Best Electric Fireplaces of 2022 – Buyer’s Guide

| Last Updated: July 17, 2021

A cheery image of a decorated fireplace unwillingly pops in our head when we hear the word fireplace. Contrary to traditional ones, modern fireplaces have come a long way. The chic electric models these days are a work of art. 

From their ease of installation to the overall convenience of their usage, electric fireplaces are definitely a better way to go. With their multicolor flame display and instant smokeless heating, who can resist buying one for their home? 

If you are also interested in purchasing an electric fireplace but don’t know what to look for, you are in the right place. In this article, we have listed some of the best electric fireplaces for you to look at. Each product is followed by a comprehensive review to help you make the right choice. 

Comparison of the Best Electric Fireplaces

IMAGEPRODUCT
  • Improves the overall decor and looks
  • Will provide heating for quite a large room
  • An easy to use remote control included
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  • Can be installed inside the wall
  • Comes with multiple heat settings for quick adjustments
  • Designed to provide a realistic improved look
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  • Best for the Money
  • Made from strong and durable materials
  • Designed to be fitted inside the wall
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  • Best Corner Electric Fireplace
  • Will help to provide lighting to the room
  • Quite easy to assemble and use
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  • Best Electric Fireplace Insert
  • Comes with a wide range of heat settings
  • Designed with a natural authentic look
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  • Best Freestanding Electric Fireplace
  • Large design for better heating capability
  • Made from high-quality materials to last longer
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  • Best Electric Fireplace TV Stand
  • Better cable management options included
  • Shelves are adjustable for better storage management
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What is an Electric Fireplace?

Technically, an electric fireplace is an electric heater. It displays faux flames that mimic wood, natural gas, or coal-burning effects. They can also heat up space they are installed in. 

Compared to a conventional fireplace, electric fireplaces are generally more convenient. They don’t give off any dangerous emissions, which is why they don’t need external venting. 

Also, they feature a plug that can be connected to an outlet to operate. So they also don’t need any external pipelines to function properly. They were invented to make life simple and safe. With no real fire, smoke, or other dangerous by-products, these are the safest heating units.

Photo credit: familylivingtoday.com

How Does an Electric Fireplace Work?

Electric fireplaces have heating elements installed inside them. They draw in the cool air from their surroundings and heat it up internally with the help of the heating elements. A fan then gently pushes the warm air out through the vents. Some models also utilize infrared radiations to heat up the room they are installed in. 

In both cases, the result is instantaneous warmth without any risk or worry. Unlike traditional fireplaces, there is no ashy mess, smoke, and risky emissions. Also, since they don’t have real flames, the risk of fire is eliminated. They have a lot to offer in terms of features as well. 

Review of the Best Electric Fireplaces

Electric fireplaces come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and styles. Choosing one from a multitude of models is not an easy task. You have to go through various features and aspects to pick out a suitable one for yourself. Here is the review of the units we think are the best. 

Best Overall

Ameriwood Home 1794096COM

Ameriwood Home Farmington Electric Fireplace Console, TVs up to 50', Rustic

Specifications

Power: N/A

Coverage Area: 400 sq ft.

Heat Output: N/A

Dimensions: 15.69″ x 47.69″ x 29.13″

Weight: 96 lbs.

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What Recent Buyers Report

While its assembly is definitely tricky and time-consuming, buyers say that the included instructions are very clear and easy to follow. It arrives with all the required hardware so you won’t need to make any additional purchases. Users also report that once it is set up, it looks better than any advertising photos. With the aesthetic look paired with its ambient heating and flames, they are very happy with their purchase. 

Why it Stands Out to Us

A TV console fireplace definitely increases the ambiance of any living room. While other models may come at a hefty price tag, the Ameriwood Home 1794096COM is a very affordable unit that you can purchase for adding a touch of finesse to your home. It is an eye-pleasing unit that truly nails the job of heating up its surroundings. 

While the wood used for its construction is soft and lacking in quality, it makes up for it by being very sturdy. It features two shelves, both of which have a generous weight capacity of twenty pounds. Furthermore, the firebox insert placed in the lower central shelf certainly turns its look up a notch. 

Available in six different color schemes, you can easily choose one that matches your room’s interior. It will take some time to set up. But once done, it will become the most prominent focal point of your living area. 

Bottom Line

If you are looking to buy an electric fireplace for your living room, you won’t find any better than this. It is an attractive piece of furniture that will certainly enhance the appearance of the place it is installed in. With its ambient heating and non-heating flames, this will be a purchase that will earn you praises every time someone comes for a visit. 

Pros

Construction is very durable and sturdy

Features a metallic central firebox insert

Can accommodate a TV sizing up to fifty inches

Puts an ignored corner of the room to great use 

Both open and closed cabinetry is sufficient for books and other media components

Cons

Wood quality could be better

Assembling is a difficult task

Runner-up

Touchstone 80004

Touchstone Smart Electric Fireplace-The Sideline 50 Inch Wide-in Wall Recessed-30 Realistic Ember Color/Flame Options-1500W Heater w/Thermostat-Black- Log & Crystal Hearth Options -Alexa/WiFi Enabled

Specifications

Power: 750 watts / 1,500 watts

Coverage Area: 400 sq ft.

Heat Output: N/A

Dimensions: 50.4″ x 5.5″ x 21.5″

Weight: 59 lbs.

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What Recent Buyers Report

This appliance is a highly loved product. Users really like it for its ease of installation and usage. The remote control operation really gives them control with the touch of a button. Above all, the excellent customer care service has managed to impress the buyers with their professionalism. Whatever issues they had to face, the team members were very helpful in solving it.

Why it Stands Out to Us

The Touchstone electric fireplace is a great unit to pick up if you want a recessed installation. The very sleek and stylish unit is designed to fit inside the existing wall recesses. With this installed, you have the excellent opportunity to enjoy a natural-looking flame show without compromising on space. 

It offers several customizable settings that allow you to switch it up for different occasions. You can choose between different colors, effects, and brightness to create a more welcoming atmosphere. It can function with and without heating so you can enjoy its entertaining display all year round. 

It is available in a variety of sizes with a good capacity to bring up the temperature of the coldest room. You can choose between two different heat and five unique flame settings according to your preferences. And with the timer adjustment, you can set up a suitable run time to save on energy bills. 

Bottom Line

All in all, this exceptional piece of technology comes with both a faux log and a crystal setup. It allows multiple customizations that are certainly more than any other unit on the market. The frameless design is very appealing. Along with your home, it will also warm your heart with its splendid display and useful features. 

Pros

Equipped with a built-in timer

Offers several colors to choose from

Gives off a very sleek and modern look

Comes with a one-year manufacturer warranty

Followed by an excellent customer care service

Cons

Only suitable for recessed wall mounting

Best for the Money

Homedex 36″ Fireplace

Homedex 36' Recessed Mounted Electric Fireplace Insert with Touch Screen Control Panel, Remote Control, 750/1500W, Log/Crystal Options…

Specifications

Power: 750 watts / 1,500 watts

Coverage Area: 400 sq ft.

Heat Output: N/A

Dimensions: 40.5″ x 25.75″ x 9″

Weight: 47.9 lbs.

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What Recent Buyers Report

Buyers really like this versatile unit. They report that it supports both recessed and wall mounting installation. They like the touchscreen interface. It is simple and easy to navigate through. The remote control is also a major plus. Users also say that the front-facing vents heat up the room effectively without jacking up the energy bills. 

Why it Stands Out to Us

For us, this fireplace is an excellent combination of fashion and functionality. With its beautiful and vast range of nine different colors and five intensity levels, you can choose a setting that reflects your mood. You can also choose to operate both with or without the heating feature, making it a versatile yet impressive piece to add to your home décor. 

It comes with two different decorative accessories. You can set up a traditional log burning setup or go for the crystalline embers for a mesmerizing effect. It is perfectly capable of heating a 400 square feet room for up to eight hours. It is also equipped with a timer so you can adjust its runtime to suit your needs. 

Bottom Line

Choose this unit for an effective yet efficient way of warming your home. You can use it without heat and level up the ambiance. It is a highly affordable unit that is heavy on features yet light on the pocket. The adjustable colors, intensities, touchscreen interface, hand remote, and a sleek display have earned it a well-deserving spot on our list.

Pros

Comes with a remote control

Delivers a very bright and realistic flame effect

Offers a choice between five different intensities

Features a touchscreen interface for easier operation

Flames can be adjusted between nine color variations

Cons

Color schemes are not exactly natural

Installation requires prior wall preparation

Best Corner Electric Fireplace

Real Flame 5950E

Real Flame Chateau 41' Corner Electric Fireplace with Mantel for Living Room or Bedroom, Replaceable Fireplace Insert Heater, Realistic Log and Flame Effect, Remote Control, Timer.

Specifications

Power: 1,500 watts

Coverage Area: N/A

Heat Output: 4,780 BTU/h

Dimensions: 40.94″ x 25.28″ x 37.6″

Weight: 77 lbs.

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What Recent Buyers Report

According to recent buyers reviews, the fireplace looks very grand. Just as the name suggests, the overall appearance is worthy of a chateau. Though it does require some time in assembling, the final result certainly deserves every minute spent in its assembly. Users like the inviting effect it creates and the hand remote operation are considered the cherry on top. 

Why it Stands Out to Us

We really like this fireplace for its amazing features. The size is good, and it puts an empty corner in your house to great use. The eye-catching design itself adds to the interior décor, while the space above the mantle allows you to customize the display as you like. 

You should really look into purchasing this if your living room is small. Despite its wooden construction, it resembles stone mantles. The size may be small, but it packs tons of great features. The remote control operation, adjustable brightness, thermostat, bright and flickering flames, and maximum BTU output are enough to tempt anyone into purchasing it. 

Bottom Line

To sum up, this unit is designed to impress. The great design, combined with high-quality construction, definitely makes it stand out from many of its competitors. Though it is small in size, it does not lack in any way. You can enjoy the inviting display and consistent heat with this installed inside your house.

Pros

Can be controlled via hand remote

Available in three different finishes

Comes with all the required hardware

Features a veneered MDF construction

Beautiful unit that is very energy-efficient

Cons

Arrives in a number of packages

Requires assembly to be able to function

Best Electric Fireplace Insert

PuraFlame EF45DFGF

PuraFlame Western Electric Fireplace Insert with Fire Crackling Sound, Remote Control, 750/1500W, Black, 33 1/16 Inches Wide, 25 9/16 Inches High

Specifications

Power: 750 watts / 1,500 watts

Coverage Area: 400 sq ft.

Heat Output: N/A

Dimensions: 35.04″ x 8.78″ x 26.99″

Weight: 46.74 lbs.

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What Recent Buyers Report

Recent buyers state that this is one very realistic fireplace insert, which is why many opted to purchase it. They really like the effect they create. Except for the wood crackling sounds, it delivers the exact experience. Buyers also love the adjustment options and the remote control feature. The well-made firebox is easy to install and is available in varying sizes, so people have easily purchased a suitable one for their fireplace. 

Why it Stands Out to Us

This is a highly efficient way of putting your old fireplace to use. It may be messier and smokey with actual logs, but with this beautiful unit, you can say goodbye to the mess. The bright LED display set over the raisin log setup looks like live flames. Compared to a traditional fireplace, it is very safe, convenient, and easy to use. 

We really like it for its sturdy construction and easy functionality. It effectively heats up a 400 square feet room with its energy-efficient operation. It is 100% energy-efficient, so you won’t be burdened by high energy bills when you decide to install it. All in all, it is a good idea to put your out-of-use traditional fireplace with this unit. 

Bottom Line

PuraFlame EF45DFGF is a viable replacement option for your old fireplace area. Just insert it inside, plug it in, and enjoy the realistic flames without the mess and smoke of real ones. The heating is adequate, and the remote control makes it easier to use. To sum up, if you like log burning visuals but don’t have the power or resources to lug real logs, invest in this reliable unit. 

Pros

Available in a variety of sizes

Very quick and easy to install

Can be operated via remote control

Cool to touch surface is resistant to overheating

Faux logs are arranged in a way to create a very realistic bed of embers

Cons

Not suitable for heating large rooms

Best Freestanding Electric Fireplace

TURBRO Suburbs TS20

TURBRO Suburbs TS20 Electric Fireplace Infrared Heater, 20' Freestanding Fireplace Stove with Realistic Dancing Flame Effect - CSA Certified - Overheating Safety Protection - Easy to Assemble - 1400W

Specifications

Power: 1,400 watts

Coverage Area: 1,000 sq ft.

Heat Output: 4,750 BTU/h

Dimensions: 17″ x 10″ x 20″

Weight: 15.5 lbs.

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What Recent Buyers Report

Buyers are particularly impressed by the way it was shipped. The packaging is immaculate with each and every component delicately wrapped in Styrofoam to prevent scratches and tossing around. They report that setting it up is also very easy except the legs, which are tricky to attach. It can heat up a small to medium-sized room comfortably. 

Why it Stands Out to Us

A number of things make this unit stand out. This is your modern-day space heater with the classic look of a vintage cast iron stove. You might assume it to weigh hundreds of pounds, but in reality, it only weighs around twenty pounds, though the lighter weight definitely does not mean low quality. The frame and legs are all entirely made of heavy-duty metal, which makes it a solid and durable product. 

It is very easy to assemble and operate. To keep up the aesthetic look, the control panel is installed inside the door. The dial allows you to adjust the temperature according to your needs. It is a powerful unit that can produce maximum BTUs to heat up a room spread over a 1000 square feet area. To top it all, it comes with a one-year manufacturer warranty, so you can really trust it to be a reliable unit. 

Bottom Line

Finding an efficient and reliable electric freestanding space heater is a difficult task in this day and age. Yet this unit delivers maximum performance without increasing your energy bills drastically. It has a vintage look and feels that never goes out of style. Standing in your home, it will not look out of place. Buy it to enjoy the cozy comfort of dancing flames in a vintage style oven, that, too, with or without heating. 

Pros

Very quick and easy to assemble

Can be used with or without heating

Frame and legs are entirely made out of quality metal

Freestanding stove design can complement any décor

Lightweight unit is easy to move from one place to another

Cons

Legs are a bit difficult to attach

Does not support remote control operation

Best Electric Fireplace TV Stand

Walker Edison Fireplace Stand

Walker Edison Georgetown Modern Farmhouse Double Barn Door Fireplace TV Stand for TVs up to 65 Inches, 58 Inch, White Oak

Specifications

Power: N/A

Coverage Area: 400 sq ft.

Heat Output: 4,600 BTU/h

Dimensions: 16″ x 58″ x 25″

Weight: 100 lbs.

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What Recent Buyers Report

Most buyers are actually quite pleased with their purchase of this unit. They really like it for its versatile functionality. It works as a TV console, holds and stores all their media accessories inside its shelves, produces an inviting fireplace display, and heats up the room when needed. Combine all of these with a sturdy build and a number of color options, and who can resist it? Users are highly appreciative of it and would recommend it to others as well. 

Why it Stands Out to Us

We found this electric fireplace variation to be versatile in its functionality. This is a useful piece of furniture that serves as a complete entertainment station. It can easily hold up TVs of up to 60 inches in size. There is also a cable management setup that allows you to run the TV cables, so they don’t become unsightly. 

It also features two cabinets, one on each side of the firebox insert. Each cabinet is installed with adjustable shelves for storage purposes. The middle shelf is meant to hold the firebox insert, yet you can remove it to make more space if you like. 

The firebox is very effective and energy-efficient in its working. The flames look majestic, and the heating is adequate. You can choose to run the display with or without the heating function. It is also available in a variety of color schemes so you can easily pick up one that matches your décor. 

Bottom Line

Though this is a fully functional piece of furniture, it comes with an equally useful firebox insert. The unit may serve many other purposes, but the heating and eye-catching flame display really make it stand out from the rest. All in all, this is a fantastic unit that will not disappoint you in any way. 

Pros

Includes stand that is adjustable

Boasts a mix of rustic and modern farmhouse style

Heating and fire display can be turned on separately

Easy assembly does not require an electrician or venting

Features a cable management setup for running TV cords

Cons

Heavy piece of furniture

Directions to put together are not very clear

Best Wall Mounted Electric Fireplace

PuraFlame Alice 50″ Fireplace

PuraFlame Alice 50 Inches Recessed Electric Fireplace, Flush Mounted for 2 X 6 Stud, Log Set & Crystal, 1500W Heater, Remote Control, Black

Specifications

Power: 750 watts / 1,500 watts

Coverage Area: N/A

Heat Output: N/A

Dimensions: 50″ x 5.9″ x 20.27″

Weight: 60.08 lbs.

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What Recent Buyers Report

Its performance completely wins over people who decided to purchase and install this unit in their homes. The touchscreen interface makes it very easy to use, and the timer allows them to set up the run time according to their needs. Buyers also love the variety of colors and decorative options it presents. 

Why it Stands Out to Us

This is one of the most stylish units in our list of the best fireplaces. With its easy installation and user-friendly interface, it is a good option to install anywhere in your house. It looks great, whether located in a bedroom or living area. 

It allows you to choose the decorative accessories. You can either have the display burn logs or ice crystals on the fuel bed. You can also change them any time you want with the easy-to-remove glass panel. The color of flames can also be customized. You can choose between blue, orange, or a combination of both. Also, it can run either with or without heating. 

The heat it generates is instantaneous yet very efficient. It flows from the top, so the display remains cool to touch. It can run on both high and low settings while the thermostat and timer features turn down the heat when it reaches the desired temperature. 

Bottom Line

We find this unit to be a perfect combination of looks and functionality. Coming from a reliable name in the industry, you can trust it to deliver a safe and consistent heating experience. With its amazing customization options, you can enjoy the display and heating as you like. It is overall a splendid unit to purchase. 

Pros

Mounting it on a wall is a breeze

Beautiful unit is very pleasant to look at

Sturdy construction will last for a long time

Comes with all the required installation hardware

Boasts a bright and mesmerizing LED faux flame display

Cons

Needs more than one person to mount it

Capable of heating small to medium-sized rooms only

Most Realistic Electric Fireplace

Duraflame 3D DFI-5010-01

duraflame Freestanding Electric Fireplace Stove Heater with 3D Flame Effect for 1,000 Sq. Ft. Room, Black

Specifications

Power: N/A

Coverage Area: 1,000 sq ft.

Heat Output: 5,200 BTU/h

Dimensions: 13.07″ x 24″ x 23.4″

Weight: 28.6 lbs.

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What Recent Buyers Report

It is claimed to be a good little unit. Buyers really love the three-sided view of burning embers visible inside a vintage wood stove design. The genuine-looking product comes at a very affordable price, yet it delivers a realistic cozy cabin feel. People say that it has certainly improved the ambiance of their homes as well as the quality of décor. 

Why it Stands Out to Us

We find this unit to be one of the most energy-efficient space heaters. With its infrared quartz heating, it effectively heats up the room without excessively drying out the air. Being infrared functional, instead of the surrounding air, it heats up the objects around it which in turn also start radiating heat. The result is naturally humid air. 

It features a long-lasting metal body that is fitted with an easy operating door, sloping glass, and windows for a side view. It utilizes a unique 3D technology to deliver a realistic and mesmerizing flame effect. It comes with remote control for more convenience. You can also adjust the brightness between the five adjustable settings and speed. It also does not hurt that the unit is portable and very easy to set up. 

Bottom Line

Duraflame 3D Infrared Electric Fireplace Space Heater is capable of providing an impressive amount of heat output. You can rely on it to deliver a terrific level of ambiance. It is both safe and easy to use, so you can place it anywhere in your house and enjoy the warmth wash over yourself. Furthermore, it comes at a very affordable price, making it a solid contender for your choice. 

Pros

Boasts a quiet and noiseless operation

Infrared heating reduces static electricity

Equipped with an adjustable digital thermostat

Provides energy-efficient and cost-effective zone heating

Patent-pending 3D flame effect technology delivers realistic dancing flames

Cons

Buttons lack in quality

Not suited for large rooms

Types of Electric Fireplaces

Electric fireplaces are categorized into different types by how they are installed. You can mount one on a wall, place it on a pedestal, recess into a wall, or simply use it with the accompanying mantle. Here is a brief rundown of some of the most commonly used electric fireplaces. 

Wall-Mounted 

These types of electric fireplaces are installed on wall mounting brackets. They are hung up like a picture frame or a flat-screen TV. They are not permanent installations. You can easily take them out when needed. They are an attractive addition to any apartment.

Built-in

Such electric fireplaces are installed into a wall. Although the look is more refined, the installation is a bit more complicated. To install one of these, you will first need to create a niche in the wall where the fireplace will be inserted. One benefit of having these is the lack of unsightly connectivity wires. Though you can install it yourself, we would suggest hiring professionals to do so. 

Photo credit: noblerate.com

See-Through or Two-Sided 

This electric fireplace is exceptionally beautiful to look at. It is installed into the dividing wall between two rooms. The fully functional unit can heat up both rooms at the same time. It also comes with a screen that you can put up on demand to ensure privacy. 

Three-Sided 

These are a special category of built-in electric fireplaces. They feature a viewing glass on all three sides. They add a modern touch to your décor with their multicolored faux flames that can be viewed from all three sides. You can also customize them during installation to make them two-sided. Unlike other types, these project deeper, more realistic flames. 

Electric Fireplace Inserts

Inserts are special devices that can convert any wood or gas fireplace into a modern electric one. You can opt for a firebox insert or an electric log insert. All you have to do with the former is find a suitable size, place it inside your existing fireplace, and plug it in to enjoy the heat. 

Meanwhile, the latter looks like a stack of logs that are lighted to deliver the effect of burning flames inside your fireplace. A remote control allows you to control the various aspects such as flame height, intensity, and heat. 

Pros and Cons of an Electric Fireplace

An electric fireplace is a modern and cost-effective way of bringing up your home’s temperature within a cozy range. With the rise in popularity, more and more people are opting to install one in their home. But do you know that these extremely useful appliances have their shortcomings too? Let’s discuss some pros and cons of owning an electric fireplace. 

Pros

Once you start using it, buying an electric fireplace will turn out to be the best decision you ever made. Here are some major pros associated with it. 

Low Cost

Compared to any other heating device, they have the lowest upfront costs.

Ease of Installation

Traditional wood-burning or gas fireplaces require proper installation and venting. But their electric variation is the easiest to install. They are ready to work straight out of the box. All you have to do is plug them in an outlet. 

Photo credit: cyberspaceandtime.com

No Mess

Traditional fireplaces have a reputation for creating a mess. Their electric counterparts deliver the same level of ambiance, but without causing any mess. 

Don’t Pollute Air

We know that gas and wood-burning fireplaces are responsible for producing dangerous emissions and pollutants. Since there is no burning involved in electric ones, they don’t pollute the air. 

Safe to Use

If you have small kids or pets roaming around your house, you will know how risky a traditional fireplace can be. Comparatively, electric fireplaces with their cool-to-touch surfaces are completely safe to use around them. 

Cons

There is no denying their usefulness, but electric fireplaces have some cons as well. They include: 

Inability to Function Without Electricity

This is one major con associated with them. During rough weather conditions, power outages are common. In such a situation, an electric fireplace won’t be able to help you because it cannot function without electricity. 

Cannot Toast Marshmallows

Who does not like well-toasted marshmallows? Unfortunately, you cannot make one with an electric fireplace as the flames it displays are not real. 

Comparison Overview

Fireplaces are a traditional part of our culture. They are a great source of both light and heat. Traditionally, we used to have wood-burning fireplaces. But over time, technology improved and became more advanced. 

We were introduced to the gas fireplace, electric fireplace, infrared fireplace, and gel fireplace, amongst other things. Here is a comparison overview of some of the more common models. 

Electric vs Gas Fireplace

Electric and gas fireplaces are the most commonly used models. They are similar in their functioning yet differ in many aspects. Let’s learn about their similarities and differences.

Similarities

Both electric and gas fireplaces serve the dual purpose of heating and lighting the place they are installed in.

Differences

Electric fireplaces utilize electricity to heat up the heating elements built into them. They draw on cool air, warm it up, and circulate it around the room with the help of a fan. On the other hand, gas fireplaces utilize natural gas as a source of fuel to heat up the surroundings. 

Infrared Fireplace vs Electric Fireplace

Infrared fireplaces are a comparatively new addition to the market. They are quickly gaining popularity for being more efficient than electric ones. Let’s check out the similarities and dissimilarities. 

Similarities

Electric fireplaces utilize electricity to produce heat. Infrared fireplaces can also use electricity to generate heat. The main purpose of both is also the same: to heat up a cold room.

Differences

While electric fireplaces only utilize electricity for heating purposes, some infrared fireplaces can also work on gas. The former functions by circulating warm air throughout the room, while the latter emits infrared radiation that heats up the objects inside the room, which also starts radiating warmth. 

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Gel vs Electric Fireplace

Gel fireplaces are also a great way to heat up your home. Here is how they compare to electric fireplaces. 

Similarities 

Both gel and electric fireplaces are similar in terms of portability. You can easily use either one of these to effectively eliminate cold and create a warm and cozy atmosphere for you. 

Differences 

Though they are similar, gel and electric fireplaces differ in the fuel type. The former burns a gel fuel to generate live flames that, in turn, heat up their surroundings. Gel fuel is an alcohol-based fuel that burns clean without any smoke or emissions. Electric models definitely cannot produce real flames. 

Electric Fireplace vs Space Heater

Space heaters have had their share of popularity. They are an effective way of heating up the inside of your house. Here are some ways they are similar and different from electric fireplaces. 

Similarities

Both of these appliances are very efficient and cost-effective. You can actually reap the same heating benefits by using either one of them. 

Differences

As mentioned above, they deliver the same benefits. But electric fireplaces deliver them with significantly reduced risk than space heaters. Also, compared to the portable fire mimicking devices, space heaters tend to become an unsightly addition to your home décor. 

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How to Install an Electric Fireplace

Electric fireplaces are a preferred purchase for their ease of installation. These functional pieces of décor don’t require any external gas lines or venting, which is why most buyers opt for DIY installation. The procedure is very simple, and you will be done in as little as half an hour. Here is how: 

  1. Choose the wall you want to mount your fireplace on and locate its center. Measure the entire wall from left to right and mark the center.

  2. Next, place the measuring tape beneath the mark and place another mark two feet off the floor.

  3. Also, measure the height of the fireplace and include the measurement to the two-feet mark. This is the spot where your unit will mount. 

  4. Now take out the fireplace from its packaging and place it face down on a soft flat surface. 

  5. Take a screwdriver and unscrew the bolts holding the glass to the frame. 

  6. Slide the frame off the glass. Put the glass aside. 

  7. Set down the frame and remove the wall-mounting bracket screwed to the back. 

  8. Pickup the bracket and align the center screw with the spot you marked previously.

  9. Screw-in the first screw here. 

  10. Now take a leveler; make sure the bracket is dead straight and screw in the rest of the bolts. 

  11. Mount the fireplace frame on to the bracket and secure it with screws.

  12. Some units come with decorative accessories. If your unit does too, now is the time to load them into it. 

  13. Take a glass cleaner and clean the glass to get rid of dust and debris.

  14. Install the glass back onto the frame. Secure it with screws. 

  15. Plug the appliance into the outlet and enjoy.

Although we have simplified the procedure in the above-mentioned steps, if you are still confused, you can check the link given below to view a video of the process. 

Conclusion

Electric fireplaces are a highly efficient, practical, low cost, convenient, and luxurious way of heating your home. There is nothing more comforting than a fire roaring cheerfully. But where an open fire is not an option, electric fireplaces effectively take up their space.

While reading this article, you have spent a great deal of time analyzing the best electric fireplaces. You can easily choose a suitable one for yourself from the list given above. Utilize the knowledge and tips that we have shared to make the ideal purchase. 

People Also Ask

Just like any other electronic device, electric fireplaces also have mixed reactions. Some people are all for it while others think they are a waste of money. If the divide has confused you, here are some frequently asked questions about electric fireplaces that will help clear the confusion from your mind.

Can You Plug an Electric Fireplace Into a Regular Outlet?

The installation of an electric fireplace is very simple and effortless. It does not require any dedicated circuits. All you need is a regular electric supply outlet near the place you want to install it. Just set it up and plug it into an outlet. However, it is good to connect that outlet to a dedicated breaker or fuse as an added precaution. 

Do Electric Fireplaces Need to Be Vented?

Electric fireplaces are a more convenient and easy-to-use device than their gas operated counterparts. They work as a plug-and-play device. You can install one anywhere, in the basement, on a wall, in a wall, on the stairs, etc. Since it does not have any emissions, it does not need to be vented. 

What is a Linear Electric Fireplace?

Linear fireplaces are a recent fad. They are proof that fireplace technology has come a long way forward. These easy-to-install, wall-mounted units display ambient, and natural-looking LED flame. The faux fire heats up the room with built-in heating devices and can be regulated with remote control. 

How Far Off the Floor Should an Electric Fireplace Be?

Electric fireplaces come in three heating variations: bottom heat, top heat, and front heat. If you have a bottom heat fireplace, be sure to install it at least 1.5 feet off the floor. On the other hand, top and front heat appliances don’t have this restriction. You can install them at any height. 

What Does E5 Mean on an Electric Fireplace?

E5 is an error code. It shows that your fan or venting is facing issues. If E5 is displaying after the fan has been turned on, then most likely, there is a blockage in your venting. And if the fan is not switching on, then there could be a voltage problem that is causing the unit to display E5. 

How Much Does an Electric Fireplace Cost? 

An electric fireplace is a convenient and stylish way of improving the atmosphere of your home. This plug-and-play appliance costs around $200 for the most basic version. As the quality and features improve, the price also increases. The most expensive units come at a $700 or $800 price tag. 

How Much Does it Cost to Run an Electric Fireplace?

Many manufacturers claim that their electric fireplaces are safe and cheaper to run than any other modules. According to many consumers, electric fireplaces cost around three cents an hour to run without the heating turned on and around eight cents an hour to operate with the heating turned on. 

How to Get Toothpaste Off an Electric Fireplace

Although the situation is very unlikely, if you do somehow get toothpaste on your electric fireplace, remember that toothpaste is water-soluble. Use a spoon or dull knife to remove the upper layer and dab the spot with a cloth soaked in a water and detergent mixture. Blot it with a damp cloth, and it will come off. 

Which is Cheaper to Run, a Gas or Electric Fireplace?

From what we have learned so far, gas fireplaces may be costlier units for their expensive installation. But they are definitely more expensive to run than their electric counterparts. Electric fireplaces are almost 100% efficient. So you can run an electricity-operated unit without any major racking up in your energy bill.

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My name is Bob Wells and I am a retired HVAC tech from Washington state. I am currently retired and no longer do much with HVAC, however, I feel like I have a lot of knowledge in the subject and I wanted to create a website where I could talk about what I've learned and help upcoming HVAC techs. Find more info about me and HVAC Training 101.