Infratech · Accessories
Pick the Right Infratech Control — Simple Switch vs. Smart Package
Infratech offers five distinct control packages, from a basic on/off switch up to Home Management System integration. Here's which fits each install.
By Reed · Updated November 10, 2026
What you need
Step by step
Simple On/Off Switches
Basic 2-position switch. Full on or full off, no dimming. Lowest cost, fine for single-heater installs where you're not fine-tuning warmth.
Duplex / Stack Switches
Two or more switch positions in a single face plate. Lets you control multiple heaters or zones from one wall location. Still no dimming per heater.
Enhanced Timer Package
Timer-driven on/off. Set a run duration (30 min, 60 min, etc.) and the heater auto-shuts off. Prevents the common 'left the heater on all night' problem.
Solid State Control Packages (Simple Plus)
0-100% output dimming per heater. The sweet spot for most residential patios — gives you actual thermal control, not just on/off.
Universal Control Package (Smart)
Solid-state dimming + 120VAC lighting interface. Lets you tie heater control to a smart-home scene (e.g. 'Patio Evening' turns on lights AND heaters at 60%).
Home Management System (Smart Plus)
Full integration via a 0-10V DC signal input. Works with Crestron, Control4, Lutron, etc. Only worth it on a smart-home install with existing integrator.
INF Input Regulators
Standalone dimmer for retrofit installs where you want 0-100% control without replacing the switch plate. Less common — ask Infratech sales if a Simple Plus doesn't fit your wall.
Common mistakes
- Pairing an Infratech heater with a standard household dimmer. Standard incandescent or LED dimmers are NOT rated for the inductive / resistive load of an infrared heater element. Use Infratech's own solid-state controls or a certified electrician-spec'd dimmer.
- Over-specifying for a two-heater residential patio. Home Management System is overkill for most residential setups. Simple Plus (solid-state dimming) covers 90%+ of patios.
Hands-on tips
- Order the control at the same time as the heaters — bundling avoids the 'arrived, can't install yet' delay.
- If you're on a budget, Simple Plus + a home-store smart plug on the circuit gets you app control without the Universal Control upcharge.
Questions people ask
Can I dim with a Lutron dimmer I already own?
Only if Lutron explicitly rates it for resistive heater loads at your heater's wattage. Most common Lutron Caseta and Maestro dimmers DO NOT. Check Lutron's product spec before using.
Does the Home Management System work with HomeKit?
Not directly — HMS speaks 0-10V DC. You'd need a hub (Lutron RA3, Crestron) that bridges HomeKit to 0-10V. Most buyers at this level already have one.
Was this guide helpful?
Shopping for Infratech?
See Infratech products