Does using an infrared heater save more electricity than an oil radiator or fan heater?

Heating principle and energy efficiency characteristics of infrared heater
The core feature of infrared heater is that it uses infrared radiation to directly heat objects and human bodies, rather than heating the air to achieve space heating. This heating method is similar to natural light, where energy is transmitted in the form of waves, and heat is quickly released after contacting the surface. Since there is no need to raise the temperature of the entire air environment first, warmth can be felt in a short time.
This direct heating mode often means that the efficiency of heat energy transmission is high, reducing heat loss caused by air flow. In some unenclosed spaces, such as garages, balconies or outdoor seating areas, infrared heaters waste relatively little energy and are particularly suitable for local heating.

Operation characteristics and power conversion methods of oil heaters
Oil heaters are a device that heats the internal heat transfer oil, then conducts the heat to the outer shell, and finally heats the air through radiation and convection. Its advantages are relatively mild heat release, slow temperature rise, but relatively long heat preservation time. Because the heating process involves the temperature rise of the liquid, the initial energy conversion requires a long time and more power support. When used in a small space, oil heaters can provide a more uniform room temperature, but their overall efficiency is limited by the process of heating the air. In a large space or an environment with frequent ventilation, heat is easy to diffuse, and the utilization rate of electricity is not high.

Heating method and energy consumption characteristics of the heater
The heater heats up the temperature through the electric heating element, and then uses the fan to blow out hot air to speed up the heating speed. This method heats up quickly and is suitable for scenes where the temperature needs to be quickly increased in a short period of time. However, because the fan is running continuously, the motor and the heating element usually work at the same time, and the overall energy consumption is relatively high. Since the transmission of warm air is greatly affected by air flow, in a large space or open area, heat is easily lost with the wind, so it needs to be continuously operated to maintain the temperature, which further increases the power consumption burden.

The use scenario has a decisive influence on the energy-saving effect
Under the same use time and space conditions, the infrared heater usually has a higher heating efficiency and can achieve the purpose of heating in a shorter time, thereby reducing the total power consumption. Especially in situations where only local heating is required, such as under an office desk, near a rest chair, etc., the infrared heater can directly act on the human body without heating the entire room, thereby further reducing energy waste. Oil heaters are more suitable for enclosed spaces that require long-term balanced heating, while fan heaters are suitable for temporary quick heating needs. If the usage scenario is not selected properly, even energy-saving equipment may cause increased power consumption due to long-term operation.