FAQs

We're here to help.

If you have a question about our heaters or are unsure how to heat your outdoor space just pick up the phone or send us a message. Some questions we get more than others, for these we have compiled our list of frequenetly asked questions below.

Shop now

Frequent Questions

What are the benefits of infrared heating?
  • No emissions and no oxygen consumption
  • Low running costs
  • Durable and water resistant
  • Reliable, efficient and effective
  • Convenient and versatile
  • Instant and directional - just like sunlight
  • Safe and odourless
  • No pollution from blasts of air or dust
  • Virtually maintenance free
  • Environmentally friendly
  • Warm ambient glow
What does infrared heat feel like?

It's like the difference between being directly in the sunlight versus sitting in the shade. You feel warm in the sun because the light that hits your clothes and skin keeps you warm, but when you're in the shade, the light doesn't reach you as well.

What size heater do I need?

Our handy grid on our heater page here describes each heater and the coverage it will give if hung or mounted at a specific height. This is a guideline only as the area covered will also depend on whether it is enclosed or open, the mounting height, and where you live. People will usually need to be within 2-4m of the heater to feel the warmth from it, so it is important to consider the location of the heaters to ensure good coverage.

If you are not sure give our Team a call or send an email with your area measurements.

Can I install a Kelray heater myself?

All Kelray Heaters must be installed by a qualified electrician to ensure safe operation and warranty compliance.

Are Kelray heaters portable?

Kelray heaters are designed for fixed installation and are not portable. Each one comes with mounting brackets for easy installation on a wall or ceiling.

For a more seamless look, we also offer flush-mounting options that allow the heater to sit cleanly within your ceiling space.

How do I clean a Kelray heater?

First things first—make sure the heater is turned off and has had time to cool down completely.

Take off the front grille, then gently wipe the reflector using a soft cloth with water or glass cleaner. Just be extra careful around the quartz glass element—it’s delicate!

Let everything dry thoroughly before turning the power back on, and don’t forget to pop the grille back in place when you’re done.

We suggest giving your heater a clean every 3 months, or more often if you’re right by the beach.

Can I install my heater vertically or along the slope of my roof?

We don’t recommend it. Kelray heaters are built to be installed flat and level—any tilt or vertical positioning can shorten the life of the quartz element and will void your warranty. For safe and efficient heating, stick with a horizontal mount as per our installation guide.

How do I estimate the cost of operating an infrared heater?

Electric heaters are economical to operate. It is easy to estimate your operating cost by multiplying the total kilowatts by your local power rate for a “kilowatt hour” (kwh). Standard power rates vary from market to market. Your rate should appear on any monthly utility statement. For example, a typical 3,000 watt (3 KW) heater, at full power, would cost 39 cents per hour based on a utility rate of 13c per kwh.

For comparison, and this will vary from market to market, most mushroom top style propane heaters run at 40,000BTU's, and a standard propane bottle will last around 10-11 hour, and cost approximately $2.80 per hour to run (assuming a $30 bottle swap or replacement).


Also keep in mind that your electric heater has a lower acquisition cost and lower ongoing maintenance costs than a standard gas heater.

How long can I expect my element to last?

Our quartz elements generally last for between 7,000 and 10,000 hours depending on the type of use. So you may enjoy your heater for years before a replacement would be needed.

Where are Kelray Heaters Made?

Our heaters are proudly made in New Zealand.

What kind of warranty do Kelray Heaters have?

Kelray Heaters carry a 5 year warranty

Are Kelray infrared heaters short-, medium- or long-wave?

Kelray Heaters are medium wave – the safest and the most reliable wavelength for heating

When will I receive my order?

We build each heater to order, and ship within 2 weeks for receiving your confirmed order.