Electric fireplaces are becoming increasingly popular because of their low-cost operation, easy installation, and instant ambiance they add. With real-looking flames, they add supplemental heat without the air quality issues caused by traditional fireplaces.
Read our buying guide to determine which type, style, size, and features work best for your space.
- Types
- Electric Fireplace Benefits
- Styles & Finishes
- Size & Heating Power
- Features to Look For
- Safety Features
- Inexpensive & Eco-Friendly Operation
- Questions and Other Resources
Types
Wall-Mountable
There are 2 types of wall-mountable electric fireplaces: Models mounted to your wall and models recessed into your wall. Wall-mounting brackets and materials are typically included with your fireplace. 
Fireplaces that are mounted to your wall are easier to install, but some customers prefer having their fireplace built-in a wall. These models are more portable than other fireplaces and also save you valuable floor space, making them popular in condos, apartments, and lobbies.
Electric Fireplace Mantels
Electric fireplace mantels look just like a traditional fireplace, usually sit flush against a flat wall, and feature an inset firebox.
Designed to look like a traditional wood-burning fireplace, these mantels can serve as a place to display vases, art, or books.
Corner Fireplaces
One of most common types of electric fireplaces is a freestanding style that is simply placed against a wall. These models resemble traditional fireplaces and can become the new focal point in your room.
We also offer corner fireplaces, which are similar to wall fireplaces but designed to be placed in a corner. Some models even include collapsible panels, so they can sit against a wall or in a corner.
Many wall and corner fireplaces have a mantel for home decorations; consider the mantel support weight before purchasing.
Fireplace TV Stands
Add ambiance, heat, and a place for your flat screen TV with a fireplace TV stand. These durable entertainment centers are built with lasting quality and their designs are similar to wall fireplaces.
Most models include ample storage space for electronics and media equipment, and we offer a wide-variety of styles to match any indoor environment.
There should be a maximum flat screen size provided for media console fireplaces; confirm your media fireplace can hold your TV.
Fireplace Inserts & Logs
Just as their name suggests, fireplace electric logs or inserts are manufactured to be placed in existing traditional fireplaces or replace fireboxes from old electric fireplaces. They transform wood-burning fireplaces, which emit carbon dioxide and can increase room humidity, into efficient, attractive electric fireplaces.
The inserts are far easier to handle and maintain, making them perfect for people who don't use their traditional fireplace but want the ambiance it provides.
A few electric logsets insert into your already existing wood-burning fireplace, and look very realistic, making crackling sounds. They can either hardwired or plugged-in to an existing outlet.
Electric Fireplace Benefits
Electric fireplaces offer a variety of benefits:
- Great for apartments and homes without true fireplaces.
- Fireplaces become an instant centerpiece to your space.
- They are versatile in terms of design. A variety of types are available, from a compact fireplace for your bedroom, a media console for your living room, or a wall-mount for an office lobby.
- No maintenance is involved since they don't need to be vented and are simply plugged into a wall.
- Add supplemental heat to areas as large as 400 square feet.
- Life-like flames use updated technology.
Styles & Finishes
Whether your home is modern or traditional, our selection of electric fireplaces have you covered—from sleek, built-in wall units to rustic, old-fashioned standalone models.
Look for traditional electric fireplaces if it matches your decor, or consider sleek models for a more modern vibe at home.
These modern fireplaces have minimalist design features like a stainless steel surrounds. More detailed, traditional designs with charming wood carvings are also available. In addition, flame bed options range from traditional log set to modern glass or stone.
Size & Heating Power
Most models offer between 750- and 1,500-watts for low and high heat settings. This wattage offers supplemental heat for spaces up to 150 square feet—which is why these products are perfect for living rooms, basements, and offices.
Electric fireplaces are typically used as supplemental heat in these areas but can be the primary heat source for spaces like a small den. If you're heating an interior or well-insulated room, it may be possible to warm upwards of 400 square feet, per the manufacturer's suggested square footage.
Features to Look For
Electric fireplaces have a variety of convenience and energy-efficient features, including:
- Flame-Only Operation: If you're interested in the ambiance of a fireplace but not always the heating option, most fireplaces come with no-heat operation.
- Adjustable Thermostats: A model with an adjustable thermostat lets you decide the rate at which heat is released into your space.
- Flame-Speed Control: You can adjust the speed at which your flames flicker, depending on your preference.
- Brightness Control: Generally located on the control board, this control lets you adjust the brightness or your fire.
- Remote Control: Many electric fireplaces have full-function remote controls that can be used for all of these settings for the firebox, making operation even easier.
Safety Features
You can't get much safer in terms of heaters than an electric fireplace. Their fake flames and enclosed firebox are naturally safe, but there are other features to consider:
- Cool-to-the-touch: Regardless of the mode, you won't have to worry about getting burned if you touch the fireplace if it has cool-to-the-touch housing or glass. This feature is particularly popular for customers with children or pets.
- Overheat Protection: A built-in switch automatically turns the heater off is overheating is detected.
- Safety Approvals: Heaters are put through safety tests to ensure they operate to national and international standards. Look for ETL, UL, and CSA certifications to know you're purchasing a safe, efficient electric fireplace.
Inexpensive & Eco-Friendly Operation
Electric fireplaces don’t have smoke or ventilation requirements, which make them better for your indoor air quality. You won't have to worry about hazardous emissions (like carbon dioxide) or the messy maintenance that can be associated with traditional fireplaces or wood-burning heaters.
They're also very inexpensive to run. Many models cost as little as 1 cent an hour while in flame-only mode and 8 cents an hour while in heating mode. Simply plug them in a socket to enjoy the ambiance and supplemental heat without causing your energy bills to dramatically increase.
Determine your heating needs and sizing requirements using our calculating square footage and wattage for heating chart.
Still Have Questions?
For more information on specific electric fireplaces and other indoor air treatment solutions, shop our products and visit our Knowledge Center. Not sure what's best for you? Contact our product experts toll-free at 1-800-934-9194. We want to help you make your indoor environment healthy and comfortable.
