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Tired of cleaning ash and soot after using your fireplace? Or you would like more control over the temperature in your room whilst using your fireplace? Then an electric fireplace is what you need to add to your space.
Electric fireplaces are currently the in thing in the fireplace world, and that’s not by chance. Their increase in popularity could be tied to many factors but notably, their perks over other fireplaces. The benefits of having an electric fireplace include, they only require minimal maintenance work, they give you the ability to control temperature levels, ensuring it is not too high or too low, but just right, and they are safer and more energy efficient than any other fireplace.
If you have ever window shopped for an electric fireplace, either in physical stores or online, you have probably noticed that there are a million and one electric fireplace models available in the market today. Whereas being spoilt for choice means one is certain to find an electric fireplace that ticks all the boxes for them, it poses a problem to many. The difficulty many people face with having all those electric fireplace options to pick from is, identifying the best electric fireplace to buy. To fix this predicament faced by many people, we were prompted to research and put different electric fireplace units to test to identify the best of the best.
We found the following to be the 8 best units to buy in 2023:
The best unit overall: Duraflame Infrared Quartz Fireplace Stove
DFI-5010-01 Infrared Quartz Fireplace by Duraflame is our unrivaled pick for the best overall electric fireplace, and with good reason too. It has the perfect blend of style, functionality, and sturdiness. All the deserved praise this product gets is from the unit having everything an electric fireplace should have. We appreciated that this electric fireplace comes with a realistic fire simulation, an effective heating element, an attractive finish that does not look cheap, and a durable metal body.
Generally, it is made in a classic design and comes in an array of finishes including black, bronze, cinnamon, cream, French gray, and navy. Certainly, with all those color options available you will not miss a perfect match for your room’s existing theme.
We loved that the Duraflame Infrared Quartz Fireplace has easy installation and controls. The installation process involves attaching the unit’s legs to the main unit which comes fully assembled, and installing AAA batteries to use the remote. Controlling this electric fireplace is fairly simple. With only four control buttons (power, temperature, flame, time) each with a clear icon for the function, understanding how to make adjustments took us no time.
Another of its impressive features is that it has independently controlled heat and flame functions. That separation means you can use the electric fireplace continuously throughout the whole year. We recommend, during the warmer months when heat from the electric fireplace is not required, you use it with only the flame function operating, to create a nice ambiance with the dancing flames. Alternatively, during the cooler months when heat from the electric fireplace would be necessary, you use the unit with both the heating and flame functions to make your home cozier.
We found the infrared quartz electric stove flame function to be among its strengths, it has five adjustable brightness and speed settings. Moreover, the unit’s infrared heater generates sufficient heat to warm areas of up to 1000 square feet. When testing its heating capability, we noted that this electric fireplace is not suitable as a primary heating method. Nonetheless, it fully delivers when warming up small cold rooms, without drying out your hair or skin.
Only weighing 28 pounds, the Duraflame Infrared Quartz Fireplace Stove is quite easy to move around. Which we discovered would be an added advantage when you are changing your furniture arrangement or moving to a new property.
According to the manufacturer, this electric fireplace offers top-tier safety features. When testing this unit we found out it comes fitted with a plug with a built-in thermometer and an auto shut-down feature when the temperature rises too high. Both features served to prevent overheating and melting of the plug.
To a household with children and/or pets, this product is still safe for use. It is designed to have the top and sides of the heater remain cool during operation. However, we discovered that after this unit is in use for some time the top, where the heater is located, was not entirely cool to the touch. That was the only downside we discovered and it meant placing items such as pictures or decorations on top of this unit was not a possibility. But, all factors considered this was the most impressive unit we tested.
Price at the time of publishing: $249.99
Dimensions: 12.9”D x 24”W x 23.4”H
Heat output: 5200 British Thermal Units (BTUs)
Area heated: 1000 square feet
Mount type: Freestanding
Pros
Cons
Best budget: RW Flame electric fireplace
If you are in search of an electric fireplace that is budget friendly but still offers a wide range of features, then the RW Flame electric fireplace is the best choice for you.
What impressed us about this electric fireplace is that it is made with an attractive design to the front glass plate, this product is eye-catching as well as properly functional. With widths ranging between 30 and 60 inches, this electric fireplace comes equipped with an adjustable flame display and two heater modes. What surprised us is that the flame display feature on this electric fireplace includes 12 LED colors for the flames and ember bed. Furthermore, you can adjust the flame speed and brightness. That feature alone made us want to have it in our living room for unwinding purposes after a long day.
For effective heating, the RW Flame electric fireplace has an internal heating element that operates at 750 watts or 1500. The heat from this electric fireplace is sufficient to warm a room of up to 400 square feet but still maintain the natural humidity to ensure the air in the room is not too dry. When monitoring the heating feature on this electric fireplace we observed it operates with a quiet fan whisper.
Another great component of this Electrical Testing Laboratories (ETL) certified unit is that it has an “auto-heat-kill feature” which turns off the unit to prevent overheating. Unlike other models, this electric fireplace doesn’t have a stand for tabletop display, but if you plan on having it wall mounted or recessed that will not be an issue.
Price at the time of publishing: $166.29 (30”) -$329.99 (50”)
Dimension: 3.85"D x 50"W x 18.11"H
Heat output: 5118 British Thermal Units (BTUs)
Area heated: 400 square feet
Mount type: Wall mount/Recessed
Pros
Cons
Best TV stand: Ameriwood Home Fireplace TV Stand for TVs up to 70"
Ameriwood is renowned for making products with small living spaces in mind. To say that they struck gold with this electric fireplace TV stand, would be an understatement. Made of quality materials with a high-end look and a suitable size, we found this electric fireplace TV stand to be the best fit for small spaces.
A flimsy TV stand defeats the purpose of investing in a TV stand, let alone one with an electric fireplace. For that reason, Ameriwood made this unit using metal parts with laminated particle board, and MDF with tempered Glass which ensures the unit is not only sleek-looking but also durable.
Unlike normal TV stands, this unit provides a TV stand, storage space, and the ambiance created by an electric fireplace all in one. What impressed us most about the Ameriwood Home Lumina fireplace is, how sturdy it is. Equipped with a 23” wide fireplace insert, it can comfortably hold TVs up to 70” wide with a maximum weight of 120 lbs.
Another stand-out feature of this electric fireplace that we noted, was its open shelves on either side of the unit. The shelves provide sufficient space, ideally, we would use the spaces to hold media components needed for a movie night. For us, the cherry on top of the cake was the electric fireplace on this TV stand, which we pictured would improve our movie night experience by adding the ambiance of fire.
Still focusing on the electric fireplace insert in this TV stand, we were impressed that like the other components of this unit, it held its own. The electric fireplace insert comprises a flame effect feature with adjustable flame brightness and colors. And, to complement the electric fireplace's multi-flame colors, the unit has shelf LED lights that allow you to make perfect light combinations to match your mood or even your team’s color for the super bowl.
This electric fireplace TV stand is not all about looks, we found that it also has a heating element, which can be, independently, on or off with the flames on display. The heating element sure generates sufficient heat for supplementary heating, in a room of up to 400 square feet. We also liked that the temperatures on the electric fireplace are adjustable, and not just on and off heating like with other TV stand models.
A trick we learned when installing and assembling this unit is that you first need to go through the installation guide completely. Then get another adult to lend you a hand, and assembling this unit will be simple. By doing so, assembling this electric fireplace TV stand took us just short of 2 hours.
Price at the time of publishing: $328.00 - $532.00
Dimension: 18.9 x 64.76 x 24.88 inches
Heat output: 4,600 BTUs
Area heated: 400 square feet
Mount type: Freestanding
Pros
Cons
Best insert: ClassicFlame 3D Infrared Quartz Electric Fireplace Insert Plug and Safer Sensor, Black
If you own a dormant traditional wood-burning fireplace or want to upgrade your existing fireplace to an eco-friendly option, consider switching to an electric fireplace insert. The ClassicFlame 3D Infrared Quartz Electric Fireplace Insert is by far the best electric fireplace insert to go for. This product relies on electricity to run rather than combustibles hence reducing your carbon footprint and the maintenance work required, it is also far safer than any other fireplace, especially if you have kids or pets around.
The essence of a fireplace in a room is to have it as a source of heat or as the focal point. The ClassicFlame 3D Infrared Quartz Electric Fireplace Insert does the latter to a T. The biggest draw of this electric fireplace insert is its flame display function. This electric fireplace insert incorporates Patent pending 3D flame effect technology, which provides a layered flame effect to create a realistic fire. For further customization, the unit offers five adjustable brightness and speed settings, and 125 flame effect options to pick from. With that, even those with the most exotic flame effect preferences like us, are guaranteed to find a perfect fit. Impressively the flame effect can be operated with or without heat. That means having dancing flames in your room’s background will no longer be dictated by the temperature, even on the hottest of days you can still enjoy the realistic flame display from this insert.
To fulfill its heating function, we noticed that this electric fireplace insert is equipped with a 5, 200 BTU heater that provides supplemental zone heating for up to 1, 000 square feet. The infrared quartz heater on this insert is designed to maintain the natural humidity in the air, resulting in comfortable heat without drying out the room's air.
When using this electric fireplace insert safety will be the least of your concerns. We discovered that it incorporates Patent pending safer plug fire prevention technology, which monitors the temperature of the plug to prevent mishaps such as electrical fire, circuit, or product damage. Another impressive safety feature that we noticed on the ClassicFlame 3D Infrared Quartz Electric Fireplace Insert is its Patent pending safer sensor fire prevention technology, which alerts you when the heater is obstructed and will automatically shut off to prevent overheating.
When installing this product into an existing fireplace you must first off, seal the vent, and take the fireplace’s measurements to ensure this insert will fit.
Price at time of publishing: $519.99
Dimensions: 8.9"D x 17.7"W x 27"H
Heat output: 5,200 BTUs
Area heated: 1,000 square feet
Mount type: Freestanding
Pros
Cons
Best with mantel: Real Flame Silverton 48in electric fireplace
The real flame Silverton electric fireplace is a thing of beauty, this electric fireplace is designed to represent a traditional fireplace with a mantel, but with a slight twist, it does not require a chimney. That makes it a great addition to any space, it provides the ambiance of a traditional fireplace but without the mess or work involved to install a chimney.
The mantel on this electric fireplace is a great feature, as it offers a spot to display pictures and decorations. The mantel on this unit would have been even better if it were capable of supporting a TV. Nonetheless, the classic design, nice size, and quality flames make the real flame Silverton 48-in electric fireplace aesthetically a nice addition to your living room, dining room, or bedroom.
The Real Flame Silverton 48 electric fireplace uses LED technology, which makes its flames and embers look realistic. The flame display has five brightness settings and different flame color options.
The heat is perfect, this electric fireplace comes with a 1500-watt heater that generates over 4780 BTUs per hour, which is sufficient to warm up a room up to 1000 square feet. It has 6 adjustable heat settings, which we found to be quite impressive. The blower on this electric fireplace operates with a mild noise, which we found to be not too loud to be distracting.
A great addition to future models of the Real Flame Silverton 48in electric fireplace would be multiple blower speed settings, but the current one still gets the job done. This electric fireplace allows flame settings and heat customization using the remote control or touchscreen panel on the unit.
With veneered MDF construction, this electric fireplace is very sturdy. It arrives in two boxes, one with the firebox, and the other with the mantel. We found its installation to be straightforward since the instructions are well laid out.
Price at time of publishing: $703.99
Dimensions: 13"D x 48"W x 41"H
Heat output: 4780
Area heated: 1000 square feet
Mount type: Freestanding
Pro
Cons:
Best wall mount: Dimplex SIL48 in. Wall/Built-in Linear Electric Fireplace
With the Dimplex SIL48 in. Wall/Built-in Linear Electric Fireplace finding the right installation spot will not be an issue. We found this electric fireplace to be so flexible in terms of installation, it can be recessed into a wall, hung on a wall, or attached to a tabletop stand.
The biggest selling point of an electric fireplace is its display and the Dimplex SIL48 in. Wall/Built-in Linear Electric Fireplace scores highly with its multiple ember bed options. We discovered that you can customize the ember bed to match the look you want. You can have vibrant crystals on the ember bed for a contemporary look, logs on it for a traditional look, or even pebbles on it for a blend of both a contemporary and traditional look.
To add a pop of color to your space, the Dimplex SIL48 in. Wall/Built-in Linear Electric Fireplace allows you to change the ember bed, logs, and flame colors. In addition, the flame and ember bed colors are separately controlled, giving you the ability to get creative with your combinations.
With this electric fireplace, regardless of the mounting option you opt for, you will enjoy the heater's function. It comes with a 1500w fan forced heater capable of generating 4777 BTUs per hour, which is sufficient to heat spaces of up to 1000 square feet. Its maximum temperature level is 82 degrees, but it is fitted with an automatic room temperature control feature to ensure you have a consistent comfortable temperature settings. The flame and heat functions are independent, meaning you can enjoy the flames dancing throughout the year with or without the heat.
We found the convenience of the use of this electric fireplace to be among its most appealing features. This electric fireplace allows for adjustment of the heating power and flame effects using its touchscreen control panel or its remote control. We noticed and appreciated that the remote control has international symbols to make it easier to use for anyone.
Price at the time of publishing: $547.49
Dimension: 5”D x 48”W x 19.5”H
Heat output: 4,777 BTU
Area heated: 1,000 square feet
Mount type: wall mounted/recessed
Pros
Cons
Best outdoor: touchstone sideline outdoor 50-inch electric fireplace
For most people, the main reason for having an outdoor electric fireplace is to create an amazing ambiance. The Touchstone sideline outdoor 50-inch electric fireplace does exactly that. What stood out for us in this electric fireplace is the flame effect function. It features 3 flame color options (orange, blue, and blue-orange) and 5 flame intensity settings giving you 15 possible flame settings. On top of that, it comes with a decorative log set and crystal set to add to the realism of this fireplace.
This electric fireplace is designed to withstand outdoor elements while making your outdoor living space such as your porch or poolside cozier. To survive exposure to outdoor elements we found that it comes with features such as a Built-in ground fault plug and water resistance. We would have loved a heating element in this unit. Nonetheless, the lack of a heating unit turned out to be an advantage since it means you can install it anywhere you would like without worrying about combustible materials like curtains being nearby. Although this electric fireplace is outdoor-rated, its installation is not limited to outdoor spaces only. When researching further on it we discovered you can also use it indoors to create a point of focus in any room, with its realistic flames.
Price at the time of publishing: $649
Dimension: 17.9" H x 50" W x 6" D
Heat output: No heat
Area heated: None
Mount type: Built-In/Wall Mount
Pros
Cons
Best splurge: touchstone sideline elite smart electric fireplace
This unit is a premium option for electric fireplaces. We found the touchstone sideline elite smart electric fireplace to be a great pick for smart homes. One unique feature of this electric fireplace is that it allows you to operate it using google home or amazon Alexa.
The touchstone sideline elite smart electric fireplace stands above the rest for also being Wi-Fi enabled. We loved that you can control the unit using voice commands once it is connected to your Wi-Fi. But, if you prefer simplicity, you can opt for its remote control or adjustable timer to adjust the settings.
As a premium electric fireplace does not disappoint. Its display is one of a kind, it features an array of flame colors (60) and ten media color options, which run independently. Furthermore, this electric fireplace has 3 flame speeds, and 5 fire bed intensity settings and comes equipped with faux fire logs and crystals to enhance its authenticity.
The heater on this electric fireplace makes it similarly efficient during the cold seasons. When testing the heater’s capability, we found that beyond 400 square feet, the heater was no longer sufficient to keep us warm. The heater has two heat settings: high and low, and its thermostat goes from 68-88°F. This electric fireplace is highly convenient in use since both the heat and flame settings can be operated using a remote control.
Price at the time of publishing: $649.00
Dimension: 5.5"D x 49.75"W x 19.25"H
Heat output: 5100BTUs
Area heated: 400 square feet
Pros
Cons
Conclusion
With there being plenty of electric fireplace models available to pick from in the market, we have researched and tested dozens of units. In this article, we have narrowed down and highlighted the best 8 electric fireplaces to buy in 2023 based on different aspects.
If you are looking for an electric fireplace that is high scoring in every aspect, we recommend our top pick, the Duraflame Infrared Quartz Fireplace Stove as the best option for you. It has a classic design, with realistic flames to keep your guests entertained, and an efficient heater to keep them warm while at it.
On the other hand, if your home has a patio or pool, why not spice things up? To do that, we recommend, you add the touchstone sideline outdoor 50-inch electric fireplace to your outdoor living space to make it cozier. This electric fireplace is designed for outdoor performance, hence you will not need to worry about damaging it when it is exposed to outdoor elements.
Lastly, if your living room has limited space, you would still want to enjoy having an electric fireplace and a TV in there. An electric fireplace TV stand like the Ameriwood Home Fireplace TV Stand for TVs up to 70" would be a match made in heaven for you. This product combines a TV stand and an electric fireplace in one unit. And still provides storage space to ensure everything fits in your limited space without looking clumsy.
What to consider when choosing an electric fireplace
Before heading to your local electric fireplace retailer or online store to pick an electric fireplace, the first consideration is where you want to install the electric fireplace. This helps you narrow down the unit size, design, and electric fireplace type to go for. Luckily, electric fireplaces do not require a chimney, hence you can install it in any room you would like. Nonetheless, when choosing a room for installing your electric fireplace, you should pick a room where the unit will be fully utilized. For instance, if you would like it for yourself the bedroom would be ideal but if you would want it to entertain guests the living room or dining room would be more suitable.
After settling on a room the next thing would be to identify the specific location in the room, where you would like to install an electric fireplace. This will help you narrow down further to the most suited electric fireplace. That is because every type of electric fireplace is designed to be installed in a specific way. For instance, if your room has limited floor space the Dimplex SIL48 in. Wall/Built-in Linear Electric Fireplace would be ideal since it is a wall-mounted unit. Alternatively, if you have an existing traditional fireplace the ClassicFlame 3D Infrared Quartz Electric Fireplace Insert Plug and Safer Sensor, Black would be the best. Since a matching dimension model would slip right into the existing space in your fireplace.
An important thing to note when selecting a specific installation location in a room is that there should be no objects around such as furniture that would block the unit’s vents, in addition, the location should not have combustible materials around.
The rule of thumb when connecting an electric fireplace to a power source is that you should never use an extension cord. To operate, the majority of electric fireplaces just need to be plugged directly into a power outlet. To avoid overloading a circuit it is advisable that the power outlet you plug your electric fireplace into, be on a dedicated line. Therefore, getting to know your home’s electric setup is paramount in knowing what sort of outlets are in the room you want to install your unit. And, whether you will need to seek the services of an electrician to add an outlet that is on a dedicated line if the room lacks one.
Depending on where and how you want to use an electric fireplace, you will need a specific heat output from the unit. The bigger the room you want to heat, the more heat output (BTUs) you will require. If you have a room of up to 1000 square feet, an electric fireplace like the Dimplex SIL48 in. Wall/Built-in Linear Electric Fireplace which generates 4,777 BTUs would sufficiently heat it.
Electric fireplaces have numerous advantages, but like any other appliance, they have some limitations. Thus, you need to identify your preferences for a fireplace. If you leave in an area with cooler temperatures and prefer a reliable fireplace even when the lights go out, then an electric fireplace would not be the best option. That is because electric fireplaces are fully dependent on electricity to run. Furthermore, if you want a fireplace to keep your whole house warm then installing a central heating system would be the preferable option that is because electric fireplaces are designed for zonal heating
Electric fireplaces come in all sorts of designs and finishes. You should consider an electric fireplace design and finish that will complement your home. You would not want to have an electric fireplace that looks out of place. Luckily, when it comes to designs and finishes anything goes, it all lies on your taste and preference.
Electric fireplaces can either be simply plugged into a power outlet or require hardwiring, that depends on the type of electric fireplace you opt for. A unit like the Dimplex SIL48 in. Wall/Built-in Linear Electric Fireplace can be wall mounted, recessed, or used with a tabletop stand, making it suitable for any installation method you prefer.
The majority of individuals who get electric fireplaces picture placing a television set above their electric fireplace to add to their focal point in a room. If you have a similar vision, you will need an electric fireplace with a front vent rather than one with a top vent, to avoid damaging your television. Nonetheless, if the electric fireplace you want has a top vent, you will need to leave enough space between the base of the television and the top surface of the fireplace
Electric fireplaces have different flame effects, some tacky while others are realistic. If you prioritize the flames more than the heating element, then ideally you should invest in an electric fireplace with its flame as the main feature. A prime example is the Real Flame Silverton 48-in electric fireplace which uses LED technology to make the flames and embers look realistic. Additionally, this electric fireplace offers five brightness settings and different flame color options.
Another must-have is a warranty. This ensures that your electric fireplace will be well-catered in case something goes wrong. When buying an electric fireplace make sure you get a warranty to give you a sense of security. Generally, manufacturers offer a warranty of between 1 and 2 years. A longer warranty indicates the electric fireplace is more durable.
FAQs
Is an electric fireplace inserts worth the hype?
A high-quality electric fireplace, is without a doubt, worth every penny. A traditional fireplace is a great addition to a home since it adds to the visual appeal and provides heat. Electric fireplaces on the other hand do more than that. To mention a few of what electric fireplace offer, they help reduce your electricity bill, lower maintenance work required, and lower your carbon footprint. Electric fireplaces do all that and have a lower cost in the long run when compared to all other fireplaces
Do electric fireplace inserts require venting?
Unlike, traditional wood-burning or gas fireplaces, electric fireplaces operate on electricity and not on combustibles. For that reason, they have zero emissions which means they do not require to be installed with a vent.
Do electric fireplace inserts give off heat?
With electric fireplaces coming in all kinds of shapes, sizes, and models, some units come with a heating element while others do not. Those that do not come with a heating element compensate by having super realistic flames for display. When shopping for an electric fireplace, it is essential to establish whether the heating feature is among your requirements. If it is, make sure you check the availability of heating before picking an electric fireplace.
Can you use electric fireplaces outdoors?
Yes. However, because of exposure to outdoor elements you can only use an outdoor-rated electric fireplace outdoors. That is because they are designed to withstand elements without being damaged. Using a normal fireplace outdoors would end up damaging the unit and/or exposing you to the risk of electric shock when it rains outdoors.
