Dr. Infrared Heater DR-968H Portable Space Heater with Humidifier review

The Dr. Infrared Heater DR-968H is the humidifier-equipped member of the company’s portable DR-968 family. It is still a 1,500-watt, fan-forced heater with two heat levels, an automatic thermostat, a remote and a rear filter, but the distinct reason to choose this exact model is its built-in humidifier assembly. That feature changes both setup and care: the manual supplies a separate water bottle and specifies distilled water, not a casual fill from the tap.

Heating modes and the humidifier do different jobs

The manual identifies Model No. DR-968H and lists ECO, HIGH, LOW and Standby. HIGH is 1,500 watts and the named LOW mode is 1,000 watts; ECO automatically selects between those levels around the thermostat setting. The heater’s fan runs as part of the heating process. The manual does not offer a distinct fan-only mode, so the DR-968H is not a cooling fan for warm weather and should not be recommended where fanless heat is essential.

The humidifier is a separate rear-mounted accessory that hooks into the heater body and connects electrically. Its supplied bottle holds up to 500 milliliters. The manufacturer instructs owners to fill it with distilled water and warns that the connector must be tight to prevent leaks. This small reservoir can add moisture locally as the heater runs; the documented capacity is not evidence that it will humidify a whole home, correct a measured humidity problem or replace a dedicated room humidifier.

The humidity feature is also a care commitment. The manual says to clean the humidifier monthly or as needed, and to switch the heater off and unplug it before removing and cleaning the assembly. If you do not want to measure, replenish and clean a water bottle, a heater without the humidifier accessory is simpler. If a humidifier is essential, the DR-968H is a stronger fit than the standard DR-968, but its actual water-handling routine should match your household.

Heat direction, timer and filter

The DR-968H manual does not document a powered rotating outlet. It has a remote and a one-to-twelve-hour shutoff timer, which is a countdown to stop a running heater rather than a delayed start. That distinction matters when a buyer expects a pre-warmed room: the timer cannot be treated as a schedule to begin later. The manual urges caution around children and unattended operation; neither the remote nor the timer removes the need to follow that warning.

The rear electrostatic filter is removable and can be vacuumed. The manual gives the removal procedure and advises cleaning it as needed. Keep the intake clear, and leave the rear accessible for maintenance. Having a heater with a filter does not make it an air purifier; the manufacturer’s instructions describe upkeep for the heater intake, not a certified particle-cleaning function.

Electrical setup and safety boundary

This exact model is rated at 120 volts, 60 Hz and 1,500 watts, with maximum continuous draw of 12.5 amps. It has a grounded three-prong plug; use a suitable grounded wall outlet and follow the manual’s direction not to run the cord under carpeting or across a walking path. The manual requires three feet from combustible materials in front and separation from the sides and rear. It says the unit is not for outdoor use, bathrooms, laundry areas or similar wet locations, and not where it could fall into a bathtub or water container.

Tip-over and overheat cutoffs are included, but a safety switch does not make this a bathroom heater or authorize use near a sink. Place it on a firm, level, dry surface where the water reservoir and cord cannot be disturbed. Use the manufacturer’s exact instructions if the humidifier leaks, the heater overheats or a fault appears; do not continue operating a damaged appliance.

Which buyer should choose it?

Choose the DR-968H when you want the DR-968-style two-stage heater and specifically value a small integrated humidifier that you are willing to maintain. The standard DR-968 omits the documented humidifier assembly; the DR-998 also includes a humidifier but adds a left-right rotatable outlet. Those are different practical tradeoffs, not evidence that any one model heats a room better. The DR-978 is another 1,500-watt two-setting option with its own Night Mode instructions, but no humidifier is listed for that exact configuration.

Dr. Infrared’s marketing calls the heating system dual heating; that claim is not a comparative test result. This review relies on the exact U.S. listing and DR-968H owner’s manual. No personal ownership, independent humidification measurement or room-heating trial is claimed.

Dr. Infrared DR-968H product page · DR-968H manual