page ad in a major newspaper for EdenPure space heaters, heard veteran radio commentator Paul Harvey tout them on his national radio program, or read the comments—both glowing and negative—from owners of these appliances on Web forums.
The newspaper and radio ads, including one in the October 29, 2008, edition of The Wall Street Journal, promote the EdenPure Model GEN3 500 and the Model GEN3 1000 (shown) as a "new advanced portable heater that can cut your heating bill by up to 50%," promising that you'll "never be cold again." One hype-filled newspaper ad also features a Q&A with Julius Toth, director of product development for BioTech Research, in which Toth espouses the many benefits of these heaters. (BioTech Research, whose slogan is "Better health through technology," offers a slew of other promised-filled products, including the AbGone Pill, Instant Facelift, and the Smellkiller Air Cleanser.)
We have not tested the GEN3 500 or 1000 models, which, according to a customer-service representative at BioTech Research, has seen "major improvements" from the brand's Quartz Infrared 1000, $400, which we tested for our 2007 report on space heaters. Let's just say that our experts were not transported to paradise by the EdenPure we did review.
The unit was the second-lowest-scoring space heater we tested, earning only a 24 out on our 100-point scale. According to the folks in our Tech department who tested space heaters, the EdenPure provided lackluster temperature control and was not particularly easy to use, What's more, it was pricey and lacked an overheat-protection feature (key for safety). The GEN3 models do have this important safety feature, according to BioTech Research.
If you're in the market for a new space heater, be dubious about any heater whose manufacturer claims the appliance will slash your heating bills. Here's why:
For every degree that you lower your home thermostat in the winter, you'll save about 3 percent on heating costs. So the only way to really save with a space heater would be to use the unit in the room you're in and turn down the thermostat elsewhere in the house so that your main heating system would not operate. To save 50 percent on your heating bill, you'd have to lower the home thermostat about 17°F. Also, based on national average fuel prices, using an electric space costs more than twice as much to operate as a natural-gas-fueled central-heating system.
Before you shop for a space heater, read our report, which includes buying advice and ratings of electric convection, electric fan-forced, and electric radiant models. We also tested propane and kerosene models but found a safety risk with that type.
Essential information: Read our recent tip of the day to learn how to save money on heating this winter and, perhaps, boost the value of your home.
Posted by: kay | Nov 6, 2008 9:47:14 PM
I would like to know which infrared heating system is best?
There is the Comfort Zone, Eden Pure, and iHeater so far.
Do you think any of these could heat a 20 ft by 30 ft 2 bedroom ranch style home with little or no help from a furnance?
I will await your response. Thank you so much!
Posted by: Foster White | Nov 8, 2008 12:08:27 PM
Last year I purchased an EdenPure xl-500 heater. It worked well for about 3 weeks and then died. It was replaced with an xl 1000 at no charge to me as the xl 500 was not available for replacement. I normally us above 1000 gallons of fuel oil per winter. I found I used about 25% less than normal for the months of March April and May. We have been wearing more clothing and have set furnace thermostat at 60. We moved heater from room to room based on where we were and found we were comfortable. I recently purchased a gen3 1000 and find it somewhat improved from the last years model. It appears to produce more heat. I expect this winter I will drop furnace thermostat to 55 or lower depending on outside temperature and our comfort level. Hopefully I will use 500 gallons of fuel oil this year vs 1000 gallons. The savings in fuel oil will be 1500 to 2000 dollars. The cost of the 2 units was about 800 dollars and my electric bill was not much different from normal last year, but at 20 cents per hour(2 units) perhaps may be about 30 to 40 dollars per month increase or a total of about 250 dollars for 6 months. Needless to say I should save at least 500 dollars the first year and if the units last 3 to 5 years each, the savings could be as much as 6000 to 9000 dollars over 5 years, or more depending on the cost of fuel oil.
Posted by: K McLoughlin | Nov 9, 2008 6:31:31 PM
Please do test the newer models (gen3). Otherwise the information given here is not useful to me.
Posted by: jake prince | Nov 18, 2008 9:59:18 PM
About a month ago, I posted that I had purchased two edenpure 1000 heaters.
They are performing very well in my tri-level home. IN the thirty-odd years we have been in our home my wife has commented that for the first time she has not been cold.
At that time, I was unable to state what it cost me to operate the eden pure heaters. I have received my electric bill and in Virginia (Dominion Power) I would say that it is approximately $.75 (seventy five cent per day - per unit), in my case $ 1.50 per day.
If you compare this to no. 2 heating oil @ $ 2.959 per gallon (delivered on Oct 30th) and you use 21/2 gallons of oil per day or approximate cost to heat with oil is around $ 7.40 per day (that's not including the electric to fire the oil burner and the electric to run the fan.
As I said in my first post this is not an endorcement for the Eden Pure heater. But I am only sharing information that I have experienced.
Posted by: Jake Prince - Virginia | Nov 18, 2008 10:09:04 PM
About a month ago, I posted that I had purchased two edenpure Gen3 1000 heaters.
They are performing very well in my tri-level home. IN the thirty-odd years we have been in our home my wife has commented that for the first time she has not been cold.
At that time, I was unable to state what it cost me to operate the eden pure heaters. I have received my electric bill and in Virginia (Dominion Power) I would say that it is approximately $.75 (seventy five cent per day - per unit), in my case $ 1.50 per day.
If you compare this to no. 2 heating oil @ $ 2.959 per gallon (delivered on Oct 30th) and you use 21/2 gallons of oil per day or approximate cost to heat with oil is around $ 7.40 per day (that's not including the electric to fire the oil burner and the electric to run the fan.
As I said in my first post this is not an endorcement for the Eden Pure heater. But I am only sharing information that I have experienced.
Posted by: S Kivo | Nov 19, 2008 7:34:34 PM
My husband has been laid off his job. We cannot afford to run the central heating unit at a high temperature! Our electric rates& gas rates are over the top !! Can someone tell me a good heater we can use and turn the temperatute way down on the central unit.We have been using a Delonghi Safe Heat Solaris 1500 W, 120 - V HZ Type TRN1015T Oil filled heater in the family room. and one in the bedroom. However the one in the livinh room made a loud popping sound today. I think it is going to go out. we have been using it for about 3 years now.I would be very appreciative if someone could recommend a good model to replace it!
Posted by: kgrousman | Nov 19, 2008 10:48:24 PM
The funny thing about the 1000 XL being rated one of the lowest space heaters is..... it isn't a space heater! This is a supplemental source of heat. It's intended use is to regulate the temperature in a warm room so your furnace does not have to run (not warm a cold room like a space heater). This is where the savings come in. I am living proof that edenPURE will save you money. I have fuel oil, oil that normally runs me about $500 per month to warm to 66. Now with the edenPURE (and a Suntwin) I am able to be comfortable at 74, and only see an increase of $50 in my electric (2 units) . I have not used my furnace in 2 winters now! We have saved so much $ it is rediculous!
Posted by: Joe Singleton | Nov 25, 2008 8:19:31 PM
I bought a Sun Twin\Eden Pure Gen 3,from Eden Pure Midwest in November,2008.On the 2nd day I had it,I found out what the 60 day money back guarantee really was.First you must pay back the free shipping cost($30).Then after 3-7 days,15% restocking fees.8-30 days,25%.31-60 days,45%.Plus,$31 to ship it back.I sent it back, because I think that's bad business.I don't know if the heater was good or not.Read everything about the product.
Posted by: Cynthia | Nov 26, 2008 1:48:20 PM
I'd like real consumer info on the ComfortZone system. Has anyone purchased this one? Any info will be appreciated.
Posted by: RICHARD BURROWS | Dec 2, 2008 11:22:38 AM
12/02/2008 From Pennsylvania.
I'm using my EdenPURE Quartz Infrared heater for the second year to heat my two bedroom apartment.(1100 ft.sq.) I am more then well pleased with it. How about compairing it with the other INFRARED Heaters on the market not with the other type of heaters(space heaters)? I have a totally electric apartment with(baseboard heat as a backup which I set at 55F). I'm saving money and staying warm without drafts.
RB
Posted by: RICHARD BURROWS | Dec 2, 2008 11:26:23 AM
12/02/2008 From Pennsylvania.
I'm using my EdenPURE Quartz Infrared heater for the second year to heat my two bedroom apartment.(1100 ft.sq.) I am more then well pleased with it. How about compairing it with the other INFRARED Heaters on the market not with the other type of heaters(space heaters)? I have a totally electric apartment with(baseboard heat as a backup which I set at 55F). I'm saving money and staying warm without drafts.
RB
Posted by: Megan | Dec 3, 2008 7:08:03 PM
Our Edenpure melted in the front. Frankly, I'm scared to get the replacement since I've read on the net of at least 5 other instances where the unit melted. Can't wait till there's a class action suit so we have some kind of hope for getting some money back.
Posted by: Joey Murray | Dec 3, 2008 10:19:13 PM
I am looking to purchase an EdenPure heater for my daughter and son-in-law for Christmas this year. Their house is drafty and the propane is extremely high to heat the home. I've heard good things about this unit. However, my dad, who is a firm believer in Consumer Reports, has pointed out to me that this unit is the worst unit I could purchase.
I'd love some feedback. Christmas is closing in and I need to make a decision now.
Posted by: C. Rummler | Dec 4, 2008 3:35:29 PM
I would not recommend this product. My model 500 worked for just over a year. They will do NOTHING for you, except give you a repair center that is hundreds of miles away. How helpful is that? They are very expensive to purchase. I expected it to last for years. No savings to me. Also, heat bills were not a savings while it worked. DO NOT PURCHASE!!!
Posted by: James A Newburn | Dec 6, 2008 12:06:42 PM
Purchased an EdenPure 1000 and use as supplemental heat in a 2100 sq ft single level condo. This is a perfect device for this aervice as the front room stays toasty warm and the kitchen and hallway are comfortable and a welcome few degrees cooler. Comsumer Reports should be testing this device as fit for purpose and not as described above. The report above is useless.
Posted by: david | Dec 12, 2008 11:50:16 PM
Just remember that Biotech Research is behind the EdenPure.
http://www.biotechresearch.com/
They sell a weight-loss pill, know as AbGone. They claim it starts working in 20 minutes. They're obviously on the revolutionary side of technology.
Posted by: Richard Gilkeson | Dec 17, 2008 3:14:40 PM
These units simply don't hold up very long - at $400 a pop, they don't save money when this cost is pro-rated. Bought 2 units. Had to replace one nearly right away because it ceased to function - replacement sent under warranty. Second unit ran for two winters (used sporadically as a booster to home heat) and then stopped running. Would never purchase another of these units as they simply don't perform very long before giving out and needing repair (not clear where to go locally - sending them out of state is a pain and an expense - to get them repaired).
Posted by: Joe | Dec 17, 2008 3:14:41 PM
I was dissapointed CR had done no testing this year on space heaters or humidifiers. Pleanty of reviews on cars few can afford to buy. Long time subscriber.
Posted by: Kenneth King | Dec 17, 2008 3:18:59 PM
I purchased an eden pure 1000 gen 3 and use it in my bedroom. It works great, cycles on and off by itself, and maintains a confortable temp. I also like the HIGH feature so I can crank it up without affecting my normal temp setting. I saw in person a comfortzone today and wow, I wish I had bought that one. Easy to service, LED digital temp display, smaller and lighter, and easier to look at. Ive heard GREAT things about the COMFORTZONEe and I intend to buy that one when I am ready for another heater.
Posted by: linda Palmer | Dec 17, 2008 3:19:01 PM
Just spent time at the cabin. Had another brand heater that could not keep up with the below zero temperatures. ( -18---or more below light wind.) One room cabin 16x16. Can the edenpure heat the cabin??? Cold in Montana.
Posted by: gail davison | Dec 17, 2008 3:19:02 PM
We bought our EdenPure heater in 2007. It lasted for one year and then died. Needless to say, I was disappointed in their instructions to send it back at our expense. At almost $400 spent and to have it last for about 5 months, seems excessive to me. We should have gone to our local WalMart and purchased a space heater that would have lasted longer, plus, we could have paid half on a new corn burning stove with the amount of money that we spent.
Very disappointing.
Posted by: NiceDude | Dec 17, 2008 3:19:04 PM
THERE IS A DISTRIBUTOR OF IHEATER NAMED TOP TEN IMPORTS, THERE WEBSITE IS WWW.TOPTENIMPORTS.COM. THEY HAVE THE WORST SERVICE I HAVE EVER EXPERIENCED.
IN ADDITION TO THIS, IHEATER ENERGY SAVINGS AND THAT IT IS GOING TO HEAT UP TO 1500 SQFT IS SUCH A LIE. SO, DONT GET RIPPED OFF AND GO LOOK FOR A BETTER PRODUCT.
Posted by: Larry Perkins | Dec 18, 2008 10:52:39 AM
TEST: Edenpure i tested used 3.08 kilowatts in 2.5 hours. On average a kilowatt is .08 cent. The settins were set in the middle of the light bar keeping a 14x20 foot room warm (70 deg). It was 7 degrees out side when tested. At that temp, it will cost $2.36 a day to heat that room.$70.80 a month to run one with just that heater. Also tested a ceramic heater and it was found to run very close to the same in costs and also kept room warm. Paid $429 for edenpure, paid $73 for ceramic. When you compare prices with gas, you find that any electric heater you use will cost about 35% more in costs. Right now i can honestly say that they are not worth it, and there is no savings. Im looking at solor and wind now for costs and storage of energy. Hope this helps. PS buy a kilowatt meter and see for your self.
Posted by: james lebo | Dec 19, 2008 5:15:26 PM
I was considering getting one of these eden pure models to help out at the house(wood burner in liv.room & nat.gas in basement). due to the inconsistency in reliability, I will not get one of these. for $400 one has to be more than just hopeful.
Posted by: Drew Wilkinson | Dec 23, 2008 11:37:18 AM
Ive done a lot of research on EdenPure and after collecting all the information I could via consumer reports, blogs, word of mouth etc. it appears that they are more of a marketing spending machine rather than a responsible manufacturer. I have researched many similar products and reccommend both a product called the Portable Furnace www.portablefurnace.com and a similar product called The Comfort Furnace www.comfortfurnace.com. I bought a Portable Furnace for my house and I am very happy with its heat, reliability and safety. It is up to you to make your own decisions but I suggest you look into both those products.