Electric fireplaces are becoming more common in homes and commercial buildings because of their energy efficiency and versatile styles without the use of real fire. They work well in a variety of settings and deliver a significant amount of warmth to ensure you feel cozy and at ease in the coldest climates. If you’re in the market for a new electric fireplace, there are a few top electric fireplaces of 2024 to consider purchasing.
In this post, you will learn:
- Top 5 Best Electric Fireplaces of 2024
- Why Electric Fireplaces are More Accommodating
- How to Look for Your New Fireplace
- How to Safely Operate Your Electric Fireplace
- Fireplace Options to Consider
- What Factors Should Be Considered with a New Fireplace?
It can be easy to feel overwhelmed by the different types of electric fireplaces available in the industry. Each brand often sells dozens of products, making it challenging to know which ones are the most reliable, versatile, and functional.
It’s important to research the best electric fireplace in the industry to ensure you can find a few top picks and find something with more value. The MagikFlame Trinity White Electric Fireplace is a best seller because it has a luxurious design that is classy and sophisticated. Many people consider this to be the best electric fireplace because it works well with modern and contemporary home decor because of its beautiful crown molding. The beautiful flame effects also create a warm and inviting ambiance, whether it’s Christmas morning or you’re relaxing on a rainy day. This best electric fireplace also comes with 5,200 BTU for more heat than most Dimplex models.
The MagikFlame Artemis Modern White Electric Fireplace is another option with a real flame effect. It has a high level of functionality and can deliver significant warmth in open floor spaces. The clean lines on the surround create a modern style that is high-end and classy.
The Dimplex Winslow 42″ Wall-Mount Electric Fireplace is available on Amazon and has a sleek design with its recessed style. You can insert it into a cavity in a wall and enjoy using crystals, a log set, or pebbles. The fireplace doesn’t use a real flame but looks beautiful with its elegant design. Controls are also present on the side of the Dimplex unit to adjust the heat settings.
Many people also consider the best electric fireplace to be the PuraFlame Klaus Electric Fireplace Insert because the glass doors stay cool to the touch for added safety. The effects look like there is a real flame in the firebox over the log set. It even has the appearance of bricks built into the firebox for a realistic touch that is contemporary and works well in different styles of rooms. A remote control is included to make it easy to operate the unit from a distance.
The Touchstone – Sideline Electric Fireplace is 50 inches wide and has five different flame settings to choose from, depending on when and where you choose to use it. The product has log and crystal hearth options with three realistic flame colors, depending on your mood. It can even operate without any heat if you want to enjoy the look of the flames during the warmer months of the year. The materials on the back and sides of the Touchstone electric fireplace remain cool to the touch to prevent damage to the wall and to make it safer to operate when you have children or pets present.
The MagikFlame Morpheus Compact/Small Electric Fireplace has a 5,200 BTU heating system to ensure you get just as much warmth as you wood with a real fireplace without having to stay bundled up in blankets. This fireplace measures 45 x 52 x 15 inches to accommodate smaller spaces like apartments or home offices. It still comes complete with a fireplace mantel and decorative surround to make it look like a contractor built the feature into the room. The insert even sits higher up in the surround to make the flames more eye-catching to ensure the feature is one of the main focal points in the setting.
The fireplaces can also create a beautiful look when you plan to host parties and gatherings in your home. The movement of the flames will look entertaining, and the stylish look of the fireplace will be a conversation piece while mingling with your guests.
Why Electric Fireplaces are More Accommodating
Electric fireplaces are known to offer more benefits than other types of fireplaces because of their advanced technology and designs with their 3D flame look. The heat output you’ll get from a Western electric fireplace insert is comparable to a traditional fireplace and works well when there are freezing temperatures outside. They feature infrared quartz heaters and quickly heat the room in minutes without requiring that you leave them running all day long. The infrared quartz fireplace can make it easier to maintain the internal temperature in the building compared to a gas or wood-burning fireplace. The zone heating also won’t heat unused rooms in the rest of the house, which prevents you from using more energy than you need. It will also prevent other floors from becoming too hot when the heat starts to rise, which can cause other residents to overheat and become uncomfortable.
You can also have more control over how much heat is delivered with the adjustable thermostat that is built into the unit. You can set the thermostat at a specific temperature, whether you’re using the heat in the fall or winter season. The heat from the infrared heater won’t dry out the air and can maintain a comfortable setting. It’s also powerful enough to supplement your central heating system, which can reduce your energy usage throughout the colder seasons. You can enjoy spending less on your energy usage without compromising your comfort in the building with the supplemental heat.
Many consumers are also surprised to discover how easy electric fireplaces are to operate. You don’t need to read lengthy manuals or instructions because they turn on and off with the push of a button. You can understand the operation within minutes of removing it from the box after it arrives at your home. The heat also doesn’t require any ventilation. You won’t have to leave the window cracked in the living space as it operates like you wood a wood-burning fireplace, which can cause the space to feel chilly.
The lack of maintenance required is also an added benefit of owning an electric fireplace. The unit doesn’t require cleaning out any ashes because it doesn’t burn real wood. Chimney sweeps can also be avoided because the fireplace doesn’t produce any creosote and only relies on electricity to operate. You’ll save money on professional chimney sweep services and also won’t have to worry about any messes each time you want to enjoy a fire.
Installing an electric fireplace is much quicker and easier than any other type of fireplace available. You don’t have to hire a professional electrician to hardwire any of the parts into the building. Most types of electric fireplaces have a simple plug-in design, making them ready to use once you insert the electrical cord into an outlet. You can do this yourself without needing the help of a professional, saving you added time and money. You can also avoid getting permits through the city or waiting for the permits to get approved before you can install your new fireplace. Additionally, electric fireplaces don’t require any chimneys or venting because they don’t produce any smoke. You won’t have to spend a lot of money on modifications to the building to accommodate the operation of the product.
The simple design also means you can move it around whenever you want to change the layout of the room. Whether you want to add the fireplace to another wall or room, it’s easy to lift and place near another outlet where you can plug it in when you want to use it. This also makes it easy to take it with you when you’re ready to move to another home. Renters can enjoy purchasing an electric fireplace if they can’t make modifications to their rental property but still want to enjoy the benefits of a fireplace.
Electric fireplaces have a smaller profile and size than traditional fireplaces, which allows them to fit in all sizes of rooms without taking up a lot of space. This allows you to have more freedom with where you want to install it, whether you want a stunning fireplace in your entryway or in a formal dining room. It will make a statement without blocking high-traffic areas or entryways. They also aren’t too heavy to lift and don’t require any special equipment to move around for added convenience.
Many homeowners choose to purchase an electric fireplace because they come at a lower cost compared to masonry fireplaces. They don’t require purchasing any fireplace tools or a fireplace screen, meaning you don’t need additional accessories for their operation. They’re also safer to use because embers won’t jump out of the fireplace and into the room, which can lead to fires.
You also don’t have to spend time chopping down trees or collecting wood logs to use every time you want to enjoy having a fire. For those who have health issues, sinus problems, or breathing issues, electric fireplaces are safer for the indoor setting because they don’t release any pollutants into the air. You can continue to breathe easily and avoid any exposure to carbon monoxide or carbon dioxide throughout the year. The health of your loved ones will be protected, even if you choose to use the fireplace daily.
Some regions restrict how often traditional fireplaces are in use because they release a lot of pollution. You can use the feature as often as you prefer without worrying about getting fined.
How to Look for Your New Fireplace
Once you’ve decided to invest in an electric fireplace, you’ll need to know how to shop around to ensure you make the right selection. Start by reading through online reviews that are posted on different websites. Reading other customers’ reviews will allow you to get more insight into the operation and design of the product. You can check out Ameriwood and MagikFlame reviews on sites like Amazon or on the manufacturer’s websites. This will allow you to learn the pros and cons of each model and decide if you want to invest in it.
Do some research into the background of each brand to get an idea of the quality of the product, whether you want a recessed electric fireplace or a freestanding fireplace. MagikFlame is one of the newer brands in the industry and stands out for its unique and patented technology. The founder used his background in f/x special effects to create holographic technology to create realistic flame effects that look like a real fireplace. A screen is placed behind the faux logs and includes a lot of details with smoke and embers for realistic flames. All the MagikFlame electric fireplaces also feature realistic sound effects that make it sound like the wood logs or ember bed is burning.
You can also check out how MagikFlame is built to understand its overall quality to ensure you own the best electric fireplace that lasts long-term. All fireplace inserts from MagikFlame are built in Nashville, Tennessee, and have solid parts with smooth mechanisms. Purchasing an American-made electric fireplace insert makes it easier to find the necessary parts if you ever need to perform repairs in the future. Many other companies make each electric fireplace insert overseas, which may come at a lower price but can also mean the product breaks down sooner and doesn’t have as long of a lifespan.
Check out the payment plans and financing through each brand to ensure it works well with your budget and is the best electric fireplace for your needs. Avoid purchasing an electric fireplace with the lowest price tag, which can mean the product can suffer from issues frequently as it’s in use.
How to Safely Operate Your Electric Fireplace
One of the main reasons consumers enjoy electric fireplaces is because they’re a lot safer to use and operate than gas or wood fireplaces. However, you still need to know how to safely operate the product to avoid potential issues. Unplug the electric fireplace every time you’re done using it. You can easily plug it back in the next time you want to turn it on again. It will also allow you to save more money on electricity and avoid using energy when it’s not in use. Don’t use a surge protector or extension cord if you want to prevent the fireplace from overheating.
You can also get use out of the built-in timer that allows the fireplace to shut off at a specific time. This is one of the most common safety features that can prevent you from leaving it running too long, especially if you get distracted or happen to fall asleep. It’s also important to avoid leaving the room at any time as the fireplace is turned in operation. Most manufacturers also recommend never leaving kids or animals in the room alone with the fireplace and that they should be supervised as the fireplace operates.
You also want to inspect the cords on the fireplace to ensure they’re in good condition and are safe to use. Never plug your fireplace in if the cords appear frayed. Hire an electrician to inspect the damage, or contact the manufacturer to replace the product if it arrives damaged in the box. It’s also important to hide the electrical cords behind the fireplace to prevent any children from tampering with it or pets from chewing on the materials.
Avoid making any changes or modifications to the electric fireplace when you want to adjust its operation or design. This can affect its safe design and compromise how it works, which can lead to electrical problems and fires, putting your safety at risk. Read through the owner’s manual to learn any modifications you can safely make and which ones to avoid, depending on the specific fireplace model that you own.
All decor items and furnishings should also be kept a few feet away from the vents on the unit to ensure there’s proper airflow. Anything blocking the vents can lead to overheating and break-downs.
Fireplace Options to Consider
There are a variety of fireplace designs and styles available to accommodate your specific needs and the layout of your home or office. You can decide which features you want in your new electric fireplace and how much heat you want to get from the unit. Shopping around can allow you to discover what’s available and make an informed decision with your selection.
If you want to install a fireplace that looks like it’s built into the wall, opt for a freestanding electric fireplace, which many people consider to be the best electric fireplace because of its style. This item will look attractive in a bedroom or home office and stands out for its fireplace mantel and surround. If you’re working with a home builder or architect to construct a new home, you can save a significant amount of money by opting for a freestanding fireplace instead of requesting a masonry fireplace to be built in the home.
If you plan to remodel your living room or entire home, an electric fireplace will enhance the style of your interior setting. You can opt for an electric fireplace insert to install into a wall, which will increase your market value and create a stylish look. It won’t take up any room and will look more modern if you want to achieve an upscale design in the setting.
You can even select a fireplace TV stand if you want a furniture item that serves more than one purpose. This can work well in small spaces where you may not have a lot of wall space for a freestanding fireplace. You can own a TV console that has storage space where you can keep your personal belongings and keep them out of sight. Look for a product that features bookshelves or adjustable shelves to ensure you can customize the space for your DVDs, game boards, and blankets. Everything will be easy to access, and you can also enjoy viewing the flickering flames in the firebox while watching television.
You can have a wide selection of fireplace TV consoles to select to ensure they complement the interior design of your setting. The entertainment center can have rustic cabinets to create a farmhouse style that works well with your home’s style. Glass shelves can also be included to create a sleek, modern look that is regal and luxe. Fireplace TV stands with larger entertainment centers also complement a large room with more square feet or an open floor plan where you have to fill in bare space.
Electric fireplace stoves are another option for those who live in tiny homes or small apartments and have a realistic flame effect. The small design of the electric fireplace stove makes it fit in corners or even kitchens with fewer square feet to ensure you can heat your setting without resorting to a traditional fireplace. The rustic and vintage design can also look decorative and make it one of the main focal points in the room.
You can also consider what type of technology you prefer to have in your new electric fireplace instead of resorting to gas or wood. There are a variety of options which include:
- LED light bulbs
- Water
- Gel fuel
- Holographic technology
LED Light Bulbs
Some of the most advanced electric fireplaces in the industry include LED lights to make it look like there are realistic flames in the firebox like a traditional wood fireplace. These types of bulbs are known to be a lot more energy-efficient than halogen bulbs and can last up to 11 years before they need to be replaced in different types of electric fireplaces. Halogen bulbs have an average lifespan of two years. Multiple mirrors are also used in conjunction with the lights to make it look like the fire is moving and more dimensional.
Water
Some brands like Ameriwood use mist that is tinted the color orange to create the look of real flames. Although this is a popular type of technology to use, it doesn’t deliver the same quality of flame effect as holographic technology. You can check out how the flames compare by viewing the Magikflame electric fireplace buying guide. The guide includes specs and details of each item with multiple photos to view.
Gel Fuel
Gel fuel is another common type of technology you’ll find in electric fireplaces and is popular because it’s eco-friendly and doesn’t release any pollution or emissions. Each can of gel you purchase lasts an average of four hours before it runs out and looks similar to a real fire. The look of the flames creates a beautiful glow and can enhance the visual appeal of the setting. Although many homeowners enjoy the flame effects, don’t expect a lot of heat to be emitted into the room. Gel fuel is more for decorative purposes and won’t necessarily increase the temperature in the room in freezing climates. The heat delivered is comparable to a small space heater. Those in colder climates may want to select something that has a more powerful heating element and is functional just as much as it is attractive.
Holographic Technology
Holographic technology is new to the electric fireplace industry and has gained a lot of attention in recent years because of how realistic it looks. Holographic technology is an important part of the MagikFlame story. The inventor of the technology and the founder of MagikFlame, Howard Birnbaum, incorporated his special effect skills in the movie industry to create the technology when he couldn’t find a realistic electric fireplace to purchase. The flames are known to have more details and are three-dimensional to create the illusion of real flames moving on the electric log set.
What Factors Should Be Considered with a New Fireplace?
There are several factors you need to think about before you buy your electric fireplace to ensure it meets your needs. You can shop around at a home improvement store or on various websites online while thinking about specific factors that make it easier to narrow down the best electric fireplace. The different factors include:
- Warranty
- Features
- Operation
- Reviews
- Price
- Technology
- Size
- Style
Warranty
Not only is the price of the electric fireplace important to consider to ensure it’s affordable for your budget, but you also need to consider if it comes with a warranty. Although you may like the price, the manufacturer may not stand behind the quality of their product. This means that you’ll be responsible for paying for any repairs that are needed in the first year, which can get expensive. It can also mean you’re stuck with a faulty fireplace that doesn’t operate well. The guarantee will protect your investment and will ensure the company repairs or replaces the unit if you encounter any issues.
Some brands offer extended warranties, which are available if you pay more. An extended guarantee will offer coverage for two to three years and can offer peace of mind knowing you don’t have to spend more if problems develop. The warranties do not typically cover any damage that you caused to the product and are often only mechanical. For example, the guarantee will not offer coverage if you accidentally drop the fireplace while moving it around.
Size
Many people fall in love with the look of different electric fireplaces without giving enough thought or attention to their dimensions. The product may look beautiful when it’s on display, but can take up too much space or look smaller than you expected when you place it in your living room.
Start by measuring the wall where you plan to install the electric fireplace and consider how many square feet are in the room. Also, think about other furnishings and items that are in the room to ensure the fireplace isn’t too small or large. You also want to think about how high your ceilings are to ensure the fireplace has proper scale.
If you don’t have a lot of space to work with or are limited on wall space, consider a corner electric fireplace. Corner fireplaces are just as attractive and decorative as other fireplace models and take up less room. This can keep it out of the way but will ensure it still looks like a built-in feature in the room. You can even place a fireplace mantel above it to make it stand out more.
You can even opt for a wall-mounted electric fireplace that sits on the wall and is installed with a mounting bracket. The wall-mounted electric fireplace won’t cause it to take up much room and can look gorgeous when it’s installed on the wall that is across from the entrance of the room.
Features
Each fireplace model on the market has different features to offer accommodation and enhance the value of the product. You can consider looking for a fireplace that includes a touchscreen control, which makes the operation seamless. The backlit design on the touchscreen can even allow you to use it in the dark without turning on any lights. A remote control may also be included with many electric fireplaces, allowing you to adjust the thermostat or flame settings without leaving your seat. The remote control can allow you to turn up the heat settings on the electric fireplace heater and maintain a constant state of relaxation while sitting or laying down. Some brands like Dimplex and Duraflame even allow you to adjust the brightness settings to determine how much illumination you want from the electric fireplace.
MagikFlame electric fireplaces even come with an app to download on your smartphone or tablet to control and operate the fireplace remotely, even if you’re in another room in the home or are away from the house. This can offer peace of mind if you can’t remember if you left the fireplace running when you left the building.
Many Duraflame electric fireplaces even allow you to choose the flame color, whether you want pink, purple, or blue flames. The different colors are easy to adjust, whether you’re celebrating a specific holiday or want to create a romantic ambiance in the room. The color options are endless to ensure you can always change the look of the fireplace throughout the year. The flame colors can even complement the color scheme of the room to ensure the faux fire blends in well with the surroundings and is more interesting than a standard orange color you’re limited to with the real fire.
Operation
How the fireplace operates is an additional factor to consider and will reveal if it’s simple and easy to use. Check out the control panel to view how many buttons are present. Everything should be clearly labeled and easy to identify to avoid confusion. The unit may also come with remote controls or backlit screens.
Brand
The brand of fireplace you invest in is one of the most important factors that will determine how satisfied you are with the product in the coming years. Some of the most popular brands in the industry include Sideline, MagikFlame, Touchstone, Puraflame, and Dimplex. Spend some time checking out the brand’s website, and feel free to contact their customer service department if you have questions before making a purchase. Ask your family members and friends with electric fireplaces which brands they find to be the most reputable, whether they favor Dimplex or Duraflame.
Knowing the top fireplaces to purchase in 2024, you can narrow down your options and find a few choices that are reliable and advanced to ensure they’re a great addition. You can enjoy a feature that is easy to use, shows off a stylish design, and can contribute to the overall appeal of your interior setting.
