Friday, January 18, 2008

Miracle Amish Heater!


I was in Boston the other night on some work-related travel, and after a busy day and a nice dinner I went back to my hotel room to decompress a little before retiring. I usually don't read the USA Today, but since it had been delivered free of charge to the room, I thought I would just flip through and see what I had missed all day (if anything). Anyway, I came upon this full page ad in the sports section (shown here in these two images). The more I read through it the funnier it got. If you were not looking at the fine print you might at first think it was a story, right, it looks like a story, but the finer print indicates it is an ad. The title just really caught my attention, "Amish man's new miracle idea..." From the headline and picture you might think that this righteous Amish gentleman had just invented some new heater technology, and now he's bringing it to the rest of the world. Note the well dressed gent with the "coveted" Underwriters Laboratory sign (it actually says coveted in the caption)! However, if you guessed that you would be wrong! For one thing, it's incongruous, the Amish are famous for shunning technology, so how could he come up with some new heater concept if he wouldn't even turn a light bulb on in his lab! Heck, for that matter what lab, about the only thing he could have in there without violating half a dozen tenets of his faith would be a bunsen burner.

Well, if you read the fine print, and look at the rest of the ad (pictured below), you will see that they are in fact hawking heaters, the "Heat Surge" fireless flame (whatever that means) in fact, and from the China coast to boot (wherever that is)! But, the wacky thing is that you don't buy the heaters, you get the heaters for "free" if you just purchase a genuine Amish mantle! According to the ad, the Heat Surge is a $249 value, but if you purchase the genuine Amish mantles, then you get the heaters for free, and it just so happens that the mantles cost $249 too! You have to act fast though, because they are imposing a strict limit of only two per household, wouldn't want someone to get too warm I guess. Apparently "entire communities of Amish craftsmen are straining to keep up with winter demands..."

If we go back to the headline, one wonders what the Amish man's miracle idea was to begin with, teaming up with the UL suit in the main photo perhaps? I like the photo on the right showing a pair of heaters being shipped out by horse and buggy! Also note the US map with the Frigid, Cold and Frost zones, with the Frost zone extending all the way down to balmy Miami.

I don't know if it's funny or sad the way that these advertisers try to "sell" using the Amish "brand." Also, the ad is so over-the-top in almost every respect that one wonders if it's all just a scam and the Amish are not really making the mantles. There is a web-site, but if you look you will see that "mantels" is mispelled, and the English usage is poor in spots, so that suggests to me that they may just be trying to scam on the good reputation of the Amish as excellent craftsmen.

124 comments:

Craig Markwardt said...

That is very bizarre. I also find it strange that all of the fires depicted (including the ones on the website) have exactly the same logs and exactly the same flames!

"Just plug it in?" I'm guessing this miracle Fireless Flame is just an electric space heater with a fireplace photograph laminated on the front.

From my experience, electric heaters are far from an energy saver. Hmm, I guess they could be efficient in the sense that they can put the heat where you need it, allowing you to reduce heating in the rest of the house. Of course, a $40 space heater could do that.

Tod Strohmayer said...

Isn't it just completely wacky? I love the photo with them shaking over the UL Listed sign; what's with that??

I hadn't looked carefully at the "flames," but you're right, it's just a picture. The amish guy is probably just an actor. Do the Amish trim their beards so closely??

It also says "roll and glow," but look at the photo in the lower left, does that looks like it's rolling??

Unknown said...

We just ordered this space heater; unfortunately, before reading your comments. However, we do disagree with at least one of your assumptions which is: that the Amish do not work with technology. Are you aware that the Amish build the highly acclaimed Newmar Class A motorhomes?

Clayton Callaway said...

This old news about the Amish electric heater is described by another oxymoron, "fireless flame."

Clayton Callaway

Unknown said...

I would like to know if Ilse received her heater and what she thinks about. Or, anyone for that matter. Is Tod correct and is this add just too good to be true??

Art said...

I have found it interesting that neither ad for the Edenpure or the Amish Heater have appeared in USA Today for several weeks. Last week, my local paper carried a full page ad for the Amish Heater.

Among other items the same in the ads check out the dog.

Living in amish country as i do I am surprised that they were party to this thing

Art Goshen, Indiana

Bob's dad said...

It's sad but my mom bought one of these. I looked up the web site and told her it looked like a scam. When it came to her house I told her to call the customer service to send it back. After three days of calling and not being able to get through, go figure, she gave up.

Is it worth $250? No, but it has some entertainment value. The fake fire is interesting and the mantle is solid wood.

Art said...

The lady should contact the BBB in Canton as well as her state AG. From what I read this thing is not what it is supposed to be and if there are enough complaints something may be done about the returns.

Keilah_Adinah said...

What's even sadder is that this same advertisement appeared in what I consider to be a reputable magazine - National Geographic. I too contimplated the validity of this product as I read the advertisement, and was actually going to give it a chance because, well hey... it was in the National Geographic, right?
Thank you all for sharing and saving me $250.00!!!

justmejulie said...

This is so sad, yesterday I went to a friends home who had purchased one of these heaters and I fell in love with it and she turned it on by remote control and yes heat came out of it she swears but it so I wanted one its pretty if nothing else............ then I came here and typed in amish heater in google and landed here, I checked out the website you have posted and let me tell you this from first hand experience AMISH DO NOT ALLOW their photos taken , for they feel that if you take their picture you have stolen their soul............ there are different secs of Amish but this truely has to be a sham and if you look closely at the heater there is Partical board used at least is the case with the one I looked at yesterday.

Unknown said...

LOL, I just saw the full page ad in my local Canadian newspaper today! Having a good nose for BS I came out to the web to see what was up.

The first site that came up was in Canton.

http://search.canton.bbb.org/nis2/newsearch2.asp?ID=1&strBCode=02820000&ComID=0282000020005318

Does anyone remember the pyramid power hats and pyramid power sculpturea? How about the gasoline magnets for your fuel system to "energize" the gasoline before buring so as to cause higher fuel efficiency?

Snake-oil...

Art said...

I havent seen anything about this heater since the orginal flury of ads. Havent seen anything for the Eden Air heater either.

What caught my eye was the same dog in both ads.

While all such heaters one sees for sale, I tend to believe that some may be a bit more efficient than others.

Art in Indiana

joe said...

i seen the ads for the amish heater last year and my wife and i were seriously considering purchasing one but we were hurting for money and i passed on it..this year the same situation emerged and i also decided to pass on buying it as well...this time i called a sales rep and she was trying to pressure me to buy one and i told her maybe later..i must say i am so so glad that i took the time to inquire about these heaters on line...now i really know what to do..avoid them altogether...thanks so much..i'll use what i have my propane fireplace....thanks again..joe in nj

Art said...

Doing a google on infrared heaters, I see that Eden Pure is still there as well as a newcomer. Same idea just a little different construction. Tubes are supposed to be good for 20,000 hours as opposed to the Eden Pure at 5000.

Anyone actually used these heaters and can give an oppinon as to how good they are?

Seems like they all are 1500 watt units. Beeen through that before.

Art

Dawn said...

My Dad just told me he bought one of these after seeing the ad in the paper. I have seen the ad for months and knew immediately it was bogus.

I feel bad for him. He is in poor health and will need to burn wood for heat this winter because of the cost of propane. He definitely didn't need to spend what little money he has on this but, I didn't want to discourage him.

I am sure he could have gotten something less expensive, but if it helps him stay warm without wood, I will be OK with it. I just don't want to cause him further turmoil about this.

I hate the deceptive advertising, though.

Speculator Lady said...

The 2-page ad was in today's Parade Magazine and it looked very tempting.
I am sooo glad that I decided to check the internet and found this site. Saved me from an impulse buy and from being sorry later. Thank you!! (I also wondered about Amish working with electric heaters.)

Art said...

Living as I do, on the edge of Amish country, this is my understanding of what is allowed. a number of families are grouped under a bishop. The bishop determines what is allowed and what is not. Since there is not enough ground available to sustain all farming, many amish work in factories etc. So, Speculator Lady, it is not uncommom for the Amish to work with electricity or any other modern equipment.

In view of the fact that the Amish are a strick religious group, it would be interesting to know if an Amish group did indeed lend their name to this heater since it is an unquestionable ripoff.

I find it strange that the Amish may use electricty at work but are not allowed to have it in their home. By the same token, they can ride in an automobile but cant own one.

That is their belief and I have no quarrel with that.

Art in Indiana

winnie said...

I guess I fell head over heals for this one. The one thing that baffled me when I ordered is that she said it would be shipped in 2 days. I thought the ad said they working day and night to get orders out and you had to hurry to beat the rush!! They try to get you to buy 2 and then also to get you to buy an extended warrenty. When I asked her what and how the heat is produced she had no clue. I asked her what could go wrong with them, how is it made, she had no clue. I wonder why in one of the blogs it said you would have to reinsulate you house? Will this make the house sweat?? I wonder if it produces moister, like some regular ventless heaters?
Does anyone have any answers.
I wonder if I can call my credit card and stop the purchase?
Concerned in West Virginia

winnie said...

I guess I fell head over heals for this one. The one thing that baffled me when I ordered is that she said it would be shipped in 2 days. I thought the ad said they working day and night to get orders out and you had to hurry to beat the rush!! They try to get you to buy 2 and then also to get you to buy an extended warrenty. When I asked her what and how the heat is produced she had no clue. I asked her what could go wrong with them, how is it made, she had no clue. I wonder why in one of the blogs it said you would have to reinsulate you house? Will this make the house sweat?? I wonder if it produces moister, like some regular ventless heaters?
Does anyone have any answers.
I wonder if I can call my credit card and stop the purchase?
Concerned in West Virginia

Christi said...

I am on this web site because I like so many others have a need to know. I learned about this by mere accident. I was talking to a gentleman where I work, a customer and I brought up the cost of fuel this winter and how folks are going to survive it, especially in SD, where the pay su--s. He said he and his wife bought one last winter early this year and it works great. He owns a Town House with an open kitchen/dining room/frontroom, and it keeps it comfortable, he is getting another for his basement. The pictures that have been ridiculed so much can be explained by this, "It is cheaper to use old material than to pay to recreate, the film industry does it all the time". So yes I am going to order one and I will be back to let you know if it works. And why is it so strange to believe that a culture would do what is needed to earn extra income to support family needs by changing or curving their traditions. Look at the Catholic Belief. No not Amish, SDA.
Christi
SD

Craig Markwardt said...

The "Heat Surge" is really just an electric space heater with wooden "mantle" trim piece. If you already have central heating, then the only way this device will save you money is if you lower your furnace setting by alot, and heat only one room with the space heater. But, given that its just a electric space heater, why not research other space heaters? Especially ones with thermostat controls.

John-Mizzou said...

Don't buy that heater. The Amish in Missouri heat with wood not electric! If you want a good electric space heater buy one of the "oil" filled ones at any major retailer or home improvement store. They have three wattage settings and are great.

Art said...

I just spent considerable time surfing the net trying to get a handle on the various types of space heaters on the market today. I found two sites with a lot of information: home_heater.com and consumersearch.com\www\house_and_home\space-heaters.

It appears that the oil-filled units are well thought of. I was rather surprised to see the EdenPure heater rated near the bottom.

Infrared heaters seem to be recommended for some applications.

I was unable to find any discriptions as to how a unit actually worked.

I suspect that the main difference between these units is how well the heat is actually distributed in the area to be heated.

I hope someone else can add to what I have found so that we all can get a handle on the subject.

Art in northern Indiana

Frugal yet warm said...

I own this heater bought on craigslist late last winter, paid 175 dollars. Live in New England tri level home. Heat home primarily with pellet stove (used 3 tons,)have new oilfired hot water 3zone sytem (used 375 gallons at 60 degrees)Dining room kitchen is 30x30 pellet stove did not adequately heat.We were able to prepare food, eat and clean up in a comfortable fashion, with no noticable increase in my electric bill.Lady who sold it used her other to supplement her oil fired boiler. Comes with remote control with different heat levels. We were very satisfied with its performance and had ambiance to boot, have used other electric space heaters in past and found them cost prohibitive and not as effective. We did use it only at these periods so I cannot tell you the cost for continuous usage. Craiglist seller basically ended up with best deal as she reduced her investment,this is AMERICA!

David Reedy said...

My father-in-law bought one last winter and decided to run it constantly for a few months to see if there was any significant surge on his electrical bill. He claims that there was no noticeable change, but there WAS a significant reduction in his propane usage during the winter! Hmmm! I need to get me one! Propane is through the roof. I like the ambiance of the faux flames.

Art said...

Another happy customer for the miracle heater. One has to wonder what makes this unit so much better than the oil filled unit Consumer Reports thinks highly of.

I do find it strange that there was no noticable increase in the electric bill. According to my figures, operating a 1500 watt heater for 8 hours a day and a 30 day month, I came up with $30 here in north central Indiana. Power from I and M runs right close to .065 per kwh.

Chronic Me said...

My elderly mother called a few nights ago to tell me she had ordered two of these heaters. And to tell me if I wanted to order two, the deal was only good for 48 hours. I didn't want to upset her, but suspected something bogus when she told me the time constraint. I gathered as much information as I could from her, and found it was these 'Miracle Amish' heaters.
I can only hope she finds some satisfaction from them.

Ironically, most of her neighbors are Amish. And the do use electricity in their places of employment. She thought that an Amish person thought up this product.

Unknown said...

Last fall one of my friends at work
brought in the ad for the Amish
heaters. We live in the mountains
of southwest Virginia and it gets
COOOOLLLDDD here. We both have
electric heat so she ordered two
heaters and I ordered one. They
came and were really cute and seemed to work well. I only used
one 100 lb. tank of propane gas
compared to 3-4 tanks in the pre-
vious winters and where I am on
the budget plan with our local
electric company, when my settle-
up month came around, they owed
me 2 1/2 months of no payments!
You guys do the math.
By the way, my friend loves hers
and my sister just ordered her
2.
Very sincerely,
Dianne

Dave said...

I received an add in mail today for the EdenPure heater. I received an add last year for the Amish one last year. I did not bite on either but with the heat bill for natural gas going from .88 to 1.04 per unit its going to be a long expensive winter here in SW Mo. My heat bill last year was 200 to 300 dollars a month.

My electric bill using AC this summer did not go over $85.00 for 2000 sq foot (Of course I conserved) Closing off unused rooms and holding temp 79 or 80. So I think if I use electric heat in living room next to gas fireplace and one in bedroom I can and should save some money. As long as I lower central heat much lower than last year.

Question is which space heater to get. Judging from what I read so far the pick is Amish over Edan.

Help me here and others please. Going to get something somewhere after doing more homework.

Art said...

I havent been able to find any information on how the Amish Heater generates it's heat other than it is an electrical device. The Eden Pure and a couple others use infrared tubes to heat metal plates and the air is passed over the plates. Very simple explaination. I have before me a flyer that came in the paper. Sunheat, a company in Nebraska, is at a local motel selling from the back of a truck. It looks a good bit like the EdenPure.

Our mailman just purchased an EdenPure. He hasnt been too impressed. I do not know the conditions under which he is operating the heater but intend to pursue that subject.

I have seen that Consumer Reports likes the DeLaungh oil filled heaters. You might do well to check out one of these heaters. The unit I have in mind runs around $100. My neighbor is heating her house with two of the oil filled units (brand unknown) and seems to be satisfied.

Several months ago, my gas was at 1.70 per therm! It has fallen back to .80 for this month but than who knows?

I have a woodstove in the basement that I am about to fire up. I also use a $60 electric space heater in my 'office'. I have no idea what makes this heater worth so much more that the $10 n'milk house' heater that we heat the bathroom with.

Guess I really havent been all that much help(G). I would suggest looking around a bit more before taking the plunge on the Amish or EdenPure heaters.

Art in northcentral Indiana

pat said...

Well I have never seen one of these stoves before but I do have Amish friends.. The first thing that stands out is the pictures because Amish people do not have their pictures taken. The mantle may be amish made but I am sure that is all they have to do with it. Amish people I know always push coal and wood burning stoves to save money.. Not Electric.. I bet it is just someone trying to make money off the good Amish name..

kerimae73 said...

My dad just got his 2 heaters today(it took just a little less than 2 weeks to get them) The UPS guy that delivered them said he has 2 of them and really likes them. They are pretty and we turned them on just for a few minutes to check them out and they felt like they put off alot of heat. But it just started getting cold here in Indiana so he might not know for awhile how its gonna effect the electric bill. The reason he got them was somebody my mom works with has them and said their electric bill went up just a little but their gas bill went way down. Guess will find out soon. I'll let you all know.

Unknown said...

Where do I find these heaters no one has said the website or phone number could someone let me know please

HopeD said...

I just read the comments on the Heat Surge heaters. I know that the Amish thing is just a selling point. Maybe they do make the pretty wood cover. Who cares, I just want to know if it works. Most of the bad reviews were from people who never actually used them and the good ones were vague. Need more info.

Unknown said...

BE AWARE.........
This heater is horribly and extremely loud. I purchased it Sept 28 and I'm returning it Oct. 15.... They on't give you back the 50.00 for shipping and also I have to pay 35.00 to ship it back to them. WHAT A BIG DISAPPOINTMENT

Art said...

Steven, were you able to tell how the heater was made? anything other than a coil of resistance wire like the ifrared tubes?

My daughter can't resist any sign that says 'sale'. As a result, she has several heater. This weekend I was able to get a closer look at 3 of them.

#1: This unit was a flat panel about 2 1/2 X 3 feet. While it did put out some heat, there was no fan and I wasnt impressed.

#2 This one was billed as a radiant heater. It appeared to have several resistance coils backed by a shiny strips. This unit had a fan and did a better job than the flat panel. Bad part was that the sound of the fan could be of some concern.

#3 This was a small unit from Holmes. It was about 10 inches square and 'pound for pound' was the best heater of the three. It was the resistance wire type with a small fan. I put this heater in a smallish bathroom and in 5 minutes time it was warm enough the wash and shave. Not to worry, the old geezer is smart enough to keep the unit away from the taps.

It would be interesting to get you with the two ladies who have just espressed their satisfaction with the Amish Heater, and compare notes.

To me the big question is what is there about some of the heaters one sees that command such a high price?

My $10 'milk house' heater does just fine. Must admit that the fan noise could be of some concern if one was trying to watch TV

Art in north central Indiana

Michelle said...

we love ours!!! use to supplement our wood burning stove- for the hallway and bedrooms. kids love it!!!

Unknown said...

I bought 2 last winter. I saved $1000 on propane. My electric went up by approx $20 per month running them 24/7. They paid for themselves, they are quiet, they generate a lot of heat for a small area. They also don't pop the breakers when you turn on the microwave or other appliances like the small heaters you buy at walmart do.

I'm really pleased with them. I'd be more pleased if they were less expensive but I feel the savings outweighed the cost by a long shot.

LoriA said...

Maybe Steven got a lemon because ours are quiet. We bought 3 heaters, 1 for downstairs, 1 for living room and kitchen area, and 1 for 3 bedrooms. The outside temp right now is 38 and we have not turned on the furnace (oil) yet. Eventually we will turn it on but keep the thermostat low. We are happy with ours.

Chronic Me said...

My mother received her two heaters and has been using them for a few weeks. She loves them. And she has saved greatly on propane, and her electric is still under $80 month.
sue

happy1 said...

I have just purchased the Edenpure heater. I received a flyer in the mail but wasn't sure. Then I was in town having breakfast and there was some people discussing it and I joined in. They told me where they had purchased their heater so, I went to the website. Looked awesome, but I wanted to see one first hand. I used the store locator and went for an almost 100 mile weekend drive to see. Well, I was Sold! It was Awesome! It was 35 degrees the first night I got it home. I hooked it up and couldn't believe my furnace NEVER kicked on all night! Then I received my first electric bill, and I couldn't believe it. I think the Edenpure is by far a great heater! I can't wait to see how much $$$$ I actually save during this winter season! It's an Awesome Unit!

luv4lyfe said...

I was a bit suspicious about the Amish heater. Coming to this website just confirmed my suspicions. Thanks a lot for these comments. People everyday sit down and diligently plan ways to rip off others and this is a typical case. Thanks again

Unknown said...

I'm just following up. My mother received her two Amish heaters about 3 weeks ago. She has one in each of her homes (MO and AR). Well, despite my skepticism, she is still very happy with each of them. The temps have gotten as low as 27 degrees so far, and they are working well. She said her regular household furnace kicked on maybe once or twice during the coldest night.

exammie said...

I find this site very intresting for different reasons. First of all I am an ex-amish and to say amish do not allow pix taken is true for some groups but there are a lot of amish that are only too happy to finally have someone come along and snap their pic. There are some amish that are only too happy to be able to use the miracle of electricity. There are as many different groups amish as anyone else and never forget that the only difference between an amish person and anyone else is the way they were taught and trained. They are born with the general same make-up as all other people.
It so happens I grew up in the same neighborhood as the amish guy that started up this business(he really is amish). Where he buys his heaters and whether they are any better than others I have yet to discover. My sis-in-law has one and is happy with it. We have been considering getting one in to save on heating oil. We also have a pellet stove. My father-in-law has an edenpure and is happy with it as well.

DEW said...

My inlaws purchased 2 of these heaters and have yet to spend more than 40 dollars for their gas and the electric bill didn't go up up at all. They use them for their primary heat and the furnace rarely comes on. These are for real. They even gave our family one of them and our electric only went up about 5 dollars for the entire month. It was 25-30 degrees outside and it kept our house warm with no problem. Who cares if the flames aren't real when it is the heat that counts anyway. However, it does give a relaxing glow when you get home from work. I would definitely recommend these for anyone on a fixed income to help with heating to keep from freezing to death.

Lori Moore said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Lori Moore said...

I never knew that the little black,(not real wood) Wrought iron look ,heater I bought about 3 years ago from Lowe's was considered an "Amish Heater". I love my heater. It is not to be used as primary heat source,but it keeps a room nice and toasty and the flickering flame ,which,by the way is a light with a mirrored affect ,along with the fake logs and fake ash make it look like a real wood burning heater/ fireplace. If you want to heat a room,and look at the warm glow ,then it is the heater for you.Just don't buy it to heat your entire home. It's more of a conversation piece with nice extras. I really love mine. It is beautiful and great to sit by.All I had to do was plug it in. Oh,& it does keep my central heat unit from coming on as often. It was worth the 300.00 I paid for it and will buy another in the future.

Lori Moore said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Unknown said...

We love our "Amish Heater" and it is quiet. My husband finds it very relaxing. It is in our den and makes it just so toasty.
Jeanne Huntington

Unknown said...

We love our "Amish Heater" and it is quiet. My husband finds it very relaxing. It is in our den and makes it just so toasty.
Jeanne Huntington

tkeb said...

Anyone else have to give operator your social security #? An elderly friend of mine ordered four of these by phone and paid with electronic check. Just received letter from customer service saying his $784 electronic check was not honored by bank (he has the $, so he must have read them the acct # or bank routing # incorrectly. Also the electronic check was for $1400'ish, not $784...keeps getting stranger & stranger. He is coming over tomorrow for me to straightened this out. Glad to hear that people here actually received fireplaces. I am really concerned as to why they asked for his driver's license#, date of birth and social security#. BE Careful and of course NEVER give out your personal information. My friend believed the ad to be an actual newspaper article and therefore had full faith in the company and product. Hope this has a happy ending.

energyguy said...

Despite all the wild claims regarding "miracle" heaters that keep being advertised, they are all just 1500 Watt electric space heaters. All 1500 Watt electric heaters put out 1500 Watts of heat! This heater puts out no more heat than other cheap $20 heaters that use 1500 watts. Electric space heaters can only save money vs. natural gas central heat if you turn your central thermostat way down and just heat one small area with the electric heater (since natural gas is about half the cost of electricity per unit of heat).

Art said...

I think this has all been covered before.

In my mind, the question is Do those expensive units really warm an area more effeciently.

I have noticed that units such as the EdenPure do not put out the hot air one gets from the 'milkhouse'type of heaters.

While they are a different type of heater, I have talked to some folks who are quite happy with their oil filled units.
If anyone finds a site where all these types of heaters have been tested and reviewed please post it here.

Art Goshen, IN

zi said...

this thing is an utter scam. It's circulating again this winter. I saw a full 2-page ad in this month's Popular Mechanics. it smelled fishy right away. there's no such thing as a company giving stuff away for free.

why fake? 2 very very obvious reasons. One: in elementary school, we learned that Amish shun technology, so PHOTO ARE NOT ALLOWED. justmejulie is right. Two: real Amish would never be a party to this type of shameless (and deceptive) commercial exploitation in their name.

cjmaze said...

I have been thinking about getting one of these for my Mom - She freezes in her old house with old windows. This is just speculation, but maybe the Amish do not want - or are not allowed - to sell an electrical devise - hence the mantle with the "free" heater.

star374 said...

Wow, so many previous posts have accurately exposed this for what it is, a scam and a waste of money. Yet people still write in and say they are going to buy one. A fool and his money ...

Mike89 said...

My mother in law bought one of these a couple of months ago. She really likes it and the moving flames do create a nice atmosphere in the room. It heats the room rather well. The mantle looks quite nice also. A lot here seem to be trashing this heater but I think are missing the point. The attraction of this is it's a simulated fireplace, mantle and all with moving flames. Besides getting the heating, you also get the looks and the fireplace fire effects.

Mike89 said...

I think maybe the one's in here trashing this heater might actually look at one in a room in action before they start acting stupid (by trashing something they've never seen working). I have seen one so I don't have to talk out the side of my neck (like some are doing in here trying to act cool but are sounding dumb). Most everyone would like to have a fireplace in their living room. Well this is one way to get one and it gives the room a nice ambience effect. I don't care who built it or if some believe the commercial is misleading or whatever. The heater and mantle itself is not misleading. Whether one thinks it's worth the money, well that can be a debate for everything that is ever sold. Some will think something is worth this and some will think it's worth that. After seeing one in action, I do think it's worth it and I'm going to get one for myself shortly. For those thinking about getting one, get some opinions from people who have one and don't listen to the people who think everything is a scam. Nuff said.

Blog Guy said...

I cannot believe the amount of ignorance I am reading here. So many people making judgment calls on something they do not have first hand experience. If you total up the people that have this product the positive reviews far outweigh the negative. If you total up the reviews of people who know nothing about these other than seeing the ads it is completely negative. I certainly will not be basing my opinions by listening to the idiots that have nothing but negative things to say but have not seen or tried one in REAL LIFE.

Unknown said...

There are two kinds of people here. Some will buy it and try it and decide what is right. Others will read about it, decide what the value is and decide if the product has merit. Those who by it, will be satisfied because they bought it. Those who do not by it, will scoff at those who did, knowing that it is a rip off.

Choose...

Mike89 said...

Well those who make up their minds without any first hand experience will not "know" that the people who bought it got ripped off. You would have to have tried a product first hand before you could say if it was a rip off or it was a good value. Every post I've seen here from people who either own one or seen one in action (I have) is positive. The only negative posts here are from the ones who do not own one or have not seen one in action. That pretty much says what's up right there.

Craig Markwardt said...

As @energyguy points out, these are simply 1500 Watt electric heaters. There is really no way for these heaters to put out any more or less heat than another 1500 Watt heater. But other heaters cost one fifth to one tenth the cost! People here are satisfied with their Amish heater, but wouldn't they be more satisfied paying 80-90% less?

The heater apparently has 750 and 1500 Watt settings. If you run it all the time, there is no way to use less than 550 (or 1100) kilo-Watt-hours per month. That's just physics. In my area, energy costs 11 cents per kWh, so the cost to run this unit all the time is $60-120. That's pure physics and economics. Therefore people claiming their electricity bill didn't change significantly, like @berries, simply can't be right.

The Amish unit does not have a thermostat or timer setting, but other far cheaper units do. Those extra settings allow you to save even more money and energy, by only generating heat when you need it.

akudt2 said...

My father's friend in Maryland had one in his house. It was warming three rooms to a very comfortable level. I thought it was great. It was cool to touch, making it safe for my kids. He said his brother had been using three of them in his home for months and was very happy with them. I forget where his brother lives but it was north of MD. He claimed the savings on fuel bills out-weighed any minimal increase in electric. I was just impressed by the heat it produced and the quality of the unit itself, which was much better than those cheap units. I have used the cheap ones and was never impressed. My Dad was thinking of getting a couple after seeing his friends. They are in their 70's and get chills easily. My Dad was waiting for his friends test period to get one. I am going to order one now anyway as I just loved it. I have a wood fireplace in my family room(19Lx19Wx20H) which I love to use but for nights I don't want to be bothered making a real fire, I will use this heater. Maybe when I finish the basement I'll move it down there or maybe get another. If it saves money great, if not, I still don't have to build a fire as often to keep warm or just look at glowing flames. $587 is crazy for a small wood surround, I'll just get the unit and make my own mantle for the basement when I finish the rest of it.
Larry from NJ

akudt2 said...

Just found another link to their site with cheaper prices. $338 for cherry vice $587 seen earlier. They have white and black also for $348 and natural oak for $298. Have not decided yet wether to get oak surround for only $50 or just insert as planned so I can make a nicer mantle myself...... Guess I'll save the money.
Larry from NJ

Death said...

The ads are back. Check a newspaper near you.

Dave said...

I haven't read all of the comments, but one thing that really gets me about this.... The heater being electric, could not be marketed in the US without Coveted UL (Underwriters Laboratories) Seal

I suspect maybe the Amish build the mantel but not the heater... And they aren't about to tell you that in the add. Here in California many of the Amish farmers have started using tractors and they travel by train. I had the pleasure of sharing a table in the dining car of the Coastal Starlight with an Amish couple back in the 1980s and while visiting wit them over dinner, I learned quite a bit about their beliefs, and I too doubt they would have a "laboratory" to develop such a heater.

Dave

David Marshall is... said...

Your misunderstanding of the Amish is pretty laughable. Not to mention the cartoonish picture you paint of laboratory work (why would an engineer need a Bunsen burner?). The Amish are the largest consumers of and driving forces behind solar technology research in the united states.

Elsie said...

I just saw an ad for this heater, so I went online to read up. I'm sure those who are making a buck at selling this over-priced electric heater are looking it up on their computers as well. This explains the weak arguments supplied by some of the commenters above. I also find it funny that someone mentions the site has a few misspelled words, and someone else is urging people to "by" one before making their opinion known.

Here's a much stronger argument that anyone can understand: $250 for an electric heater is a rip off!!! And look at me! I'm an expert at surviving in cold weather. I'm a friggin' penguin for cryin' out loud!

smallclover said...

the Amish mantles don't fit the heaters. I like the fire logs. I want the mantle to fit the heater. not stick out over it.

Greg VA said...

People. People. Please. The positive comments are "plants", yes, people employed by these companies to surf the net find blogs and websites where their products are mentioned and "plant" positive comments under assumed names. You can tell by the devious simplicity in their arguments and the blind faith that has most of them just about to purchase this heater because their nanny, mommy, uncle just bought 2!
Well, save your cash and look at the facts. Tip one: If it says "Miracle" in the name, IT AIN'T. An early commentor said to look at the dog in the news ad. He's right. Only photoshop can do legs like that! The idea was to streeeetch the heater to look larger than it really is. Tip 2: The heater is FREE! all you do is pay for the mantle. WOW! what a deal? So, if you have a problem with the heater and you want your money back, the phone conversation with customer service would go something like this:
"Ummm Sir/Ma'am? You say your new miracle heater is not heating the house for pennies and you want your money back? Hmmm. How is the mantle holding up? Because we can't refund you money for a none working heater that you didn't pay for. If the mantle is working then our end of the bargain is upheld." HA! Sneaky huh?
Tip 3: To those positive commentators who couldn't argue their way out of an Amish hay bale: The only heat generated so far has been from the smoke you blow up these poor folk's butts.

Please take your money and tuck it back in your wallet, and remember that it is human nature to believe in the unbelievable, however, do not rely on anyone other than yourself and someone you trust to advise you in these matters. Good Luck.

Oh, and Eden Pure- What the hell is that for a BS name? Why not call "GodsWarmth" or "Holyfire" give me a break.

marsch said...

For all of you out there -- the man in the picture is NOT Amish even though he looks like he is. I've known him for close to 50 years and we live in the same community. He lives in house with electricity, telephone, etc. and he does drive a car. The Amish are more high tech than a lot of people think and very intelligent. A lot of the Amish have cell phones and some even have computers. They work in factories, become computer savvy, and sit in front of a computer all day. How do I know all this? Because I was Amish for 49 years. I went to look at this heater and it doesn't have a thermostat -- that to me is dangerous.

Unknown said...

I am amazed at all the peripheral remarks that have nothing to do with the heaters efficiency. when I buy something I want to know the price and if it has history of efficiency.I don't care if the person who made it allows his picture taken,has lights in his home.etc. For those who are interested I own one I bought it used,it heats my large dining room,it has a low and high function, I live in the Northeast and have noticed no increase in cost on my electric bill. Would I buy it again? Yes

Mike89 said...

I think a lot of people posting in this thread have way too much time on their hands with the offhand comments about the commercials and the heater that they've never actually tried or seen in action themselves. You either like the heater or you don't. As I've already mentioned, the appeal to this is it's a simulated fireplace with fireplace fire effects. This is what makes it different from an everyday average heater. Also, most average heaters blow through the heating element or blow out the bottom. This one routes the air through a duct to come out the top for the best effiency and heat output into the room. Plus it just looks plain cool in a room with or without the mantle (nicer with the mantle)looking like a fireplace instead of just a regular old ugly heater sitting there. It gives the room some personality and atmosphere along with the heat. What all that is worth is up to the individual. I personally have seen one in action and do think it's worth the price. There is nothing to compare it too unless there was another company making one like it that was better and for less money.

jstoddard said...

Since when do the Amish use or have anything to do with ELECTRICITY?

Have you seen the infomercial? It shows "Amish Craftsmen" in a barn working on these POS (piece of **it) with wooden hand planes and wooden clamps. Yuh. One guy is checking his work with a LEVEL. HAHAAAHAAHA. Then they "deliver" them with a horse-drawn wagon.

The whole thing does nothing but exploit the Amish, and America's idea of what an "Amish Community" is like.

In reality - these things are pocket-screwed and stapled together (their FAQ)in a factory in Ohio. From plywood and poplar (a crappy paint-grade hardwood) Yes it is an "Amish Community" but that's about it. The fireplace units are made in China. Nuff said there - they're gonna be junk.

jstoddard said...

One more thing... electricity is a nearly perfectly "efficient" way to heat... meaning you put in one KWH of electricity, you get out 3414 BtuH...a 1500 watt (1.5 KiloWatt) heater will get you around 5000 BtuH every time.

Doesn't matter if that elecricity is heating oil, air, whatever. That's all the BTUs you're going to get. Oil-filled heaters give you a little bit of "storage" because the oil stays hot longer than the air around it, but there really isn't any more heat produced by them per KW of elecricty than a plain old resistance heater.

The real problem is the cost of the fuel. Electricity is also the MOST EXPENSIVE way to heat among the common heat sources in most parts of the USA.

If this thing (or any 1500w heater) is consuming 1.5KW per hour, and you're paying $.10/KWH like many folks do... then it's costing you $.15/hr...$3.60/day.... $108/month. That's at full output 24 hrs/day... but as you can see you'd have to cut a LOT of gas off your gas bill to save anything with any electric heater.

These units might be prettier than a $20 1500w heater from Walmart - but they're not going to produce one drop more heat one bit more efficiently. A watt is a watt.

wslady said...

I have one of these heaters in my kitchen. I leave it on low and it keeps the kitchen & bathroom warm and helps heat the upstairs. My kids have an elec. heater upstairs( house is old w/ 1 heat vent upstairs)and it has been cut way back. I am using less heating oil and my elec. bill only went up about $30. My mother has one of those oil elec. heaters & it doesn't heat as well.Oh by the way I live in Va. and do not work for the Heat Surge company.

SAVANNAHS MOM said...

i live in nc so far the nights and most days have been cold , i have several shihtzus . the girls stay inside with me , the boys are in a medium sized storgage building converted to a very nice dog house with gas heat , tv radio all the little things my dogs need and have always had ,the gas heat is killing me , i wonder if this amish things would work good for them? i could care less about the mantle , please advise thanks patrice

makaid said...

I checked the official website! That is total photoshop fail!

Those people shown in the pictures to be working don't even have the same light sources as the rest of the room. That is so fake. This needs to end. lol.

Art said...

I see a new player has entered the infrared heater fray. This one goes by the name 'iHeater' and says it is American engineered. No mention of where is is made tho. From the cut away view, is appears to be a infrared tube heating a copper chamber which in turn heats the air passing over it.

Not being in manufacturing, I am still trying to figure out what makes these unit worth the money.

Art

Jenny Wren said...

The Amish heat surge heater is a 1,500 watt heater. This heater has no more heat output than the $24 Honeywell ceramic heater that bought at my local True Value hardware store. Both produce 1,500 watts of heat. The UL laboratories (you know, the little tag on the cord) regulates that ALL indoor portable heaters be limited to 1,500 watts. What a scam!

Cranky Old Doods said...

Our propane bill in past winters had topped the $200 mark. This winter I decided to use a space heater to alleviate our winter bill. I too saw the Amish heater ad in National Geographic but the price ($400+) chased me off. I purchased an oil space heater from Amazon for less than $100. It has lived up to expectations, keeping our living room and adjacent TV room a relative comfortable 70 degrees. A smaller space heater in the bedroom is used for exceptionally cold evenings. It's funny how one can adapt to lower temps after a time. Anywho, our electric bill went up approximately $50 dollars the first month but our propane bill dropped well below $100. So far so good. I have neighbors; one has the Edenpure and the other has the Amish heater, without the dog. Both seem to think they work fine.

Steven Kurutz said...

Hello. I'm a reporter for the New York Times and am writing a story about these Amish heaters. I'd like to interview someone who bought a heater and hear what they think. I can be reached at: stevenkurutz@earthlink.net

Anonymous said...

This message is to ART:
My elderly grandparents as well as a locally owned chiropractice clinic both have an Eden Pure. They work really well and produce a great amount of heat! Especially for my grandparents who use an old coal furnace in their ancient heat.. its cost effective as well!

Art said...

Amundt, As long as your grandparents are happy thats all that really counts. I am sure the key is using the heater in a smaller area rather than attempting to heat the entire house.

I am still looking for an explanation as to why these heaters command such a price.

Art

Unknown said...

We have one of these in our house as of 15 minutes ago. A relative decided it would be a nice "gift" so now the g'dam thing is sitting in my living room. She got $100 off it because the furniture was "damaged." Wood glue will fix that.

It lights up, it's quiet, it's putting out heat, it looks like a fireplace. So, I paid nothing, didn't want it, don't believe in buying crap like this over the internet, but, here it is. The furniture quality far better than most entertainment center/desks at the same price and the heater works. The fire effect is pretty. Relative paid too much for something just to impose it on me as a gift, but, overpriced or not, it's a heater putting out heat.

Unknown said...

(It rolls because it's on small metal casters. It glows because there are two lights under the fake logs. The firewood looks hokey but the fire effect is actually really good.) I live in Oregon and don't know jack about the Amish.

Art said...

Ah now some one who actually has his hands on one of these heaters. Hopefully, we will get some first hand information as to just how good a heater this thing is.

Realize, however, that these units are really room heaters and are not going to heat the entire house.

If the furnace is not set back and the heater used just to warm the space you are in now than there will be no gain.

Keep us posted

Art

Anonymous said...

The Amish don't make the heaters. They make the solid wood mantles that surround the heaters. Close examination of all that is written about these products; watching the TV commercials and listening to what is said state these facts very clearly.

Anonymous said...

I have read all the comments in this blog because my elderly father asked me to research this heater after he saw one of the ads. I have a few comments of my own to add.

The ads do look misleading and exaggerated. Some people have said that they don't care about that, but you SHOULD care because this calls into question the integrity of the company.

Anyone that says that this heater did not increase their electric bill is either lying (could be a company plant) or does not pay enough attention to the details in their electric bills to make a factual proclamation about this. Of course, if you drastically cut your electricity usage in other areas of the house, your bill may stay roughly the same.

Electric heaters use A LOT of energy. The savings referred to by the company may occur if you use your household furnace less and your electricity rate is less than the comparable cost of the propane, heating oil or natural gas used by your furnace. Normally, you can realize some savings this way because you are only heating part of the house with the electric heater rather than the entire home with your furnace.

Personally, I have never seen this in action. Maybe the mantle and fake fire do provide a nice ambiance to the room. Is that worth an extra $200-$300 above the price you would pay for a regular space heater? That can only be answered by each consumer.

As for me, I would not bother dealing with this company. If they have to distort the truth and doctor photos to convince me to purchase their product, then I don't want to be doing business with them. I will advise my father accordingly.

Anonymous said...

We ordered 2 of the Anish heaters on Oct 24-2008 and the first one was delivered on Oct 31.
After the first one was delivered we decided we don't need 2 as they are portable. I phoned the company and they were very polite and told me to refuse the second one when it was delivered, no questions asked, we were not charged return postage and we received a full credit for the one returned. We love the heater, it is a nice piece of furniture and it does warm up a room quickly.
If you don't have one how can you be so critical?

Anonymous said...

This is not a scam this is advertising.Drug ads show people in kayaks because the connection helps the image of the product.Kayaks are for outdoor people not television couch potatos.Kayaks are for exercise not sleeping in front of a television.Kayaks are used in nice places not in the basement with a television.People are not just buying a heater or a pill they are buying the lifestyle in the advertising.The Amish are outdoor people getting exercise on attractive farms.The Amish industry sold this idea before the heater company came along.People think abstract art is a scam but this heater is as symbolic as paint on canvas.At least abstract art is completely symbolic and does not have a part time job heating the viewers.

Anonymous said...

You have got to be kidding me? Abstract art?

You are nuts.

Anonymous said...

I would encourage children with old parents to buy them a space heater.I installed a cheap water filter in my parents home so they could tell salesmen that they already have a water treatment system.The Amish are self reliant so proud parents will buy this heater to honor Ben Franklin-God helps those who help themselves.I had an elderly neighbor with a 20 year old car that finally broke.She was poor and alone and died less than a year later.She was too proud to ask for help because she admired Ronald Reagan.I propose Ronald Reagan appear on the next one thousand dollar bill.He was a greater figure of mythology than Franklin so deserves a higher denomination

Anonymous said...

Art, consumer Report did this video about it, it might be helpful: http://consumerist.com/5163540/consumer-reports-tests-the-amish-heater

Anonymous said...

Wow, this scam either has a LOT of employees, or there's a whole lot of suckers out there!

Anyone who buys any kind of electric device from the Amish will get exactly what they deserve...

Come on, folks - use your brains for once. They make the ad look like a newspaper article, they promote a technology which simply cannot perform as they claim, and they're pushing "craftsmanship" that clearly isn't there.

You know, those Amish really know electricity...

But I got some great laughs reading over these "customer testimonials". Classic stuff!

Look, if you like the workmanship of Amish-made products, just buy something ACTUALLY MADE BY THE AMISH! If you believe the Amish would be building electric heaters, then you're well beyond any hope I could offer you...

And if you still believe in this, ask your trusted electrician to do the math and figure out how many BTUs of heat can be generated at the claimed usage rate. Electricity is not some "magical force". One can easily do a simple math equation to determine how much heat is being generated at what cost - and their claims don't even come close to the real math.

It takes a really special kind of stupid to fall for this scam.

Anonymous said...

If you go to the heater website, you eventually can determine that the heater is rated at 1,500 watts and 5114 BUT. I bought a heater with the exact same rating for $15 at Home Depot. Actually, the ad is not lying. The heater does use the same electricity as a coffee pot. Only problem is, if your 1,500 watt coffee pot were plugged in for, say, 12 hours per day, you would be paying about $3 per day, or $90 per month. Unless it is your sole source for heat, you are going to be in for a sorry surprise when the electric bill comes in on top of the fuel bill.

Anonymous said...

Notice the positive comments for this product and the registration months for those users. Obviously someone is registering names and adding positive comments for this glorified space heater because of the Google page rank. This heater is a SCAM!

Anonymous said...

Hi there from Canada. We just got a call from an ad agency working for this famous "Amish Heater" asking for advertising rates. Hmmmmm....not sure if I want this ad in our magazine, which is Harrosmith Country Life - the only national Canadian magazine for country/small town dwellers.
I think it's very odd that they are using the image/connection to Amish people who don't generally allow themselves to be shown in photos...("Witness" is my favourite movie, by the way) Anyway, I am glad I saw your blog...it's going to be "seller beware" for me! Madeleine in Canada

Art said...

I am now seeing full page ads for a air conditioner that needs no vent system. Apparently, the super scientists in china have been working overtime.

Tonight, I saw on the news, that china has a 'green' car in production that could conceivable give Detroit a run for its money.

Art

Unknown said...

Just found the "Miracle Amish Heater" ad in today's Ottawa Citizen, Aug 19, 2009.

What a crock.

Unknown said...

Costco is selling a heater here in Florida, looks like the one in last years "Amish" ad, for $169.

Anonymous said...

What I think is funny is amish people dont like getting there photos taken

Art said...

I took a look at the site. That is the most expensive heater yet!

I am still looking for a reliable comparison and review of these infrared heaters.

Art said...
This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
Ruben Smith said...

I LOVE how at the top of the newpaper article it clearly indicates that this is an ADVERTISMENT...lol...

Unknown said...

So many ignorant people.

My mom and dad have 2 of these heaters, and they use them as the primary heat source. Do they raise the electric bill? YES. The ad says they are to be used as supplemental heat. However the heating oil bill has been greatly reduced, to nearly nothing. This will be the third winter that they have used these. They are more than happy with them. My sister also has 2, and is very happy. I also have an aunt with 1 that does use it for supplemental heat, yep you guessed it she is happy too.

People asking "are they really amish made"? The ad clearly states that the heater is made in China. The mantle is however to be made by the Amish. Are they? IDK. The 5 that I have seen are built quite nicely.

Is it just an electric 1500 watt heater? Yes and no. Yes it is an electric heater, but it looks like a fireplace rather than a heater.
If your looking for a heater, buy a heater. If your looking for something to look attractive wherever your going to put it, then I suggest 1 of these.
An electric heater will be cheaper, but will not have the look of a fireplace.

As far as the amount of heat the heater makes, my parents home is very comfortable. The amount of noise, almost completely quiet.


I live in western pennsylvania, I have seen Amish using electricity and getting their pictures taken. Not 1 of the amish that have had their picture taken have lost their soul.

I don't work for the heater company either as someone has stated, "they are putting fake blogs on here".

I would highly recommend 1 of these heaters if you are interested.

Nikc said...

Well it looks like parody's are popping up around the web:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pPCq50EFFTk

Bill said...

Electric heaters are electric heaters, they are 100% efficient but there is no magic inside. Whether they have slow heat, rocks, quartz, or oil, the btu output is 3410 btu per 1000 watts thats it, no more. Electric heat in New England is the most expensive heat bar none! Please do not buy one of these "miracle heaters" to heat your home. To heat a small cold spot would be my only reason.
I write this as a heating contractor with 34 years experience.

Art said...

Bill, I understand what you are saying and agree that those heaters are designed to heat a small room or area.

What I would like to see is a test to see if any particular type of unit seems to heat the area a little better or more evenly.

I use a small 'milk house' type heater to warm the bathroom when needed. I also have a Lasco unit that I use in the bedroom at times. It seems to circulate the heat a bit better.

My son uses an Edenair to heat a fairly large area in his basement when in use. He seemed satisfied with how it heated.

I have noticed that the units that use infrared tubes are coming down in price. One dealer was set up at a local motel and selling a 1500 watt unit for $350.

Komodo said...

I have a couple of different types of heaters:

I have a Rival resistance heater which is pretty good. I like the fact you can adjust the temperature so it will turn on and off at however much heat you want. It also has a tip-over feature which is important to me because I have roaming animals in the house and I wouldn't want anything to happen to them.

I also have a couple of the DeLonghi oil filled heaters. I think the oil filled heaters deliver a much more dense heat than the resistance, fan on coil, heaters (like my Rival). The resistance heaters don't take as long to get heating but the heat they deliver isn't as dense and therefore don't warm down to the bones of your body or the bones of the house. I have an oil heater for my dove room and I put one over at my Mom's house because she has poor circulation and gets bone chilled easily. The oil filled work best and help keep heating bills down.

As much as I would like to own a heater that also delivers ambiance, for me, it's not money well spent and so I will have to do without the theatrics and have a look at a milk house heater or a ceramic heater for small spaces.

Much thanks to the Amish man of 49 years who had the decency to tell us the truth about the "Amish" ad. We have WAY too little truth going around these days, and having the truth is always a welcome gift.

Unfortunately, the advertising business sees deceit as "doing business". It doesn't seem to bother them that all of this lying is destroying our culture and civilization. Just so long as they get our money into their pockets they've got a clear conscience. I spend my days and nights praying for an end to laissez- faire trade and a new era of regulation.

Also, much and many thanks to Tod and Art for this blog. It's a great joy to be able to go online and get the straight skinny before you drop a bundle.

Anonymous said...

Last winter, I received an Amish heater as a gift from a friend in California. It was shipped to Hannibal MO where I live. The winters get mighty cold here, especially the windchill factor which can be 15 to 20 below zero. I use this heater in a 18' X 20' room with a 12' high ceiling and it does a great job! I tried many other types of space heaters and none of them heated the room as well as the Amish heater. The fake flames look real and are incredibly beautiful and comforting. I don't notice the sound at all, and I am extremely sensitive to different types of invasive sound.It reduced my electric bill by half and kept the room at approximately 63 degrees. The heater was not capable of heating the room above that temperature. It is solid and well built and I really love it!!!

Anonymous said...

I have one of these. Yes, it cost more than a regular electric heater, but I LOVE the fake fire and pretty mantle. We had a noise, I called the company, they talked me through adjusting a roller in the unit. Noise stopped. They said sometimes in transit this happens. I received a letter offering me the heater for $114 less AFTER I bought mine. I called company, and they credited me the difference. We put the heater in room we are in, rolls great. The rest of the house is turned down to 62 degrees and we are very comfortable with heater. My only concern is waiting for my first electric bill to see what it costs to run. My dad, sister and sister-in-law all have them and say their bill went up very little but they saved oodles on oil. I think negative skeptical people will be critical, but listen to those who bought it and worked it out (called company if there was a problem).

Unknown said...

I bought one of these about a year ago. It will produce enough heat for basically on large room say 20'x 20' with enough insulation of course. Then I get a letter today that read the illumination bulbs have reached their life expectancy under normal use and they want to give me the bulbs for life as long as I pay for S&H ($5.88). I think it is a scam. It sounded like an office in the background when a telemarketer calls you and this DOESN"T live up to what it was sold to by the ad. Do the AMISH have a telecommunications division?It is certainly not saving me any money on my electric bill as a matter of fact it has risen about $80-$120.00 depending on how much I use it. I read the blog about how things are converted to energy and this thing cannot live up to its ad

Bill Owen said...

I was looking for information on Amish Heaters and I found a website advertising Amish Nuclear Heaters that you don't even need to plug in. It looks like the ads you see in the paper but I don't know if it's a scam or what because it says it runs on nuclear fuel and that sounds dangerous. Just do a search for Amish Nuclear Heaters and you'll see it. I'd love to get heat without paying for electricity but I don't want to get ripped off.

Anonymous said...

Miracle huh, that's just plain lying about a product that does nothing that is claims. I should have read a few comments before I purchased one and I could hve saved myself some money. My electric bill was $388.00 this month, that is the highest bill I have ever had in 20 years living in this house.

Judas Gutenberg said...

If you're an astrophysicist, then tell me how you failed Thermodynamics 101, which basically says that any device that wastes electricity will warm a room and the room will only warm in proportion to the electricity wasted, which means that when heating with electricity you pay exactly in proportion to how much money you spend on electricity, no matter what device is wasting it.

Joel D. Joseph said...

I am organizing a class action lawsuit against Heat Surge for false advertising. If you are interested in joining email me at joeldjoseph@gmail.com.

Joel D. Joseph said...

I am organizing a class action lawsuit against Heat Surge for false advertising. If you are interested in joining email me at joeldjoseph@gmail.com.

LuvTeal said...

It's too bad that people have such a difficult time trusting or want to sue the company. I do understand the skepticism many have expressed, but it's not warranted.

It's true that they will not heat my entire cabin in the mtns. at 6000', but two of them do quite well, saving me money on my propane bill each winter! The cabinets are very nicely built, roll easily, and I have no worries about my cats.

When my central air and heating stopped this winter, they saved our lives, so to speak, when I didn't have the money to get that fixed nor to use the electric wall heaters. It was always below freezing at night, and the lowest was 13 degrees.

You are paying for a nice looking heater that is safe for your home, family and animals due to the cabinetry. I love mine and recommend them to others, as long as you don't mind paying for the Amish cabinetry.

Don't worry about what the Amish do or don't do. I've toured the awesome 5th wheel travel trailers they build. They do awesome quality work. I just wish that I could have purchased one of them then.

Yes, you just plug it in and turn on the switch or use the remote. It is easy to roll around the home on it's wheels.

How silly! There is no photograph on the front. The fake flames are very nice looking and peaceful to look at.

I strongly suggest that people that don't have the item don't waste people's time writing reviews for them to read!

Anonymous said...

Ok heres the deal the truth as I know it to be true seeing that I bought one of these amish heaters, Oh how stupid was I, last month my electric bill was $70.23 got the heater its very pretty ran it every day for a month non stop, husband is always cold, well got my electic bill today, $195.89 so you all be the judge. If you want it just to turn on for the prettiness of it and not use it alot then go ahead! BUT if your heating with it get ready for what I was given today,,,, A high electric bill

bgvermont said...

To all the folks who are turning down or off your central furnace and using a couple of these electric heaters instead, it is more expensive to heat with electric than with pretty much any other fuel. I won't argue with people's anecdotal evidence that they have saved tons of money on heating fuel and haven't seen any increase in their electricity bill, but the fact is the cost to heat with electricity is more expensive per million BTU ($/MMBtu)(almost twice as expensive vs. fuel oil!) . See this fuel price report for Vermont (where I live) http://publicservice.vermont.gov/pub/fuel-price-report/10sept.pdf. Unless you turn you thermostat way down and only heat the room you are currently in with a space heater, you are not saving money.

stainless steel compression tube fittings said...

Galvanized steel is steel that has been hot dipped in a pool of molten zinc. The zinc adheres to the steel, cools and hardens to form a rust inhibitive finish to plain steel.

plumbing said...

As you are probably aware, there are many different ways you can keep your home warm when the weather is cold. Some of these methods include solar heat, radiant heat, hydronic heat, and geothermal heat. You don't need to know how each of these systems are setup in depth, but it will be helpful if you can understand the basic concepts behind each method. That's because each method has got its own energy implications.

plumbing said...

If you want to buy a wall heater, make sure the room or space where you plan to install it has an area for ventilation. A ventilation system is important because wall heaters give off carbon monoxide, which is harmful to your health.