What to Know Before Buying an Electric Fireplace
The Short Answer
Electric fireplaces provide the look and ambiance of a fireplace without gas, wood, or traditional combustion venting, giving you flexibility in where and how you install one. Many models also provide supplemental heat and customizable flame and lighting effects.
They're generally simple to operate and maintain, but electrical requirements and installation clearances still need to be considered.
Good to know:
- Installation: Depending on the model, electric fireplaces can be wall-mounted, built-in or installed in other configurations.
- Heat: Some models provide supplemental heat, while others are designed primarily for ambiance.
- Electrical: Electric fireplaces require an appropriate electrical connection, with requirements varying by model.
- Controls: Many models offer customizable flame, ember, lighting, and heat settings.
- Maintenance: Cleaning is generally straightforward, with no combustion components or fuel-related servicing.
- Safety: Follow electrical requirements, maintain specified clearances, and never block the fireplace's air openings.
The Full Picture
Where Will Your Fireplace Go?
One of the biggest advantages of an electric fireplace is its installation flexibility.
Depending on the model, an electric fireplace can be wall-mounted, built into a wall, or incorporated into a feature wall or media installation.
Think about how you want the fireplace to interact with your television, furniture, artwork and other design elements.
How Much Heat Do You Want?
Electric fireplaces can provide ambiance, supplemental heat, or both.
If heat is important to you, look at the fireplace's heat output and consider how you plan to use it. Some homeowners may want heat during cooler months while using the flame effect without heat during warmer seasons.
What Electrical Requirements Are There?
Electric fireplaces don't require gas lines or combustion venting, but they do require an appropriate electrical connection. Depending on the model, they typically operate on 120V or 240V, with power requirements ranging from 1,500 to 3,000 watts. A dedicated circuit may be required.
Confirm the requirements for your selected fireplace before installation and have electrical work completed by a qualified professional where required.
What Size Is Right?
Electric fireplaces are available in a wide range of sizes and shapes.
Consider both the available wall space and the visual impact you want to create. A larger viewing area can become a dramatic focal point, while a smaller fireplace may be better suited to bedrooms, offices, or compact spaces.
What Features Matter?
Electric fireplaces can offer extensive customization, depending on the model.
Features may include:
- Realism
- Adjustable flame effects
- Ember-bed lighting
- Variable heat settings
- Remote controls
- App or smart controls
- Different media options
Think about how much customization you want and which features you'll actually use.
How Will You Finish Around the Fireplace?
The fireplace is only part of the finished installation.
Consider the wall treatment, surround, mantel, television, media components, and other design elements that will sit around it.
Understanding the fireplace's installation and finishing requirements early can help you create a cohesive finished design.
What Does Installation Involve?
Electric fireplace installation is generally simpler than gas installation because there is no fuel connection or combustion venting. However, models still have specific electrical, mounting, clearance, and finishing requirements.
Always follow the manufacturer's installation instructions.
For more information about permits and safety, see our guide to Fireplace Permits & Safety.
How Will You Use Your Fireplace?
Electric fireplaces are particularly flexible because the flame effect and heat can often be controlled independently.
You may be able to enjoy the visual effect without heat, adjust the flame appearance, or change the lighting to suit your mood.
Take time to explore the settings and find the combination that works for your space.
How Do You Clean an Electric Fireplace?
Electric fireplaces generally require simple cleaning.
Dust the exterior and surrounding area regularly and clean the viewing surface according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Always turn the fireplace off and allow it to cool before cleaning.
What Maintenance Is Required?
Because electric fireplaces don't burn fuel, they don't have the same combustion, gas, or venting maintenance requirements as gas fireplaces.
However, the appliance should still be kept clean and periodically checked for signs of damage or wear. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for any servicing.
Electric Fireplace Safety
Follow the electrical and installation requirements for your specific model.
Don't block air openings, place objects where they could interfere with the appliance, or use extension cords unless specifically permitted by the manufacturer.
Maintain required clearances and keep combustible materials away from areas where the manufacturer specifies.
Getting the Most From Your Fireplace
Electric fireplaces can be enjoyed year-round.
During warmer months, use the flame and lighting effects without heat. During cooler weather, turn on the supplemental heat when needed.
Explore the available flame, ember, lighting, and heat settings to create the experience you want.
The Bottom Line
Electric fireplaces offer flexibility, easy operation, and extensive design possibilities. Before buying, focus on where you want to install it, whether you want heat, the electrical requirements, and the features you value most.
With relatively simple ongoing care, an electric fireplace can provide ambiance and comfort with minimal maintenance.