Are mini electric fireplaces a good purchase?
Yes! Mini electric fireplaces may be small but it does not skimp on functionality, allowing us to appreciate lifelike flame effects and also use the heater to warm our space.
Also, these electric fireplaces are so compact that they can fit on our side table, or bar with ease. If we need a little more heat and want something more attractive than a simple heater, little electric fireplaces will be ideal. All of the flame effects are pleasing to the eye, and they help to create a relaxing atmosphere.
Let us explain what mini electric fireplaces are and why you should have one in your home. Continue reading.
Related: 12 Best Wall-Hanging Electric Fireplace Reviewed
Contents
- How do Mini Electric Fireplaces Work?
- What are the Benefits of Mini Electric Fireplaces?
- TURBRO Suburbs TS17 Compact Electric Fireplace
- NookNova Electric Fireplace
- Duraflame DFI-550-22
- LifePlus Electric Fireplace
- VIVOHOME Portable Electric Fireplace
- Mini Electric Fireplace Maintenance Tips
- Conclusion
- FAQs About Mini Electric Fireplace
How do Mini Electric Fireplaces Work?
The first thing to understand about the mini electric fireplaces is that they do not use a flame to create heat. To put it another way, they don’t burn anything. The flames we watch on many electric fireplaces are fake and are usually created by a network of LEDs and mirrors.
So, how do Mini Electric Fireplaces work?
Fan-Forced Heaters
First, to provide convection heat, many electric fireplaces have a fan-forced heater. Convection heat is nothing more than hot air. Using a heat source, an electric fire generates such heated air.
When you light the fire, an electric current flows through these coils, warming it up. Once the heat source is hot, the electric fire will utilize a fan to blow air over it. As it travels over the unit, the air becomes heated and afterward streams out into the area.
Therefore, because of the qualities of heated air, convection heat will travel evenly across our space. This implies that an electric fire will frequently heat a room more effectively than an uncovered, wood-burning fireplace.
To create heat, fan-forced heating is the most often employed method in electric fireplaces.
Infrared Heaters
Additionally, heat is generated by an infrared heater in certain electric fireplaces. This is accomplished by sending an electric current throughout a quartz bulb. The bulb then releases infrared light, which we experience as heat on our skin.
This form of heat is similar to what we experience from the sun. As a result, infrared heaters are extremely efficient. Infrared heating technology is often seen in higher-end electric fireplaces.
As a result, electric heaters with infrared heaters can heat significantly greater rooms than flames with convection heaters. The greatest infrared electric fireplaces can heat rooms up to 1,000 square feet in size.
What are the Benefits of Mini Electric Fireplaces?
Cost-Effective
First and important, electric fireplaces are less expensive than other forms of fireplaces. They not only have reduced initial expenses, but they also have lower long-term operating costs.
Clearly, electric fireplaces use 100 percent of the electricity they receive to create heat, making them the most energy-efficient heating equipment available.
Installation is simple.
Generally, electric fireplaces may be quite simple to build. Depending on the type, installing an electric fire can be as simple as hooking it into a power outlet.
As a result, if we live in a smoke-free zone, an electric fire is the ideal heating choice.
A Wide Variety of Designs
Amazingly, electric fireplaces come in literally hundreds of different styles. So, we’ll be able to select an electric fire that matches. Therefore, here are the four most common electric fireplace designs.
Wall Mount Electric Fireplaces
Electric fireplaces that mount on the wall are simple to install. We may just hang it on the wall or build it built-in to take up as little room as possible.
Furthermore, because most designs like this have varying flame intensities with remote control operation, it may be utilized with or without a heater for year-round enjoyment.
Electric Fireplace Inserts
It is intended to fit into an existing space or fireplace opening. Electric inserts are also a cost-effective alternative to classic gas or wood fireplaces.
It fits existing brickwork or an aperture to replace an outmoded fireplace, and it may be utilized with or without a heater for year-round enjoyment.
It may also be operated with or without a heater for year-round fun because most of them have various flame intensities and remote control operations.
Built-In Electric Fireplaces
Built-in electric fireplaces provide the greatest installation possibilities for our ideal living room while taking up the least amount of space. Built-in units are ideal for new housing or modifying existing areas since they are simple to install.
A small and compact style, with certain versions allowing a totally flush mount, making it ideal for condos, apartments, and new homes.
TV Stand Electric Fireplaces
TV Stand electric fireplaces are a terrific alternative for providing a traditional fireplace look with a lovely surround to produce the look of a typical fireplace piece. These devices are simple to use and do not require any installation.
These fireplaces are very useful in regions where a vented fireplace is not a possibility. The lifelike flame displays provide the appearance and appeal of a classic unit.
Simple to use
Electric fireplaces, as opposed to wood-burning fires or stoves, are extremely simple to use. With a single press of the power button, our electric fireplace will be turned on and emit heat right immediately.
Safe
Also, electric fireplaces are far safer than other forms of fireplaces. If we have young children or pets, an electric fireplace is a safer option to keep them warm. Hands and paws that are curious are considerably less likely to be burnt.
There is a quick explanation about its safety; it doesn’t use real flames to provide heat.
Environment-friendly
If we are particularly concerned about the environment, an electric fireplace is the most environmentally friendly option for heating our home since they don’t generate smoke and carbon dioxide.
Smart Technology
Today, we’re starting to witness an increase in the number of smart electric fireplaces on the market. These are remote-controlled fireplaces that can be accessed via a mobile phone app. As a result, we can easily arrange our fire to start at specific times of day, or just adjust the temperature.
Also, there are also a growing number of electric fireplaces with complex VR flame effects, allowing us to create an eye-catching visual highlight in our living space.
Best Mini Electric Fireplace Reviewed
TURBRO Suburbs TS17 Compact Electric Fireplace
The Turbo Fireplace measures 18″H x 15″W x 9″ D and can be used in rooms up to 400 sq ft. It uses Convective heat to heat up rooms around 68-95℉ and has an easy-to-use mechanical control.
One of the best things I like about this is it is lightweight as it weighs only 13 lbs. This means you can easily move it around your room and reposition it whenever you need it.
It also has a noise level of 37dBA which is half the maximum noise level allowed in condos.
Thus, nothing beats resting by the fireplace on a chilly winter evening while sipping a warm cup of hot chocolate. Also, it may create a wonderful campfire atmosphere without the mess and pollution of a real fire.
When I don’t need the heater, I just switch on the flame effect apart from the heat to assist in establishing the mood.
Moreover, because the heating element is positioned on the bottom, the body of the fireplace is always cool to the touch, regardless of how long it has been operating.
To explain it simply, I just simply flick the switch to power on the heat source and turn the knob to my preferred temperature, then my room will begin heating up in seconds.
NookNova Electric Fireplace
Next, the NookNova electric fireplace stove is one of my top recommendations for heating and decorating spaces. It measures 14″H x 10″W x 18″D inches making it suitable anywhere in my house.
The NookNova fireplace is ideal for quickly heating a space as it enables me to pleasantly warm an ice-cold room. It is also very durable and will endure for so many winters to come.
Also, it has a 4,777 BTU heating capacity for spaces up to 1000 square feet. In cold weather, the fireplace can quickly warm my home space in minutes, allowing me to enjoy a nice and warm environment at home.
To avoid harm, this heater will turn off automatically when it reaches a dangerous temperature of 105°F. Overheating prevention keeps my house and family safe while we use it.
Furthermore, the fireplace’s flame appearance can be used with or without heat. At any time, I can enjoy the ambiance of a moderate rolling fire and a pleasant fireside environment.
The fireplace operates at sound levels as low as 32dB, removing extraneous noise, and allowing me to read and rest in a comfortable setting.
Duraflame DFI-550-22
Undoubtedly, DuraFlame has a long history of providing consistent heat that provides us joy and pleasure. Today, DuraFlame electric fireplaces, heaters, and stoves help us to create the ideal environment to enjoy things while keeping the earth in mind.
In fact, its infrared heat helps me to preserve the natural humidity in the air, resulting in moist, comforting heat that does not dry up the air in our space. With 21″H x 10.75″W x 23″D and a 5,200 BTU heater, it offers additional zone heating for an area of up to 1,000 square feet.
Also, patented safer plug fire prevention technology adds safety to my home by monitoring the temperature of the plug to avoid an electrical fire, circuit failure, or product damage.
Lastly, I was able to use the flame with or without heat, creating the atmosphere of a slow-rolling fire for my home all year. It is safe to use around my children and pets.
LifePlus Electric Fireplace
The LifePlus electric fireplace heater is small and classic, and it is not an exaggeration to call it a stylish household appliance. It measures 20.5″H x 8.7″W x 12.2″D, but don’t be fooled by its size; its heating impact is very potent.
In fact, there are two heating configurations I can choose: 750W and 1500W. The anti-scalding and overheating technology on the outside keeps my household safe. Also, the quiet operation doesn’t interfere with my sleep or job.
This mini electric fireplace is able to maintain the noise level below 45 dB, making it very quiet and providing comfort.
Importantly, a heat-insulating material is used in the portable fireplace heater. Even if I touch the top and sides of it, I still feel cold rather than heated.
Also, take note, when the indoor fireplace heater has heated up for a long enough period of time and I am sufficiently warmed, I can just switch on the thermostat. When the temperature rises after I turn it on, it will stop operating. This feature helps me save money on my power bill.
VIVOHOME Portable Electric Fireplace
Firstly, this fireplace’s appropriate size of 11.4″H x 5.9″W x 14.6″D allows it to fit most of my furniture types, making it more flexible. The flame may be changed to three brightness levels based on my needs and mood, creating a lively ambiance.
Also, the remote control has six buttons that allow me to regulate the heater from a distance. It is a fantastic adornment for my home, with an elegant and vintage style that warms my surroundings. The maximum noise level will not surpass 40 db, making it ideal for both my little and large spaces.
Last, this heater’s safe overheating safety mechanism allows me to sleep well and be safe all night. It comes with a 6-foot three-wire cord, allowing me to use it in a variety of settings.
Mini Electric Fireplace Maintenance Tips
Unplug the power supply.
Turn off the heater and leave it to cool fully before attempting to clean our electric fireplace. When cleaning, always unplug the electric fireplace from the power source.
Examine the Electrical Circuits
Examine any cables and plugs to ensure they are not worn or frayed. This is an uncommon occurrence, but if not treated, it can create a fire danger. If this occurs, we must see a specialist to fix or replace it before resuming the use of your electric fireplace.
Remove the Heater
Wipe off the heater’s surface with a clean, dry cloth. Gently clean the heating outlets using a vacuum cleaner’s gentle brush attachment. This will clear any dust or debris from the heater and allow it to function at peak efficiency.
Ensure that both sides of the glass are clean.
To remove the front glass panel, follow the directions in our owner’s handbook. We may clean both sides of the glass after it has been removed. Abrasive cleaners will scratch the glass, so avoid using them.
A clean, dry cloth may be used to readily remove dust. A moist towel can be used to erase fingerprints or other markings. To avoid watermarks, dry the glass using a lint-free towel.
Cleaning the Electric Fireplace
Dust, like any other appliance in your house, can build within our electric fireplace. Simply wash off the interior with a clean, dry cloth to eliminate any dust. Dust any material, like as wood or glass, inside our electric fireplace.
When we’re done, replace the front glass panel on our fireplace according to the directions in the owner’s handbook.
Conclusion
Finally, while choosing our mini electric fireplace, think how we’ll utilize the item as well as the size of the room we are heating. Forced fan fireplaces are best suited for spaces up to 400 square feet, whereas infrared quartz units are best suited for rooms up to 1,000 square feet. The maximum size for any heater to perform efficiently is around 1,500 square feet.
Also, keep in mind that heating is affected by the atmosphere in the home. Rooms with high ceilings, openings, and drafts absorb heat differently and have an impact on the performance of the electric fireplace.
FAQs About Mini Electric Fireplace
Do Electric Fireplaces Use a Lot of Power?
Electric fireplaces use approximately the same number of power as a standard space heater.
When not in use, should electric fireplaces be unplugged?
Yes. When not in use, make sure the electric heater is constantly disconnected. In addition, we must never use an electric fireplace with a broken outlet or wire.
How much would an electric fireplace cost me in terms of electricity?
The operating expenses for electric fireplaces are shown here, based on the energy-efficient electric fireplace research. As a result, electric fireplaces boost monthly US power expenses by 28.3 percent on average.
How long can we expect our electric fireplace to last?
Electric fireplaces may last anywhere from 10 to 20 years, depending on how often they are used. Depending on the model, several manufacturers provide warranties ranging from one year to ten years.
Are electric fireplaces a fire risk?
Because an electric fireplace does not have a true fire, there are no flames and no toxic emissions are created, making electric fireplaces a highly safe option to other types of fireplaces.
James is a marketing specialist based in New Jersey who has worked for a fireplace company for over 10 years. With his years of experience in the industry, he has learned everything to know about fireplaces, including the best brands, best fireplace features, and types and troubleshooting the most common issues.
He has helped thousands of customers and clients find the best fireplace for their homes and family.
Now, he uses this expertise to educate Fireplace Heaven readers about new fireplace technologies and features and reviews some of the best ones available in the market today!