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When a heated blanket just isn’t cutting it, a glowing fireplace brings warmth to a home on cold days. An electric fireplace can offer a cost-effective, simple solution that’s a popular alternative to traditional fireplaces. But before you buy an electric fireplace, it’s important to understand which type of fireplace is best for your needs. I spoke with a heating expert to get the details on everything from fireplace size to heating capacity to safety features. Read on to learn how to choose the best electric fireplace for your needs, and then check out our top picks for the best electric fireplaces to get started.
What to consider when buying an electric fireplace
Energy usage
Justin Bohannon, Owner/Operator at Affordable Solutions HVAC & Electrical in Durham, NC, explains that energy consumption of electric fireplaces can vary depending on the model. “Look for models that have energy-saving features such as adjustable heat settings and timers to optimize energy usage,” he advises.
Safety features
Consider whether an electric fireplace is equipped with safety features like cool-touch exteriors, overheating protection, and tip-over protection. “These features ensure the safe operation of the electric fireplace, particularly if you have children or pets,” says Bohannon.
Heating capacity
Check to verify that the electric fireplace’s heating capacity is appropriate for the space that you plan to use it in. The heat content of fireplaces is measured in British thermal units, or BTUs. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, a BTU is the amount of heat needed to increase the temperature of one pound of liquid water by one degree Fahrenheit “at the temperature the water has at its greatest density (approximately 39 degrees Fahrenheit.)”
Golden Chimney explains that most average electric fireplaces that use a 120-volt outlet generate 4,600 to 5,000 BTUs per hour, which is adequate to heat a 400-square-foot space. More powerful models use 240-volt outlets and are capable of generating 9,000 to 10,000 BTUs per hour. These more powerful models are capable of heating 800-square-foot spaces.
Additional features
Electric fireplaces are available with a variety of additional features that can enhance their use. “Consider additional features such as flame effects, adjustable brightness, remote control, thermostat, and timer,” says Bohannon. “These features can enhance the ambiance and convenience of your electric fireplace.”
Price
Consider your budget, as well as any electrical work that you might need to have done before installing the fireplace. “Prices can vary significantly depending on the size, style, features, and brand of the electric fireplace,” Bohannon notes.
Our top picks for the best electric fireplaces
Best electric fireplace with mantel: Harlan 55” Grand Electric Fireplace by Real Flame
With its clean, classic appearance, this electric fireplace will make a statement in your living room or bedroom. It features an automatic safety shut off, as well as the ability to set a timer from 30-minute to 10-hour increments. The adjustable thermostat features six heat options, and you can choose from six flame colors including orange, white, blue, and multicolor.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 44.13” H x 55.13” W x 13.5” D
- Heat output: 5100 BTUs per hour
- Heating capacity: 1,000 square feet
- Weight: 119.56 pounds
- Voltage: 120 Volts
- Wattage: 1500 Watts
- Safety certifications: CSA
- Price on publish: $970.27
What we like:
- LED bulb
- Timer intervals from 30 minutes to 10 hours
- Automatic safety shut off and thermal overload protection
- Six flame colors
- Includes a remote
- No professional installation required
- Adjustable thermostat
- One-year limited warranty
What we don’t like:
- Thermostat can only be used with six pre-programmed settings
- Primarily made of medium-density fiberboard
- Assembly required
The bottom line:
This electric fireplace features a clean, classic-looking mantle, and it’s equipped with features like a timer and six thermostat settings to help save energy.
Harlan 55” Grand Electric Fireplace by Real Flame
Best wall mount electric fireplace: Dimplex Sierra 48 in. Wall/Built-in Linear Electric Fireplace
This electric fireplace gives you plenty of options, including the ability to build it into the wall, mount it on a wall, or place it on a table stand. It’s powerful enough to heat up to 1,000 square feet, and does so quietly. The base log, pebbles, and crystals are all interchangeable, and you can also choose from eight ember bed and flame colors to further customize its looks.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 19.5” H x 48” W x 5” D
- Heat output: 4777 BTU per hour
- Heating capacity: 1,000 square feet
- Weight: 40.6 pounds
- Voltage: 120 Volts
- Wattage: 1400 Watts
- Safety certifications: CSA, UL
- Price on publish: $488.33
What we like:
- Automatic room temperature setting for easy use
- Interchangeable base log, pebbles, and crystals included
- Eight ember bed and flame colors
- Ability to separately illuminate flames and ember beds
- Install built into the wall, mounted on the wall, or on a table stand
- Touchscreen controls
- Remote included
- One-year limited warranty
What we don’t like:
- Some buyers found the assembly constructions confusing
- Logs aren’t highly realistic
The bottom line:
This electric fireplace can be built into a wall, mounted on a wall, or placed on a table stand, plus the base log, pebbles, and crystals are interchangeable for a customized look.
Dimplex Sierra 48 in. Wall/Built-in Linear Electric Fireplace
Best modern electric fireplace: R.W. Flame Wall Mounted Electric Fireplace
This electric fireplace includes a wall mount and is available in multiple sizes. You can alternate between 750 and 1500 wattages to save energy, and there are plenty of other customizations including 12 color modes, five flame brightness levels, and five flame speeds. While the heating capacity is limited to 400 square feet, this fireplace’s modern and sleek look would be a great addition to a smaller living room or bedroom.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 60” L x 18.11” H x 3.85” W
- Heat output: Not specified
- Heating capacity: 400 square feet
- Weight: 67 pounds
- Voltage: 120 Volts
- Wattage: 750, 1500 Watts
- Safety certifications: ETL
- Price on publish: $299.99
What we like:
- Two wattage settings to save electricity
- Touchscreen control
- 12 multicolor modes to adjust flame and LED background color
- Five flame brightness levels
- Five flame speed modes
- Adjustable thermostat
- Remote control included
- Night mode heats without lights
- Auto-heat kill setting for safety
- Includes wall mount
- Just 3.85 inches thick
- One-year limited warranty
What we don’t like:
- Heating capacity limited to 400 square feet
- Thermostat range not specified
The bottom line:
This electric fireplace includes a wall mount, and you can choose between multiple flame speeds, brightnesses, and multi-color modes for customized performance and appearance.
R.W. Flame Wall Mounted Electric Fireplace
Best smart electric fireplace: Touchstone Sideline 50 Inch Recessed Smart Electric Fireplace 80004
This smart electric fireplace is designed for easy and versatile operation. While it features a touchscreen and a remote, its WiFi connectivity means you can use the Touchstone app to set the heat temperature, adjust flame color and intensity, power the unit on and off, and more. You can also set up voice commands with Alexa and Google Home for hands-free use.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 50.38” W x 21.5” H x 5.5” D
- Heat output: 5,000 BTUs
- Heating capacity: 400 square feet
- Weight: 59 pounds
- Voltage: 120 Volts
- Wattage: 1500 Watts
- Safety certifications: Not specified
- Price on publish: $499
What we like:
- Can be plugged in or hardwired
- Can operate with a Touchstone mobile app
- App available for iOS and Android
- Three flame color options
- Five levels of flame speed
- 10 ember bed color options
- Thermostat features auto-off overheat protection
- Timer ranging from 30 minutes to 7.5 hours
- Includes remote control
- Can use heat and flames independently
- Includes glass crystals and log set for customization
What we don’t like:
- Customers find the faux log unrealistic
- Limited heating capacity
The bottom line:
This electric fireplace’s WIFi connectivity means you can control it with the Touchstone mobile app or even set up voice commands with Alexa or Google Home.
Touchstone Sideline 50 Inch Recessed Smart Electric Fireplace 80004
Best fireplace insert: Giantex 28.5” Electric Fireplace Insert
This electric fireplace features a space-saving design and can be inserted into a wall or cabinet. Two heating levels, an adjustable thermostat from 62 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit, and a timer that can be set for up to eight hours allow you to customize its operation and temperature. Weighing just 25.7 pounds, this insert is impressively lightweight for an easy installation.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 6” D x 28.5” W x 21” H
- Heat output: 5120 BTUs
- Heating capacity: 400 square feet
- Weight: 25.7 pounds
- Voltage: 120 Volts
- Wattage: 750, 1500 Watts
- Safety certifications: Not specified
- Price on publish: $169.99
What we like:
- Three flame color options
- Five flame brightness options
- Adjustable thermostat
- Timer from 0 to 8 hours
- Two heat setting modes
- Cut-off device for overheat protection
- Remote control included
- Very lightweight
What we don’t like:
- Six inches thick
- Remote must be pointed directly at the receiver
The bottom line:
This electric fireplace can be installed within a wall or cabinet to save space, and features like an adjustable thermostat, two heat settings, and a timer allows you to keep a room at the right temperature.
Giantex 28.5” Electric Fireplace Insert
Best large fireplace: Ashton 92” Grand Electric Fireplace by Real Flame
This electric fireplace makes a statement, encompassing a mantle and shelving for extra storage. It’s very powerful and capable of heating up to 1,000 square feet, so it’s ideal for a larger room. The flame can operate without heat for ambiance, and an adjustable thermostat makes it easy to bring the room to the right temperature. Pair this with a leather sofa for a luxe look.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 42.5” H x 92.38” W x 14.5” D
- Heat output: 5000 BTU
- Heating capacity: 1,000 square feet
- Weight: 137 pounds
- Voltage: 120 Volts
- Wattage: 1500 Watts
- Safety certifications: CSA
- Price on publish: $1,375
What we like:
- Includes shelving
- Remote control included
- Flame can operate without heat
- No installation required
- Adjustable thermostat
- Digital touchscreen
- Highly realistic log and flame design
- Comes in three colors
- One-year limited warranty
What we don’t like:
- Very heavy
- Requires a significant amount of space
- Assembly required
The bottom line:
This electric fireplace is capable of heating up to 1,000 square feet, and a highly realistic log and flame design add aesthetic to your space.
Ashton 92” Grand Electric Fireplace by Real Flame
Best fireplace console: Three Posts Aubriella 59.5” Media Console
This electric fireplace console adds distinctive style to a room. Its ability to heat up to 1,000 square feet makes it suitable for larger spaces, and its two cabinets provide extra storage. This console is sized to fit up to a 65-inch TV, and details like crown molding and windowpane cabinet doors complement the ambiance that the fireplace provides.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 30” H x 59.5” W x 17.38” D
- Heat output: 5200 BTU
- Heating capacity: 1,000 square feet
- Weight: 115.06 pounds
- Voltage: 120 Volts
- Wattage: Not specified
- Safety certifications: CSA
- Price on publish: $409.99
What we like:
- Infrared quartz heat to help keep the room warm without drying out the air
- Adjustable shelves
- Feature two glass cabinets and a shelf
- Attractive crown molding and windowpane design
- Cable management cutout to keep cords from tangling
- Remote included
- Available in two colors
- One-year limited warranty
What we don’t like:
- Assembly required
- Very heavy
The bottom line:
This electric fireplace console can heat up to 1,000 square feet, plus it can hold up to a 65-inch TV while adding distinctive style to a room.
Three Posts Aubriella 59.5” Media Console
Best electric stove: Duraflame Electric Infrared Quartz Fireplace Stove with 3D Flame Effect
This electric stove features a highly realistic and classic design. It can heat up to 1,000 square feet, making it suitable for larger spaces. The stove features an adjustable thermostat and a timer for up to nine hours for easy use. Plus, weighing just 28.6 pounds, it’s very easy to move.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 13.07” D x 24” W x 23.4” H
- Heat output: 5200 BTU
- Heating capacity: 1,000 square feet
- Weight: 28.6 pounds
- Voltage: 120 Volts
- Wattage: 1500 Watts
- Safety certifications: UL
- Price on publish: $229.99
What we like:
- Available in six colors
- Infrared quartz heat to help keep more humidity in the air
- Flame can be operated without heat
- Adjustable thermostat
- Includes a remote control
- Timer from 30 minutes to 9 hours
- Five flame brightness levels
- Powder coated for durability
- Very lightweight
- One-year limited warranty
What we don’t like:
- Some assembly required
- No mention of safety features like auto-off
The bottom line:
This electric stove features a classic look, is capable of heating up to 1,000 square feet, and since it weighs just 28.6 pounds, it’s easy to move.
Duraflame Electric Infrared Quartz Fireplace Stove with 3D Flame Effect
Best open fireplace: Dimplex Revillusion 25” Plug-In Log Set
With its open design, this plug-in log set can be inserted into an existing wood fire or gas burning fireplace for easy electrical operation. It’s capable of heating up to 400 square feet, so it can make a smaller room cozy while adding ambiance. The logs are designed to be highly realistic, and this set includes an ash mat that’s also illuminated.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 12.95” D x 25.62” W x 18.98” H
- Heat output: 5118 BTU
- Heating capacity: 400 square feet
- Weight: 18.5 pounds
- Voltage: 120 Volts
- Wattage: 1500 watts
- Safety certifications: UL
- Price on publish: $639.99
What we like:
- Tiered log design creates depth
- Multiple flame options include warm hues and flicker effect
- Acrylic panel shows flames without showing reflections
- Remote included
- Very lightweight
- Automatic shut-off
- Two-year parts and one-year service limited warranty
- No assembly required
What we don’t like:
- No timer function
The bottom line:
Add this set to your existing wood fire or gas fireplace to heat a smaller room and to add attractive ambiance, including a glowing ash mat.
Dimplex Revillusion 25” Plug-In Log Set
Best electric fireplace with TV stand: Lark Manor Alvilda Media Console
This electric fireplace features a TV stand that can accommodate up to a 65-inch TV. It also has plenty of storage, including four adjustable shelves. The fireplace can heat up to 400 square feet from 62 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit. Choose from 12 flame colors and five flame levels to customize the appearance.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 31.3” H x 59” W x 13.8” D
- Heat output: 5120 BTU
- Heating capacity: 400 square feet
- Weight: 130 pounds
- Voltage: 120 Volts
- Wattage: Not specified
- Safety certifications: Not specified
- Price on publish: $469.99
What we like:
- 250-pound weight capacity
- 12 flame colors
- Five flame levels
- Remote included
- Available in three colors
- Thermal overload protection
- Available in 59” and 75” lengths
- One-year full warranty
What we don’t like:
- Assembly required
- Only heats up to 400 square feet
The bottom line:
This fireplace and console can hold up to a 65-inch TV, plus the unit can heat up to 400 square feet to keep a smaller room cozy.
Lark Manor Alvilda Media Console
Best see-through electric fireplace: Napoleon CLEARion Elite 50 See-Through Electric Fireplace
This see-through electric fireplace delivers a distinct aesthetic when installed within a wall. Its 10,000 BTU output is capable of heating a larger space. The set includes logs, fire glass, and crystal media, and additional colors are available for purchase if you’d like to further customize the fireplace’s appearance.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 50” W x 18.38” H x 9” D
- Heat output: Up to 10,000 BTU
- Heating capacity: Not specified
- Weight: 101 pounds
- Voltage: 120 Volts, 240 Volts
- Wattage: 1500 Watts, 3000 Watts
- Safety certifications: CSA, UL
- Price on publish: $2,499
What we like:
- Five flame speeds
- Timer settings from 30 minutes to 8 hours
- Temperature settings from 64 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit
- Orange, blue, and multicolor flames
- Adjustable privacy glass
- Includes log set, topaz fire glass, and crystal media
- Stainless steel design for durability
- Remote included
- Different surrounds and crystal media colors available for purchase
- One-year limited warranty
What we don’t like:
- High price point
- Heating capacity not specified
- Professional installation recommended
The bottom line:
With different crystal media available for purchase and five flame speeds, you can customize the unique look and performance of this electric fireplace to make a statement in your home.
Napoleon CLEARion Elite 50 See-Through Electric Fireplace
How we selected the best electric fireplaces
When choosing the best electric fireplaces, I considered both energy usage and heating capacity. I made sure to include options that were suitable for small and large rooms, and I looked for features like timer settings that could help to save on electricity consumption. I considered factors like heat output, as well as the availability of multiple fan settings.
Additionally, I looked for products that are manufactured by reputable brands. I considered the availability of safety features, like automatic shut-offs, and looked for fireplaces backed by manufacturer warranties. I also considered other features that enhance the fireplace’s use, like the option to choose flame colors and intensities and the inclusion of a remote control.
Best place to buy electric fireplaces
You can buy electric fireplaces from many retailers, including Amazon, Lowe’s, and The Home Depot. You’ll need to weigh considerations like available selection, the cost of shipping, and the retailer’s return policies when deciding on the best place to buy electric fireplaces.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
How do electric fireplaces work?
“Electric fireplaces use electricity to generate heat and simulate a flame effect,” says Bohannon. “They typically consist of heating elements, a blower or fan, and LED lights. The heating elements warm up when electricity passes through them, and the fan blows the warm air into the room. The LED lights create the illusion of a flickering flame, providing a visual appeal similar to a traditional fireplace.”
How long do electric fireplaces last?
Bohannon explains that factors like the use, quality, and maintenance of an electric fireplace can all affect its lifespan. “On average, an electric fireplace can last anywhere from 10 to 20 years,” he says. “Regular cleaning and proper maintenance can help prolong its lifespan.”
How much electricity do electric fireplaces use?
The size, heating capacity, and usage of an electric fireplace impacts its electricity consumption. “On average, they consume about 1.5 to 1.6 kilowatts per hour,” says Bohannon. He explains that it’s important to note that electric fireplaces are generally considered to be more energy-efficient compared to other options like wood-burning fireplaces or gas-burning units.
Which brand is best for electric fireplaces?
Bohannon notes that determining the best brand is subjective and will depend on your individual preferences and requirements. “Some popular and well-regarded brands in the electric fireplace include Dimplex, Touchstone, Napoleon, and Real Flame,” he says. “I recommend researching and comparing different models within your budget to find the one that best suits your needs.”
Is there an efficient electric fireplace?
Burning Log recommends that you look for electric fireplaces with timers and LED light bulbs, which are more energy-efficient than other types of bulbs. It’s also important to choose a fireplace that’s appropriately sized for your room, so it doesn’t strain to heat the space, maximizing its efficiency.
What is the downside of an electric fireplace?
While there are many benefits to an electric fireplace, there are some downsides, too. Bohannon explains that electric fireplaces have limited heating capacity, so they may struggle to sufficiently heat larger spaces or whole houses, particularly in extremely cold climates. They rely on electricity, so their use during power outages is limited.
Electric fireplaces also have a higher upfront cost compared to other options, especially if you choose more advanced features and a higher-quality model. Though electric fireplaces have realistic flame effects, they don’t provide quite the ambiance and authenticity that you’ll experience with a real wood-burning or gas fireplace.
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