What Is an Electric Fireplace?
An electric fireplace is essentially an electric heater that mimics the look of a conventional fireplace. Most electric fireplaces plug into a regular wall outlet with no special installation required. A light-emitting diode (LED) light and a mirror element that rolls and reflects the light create the fire-like effect. Because electric fireplaces can be used with or without heat, they’re great for creating a cozy look without additional heating. Many electric fireplaces feature thermostats and remote controls for easy operation and heat regulation.
Fan Forced Versus Infrared Quartz Electric Fireplaces
The typical electric fireplace operates on a standard 120-volt outlet and works with two types of heat: fan-forced and infrared quartz.
Fan-forced, also known as forced-fan, uses a silent fan that blows over heated coils to produce heat in a room. With infrared quartz, heat is delivered through invisible infrared light. The light warms the things it touches instead of the air around it — people, furniture, bodies — to create more comfortable surroundings. Infrared quartz heat leaves humidity in the air creating a more pleasant home environment.
When either type of fireplace is in operation, everything except the area housing the heating element remains cool to the touch. This makes an electric fireplace an attractive option for people with young children or pets.
All-in-One Units Versus Electric Fireplace Inserts
Electric fireplaces are available as all-in-one units and as fireplace inserts, or logs, that fit into an existing fireplace and chimney. Both types can operate safely without venting.
Types of Electric Fireplaces
For those who prefer an all-in-one unit, traditional mantels and media stands are available. Media stands have hidden media components to conceal electronics and double as a television stand. If you don't mind whether a television is concealed or not, there are also standard electric fireplace TV stands in which the television can be placed on the top of the fireplace unit.
Wall-hanging units deliver a more modern look and hang on the wall with brackets, much like a wall-mount television. Wall-mounted electric fireplaces are ideal for rooms where there isn’t a lot of floor space available.
Freestanding models may be used flush against a flat wall or in a corner.
Always read the product specs for maximum size and weight for anything you place on top of an electric fireplace TV stand. Also be aware that those items may pose a tip-over hazard.
Sizes of Electric Fireplaces
Electric fireplaces come in many different sizes to complement virtually any room. From small, corner electric fireplaces that take up a limited amount of space to large units 50-in. in width and larger, there’s an option for any room. There are even tabletop electric fireplaces small enough to fit on a desk, kitchen counter or other flat surface.
What Does BTU Mean?
BTU, or British Thermal Units, is a measure of how much power, or heat, an electric fireplace can supply. When shopping for an electric fireplace, you’ll likely see the BTUs of a fireplace highlighted in the product details. Generally, the higher the BTU, the more heat the fireplace is able to generate. For context, an electric fireplace with a 5,200-BTU output can heat an area up to 1,000-square-feet.
Frequently Asked Questions About Electric Fireplaces
Here are answers to some commonly asked questions about electric fireplaces.
How many watts do I need for an electric fireplace?
Most electric fireplaces require 1,500 watts to run.
What are the pros and cons of an electric fireplace?
Electric fireplaces are more efficient than most traditional fireplaces and can help save on heating costs. They’re also simple to set up and maintain. On the flipside, electric fireplaces cannot be used during power outages and may offer less realistic flames than traditional fireplaces.
Can you plug an electric fireplace into a regular outlet?
Yes, most manufacturers recommend plugging an electric fireplace directly into a regular outlet. For safety reasons, electric fireplaces should not be plugged into an extension cord or power strip.
Is it safe to leave an electric fireplace on all day?
Check the manufacturer’s usage guidelines for best practices regarding electric fireplace safety. Electric fireplaces should always be turned off before you leave the room for long period of time or before going to bed.
What features should I look for in an electric fireplace?
Features vary by fireplace brand and model but some features to look out for include fireplaces with compatible remotes, the ability to change flame colors, built-in timer functions, automatic safety shut-off and more.