How to Choose the Best Electric Fireplace?
Table of Contents
Top Best Electric Fireplace Based on Reviews and Price
Why You Need a Good Electronic Fireplace?
Electric fireplaces have never been more popular than now. Even though they have been around for more than a decade now, the demand for electric fireplaces has been overwhelming recently.
People love them because they can be easily installed at almost any spot in the house. They heat up quite fast and are practically maintenance-free. Then there is that “little thing” called appearance which is also one of the top reasons why people can’t get enough of them.
So it’s fair to say that it is both performance and appearance that drive the demand for electric fireplaces. As a result, deciding to buy one for your home is a pretty easy decision. The bigger challenge is choosing the right one that will bring “warmth” to your home, in a literal and decorative sense of the word.
Here is our mini-guide on how to make the right selection for an electric fireplace that will match your personal preferences while not compromising its primary role.
Top 4 Factors to Consider Before Buying an Electric Fireplace
1. Consider the Type of Electric Fireplace
Most electric fireplaces can be sorted in one of these four categories:
Wall Mounted Electric Fireplace
They are easy to operate, lightweight, and as the name suggests, they are designed to be mounted on a wall. The most challenging part is fixing it onto the wall. The installation is much easier if you have someone to help you hold the fireplace while you mount it.
They are made in all styles and colors so that they can fit in every type of home. Typically, they are mounted higher on the wall so that they are out of the reach of pets and kids. But there is no rule or restriction to where they need to be mounted.
Electric Fireplace Inserts
This type of electric fireplaces is best suited for those with an existing fireplace. They can replicate the appearance of a working, traditional fireplace. They come in various dimensions, which means they can be fitted in any fireplace. In terms of installation, everything is pretty straightforward – just secure them within the fireplace, and that’s it.
Some models even come with “glowing embers” that are indistinguishable from the real ones. So it’s an authentic appearance without the risks of a real fireplace.
Electric Fireplace Stoves
Stoves have been popular home heaters for a long time, but they require plenty of maintenance, and they need ventilation, which is an issue for itself. Electric fireplace stoves solve all those issues and don’t require any of that.
The electrical ones are freestanding, and there is no installation included. Simply plug them in a power socket, and they are good to go.
In terms of energy consumption, they are very efficient, which is good news for your electrical bill. Plus, they are easy to control and can replicate a realistic fire effect. They are best suited for heating rooms ranging from 400 sq. feet to 600 sq. feet in size.
Electric Mantel Fireplace
This type of fireplace has a mantel that shares the same appearance with traditional mantelpieces. They perfectly enclose the fireplace insert and can efficiently produce heat. Some of them even come with an integrated air purifier that cleans the surrounding air.
So, if you ever wanted a mantelpiece, this is your type of fireplace.
2. Consider Space and Placement
The dimensions of the particular space where the electric fireplace will be placed, and how the fireplace will be attached are the first things to consider when searching for a suitable one.
Once you measure the available space, you need to figure out whether you will go with a freestanding or a fixed fireplace. A freestanding electric fireplace can be easily placed next to other furniture or placed against a wall. They are perfect for those that can’t make any changes to their home and need an immediate heating solution. You just need to place them wherever you want and plug them into the plug socket. They will be instantly ready to warm up your home.
The fixed electrical fireplaces can also be mounted on a wall, and they require a bit of effort for installation. They are perfectly safe to be installed next to a TV and often are the centerpiece of the room.
If you are the moving type that doesn’t like to stay too long in one place, a freestanding electric fireplace is the better option because it can be simply taken down. On the other hand, the fixed ones might need some effort to be removed from their place.
3. Quartz Infrared, Fan-Forced Coil, or Ceramic Heater?
These are the three dominant types of heaters used with electric fireplaces. There are also some patented technologies developed by various brands, but their market share is insignificant.
Fan-forced Coil Heater
Electrical fireplaces featuring fan-forced coil heaters are the most popular ones. These heaters use a silent fan to blow hot air over a set of heated coils. Then the heated air comes out of a vent. The vent can be placed at the front, bottom, or top of the fireplace. The location of the vent is important because it needs to be a minimum of three feet away from any furniture, carpet, curtains, or anything combustible.
If you plan to install it below a TV, you need to keep a gap of at least twelve inches between the bottom of the TV and the top of the fireplace. It is also recommended to go with a fireplace that either has a front or bottom heat.
Quartz Infrared Heaters
Unlike forced-fan heaters that can supplement heat up to 500 sq. ft. room, the quartz infrared heaters can double the coverage and provide additional heat up to 1,000 sq. ft. room.
Furthermore, infrared heaters are way more energy efficient than forced-fan heaters and can provide a more natural type of heat.
Ceramic Heaters
They are the newest type of heaters featuring aluminum baffles and ceramic plates. When electricity flows through their ceramic plates, it provides heat, which is then drawn by the aluminum. Then with the help of a fan, the absorbed heat is blown into the room.
These are very energy-efficient heaters that are also quite portable. In terms of security, they are by far the safest type of heaters. Another essential feature is that they tend to heat up very fast while their plastic casing stays cool.
4. Important Features to Consider
Different electric fireplace models come with various features that make them stand out from their competitors. In the world of electric fireplaces, you need to consider some standard features. Here they are:
Different Heat Settings
This means that the user can easily adjust the temperature and make the room feel comfortable. To this end, the electric fireplace needs to have its programable thermostat that will give you control over the heat settings.
Various Flame Settings
This means that the user can change the intensity, the color, and the overall appearance of the flame. The idea is to enable the user to configure the appropriate ambiance. Some models have two or three modes, while the more advanced premium models allow for all sorts of combinations.
Heatless Working
The idea here is to enjoy the flames while no heat is produced. Sometimes the house is warm enough, yet you want to create a certain ambiance. That’s why there is a heatless operation mode. When the electric fireplace is in this mode, it uses only small amounts of energy.
Remote Control
Remote control lets you control the electric fireplace from wherever you are sitting in the room. That way, you can adjust any given settings, increase/decrease the heat, turn off/turn on the fireplace, set a timer, and control every other feature that can be commanded with the remote control.
Timer
This feature allows setting a time after which the electric fireplace will shut down on its own.
Hidden Panel
The hidden panel is where you can find the manual controls. The panel is hidden, so it doesn’t affect the overall appeal of the unit. Typically, the hidden panel is on some of the sides. But if you can’t figure out where it is, then check out the user manual.
Final Thoughts
An electric fireplace can entirely change the way your interior looks and feels. Not only that, it will have a profound impact on your home, but it will act as a secondary source of heat. During those chilly, early autumn, and spring months, it will be the primary source of heat. An electric fireplace is just enough to keep your warm during those periods. By not using your primary heating source, you will be able to generate extensive savings.
The process of selection can be overwhelming or fun and fast. All it takes is to follow the points made here, and the best choice will simply reveal itself.
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