When you consider using a fireplace in your home, you may forget that the feature can also be installed outside. An outdoor electric fireplace can allow you to spend more time in the backyard year-round. There are many ways you can enhance your patio with an outdoor electric fireplace when selling the right product. Please keep in mind that MagikFlame electric fireplaces are for indoor purposes. However, we wanted to highlight the benefit of outdoor electric fireplaces as well.
In this post, you will learn:
- Enhance Your Patio With an Outdoor Electric Fireplace
- How Do Electric Fireplaces Work?
- Features You Can Expect in an Electric Fireplace
- Electric Fireplace Options Available
- Where to Shop for Your New Fireplace
- Different Brands in the Industry
Enhance Your Patio With an Outdoor Electric Fireplace
One of the main benefits of installing an outdoor electric fireplace heater is you don’t need a lot of space or room. Due to their compact size, they can fit on many types of patios or balconies. This can accommodate those who live in apartments or condos who are limited on space. You just need to have access to an outlet a few feet away to ensure you can plug it in to begin using it. This is important to keep in mind if you want to remodel your backyard and are brainstorming where to install it.
The materials used on an outdoor electric fireplace heater allow them to hold up well to moisture and different environmental elements. Most models don’t require the patio to be screened or enclosed for added protection from the elements. You can even consult the advice of a home builder or architect when you’re building a new home and want to find the best fireplace model.
They’re also easy to install and don’t always require hiring a contractor. It’s an easy DIY project that requires minimal hardwiring or plugging it into an outlet. You can have the feature set up and ready to use the same day it arrives at your home.
Outdoor electric fireplaces are favorable to use on a patio because they enhance the style and design of the setting. Their built-in look and exquisite details create an upscale look in the backyard. They pair well with outdoor rugs and patio furniture to ensure you have an extension of your interior living space. You can also work with an interior designer to find a style that blends in well with your outside decor and furnishings.
The significant amount of heat they produce also allows residents to spend more time outside. They work well on porches or back patios to keep the space warm in the evenings or the colder months of the year. Because real flames or propane aren’t used, they can operate reliably if the weather permits. You can create a cozy ambiance for your family members and enjoy feeling right at home.
Look for a specific model rated for outdoor use because many models are only designed to be used inside. The model should have a weatherproof casing to protect the electric wiring and internal components from damage. Amantii has a variety of options, whether you want a wall-mounted electric fireplace or a linear electric unit. Amantii outdoor electric fireplaces often feature a multicolor flame and a log set in the firebox. You can select either option, depending on the look you want to achieve. Fire glass is also available in many of the models, which looks sleek and upscale.
These types of models are more energy-efficient than gas fireplaces that use propane. It’s a green option that can allow you to reduce your carbon footprint on your property. You can leave them on longer to enjoy more time outdoors without spending more money on your energy usage.
If your the owner of an electric fireplace, read through the owner’s manual to get an idea of if it’s designed for outdoor use. You may find a warning that says it’s not rated to be used in the backyard. If it can suffer from damage if it has contact moisture, it also means you shouldn’t install it in a bathroom. The manufacturer can also tell you if it’s safe to use outside. This will prevent you from putting your safety at risk or causing damage to the unit.
When you find the best outdoor electric fireplace for your needs, you have the option of installing it in the cavity of a wall on the outside of a building. This will allow it to have more protection outdoors and reduce signs of wear that occur over time. It can also allow it to be covered in the shade to avoid too much sun exposure.
An outdoor electric fireplace heater can allow you to create a great place to entertain on your property when you want to throw parties. The amount of heat the outdoor electric fireplace heater produces can keep a large crowd warm more effectively than firepits. Their elegant design also makes them more attractive than an electric stove or fire pits.
How Do Electric Fireplaces Work?
Electric fireplaces are considered to be modern and advanced compared to gas and wood fireplaces that have been used for many decades. They use electricity to operate and deliver supplemental heat to reduce your reliance on an HVAC system. They work better than a space heater and offer zone heating. This means they only heat the room they’re installed in instead of the entire house. You won’t have to hear your family members complain that their bedrooms or other floors of the house are getting too hot. Depending on their size and the number of BTUs they pack, they can also be installed in small or large rooms. Multiple fireplaces can be used to create a more comfortable internal setting when it’s cold outside.
Electric fireplaces operate without the use of wood logs and immediately begin to operate by flipping a switch or pushing a button. You don’t need to clean out any ashes from the firebox afterward or schedule chimney sweeps every year.
Electric fireplaces operate by drawing air into the unit and blowing it back after heating it. They contain internal heating coils to ensure warm air is pushed out in seconds. The heat is more directed to the surrounding environment because of the infrared technology in use.
According to howstuffworks.com, the average electric fireplace generates 4,000 BTU of heat.
Not all electric fireplaces operate the same. They each feature different technology, which includes:
- Holographic technology
- Water or mist
- Gel Fuel
- LED lights
Holographic Technology
At MagikFlame, we’re the only brand in the industry to offer holographic technology, which is a part of our MagikFlame story. Our patented technology was invented by our founder, Howard Birnbaum. His background in f/x effects in the movie industry gave him the knowledge and skill to create stunning effects. Each of our fireplaces is for indoor use and creates the illusion of a real flame effect. Even within a foot away from the fireplace, the flame effects look authentic. Please keep in mind that the ideal use and performance of holoflame technology is for indoor purposes.
Water or Mist
Other brands like Dimplex use tinted water or mist to make it look like flames are present. Unfortunately, only a single flame and the hassle with the maintenance from the water make this a unique application.
Gel Fuel
Gel fuel is another type of technology in electric fireplaces and doesn’t burn smoke or release embers. They operate off of cans of fuel and can burn for a few hours at a time. They don’t release any pollution and generate a lot of light to make create a realistic effect.
Unlike our MagikFlame electric fireplaces, they don’t come with an infrared heater and won’t heat the room as effectively. They’re more for decoration than for staying warm.
LED Lights
Many brands also rely on LED or halogen lights to create flame effects. You have to replace the bulbs if they die out, and they don’t always look as detailed as holographic technology. Halogen bulbs only last two years, and LED bulbs can last up to 11 years before you need to replace them.
Features You Can Expect in an Electric Fireplace
Today, there are more features available in electric fireplaces compared to past years. The flames may be fake, but they now look realistic due to the holographic technology our MagikFlame fireplace models use. This patented technology allows there to be details like billowing smoke and embers with the use of a screen.
Other brands use different colors of flames you can choose from. Whether you want to celebrate a holiday or create a romantic look in the dining room, the color flame is easy to customize. When you want something different than yellow or orange flames, you can always switch it up with pink or purple fire to put on display.
With an electric fireplace, you can choose the size and brightness of the flames. Whether you use it in the middle of the day or in a dim setting, this can allow you to have more control of its glow. You can even control the heat settings by adjusting the thermostat on the product. You don’t have to settle for one temperature of heat like a fireplace stove or wood-burning fireplace. An electric fireplace allows you to decide how much heat you want at any time of the year. You can even turn the heating element off if your home is already at a comfortable temperature.
With the included remote control, it’s easy to operate the device compared to a gas or wood-burning fireplace. Our MagikFlame fireplaces even come with an app you can download on your electronic devices to control the product remotely.
Our brand, MagikFlame, also offers realistic crackling log effects. This provides the ultimate experience that makes it easy to believe you’re sitting by a real fire.
Electric Fireplace Options Available
When you’re looking for the right electric fireplace to use in your bedroom or living room, many options are available. This makes it easier to find something specific for the size and style of your living space.
You can choose a wall mount electric fireplace with stainless steel materials for a modern and upscale look. This is ideal if you don’t have a lot of space or square feet to work within the home.
If you have a large empty wall, a freestanding electric fireplace is a great choice. It will look like a built-in feature that is almost identical to traditional fireplaces. Freestanding fireplaces are more in demand because they feature surrounds and fireplace mantels for increased visual appeal. You can decorate the product and allow it to match the rest of the home decor in the room.
If you have an existing fireplace, an electric fireplace insert is an ideal choice. This product is lightweight and easy to lift and move around. It’s slim enough to fit on a tabletop, making it more portable than other options available. You can convert an old fireplace into an energy-efficient product. It can even install it in a wall to heat the setting even if you don’t have a lot of space available.
If you want to create a vintage and rustic look, opt for an electric fireplace stove. The compact size makes it fit in the smallest settings and looks beautiful because of its intricate details. It’s more energy-efficient than a wood stove and is easy to operate. Some models are even designed for an outdoor living space, which can look more upscale than fire pits.
TV console with fireplaces to ensure you can own a furniture item that emits heat. It can become the main focal point in the room and contribute to the interior design of the setting.
Where to Shop for Your New Fireplace
Once you’re ready to invest in an electric fireplace heater, there are many places to look. You can discover the options available at:
- Online websites
- Home improvement stores
Online Stores
It’s a lot quicker and more efficient to look for a wall-mounted electric fireplace online. You can search for the best models in the comfort of your home and compare the features and styles offered. Electric fireplaces are available on the manufacturers’ websites such as MagikFlame.com and marketplaces such as Amazon and Walmart. Amazon will allow you to shop for various brands like MagikFlame, Amantii, and Dimplex.
Home Improvement Stores
Home improvement stores also sell top models and can allow you to find the best outdoor or indoor fireplace. You can test out the features and view the realistic effects to ensure it works well on your property.
Different Brands in the Industry
The brand you select is one of the main factors that determine if you find the best outdoor or indoor electric fireplace heater for your needs. Start by reading the reviews to get an idea of what models other customers favor. Our MagikFlame reviews are available on our website to give you insight into other customers’ opinions. You can also explore our MagikFlame best electric fireplace buying guide to discover all the options to obtain the most realistic flame effect.
Research how the brand builds its fireplaces to ensure you’re investing in something that will last long-term. Our company is transparent about how MagikFlame is built. We construct our surrounds and mantels in Nashville, Tennessee instead of sourcing them from overseas like other companies.
Touchstone is another top brand in the industry that uses an LED flame effect. With the use of a blower, heat releases into the room to control the temperature and climate in the building. Touchstone fireplaces feature a variety of recessed electric fireplaces to create a sleek and eye-catching look. Many of the products are even compatible with Alexa and Google, making them much more advanced than owning an old-fashioned fireplace stove.
Dimplex electric fireplaces are just as popular in the industry as Touchstone. The fireplaces are available as media consoles, inserts, and freestanding designs. The brand still sells a few models that use propane for those looking for a gas fireplace that uses propane.
Every brand offers various price points to accommodate every type of budget. It’s important to avoid buying the cheapest product on the market because it may not last as long. Our fireplaces have competitive prices and are constructed with quality materials. This reduces the risk of repairs that are needed and delivers more reliable operations. Look into the payment plans and financing options available. The most reputable brands also offer a warranty or guarantee on their products and stand behind their quality. Selecting a product that comes with a warranty can allow you to protect your investment. This will ensure the brand covers the cost of repairs or replacements if any issues develop in the first year of using the fireplace. By installing an outdoor electric fireplace heater in the backyard, you can enjoy spending more time at home. You can remain more comfortable on a patio or porch and show off a beautiful feature to your guests.
