Electric fireplaces have come a light year ahead of conventional fireplaces, making the job of keeping the chill off on hard winters an easy affair as plugging it in and switching it on. Owning one can definitely change your whole winter experience.
Don’t worry about the ambience, what more would you want if it can give you fire as good as a real log and leave no fumes to fuzz about?
In fact, some of the electric fireplaces now available offer multicolor flames if you are too fancy about the effects, and few of them even come with the crackling sound of timbers to give you the total experience of a wood fire.
There is huge choice over electric fireplaces regarding size, type, design and special features such as multiple heat setting, adjustable flame brightness, remote control etc. which varies from one product to another.
These days, more than just a source of heat, fireplaces have found their place in the drawing rooms as fine pieces of décor that go with the total aesthetics of the room.
So when it comes to buying one, buying the best means buying the perfect blend of quality in performance and looks. Here is all that need to know to make the best buy.
Top 15 Best Electric Fireplaces Reviews
Sure the list goes long if you search for the popular electric fireplace available in the market.
After considering many variables like price, features, design, performance, consumer satisfaction and feedbacks of popular fireplaces that are in demand, we have summed up a list of best electric fireplaces that are worth your money.
1. R.W. FLAME 36” Electric Fireplace
This fireplace has one of the unique designs we’ve seen. It has a touchscreen and remote to control the fireplace easily.
With its dimensions being 36” L x 17.7” H x 6” W, it can be installed anywhere such as your office, home, or on places in which heat is badly needed. It can easily be installed, just mount it on your wall.
This fireplace also has several operating modes. The flame ranges for up to 12 flames with different colors you can choose from. It also has both 5 levels of flame speed and brightness level.
Automatic flame design wherein flame color and brightness automatically change as well as sleep modes, where all flame lights will be stopped.
It also comes with two heat settings, such as 750 W and 1500 W, so you can save energy with 750 W while warming up your room. It can heat at most 400 square feet of space.
Features:
- Easy control (remote and touchscreen)
- Flame has 12 colors
- 5 different levels of brightness
- 5 different flame speed levels
- Sleep mode available
- 2 heat setting
- 1-year warranty
2. Touchstone 8004 Sideline Electric Fireplace
This product is perfect for in-wall installation specially designed for recessed mounting.
The product comes with an instruction manual which is easy to follow even without the help of professionals.
There are two heat settings for this fireplace, high and low. You can adjust the heat depending on your preference or the temperature outside.
It has three different flame colors which you can choose from; blue, orange, and blue-orange.
It also comes with five different brightness options ranging from a soft glow to an intense blaze, which will definitely add to your room’s mood.
Features:
- In-wall installation
- Has high and low heat settings
- Different color setting
- Different brightness setting
- Adds a modern vibe because of the black frame
- There are faux fire logs and crystal which gives the authentic fireplace feels
- Comes with a 1-year warranty
3. Ameriwood Home Bruxton Electric Fireplace
If you have at most 400 square feet room, Ameriwood Home Bruzton Electric Fireplace might be what you are looking for.
This product provides you a hassle-free fireplace since you don’t have to worry too much about its maintenance as this Ameriwood fireplace is equipped with LED technology.
Also, this technology offers this fireplace a glow even without the heat.
The fireplace is made up of particleboard and MDF, making it worth your money. It is also shipped as an assembled product so that consumers can enjoy the fireplace right away.
Features:
- Just plug it in any standard outlet
- Equipped with AltraFlame technology, which creates a realistic effect
- Can warm room at most 400 sq. ft.
- Ships assembled for easy installation.
- 1-year warranty
4. Ameriwood Home Chicago Electric Fireplace TV Console
This fireplace is a two-in-one product. It can be a fireplace and storage at the same time.
You can place flat TV that is up to 50” in size and with at most 70 lbs. weight, at the TV stand which is made of laminated particleboard and MDF.
You can also keep your Blu-Ray player, DVD’s or games on the open shelves at the top.
In addition, there are also shelves enclosed with a glass door where you can put books, figurines, and other valuables.
You can still use this fireplace even on summers since it offers a no-heat option, so you can enjoy the flame effect on hot days.
It is recommended to have 2 people assemble this fireplace to prevent any hassle.
Features:
- No heat options
- You can plug it in any standard outlet
- Equipped with AltraFlame technology which creates a realistic effect
- It can warm rooms up to 400 sq. ft.
- Can be used as storage
- Has 6 shelves
- Does not require so much space since it can share with the TV.
- Not high maintenance
- 1-year warranty
5. JAMFLY 26” Mantel Electric Fireplace Heater
This fireplace is suitable for modern and classic interior designs so that it can fit in different home decors in your bedroom, dining, or entertainment room.
The design is delicately made by a craftsman to ensure the quality of your fireplace.
Because of its small size, you can place it just below your TV, cabinet, or any free space you have. It is also designed for heating small rooms.
The fireplace is equipped with a realistic flame made by high intensity LED lights.
It uses 3D flame technology, which gives a cozy ambiance and immersive experience. It also offers a no-heat setting.
Features:
- No heat settings
- For small rooms
- Freestanding fireplace heater
- Equipped with 3D flame technology
- 1-year warranty.
6. 80042 Sideline Elite Electric Fireplace by Touchstone
This fireplace is perfect for installations inside walls, especially for recessed mounting.
It can add to your room’s modern look since it has a minimalist black frame design, giving a spectacular fire view.
The product comes with an instruction manual so consumers can install in on their own.
It has 60 color options and combinations, so it provides customizable effects of the fire.
Also, its thermostat ranges from 68 to 88 ᵒF with 3 different flame speed and 5 settings for bed intensity.
It can also be paired with a light switch or a smart device for easy control of the fireplace.
The flame has 6 different colors, while the media bed has 10.
The product includes a faux fire, crystals, wood, and driftwood to mimic a real fireplace.
The fireplace is equipped with two heat settings, high and low. This can be adjusted depending on your preferred heat.
Features:
- 2 heat settings
- Has 6 different flame colors
- 10 different colors of the media bed
- Has 3 flame speeds
- 5 intensity settings
- Can be paired with a light switch or smart device
- Has logs, driftwood, and crystals
- 1-year warranty.
7. Donyer Power 14 inch Mini Electric Fireplace Portable Heater
This fireplace has a dimension of only 14.5” x 7.87” x 9.76”. So, it’s just longer than the standard ruler that measured 12” long.
The product comes with three modes wherein you can choose from.
Mode 1: no heat but LED flame works, mode 2: low heating with 750W, and mode 3: low heating again that produce 750W.
The two latter modes are just low heat but if you switch on both modes 2 and 3, it will give you the high heat with 1500W.
It can be easily operated and without facing any hassle. It also does not require any installation steps. This is also a portable heater so you can bring it everywhere in your home.
Features:
- Small dimension
- Portable
- Has three different modes
- Does not require installation
- Can be easily operated
8. E-Flame USA Regal Freestanding Electric Fireplace
This fireplace has a classic design that will highlight the burning effects of the flames.
It is lightweight so you can easily move it from one room to another; plus, you won’t get hurt even when you accidentally touch it since it is cool to the touch.
It has a no-heat option so you can use it during summer days if you just want to watch the dancing flames. Also, it automatically turns off to prevent overheating.
It is very efficient compared to a gas-powered fireplace. With its two heat settings, it does not cost that much just for heating your entire place.
The light bulb that comes in the fireplace is also replaceable. You can plug in the fireplace in any standard outlet.
You can even decorate the exterior of this fireplace since the heat does not reflect on the exterior side.
Features:
- Classic Design
- Lightweight
- Portable
- Cool to touch
- No heat options
- Efficient
- Has two heat setting
- Replaceable light bulb
- 1-year warranty
9. E-Flame USA Jasper Freestanding Electric Fireplace
Featuring its classic design, which highlights the beautiful flame effects, this fireplace will definitely give a cozy vibe to your place. This is portable and lightweight so transporting it to a different room does not give much of a hassle.
This fireplace is designed to be quiet. If you don’t like noise, then I highly suggest this.
It also has no-heat options so that you can enjoy the sight of wood burning on summers. Additionally, it is odorless so you don’t have to worry about any foul smells in the future.
It can heat up your room up to 400 sq. ft. fast and with lesser voltage since it only has two heat settings. Also, the bulb included in the fireplace is replaceable.
The fireplace is easy to assemble so you can expect it to be a hassle-free installation.
Features:
- Classic Design
- Lightweight
- Portable
- Quiet
- Two heat options
- Odorless
- Can heat rooms at most 400 sq. ft.
- Has replaceable bulb
- Easy to assemble
10. Thermomate Electric Fireplace Stove 23”
Made up of a minimalist style door and finished with copper handles, this fireplace is the perfect piece of furniture for various interior styles. You can quickly transfer it from one room to another.
It can serve as a night lamp since it has a no-heat setting. The whole unit can be touched without getting you getting accidentally burned due to its cooling technology. This makes it safe for children and the elderly.
The fire mimics the realistic colors of a wooden fireplace. It gives soothing light to a room that gives off a romantic vibe in the room.
There are control buttons that come with the product so you can control the heat setting.
You can conveniently control the heat settings from your couch with its remote control. It can heat rooms for up to 400 sq. ft. It prevents overheating to reduce the risks of actual fires starting.
Features:
- Has realistic looking logs
- Portable
- No heat setting
- Brightness can be adjusted
- LED realistic flames
- Cool to touch so no scalding
- Comes with a remote control
- Can heat rooms at most 400 sq. ft.
11. Valuxhome Electric Fireplace 33”
This fireplace needs an insert installation. It can heat a room for up to 400 sq. ft. in just a few minutes.
The fireplace is equipped with multi flame modes and a log speaker. There are 3 different color atmospheres to choose form.
Its brightness can be adjusted depending on your preference.
It also comes with a remote control, which is handy when you want to control the fireplace while relaxing on your couch.
Two heat options are available and there is a timer you can set from 1 hour to 9 hours.
It can be installed under a TV or any place that you think the fireplace would be suitable.
It has safety equipment that automatically turns on when it is overheating.
Features:
- Can heat room for up to 400 sq. ft.
- Has a log speaker
- Flame effects can be adjusted
- Has remote control
- Has timer for heat options
- Can be placed almost everywhere
- 1-year warranty
12. Northwest 80-FOWF-4 Electric Fireplace
This fireplace does not only provide heat but also can act as a TV stand and storage.
You can place a flat-screen TV that is up to 32” on top of it. Also, it has storage that can hold decorations that will give additional style to your interior.
It is also efficient since it requires lesser energy to heat your home fully.
It is equipped with LED flame technology that gives a realistic flame effect.
You can also use it all around the year since the heat can be turned off while the flame is on.
Features:
- Can hold TV
- Has storage
- Very efficient
- Uses LED Flame technology for realistic flames
- No heat setting available
13. Valuxhome Electric Fireplace 60”
If you are looking for an oversized fireplace for your room, then this might be what you are looking for.
It can be installed in two ways: wall mount or recessed installation. It can heat rooms with at most 400 sq. ft. in area.
The fireplace has two heating modes (low or high), both equipped with a timer. The temperature ranges from 71 – 99 ᵒF.
Also, you can use it throughout the year since the flame can be turned on even without heat.
You can choose from three colors for the top lights, another three colors for the flame, and also three colors for the fuel bed, which you are able to consider, depending on what suits your mood and vibes.
It also has a remote control so switching from different modes and colors is made easy.
Also, you have options for fuel bed: logs or crystals which mimic the coals burning and thus create a traditional fireplace look.
Features:
- Installation is easy
- 1H – 9H timer
- Low and High heating modes
- Has log set and crystal as fuel bed
- Has remote control
- Colors can be changed
- 1-year warranty
14. R.W. Flame Infrared Electric Fireplace 23”
This fireplace is portable, although it is made up of steel construction. It is both compact and durable with a touch of classic design. The fireplace looks like the traditional freestanding fireplace.
There are two heating modes for this: 1000W and 1500W, which surely meet your demand for heat. The flames, which are very realistic, looking contributes to the feeling of authentic fire.
R.W Flame Infrared Electric Fireplace 23” can heat rooms with an area up to 400 sq. ft. and is both economical and efficient. This fireplace uses an infrared heating method, which makes the heating faster and effective.
The flame’s brightness can be adjusted depending on your preference. It is also equipped with safety protocols that prevent overheating and the risk of starting an actual fire.
Features:
- Portable
- Has two heating modes
- Flame colors can be adjusted
- Efficient, effective, and economical
- A no-heat option is available
15. DOIT 16” Electric Fireplace Heater
This fireplace gives a visual enjoyment to its consumers because it features an openable glass, glowing logs, electric flames, and sophisticated design.
You don’t have to think about the cost of woods, messy ash, and fuels anymore. This electric heater will give you the same heat as a traditional fireplace without all the hassle.
The maximum room area that it can heat is 323 sq. ft. and has two heat options: 750W and 1500W.
It also has a built-in fan, which will evenly distribute the heat across the room. The DOIT 16” Electric Fireplace Heater offers a no-heat chance so you can use it all 12 months of the year. It has 4 built-in switches that are hidden when not in use.
The fireplace is also easy to use and very convenient. You just have to plug it in, that simple. It has a safety thermal cutoff device to prevent overheating of the unit.
Features:
- Visually Enjoying
- Gives warmth and cozy vibes
- Heats room up to 323 sq. ft. area
- Safe to use
- Easy to use
- Has no-heat option available
What are the Advantages of Electric Fireplaces?
Certainly, switching over to an electric place is far more advantageous than it may seem.
Electric fireplaces are comparatively more safe, efficient and effective than any other alternative heating methods.
- They are zero pollutants and safe for children and pets to be around.
- Moreover, it is much easy to operate, requires very little clean-up and maintenance
- At the same time, it can provide you with ample heat just as you wish.
Let us see in detail what advantageous these fireplaces has over wood burning or gas fireplaces.
Easy to Install
Electric fireplaces are surprisingly easy to set up.
They do not need chimneys or vents and doesn’t involve masonry or remodeling. All you need is a standard outlet to plug it in and a space where it will fit in.
In short, electric fireplaces has zero installation cost if you do it yourself. It takes only a little time and care.
Easy Maintenance
Maintaining any other fireplace in order to keep it in working condition from time to time takes a lot of money and work, besides the tedious task of taking care of the daily mess.
Electric fireplace requires very low maintenance or absolutely no maintenance at all other than keeping it dust free.
Zero pollution
These fireplaces run on electricity which is the most efficient and environmental friendly energy at present.
There are absolutely no emissions as compared to wood burning fireplaces and gas heaters which cause a great deal of environmental pollutions.
Being absolutely neat, green and safe, they are the most suitable fireplaces to houses with small children, pets and old people.
Economical to Run
Electric fireplaces, besides being green, are amazingly unbeatable in reducing energy costs.
They heat up the room as soon as it is turned on and only cost about eight cents per hour when used in heating mode and about two cents when only the flame effect is used.
Because they are relatively light weight in nature, they are ideal for zone heating, which will enable you from wasting electricity. Plus, you can also move it around from one room to another easily.
Year-round Use
Most electric fireplaces give you the option to use the flame effect and heat mode separately. That is you can turn off and turn on either one as desired or both at the same time if you wish so.
The luxury of flickering fire can be enjoyed weather it is summer or fall.
Plenty of Design Options
The numerous attractive designs in which these fireplaces are out there it can fit perfectly to kind of home. Both contemporary and traditional looking designs are available in various styles.
There sure has to be one that suits your very taste and that will enhance the total ambience of the place where it is placed.
How Does an Electric Fireplace Work?
Electric fireplaces, as the name itself suggests, works on electricity. Most of the electric fireplaces work on standard 120-volt outlets.
Heat is produced by metal coils which becomes hot when the electricity is turned on.
The heat such produced is delivered from the fireplace either by a forced fan that blows over the heated coils or by infrared quartz which transfer heat through invisible infrared rays.
When the fireplace is working except those areas which houses the metal coils remains cool to touch. This makes electric fireplaces a safe option for houses with small children and pets.
In addition to producing heat, electric fireplaces feature flames that are more life-like.
These flames are created using LED lights or regular light bulbs. The light from the source is bounced around the flame area using refraction, to create the impression of dancing flames.
More fancy looking, multicolored flames are featured by some products. However, they are less authentic and less life-like.
In almost all the electric fireplace there features that enables you to use the flames alone, heat alone and both at once.
What types of Electric Fireplaces and which is the Best?
If you are not familiar with electric fireplaces yet, the different kinds available in the market may confuse you a bit. There are a few popular types of electric fireplace that are in demand in the market.
Each of these types have specialties and highlights of its own apart from keeping the place warm on winter days. See for yourself which type of electric fireplace meets your priorities and preferences the most.
1. Electric Fireplace Inserts
These are best for the homes that already have a traditional fireplace which is not in use anymore.
You can repurpose your previous fireplace to seat an electric fireplace insert. They are affordable and cheap. Besides they look much like original fire and glowing embers inside your fireplace.
Being a great economic alternative to traditional or gas fireplaces, most of them come with a BTU up to 5,000 ranges which is sufficient to heat up an area of 400-500 sq. feet.
Most versions will work on a standard 120 volt household outlet and comes with a remote control to make the operation quick and easy.
Related: The 8 Best Fireplace Inserts Reviews [2020]
2. Mantel Electric Fireplaces
These fireplaces look exactly like a masonry fireplace but do not bring you the hassles of installing the actual one.
It requires no installation, the job is done when you plug it in and turn it on. These can be placed on any room with an electrical outlet.
They are aesthetically quite pleasing and make a fine piece of décor. Most of them comes in furniture quality woods and has elegant detailing.
These fire places can be plugged into any standard outlet as it is with most electric fireplaces and provide you with sufficient warmth and beautiful fire just like an actual fireplace without any fuss or mess.
3. Wall Mounted Fireplaces
Wall Mounted Electric Fireplaces don’t require floor space. Instead, they can be hanged on the wall like a painting.
It is a perfect solution if your house has no space available to accommodate a fireplace. It is easy to install; you only need to screw the mounting bracket and the hardware on the wall and mount the unit into.
These fireplaces are ideal for small spaces, apartments, lobbies and condos. Like electric mantel fireplace and inserts these type also work on 120volt electric outlets.
4. Electric Fireplace TV stands
Electric Fireplace TV stands also known as media consoles, are able to make room for a flat screen television apart from providing you with enough warmth and comfort.
There ample storage room for other related media equipment such as DVD and you will be able to keep the wires and cables concealed and organized.
They are ideal for small homes and needs only standard electric outlets to work.
5. Electric Stove Heaters
They look similar to traditional wood burning stoves. Electric stove heaters can bring the touch of class and elegance along with warmth and comfort.
As these stoves are small in size, it is easy to carry them around as you move from one room to another without any difficulty.
They do not need installations, they comes ready to be used. Just plug it in.
6. Corner Electric Fireplaces
If you don’t have much floor space left and you still prefer a free standing style electric fireplace, you can go for a variety of corner electric fireplaces.
They fit comfortably to any corner of room without obstructing the rest of the space. The only requirement is a nearby electric outlet.
7. Electric Fireplace Logs
Electric fireplace logs, much like fireplace inserts, are ideal replacement to old wood burning furnaces or gas fireplaces.
They are easy to install and fit nearly to any fireplaces. They can be controlled using remote control and can be operated with or without the heat to enjoy the flames all around the year.
How to Choose the Best Electric Fireplaces?
Certainly, type and size are two important factors to consider when choosing an electric fireplace.
Now that we have already seen the different types of electric fireplaces and how size is important, let us now consider certain other important elements that make an electric fireplace a really good fireplace and worth your investment.
Heating Capacity
In order to operate electric fireplace rely upon 120volt electrical outlets that common in most of the residences. The heat output of most fireplaces is around 5000BTU which is sufficient to warm an area around 400 sq. feet.
The higher the BTU, the higher the heat produced. Majority of electric fireplaces provides three heat settings; low, high and no heat mode.
Usually when the unit is in low mode, it provides 750 watts of power and when it is put in high 1,500 watts accordingly.
No heat mode enables you to use the flame effect alone. The higher range of wattages is also possible by fireplaces that need a higher voltage such as 240v.
Firebox
The most important attribute an electric fireplace is its firebox where the flames are displayed.
When you buy an electric fireplace you need to consider the design, size and technology of its firebox.
A variety of choices and designs are available. In terms of technology, the firebox goes from flat panel to 3D depending upon how originally the fire is displayed.
There are additional features like air treatment system which makes a firebox distinct from another.
This means your firebox will be able to remove dust and other particles which is present in the air by pulling it in and filtering. These filters are washable and need changing once a year.
Style and Finish
The age that fireplaces were seen as mere source of heat to keep the chill off on winter days are gone.
Now fireplace despite what kind it is have become style statement that enhance the aesthetic appeal and the ambience of your interiors.
So when it comes to investing on a fireplace you should also consider its design and style to make sure it goes well with the other décors of your interior.
Electric fireplaces are now available in a variety of style and design ranging from rustic to sleet and traditional looking ones to contemporary and ultra-modern.
In case of finishes also there many options to find the perfect blend for any home in oak, mahogany, stainless steel, espresso, black, white and ivory.
Additional Features
Electric fireplaces have some excellent features which vary from one product to another.
Deciding which features are needed for you and which ones you don’t need in advance will help you find the right electric fire place and can stop your money being spend over something that will not be helpful for you.
Portability
Most fireplaces that are advertised to be portable are small in size and light weight in nature. However, these are best for you if you wish to use it in different rooms or if you reside in a small condo.
Flame only mode
The fireplace featuring this mode is convenient to those who wish to use it for the purpose for enhancing the ambience of interiors all year around apart from heating.
Adjustable Thermostat
This feature allows determining the rate in which the room gets heated.
Self-trimming Firebox
The fireplaces which has this feature comes with a firebox that glides into place automatically offering more heat in less time.
Safety
Electric fireplaces are relatively safe. However, additional protective features make it safer.
With safety features such as overheat protection, cool to touch surface it is possible to keep all the dangers at bay.
Controls
There is multiple controls that make electric fireplaces more convenient to use.
There are controls which enables you adjust the flame speed and brightness. Some of them can be controlled remote device and some through a digital board.
So, Did You get the Best Electric Fireplace for Your Home?
There is no way of surviving the hard winters without a fireplace.
Choosing a fireplace can be bit tough. It takes a lot of money to afford one, and then there is expenses regarding the installation, fuel and maintenance.
There might not be enough space for one, or to set up a conventional fireplace you might to build a chimney first or make vents on the first place.
It may look puzzling how to deal with the winter if you are on rent or planning to move out of your current house. Or you do not have the time or patience to check on a wood fire every now and then or split the logs to keep the fire.
Electric fireplaces are perfect solution to these problems regarding the modern houses and modern life. They can make the whole job of keeping the winter warm without giving you a headache.
Electric fireplaces are comparatively affordable and easy to install. As they require no vent or chimney or any other arrangements they can go in any kind of home. Those houses which don’t have much floor spaces can go for a wall mounted electric fireplace.
Most of the electric fireplaces are portable, that makes it easy to carry it from one room to another or even from one house to another.
Modern features like remote control, timers, adjustable thermostats, digital display etc. makes desirable to anyone who prefers convenience and ease of use.
The many designs, styles and finishes in which it comes give you plenty of opportunities in selecting the perfect one. Whether you prefer the vintage, retro, minimalistic or ultra-modern to suit the interior of your house or lobby, there is one for everyone.
The magnificent life-like flames that you can enjoy all the year around without getting toasted or without any hassles an extra bonus of these fireplace.
In short, investing on electric fireplaces sure means you are going to have warm winter and a nice time all the year around.
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