AKIRES Wall Mounted Electric Heater Review: An In-Depth Look at Its Performance and Value

There’s a specific, almost magical quality to a cool, crisp evening spent outdoors. The air is still, the stars are beginning to appear, but a persistent chill starts to creep in, cutting the gathering short. For years, my wife and I faced this familiar dilemma on our semi-enclosed balcony. We’d enjoy a beautiful dinner, only to be driven inside just as the conversation got good, wrapping ourselves in blankets and lamenting the end of another perfect evening. We tried bulky, freestanding propane heaters, but they consumed precious floor space and felt like overkill for our modest area. The quest was on for a solution that was efficient, unobtrusive, and powerful enough to take the edge off—a way to reclaim those valuable hours and truly make our outdoor space a year-round extension of our home. This search is what ultimately led us to test and evaluate the AKIRES Wall Mounted Electric Heater, a product promising targeted, silent warmth without the footprint of traditional heaters.

What to Consider Before Buying a Wall-Mounted Patio Heater

A patio heater is more than just an appliance; it’s a key solution for unlocking the full potential of your outdoor and semi-outdoor spaces. Whether it’s a patio, garage, workshop, or balcony, these devices transform chilly, underutilized areas into comfortable, functional environments. They operate on the principle of radiant heat, warming objects and people directly, much like the sun, rather than attempting the inefficient task of heating the open air. This direct warmth is the primary benefit, allowing for comfortable outdoor living and working even when the ambient temperature drops.

The ideal customer for this type of product is someone with a defined space they wish to heat—a specific seating area in a gazebo, a workbench in a garage, or a small apartment balcony. They value efficiency, quiet operation, and a space-saving design. Conversely, these heaters might not be suitable for those who need to heat a large, entirely open backyard or require a portable heat source that can be moved frequently. For those scenarios, a high-BTU freestanding propane heater might be a more fitting, albeit less efficient, alternative. The choice hinges on targeted heat versus broad, ambient warmth.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

• Dimensions & Space: Wall-mounted heaters are brilliant space-savers, but you must have adequate wall space for safe installation. Consider the unit’s width (the AKIRES model is 34.5 inches wide) and the required clearances. Manufacturers typically recommend mounting them at least 6-7 feet off the ground and away from flammable materials, so measure your intended location carefully to ensure a safe and effective fit.
• Capacity/Performance: For electric heaters, performance is measured in watts. A 1500W heater, like the AKIRES, is a common and effective power level for residential use on a standard 120V circuit. It’s crucial to understand that infrared heaters are for zone heating. A 1500W unit is generally effective for an area of about 100-150 square feet in a semi-enclosed space, but its effectiveness diminishes in very open or windy conditions.
• Materials & Durability: Outdoor appliances face the elements. Look for high-quality, rust-resistant materials like aluminum or specially treated steel. An IP (Ingress Protection) rating is critical. The IP45 rating on the AKIRES heater signifies it is protected from dust and jets of water from any direction, making it suitable for covered outdoor areas where it might be exposed to rain or moisture.
• Ease of Use & Maintenance: Features like a remote control are invaluable, especially for a unit mounted high on a wall. Check for user-friendly controls, timers, and adjustable heat settings. Maintenance is generally low for electric infrared heaters; they have no moving parts and simply require occasional dusting or wiping down of the reflector and heating element when cool and unplugged.

Choosing the right heater involves balancing your space requirements with the performance you need. The AKIRES Wall Mounted Electric Heater is a compelling option that ticks many of these boxes, but it’s essential to understand its capabilities within the broader market.

While the AKIRES Wall Mounted Electric Heater is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:

First Impressions: Sleek Design and Straightforward Assembly

Upon unboxing the AKIRES Wall Mounted Electric Heater, the first thing we noticed was its sturdy yet surprisingly lightweight construction. At just over 5 pounds, it felt manageable for a one-person installation. The packaging was robust, protecting the unit well, and included all the necessary mounting hardware for various surfaces like wood or stucco, a remote control, and an instruction manual. The heater itself has a sleek, black, tower-like design that is modern and unobtrusive. It’s designed to blend into the background rather than becoming a bulky focal point.

The main assembly involves attaching the two-part mounting bracket to the back of the heater. As one user noted, the instructions for this step could be clearer. We found it more intuitive to simply lay the pieces out and logically fit them together, which took only a few minutes. Once the bracket is on the unit, mounting it to the wall is a matter of securing the main bracket plate with the appropriate screws. The heater then hooks onto this plate and is secured with a final screw, allowing for an adjustable tilt to direct the heat precisely where it’s needed. The entire process, from unboxing to having it powered on, took us less than 30 minutes. You can see its full feature set and user reviews to get a better sense of the setup.

Performance Deep Dive: Putting the AKIRES Heater to the Test

A heater’s true worth is measured in the cold. We mounted the AKIRES Wall Mounted Electric Heater in our covered gazebo, an area approximately 12 by 14 feet, positioning it to cover our main seating area. Over several weeks of testing on chilly evenings, we evaluated every aspect of its performance, from the raw heating power to its everyday usability and durability.

Heating Performance: The Focused Power of Infrared

The standout feature of this heater is its carbon fiber infrared technology. The moment you press the power button, there is an immediate, gentle orange glow from the heating element, and you can feel the warmth instantly. There is zero ramp-up time. This “1-second rapid heating” claim is not an exaggeration. We were sitting about 8 feet away and could feel a distinct, pleasant warmth on the highest 1500W setting. This is the magic of radiant heat; it doesn’t waste energy heating the air that will just blow away. Instead, it travels in a straight line and warms whatever it touches—your skin, your clothes, the furniture—creating a pocket of comfort.

The three heat levels (500W, 1000W, 1500W) provide excellent versatility. The 500W setting was perfect for taking the slight edge off a mild autumn evening. The 1000W level provided noticeable comfort, while the full 1500W power was necessary for genuinely cold nights. It’s important to set realistic expectations, as confirmed by some user feedback. One user felt it didn’t “kick out as much heat” as hoped. We found this to be a matter of application. This heater will not make a cold garage feel like a tropical paradise. However, if you aim it at your workshop bench or your patio chairs, it creates an incredibly effective and efficient zone of warmth. For a targeted area of about 10×10 feet directly in its path, the performance is exceptional.

Installation and Mounting: Simple Mechanics, Vague Instructions

Getting the AKIRES Wall Mounted Electric Heater on the wall is mechanically simple, but the process highlights the unit’s biggest flaw: a poorly written manual. As we and other users discovered, assembling the two-piece bracket that attaches to the heater itself is a bit of a puzzle. The diagrams are small and not particularly clear. However, by laying the parts out, it becomes apparent how they fit together. Once that minor hurdle is cleared, the rest is straightforward. The kit includes robust screws and anchors for both drywall/stucco and solid wood installations. We mounted ours onto a wooden beam in our gazebo.

Finding a suitable location is key. The recommendation to mount it at least 7 feet high is important for both safety (keeping it out of reach) and heat distribution, as it allows the warmth to radiate downwards over a wider area. The adjustable tilt is a fantastic feature, allowing us to pivot the heater down towards our seating area for maximum effect. One user cleverly created a temporary mount to move it around their gazebo, which speaks to its light weight and adaptability. For anyone uncomfortable with finding wall studs or basic electrical safety, we echo the user who recommended hiring professional help to ensure a secure and safe installation.

Usability and Controls: The Essential Remote

Day-to-day operation of the AKIRES Wall Mounted Electric Heater is where it truly shines, largely thanks to the included remote control. The heater has a touch screen panel on the side, but as users pointed out, the buttons are smooth, black-on-black, and very difficult to see, especially in low light or when the unit is mounted high up. They are functional, but not practical for regular use. The remote, however, is simple and intuitive. It controls power, the three heat levels, and the timer function, all from the comfort of your chair. It does require two AAA batteries, which are not included, so be sure to have some on hand.

The 24-hour timer is a genuinely useful feature for both convenience and safety. We often set it for two or three hours, knowing it would shut off automatically if we forgot about it after heading inside. The most underrated feature, however, is its completely silent operation. With no fan, there is absolutely no noise. This is a massive advantage over propane “jet” heaters or fan-forced electric models, preserving the peaceful ambiance of a quiet evening. This silent, background warmth is a feature that really sets it apart and makes it suitable for noise-sensitive environments like a bedroom or a quiet workshop.

Built for the Elements: Durability and Weatherproofing

Placing an electrical appliance outdoors requires a high degree of confidence in its construction, and the AKIRES Wall Mounted Electric Heater delivers in this regard. The body is made from high-quality, flame-retardant materials that feel solid and well-assembled. The black finish has held up well to the elements without any signs of rust or degradation during our testing period.

The crucial specification here is the IP45 rating. The ‘4’ means it’s protected against solid objects larger than 1mm (like most tools and wires), and the ‘5’ means it’s protected against low-pressure water jets from any direction. In practical terms, this means you don’t have to worry about dust, splashes, or even a decent rain shower damaging the unit, provided it’s installed in a semi-protected area like a covered porch, gazebo, or workshop. The built-in overheat protection is another critical safety feature, ensuring the unit will automatically shut down if its internal temperature exceeds a safe limit, providing essential peace of mind. This robust build quality suggests it’s a durable investment for extending the use of your favorite spaces. You can check the latest price and availability online.

What Other Users Are Saying

Across the board, user experiences largely mirror our own findings, painting a picture of a very capable heater with specific strengths and weaknesses. Many users praise the effectiveness of the direct, radiant heat. One individual noted it was “really great” for their semi-enclosed apartment balcony, allowing them to spend more time outside. Another found the “direct heat is great” for their workshop, highlighting its utility for task-oriented heating.

The most common points of friction relate to the installation manual and heat output expectations. The sentiment that the “manual definitely needs to be improved” regarding the bracket assembly is a recurring theme. Similarly, the single negative review stating it “doesn’t kick out as much heat as I had hoped” underscores our conclusion that this is a zone heater, not a space heater. For those who understand its purpose and aim it at a specific area, satisfaction is high. Those hoping to heat a large, open patio will likely be disappointed. The convenience of the remote control is also frequently mentioned as a major positive, especially given how difficult the onboard controls are to see. To form your own opinion, it’s always helpful to read through a wider range of user feedback.

How Does the AKIRES Heater Compare to the Alternatives?

The AKIRES Wall Mounted Electric Heater occupies a specific niche. To understand if it’s right for you, it’s helpful to compare it against other popular types of patio heaters.

1. Pamapic 48,000 BTU Pyramid Flame Propane Patio Heater

This Pamapic heater represents the classic, high-power propane solution. Its 48,000 BTU output is vastly more powerful than the AKIRES’s 1500W (approx. 5,100 BTUs), making it suitable for heating larger, more open outdoor areas. The mesmerizing pyramid flame adds significant ambiance. However, it’s a large, freestanding unit that requires significant floor space, needs regular propane tank refills, and is not silent. This is the better choice for someone hosting parties in an open backyard who prioritizes raw heating power and visual appeal over efficiency and a small footprint.

2. DR. INFRARED HEATER DR-238 Outdoor Heater

The DR-238 is a more direct competitor to the AKIRES heater. It is also a 1500W carbon infrared electric heater designed for wall or ceiling mounting. It’s known for its robust, industrial build quality and is often used in commercial settings like restaurant patios. While it delivers similar heating performance, the AKIRES model often has an edge in aesthetics and user-friendly features like the more advanced 24-hour timer and included remote. The DR-238 is an excellent alternative for someone who needs a rugged, no-frills workhorse heater and prioritizes industrial durability above all else.

3. EAST OAK 50,000 BTU Patio Heater with Round Table

Similar to the Pamapic, the EAST OAK is a high-output propane heater, but with a unique design feature: an integrated round table. This makes it a functional centerpiece for social gatherings, providing both warmth and a place to set drinks. With 50,000 BTUs, its heating capacity is immense, but it shares the same downsides of propane heaters: a large footprint, the need for fuel, and audible operation. This is the ideal choice for someone who wants their heater to be a social hub and has a large patio to accommodate it, a completely different use case than the targeted, silent warmth of the AKIRES.

The Final Verdict: Is the AKIRES Wall Mounted Electric Heater Right for You?

After extensive testing, we can confidently recommend the AKIRES Wall Mounted Electric Heater to a specific type of user. If you are looking to create a comfortable, warm zone in a small to medium-sized, semi-enclosed area—like a balcony, a covered patio, a gazebo, or a workshop—this heater is an outstanding choice. Its instant, silent, and direct radiant heat is incredibly effective and efficient for this purpose. The space-saving wall-mount design, weatherproof construction, and remote-controlled convenience make it a joy to use.

However, it is not the right tool for heating a large, open backyard. Its strength lies in precision, not sheer brute force. While the installation manual could be improved, the physical setup is simple enough for anyone with basic DIY skills. For its intended application, it delivers exceptional value, turning chilly, unused spaces into cozy extensions of your home. If you’re ready to reclaim your evenings and extend your outdoor season, the AKIRES Wall Mounted Electric Heater is a powerful, silent, and smart investment that you won’t regret.