10 Best Electric Fireplaces Consumer Guide & Reports (2023)

Setting up the traditional fireplace doesn’t cost you a fortune but also needs your attention to maintain it. If you are craving for a traditional cozy warm fireplace but can’t afford it, then opting for electrical fireplaces would be the best option.

An electric fireplace mimics the traditional one but is controlled via a remote and gives the exact vibe of burning coal, wood or natural gas. In addition, electric fireplaces come in multiple designs and sizes which one can choose as per the budget and preferences.

We tested multiple electric fireplaces and added those in our list which are highly durable, offer high performance and are available in a variety of sizes.

Before jumping directly to the products, let’s have a look at the important features which one should look at in electric fireplaces before making a decision. This will help you to make a better decision.

And before that, here is out top pick.

Our Best Pick

Duraflame DFI-5010-01 Electric Infrared Fireplace front view review

Duraflame electric fireplace is the top rated and best infrared fireplace you can get in the market right now. It covers up to 1000 sq.ft of area which is good for small to large spaces unlike others. Also, it offers a 3D flame look unlike others.

For forced air electric fireplaces, PuraFlame western electric fireplace is the best one if you want to insert ones. And for freestanding forced air heaters, Ameriwood fireplace would be the best option specifically if you have a small and confined place.

Comparison of the Top 10 Electric Fireplaces (High Rated)

Below we have compared our top picks of the Electric Fireplaces which are also reviews in the later section below. So, make sure to check the review as well.

Select any two fireplaces from the dropdown option below in the table to compare.

Best Electric FireplaceVS
1. Duraflame DFI-5010-01 Electric Infrared Fireplace2. R.W.FLAME Wall Mounted Electric Fireplace3. PuraFlame Western Electric Fireplace4. Homedex 50″ Recessed Mounted Electric Fireplace5. Ameriwood Home Lamont Mantel Fireplace6. TURBRO Suburbs TS17 Compact Electric Fireplace7. Canyon Heights Faux Stacked Stone Electric Fireplace8. Cottinch Electric Fireplace Heater9. Ameriwood Home Chicago Electric Fireplace10. Touchstone 80001 – Onyx Electric Fireplace
Product product-review product-review product-review product-review product-review product-review product-review product-review product-review product-review
Material Metal Metal Metal Tempered glass and metal Engineered wood Metal Stone Metal Laminated MDF and particleboardGlass
BTU5200 BTU2559 BTU and 5118 BTU5000 BTU2550 and 5100 BTU4600 BTU4777 BTU5800 BTU4600 BTU4600 BTU5118 BTU
Heating capacity (area sq.ft)Up to 1000 sq.ft. 400 sq.ft. 400 sq.ft400 sq.ft 400 sq.ft 300 sq.ft400 sq.ft 400 to 1000 sq.ft.400 sq.ft 400 sq. ft
Dual-modeYes Yes Yes Yes Yes NONONOYesYes 
TypeFreestanding Wall mounted and flush mountedFreestanding and wall-mounted Flush and wall mounted Freestanding Freestanding Freestanding Freestanding Freestanding Wall mounted 
Heater Type Infrared Forced heater Forced heaterForced heaterForced heaterForced heaterForced heaterForced heaterForced heaterForced heater
Best for Author’s choice (Overall)Best wall mounted and flush mounted Best electric fireplace insertVariety of flame colors Best freestanding Best for small spacesHigh aesthetics Budget friendly choiceBest fireplace for a TV consoleBest for wall-mounting 
AmazonCheck on AmazonCheck on AmazonCheck on AmazonCheck on AmazonCheck on AmazonCheck on AmazonCheck on AmazonCheck on AmazonCheck on AmazonCheck on Amazon
EbayCheck on EbayCheck on EbayCheck on EbayCheck on EbayCheck on EbayCheck on EbayCheck on EbayCheck on EbayCheck on EbayCheck on Ebay
Full ReviewJump to Full ReviewJump to Full ReviewJump to Full ReviewJump to Full ReviewJump to Full ReviewJump to Full ReviewJump to Full ReviewJump to Full ReviewJump to Full ReviewJump to Full Review

Factors to Consider when Buying an Electric Fireplace (Consumer Guide)

Unlike Gas Fireplaces, these fireplaces use electricity to product heat.

Electric fireplaces are available in a variety of designs, shapes and sizes. It is important to know the basic factors of an electric fireplace so you can make a wise decision. 

Choose the right place

The most important factor to consider before looking for an electric fireplace is where you will be placing it; in the corner of your living room, in bed room or in your lounge. Also, do you have enough space for an electric fireplace? 

Electric fireplaces are available in wall-mounted options, free standing options and to be placed in pre-existing fireplaces. By knowing the right dedicated place, it will help you to limit down the choices. 

Heat output (BTU)

The heat output of an electric fireplace is measured in the British Thermal Unit (BTU). The higher the BTU of the electric fireplace the higher heat output it will offer. For small to medium sized rooms, an electric fireplace of 5000 BTU heat output would suffice.

For larger rooms or space, a fireplace of 6800 to 10,000 BTU would be a good option. On average, a lot of electrical fireplaces come with 4600 BTU heat output which can heat the 400 square ft place easily. So, choose accordingly. 

NOTE: When you turn On the electric fireplace, it mimics the clicking noise of a traditional fireplace as well to give the pure traditional feeling.

Heater types

For those who don’t know, electric fireplaces come with different heating zones and one should know the type of it before making a purchase. Here are the three types of heating zones one can get in an electric fireplace.

In addition, electric fireplaces use one type of heater and don’t come with two. We will explain to you how both of these work and which one is better for you.

a) Infrared heaters

As the name indicated, infrared heaters use infrared technology to heat the body temperature of the body along with the environment (electric heaters heat the environment first).

These heaters use infrared light to heat up the body temperature and one can feel the change in minutes after starting it.

Infrared heaters electric fireplaces consumer reports

These electrical fireplaces are good for large spaces and can easily warm up the place up to 1000 sq.ft. However, the drawback of these heaters is, when you turn these Off, the warm air is lost a bit faster than forced air heaters.

Also, these electrical fireplaces are a bit expensive as well.

b) Forced air heaters

The electric fireplaces with forced air heaters are the conventional ones as they can heat up the environment pretty well (take a bit of time though) and can keep the temperature warm even after turning it Off for hours. 

Forced air heaters electric fireplace consumer reports and reviews

These types of heaters suck the air from the environment and throw out the warm air. Although it takes a bit of time to warm up the place, once it’s done, the after effects are quite impressive.

Mostly, the Electric fireplaces have forced air heaters and are good for small to medium sized places (200 sq.ft to 800 sq.ft).

Heaters or flames

It is important to know that an electric fireplace (some) can’t offer you heating performance and viewing flames at the same time. When you are viewing the flames on the fireplace, the heater can’t function and vice versa.

Although this makes the electric fireplaces to be used in summers as well (to enjoy the flames). 

heater and flames of an electric fireplace

However, one needs to be vigilant about such features when making a purchase. And, for your information, the flames used in electric fireplaces are not real. In fact, the screens of these fireplaces are like TV screens and use a light bulb to mimic the traditional flames. 

The above mentioned factors are the main and important ones and you should take them in consideration before making a choice. Apart from that, we will be reviewing each and every product in detail as well to help you out. 

So, let’s have a look at them.


Top 10 Best Electric Fireplaces (Reviews & Reports)

We already kept all of the above considerations on our mind while testing different Fireplaces so, whether you are looking for a wall-mounted fireplace, inserted one or free standing, we have mentioned the best ones after testing them personally. 

1. Duraflame DFI-5010-01 Electric Infrared Fireplace

Author’s top pick.

Duraflame DFI-5010-01 Electric Infrared Fireplace front view review

Let’s start our list with the Duraflame electric infrared fireplace. For those who don’t know, Duraflame is a 50 years old brand which is famous for providing high-quality Firestarter products including heaters and barbecue equipment.

So, when we tested this model, we were quite impressed with its performance and that’s why we added it to our list. Let’s get into the details now. 

Specifications

BrandDuraflame
MaterialMetal
ColorBlack 
BTU5200 BTU
Heating capacity (square feet)Up to 1000 sq.ft
Weight28.6 pounds
Dimensions13.07 x 24 x 23.4 inches

Heater type and Design 

This one is the infrared type with a freestanding size so one can easily place it in any corner of the room or any other dedicated place up to one’s liking. The body of the heater is made up of high-quality metal.

The controls on the frame get hidden when the glass door is closed. That’s why it is a bit difficult to control the fireplace from the frame and it is best to control the settings from the remote control. 

However, when you first look at it, it looks like the frame is made up of plastic but after examining it closely you will get to know the quality of material which is the grade one metal.

Duraflame DFI-5010-01 Electric Infrared Fireplace consumer reports

Flames 

The distinguishing feature of this infrared electric fireplace is, it offers a 3D flame effect which mimics the original fireplace flames. In addition, you can adjust the flame brightness up to 5 settings. 

Another interesting feature of this electric fireplace is the zone heating feature, which allows you to shut Off the zones where heated air is not needed. This way you can save energy and electricity. 

Overall Performance

As per our testing and reports of customers, this fireplace offers 5200 BTU of heat output which is good to heat up the 1000 square feet place. Which means this one is good for medium sized houses or spaces.

In short, the heater is compact enough to be placed anywhere in your house and efficient enough to heat a medium sized place. Rather than heating up the room temperature, this heater warms up the temperature of the person via infrared technology.

Pros

  • It is not noisy at all.
  • Best for medium sized rooms.
  • Solid and durable construction.
  • Easy to set up.

Cons

  • The controls on the unit are not backlit.
  • The remote controls could have been a bit better.

Buyer’s reports

Thousands of buyers have rated this electric fireplace with 4.7 stars out of 5.

The buyers who have been using this electric fireplace for months now are pretty impressed with the performance of it and the looks it offers. The flame effects of this heater are closest to reality which impressed them the most.

Other than that, the controls on the unit could have been a bit better as per the reports.

Our suggestion

We rate this electric fireplace with an 8.5 score out 10.

If you are looking for a freestyle infrared electric fireplace, then opting for this one would be a good option. However, the controls on the frame could have been a bit better. Otherwise, this electric fireplace performance is quite impressive.


2. R.W.FLAME Wall Mounted Electric Fireplace

R.W.FLAME Wall Mounted Electric Fireplace review and reports

The next recommendation is for those who don’t have enough space for a freestanding fireplace and don’t have any pre-existing traditional fireplace to insert a new one. R.W.FLAME offers a variety of electric fireplaces out of which this wall-mounted one caught our attention.

Let’s get into the details.

Specifications

BrandR.W.FLAME
MaterialMetal 
ColorBlack 
BTU2559 BTU and 5118 BTU
Heating capacity (square feet)400 sq.ft.
Weight36.3 pounds
Dimensions18.1 x 18.1 x 36 inches

Design and Heater type

When you first look at it, the view gives you a vibe of an LED screen with a slim and sleek design. If we compare it with its predecessors, this one comes with a thin design (3.85 inches thick only). 

The heater type of this fireplace is NOT infrared which means it uses the forced air to heat the environment. Also, one can control it via touch screen and from remote as well.

Furthermore, the cable design of (as it is wall mounted) is designed with high-quality material and doesn’t come off easily. 

Flames 

The fireplace offers 12 LED bed colors and 12 flame colors with 5 brightness level settings. 

Overall Performance

The installation of this wall mounted electric fireplace is pretty easy and it looks very small and slim when mounted on the wall. And, this fireplace is available in multiple sizes so you can choose the best one as per your personal choice.

You can set the thermostat to 700W (2559 BTU) and 1500W (5118) as per your needs as well. When we tested, it is good for 400 square foot area/space and warms up the place pretty well. 

Pros

  • Available in multiple sizes.
  • Easy installation.
  • Elegant design and looks.
  • It offers 12 flame and LED bed colors.

Cons

  • The flame mode makes a clicking sound which is a bit noisy.

Buyer’s reports

Thousands of buyers have rated this electric fireplace with 4.6 stars out of 5.

As per the reports, the performance of this wall mounted electric fireplace impressed the majority of buyers. The only problem reported about this fireplace is, it makes a clicking noise (which is a bit noisy) when turned On the flames but it isn’t a deal breaker.

TIP: By removing the bottom panel of the fireplace before mounting on the wall, you can move the blades away from the center to fix the clicking sound (if it irritates you).

Our suggestion

We rate this electric fireplace with a 9 score out of 10.

This one is the best wall-mounted electric fireplace one can get for small sized places. The installation is super easy as well.

The interesting feature of this fireplace which impressed us a lot is that this one is both wall and recessed-mounted (which allows you to fix in the wall and only the front frame is shown).

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3. PuraFlame Western Electric Fireplace Insert

PuraFlame Western Electric Fireplace Insert review and reports

Unlike previous ones, this one is a freestanding electric fireplace Insert which can be mounted on a wall as well. 

For those of you who don’t know the difference between a Fireplace and a Fireplace Insert, a Fireplace Insert is basically a small closed box which looks like a traditional Fireplace and works the same (Heating up the area) but is primarily built to insert in already built Fireplace space to replace unreliable low performing Fireplace.

The flat bottom of this fireplace is the distinguishing feature which sets it apart from others. It allows you to place the fireplace on the ground (or in a pre-existing fireplace) and can be mounted on the wall easily as well.

Specifications

BrandPuraFlame
MaterialMetal 
ColorBlack 
Installation typeFreestanding and wall-mounted 
BTU5000 BTU
Heating capacity (square feet)400 sq.ft.
Weight18.5 pounds 
Dimensions27.95 x 8.78 x 24.61 inches

Design and Heater type

Unlike previous ones, this one offers the real look of flickering logs just like the traditional wooden fireplaces. On the top of the frame, there is the heat outlet which is designed in such a way that it looks elegant.

The front glass of the frame is made up of high-quality that one can touch when the heater is On. It doesn’t heat up easily and is safe to touch.

As for the heater type, it uses forced air heater technology to heat the place.

Flames 

This fireplace offers 3 flame colors and brightness settings which one can control via a remote control. Also, you can view the flames on it without heating features.

Overall Performance

Overall, the performance of this electric fireplace insert is pretty impressive and offers 5000 BTU of heat output to warm up the 400 sq. ft. place easily. You can easily insert it in the previous wooden fireplace or on the wall.

The flames of this heater looked real which impressed us and the customers as well. Also, the remote control of it offers the crackling sound option as well to enjoy the traditional fireplace vibe.

Pros

  • Easy to install and uninstall.
  • It gives a realistic look.
  • Real crackling sound.
  • The flame of it looks real.
  • The controls on it are easily accessible.

Cons

  • Remote only works when you are closer to the machine.

Buyer’s reports

Thousands of buyers have rated this insert electric fireplace with 4.6 stars out of 5.

The majority of buyers praised this electric fireplace as the flames it offers looks real and installation is super easy. Not only that, one can insert it in the previous traditional fireplace or insert it by oneself (we have mentioned the method at the end though)

Our suggestion

We rate this electric fireplace insert with an 8.5 score out of 10.

According to our tests, we consider it the best electric fireplace insert in the market. The realistic looks it offers and heating performance for 400 sq.ft maximum is quite impressive. 

However, in order to have full control over this fireplace, it would be best to use the remote control a bit closer to it. Otherwise, you might face difficulty in operating it. 


4. Homedex 50″ Recessed Mounted Electric Fireplace

Homedex 50 inch Recessed Mounted Electric Fireplace review and reports

The next recommendation is Homedex 50” electric fireplace. Unlike the previous ones, this one comes with 50 inches of glass panel screen. Comparing it with others, it can be flush mounted (recessed mounted) and wall-hung mounted.

Let’s get into the details…!

Specifications

BrandHomedex
MaterialTempered glass and metal
ColorBlack 
BTU2550 and 5100 BTU
Heating capacity (square feet)400 sq.ft.
Weight65 pounds
Dimensions5.1 x 50 x 19 inches

Heater type and design 

The heater uses infrared technology to heat the body temperature of the people and the remote control of it also uses infrared technology and gets disturbed with any surrounding sound system (so make sure to avoid it).

The design of it simply looks like an LED screen with 50 inches of screen size. One can operate it from the controls present on the touch screen. The build is made up of high-quality metal and tempered glass. You can set the thermostat from 62 Fahrenheit to 82 Fahrenheit.

Number of flames

It offers 9 flame colors with 5 flame intensity options. Also, there are 5 brightness levels options as well. You can dim the flame as much as you want.

Furthermore, there are crystal and log modes as well so you can select the one as per your preference at the moment.

Overall Performance

The interesting feature of this electric fireplace was the dual flame option. You can view the flames with or without the heat. It comes with two heat output options 750W and 1500W of heater fans which you can set according to your need. 

Furthermore, you can flush mount it or wall hang it as per your convenience. It can warm up the temperature up to 400 sq.ft. 

Pros

  • Very good build quality.
  • Dual mode function flame.
  • Available in multiple flame colors.
  • You can control it via touchscreen or remote control.

Cons

  • It doesn’t come with any instruction manual.
  • It makes a bit of noise.

Buyer’s reports

Thousands of buyers have rated this electric fireplace with 4.4 stars out of 5.

The majority of buyers were pretty satisfied with their purchase specially the 9 flame colors it offers with 5 different flame intensities. The only problem reported was the crackling noise it makes which is a bit noisy. Otherwise, the overall performance of it is pretty good.

Our suggestion

We rate this electric fireplace with an 8 score out of 10.

The crackling noise of it makes a bit of noise and if it didn’t concern you then it wouldn’t be a problem for you. Also, if you are looking for a bigger view of the fireplace for your home, then this one would be a considerable option.


5. Ameriwood Home Lamont Mantel Fireplace

Ameriwood Home Lamont Mantel Fireplace consumer reports

The next recommendation is the Ameriwood mantel electric fireplace. This one is a freestanding fireplace which uses forced air to heat up your surroundings.

There is more to know about this fireplace and let’s find out. 

Specifications

BrandAmeriwood home
MaterialEngineered wood
ColorWhite
BTU4600 BTU
Heating capacity (square feet)400 sq.ft.
Weight108 pounds
Dimensions12.6 x 69.3 x 44.72 inches

Heater type and Design

The design of this fireplace is unique as compared to others and comes with cable boxes as well. This fireplace comes in two colors; black and white. The frame features 2 bookshelves with 3 shelves in each section.

The whole weight of the fireplace including the fireplace is around 108 pounds which is a bit heavy but the frame of the fireplace is 26 inches. Quite good for confined places. For your information, Ameriwood home is famous for manufacturing home-living products for small and confined places.

Flames 

The flames give a realistic look just like other fireplaces we have mentioned above. The controls on the remote allow you to enjoy the flame view without turning On the heater mode. 

Overall Performance

It took a bit time to assemble this electric fireplace when we assembled it and we would recommend you to start from cable boxes/ shelves rather than assembling the middle frame. Also, the heater can heat up the place of 400 sq.ft pretty well.

The looks and design of it is very impressive and this freestanding fireplace can compliment the small and confined spaces. 

Pros

  • High aesthetics.
  • Best for living rooms.
  • The “burning wood” flame look is very impressive.
  • Good heating performance.

Cons

  • Assembly is a bit difficult.

Buyer’s reports

Thousands of buyers have rated this electric fireplace with 4.1 stars out of 5.

As per the reports, only assembly of this fireplace is difficult despite having a detailed instruction manual. Otherwise, the looks and performance it offers really impressed the majority of buyers.

Our suggestion

We rate this freestanding fireplace with an 8 score out of 10.

You just need to assemble it with patience and calm. Otherwise, it is the best freestanding electric fireplace one can get right now.


6. TURBRO Suburbs TS17 Compact Electric Fireplace

TURBRO Suburbs TS17 Compact Electric Fireplace consumer reports and review

The next recommendation is the TURBO compact electric fireplace. This one is another freestanding fireplace just like the previous one but has a small size and is light in weight comparatively. 

Let’s have a look at the details.

Specifications

BrandTURBO
MaterialMetal
ColorBkack 
BTU4777 BTU
Heating capacity (square feet)300 sq.ft
Weight13 pounds 
Dimensions14 x 8 x 18 inches

Heater type and design

This fireplace is exactly like an electric heater and is designed with high quality metal. It uses the forced air to heat the surroundings and does a very good job. Also, it weighs around 13 pounds which allows you to place it anywhere, unlike the Ameriwood Fireplace which is heavy. 

Flames 

The flames of it offer a realistic look and you can view the flames when not using the heat. On the other hand, you can’t turn Off the flames when the heater is turned On. 

Overall Performance

The overall performance of this small sized electric fireplace is quite impressive and can heat up the room of 300 sq.ft quite easily. In addition, you can also choose the “zone heating” option where you need the temperature warm at the moment to save energy.

Pros

  • Portable.
  • Efficient working.
  • Good for small sized houses.
  • Flames look real.

Cons

  • It gets hot after prolonged usage. 

Buyer’s reports

Thousands of buyers have rated this fireplace with 4.2 stars out of 5.

The buyers who have been using this electric fire for months now are very impressed with its compact small design and the efficient performance it offers despite having a small size. However, when used for prolonged time, the frame gets hot.

Our suggestion

We rate this electric fireplace with a 7.5 score out of 10.

If you are looking for a small and compact fireplace for your confined place, then this freestanding electric fireplace would be a considerable option for you.


7. Canyon Heights Faux Stacked Stone Electric Fireplace

Canyon Heights Faux Stacked Stone Electric Fireplace review

The next recommendation is another freestanding electric fireplace but with high aesthetics and looks. For those who are conscious about the looks and want to have stone finish to have a bit of an antique look, then this one would be a considerable option. 

Specifications

BrandSEI furniture
MaterialStone 
ColorWhite 
BTU5800 BTU
Heating capacity (square feet)400 sq.ft.
Weight86 pounds 
Dimensions60 x 15 x 32 inches

Heater type and Design

The white crisp design with stacked stone gives a subtle woodwork with a traditional fireplace look. The heater uses forced air heat to warm up the surroundings and even after turning Off the fireplace, the surroundings remain cozy and warm for a long time.

Flames 

The burning log flames of this fireplace looks real and one can control the light intensity of it via a remote control. 

Overall Performance

When we tested, the whole frame piece including the fireplace is 60 inches long and can heat up the 400 sq. ft. place easily.

However, as per the size and BTU it offers, the space it heats up is a bit compromised. Means to say, the 5800 BTU heat output should have warmed up the surrounding area by more than 400 sq. ft. 

Albeit, the mantle (a top horizontal shelf placed over a firebox) is very stylish and sturdy and takes less time to assemble as compared to the fireplace 

Pros

  • Strong build.
  • Good aesthetics.
  • Good performance.
  • Close-to-natural flames.
  • It offers long-lasting LED flames.

Cons

  • Assembly is a bit difficult.
  • The heat output it offers is a bit compromised as per the size of it.

Buyer’s reports

Hundreds of buyers have rated this electric fireplace with 4.6 stars out of 5.

The users who have been using this freestanding electric fireplace for months now are still happy with the performance of it. The assembly process takes a bit of time (not more than the previous one though). 

Our suggestion

We rate this product with an 8 score out of 10.

If you are looking for a white aesthetic electric fireplace to give you an antique piece, then this white subtle stone electric fireplace would be a good option for you. You can place decoration pieces above it as well to give it a unique look.


8. Cottinch Electric Fireplace Heater

Cottinch Electric Fireplace Heater review and reports

This one is another freestanding electric fireplace but comes under a low budget. This one is good for small to medium sized places.

Comparing this one with others, it is safe to touch when On as it doesn’t heat up at all (fireplace body) due to its thick Metal.

Specifications

BrandCottinch 
MaterialMetal 
ColorBlack 
BTU4600 BTU
Heating capacity (square feet)400 to 1000 sq.ft. 
Weight29.6 pounds 
Dimensions24.5 x 14.1 x 25 inches

Heater type and Design

Just like the typical electric fireplace, it uses forced air to heat the surroundings. The design is nothing fancy, just a simple design made up of high quality metal.

The frame is 24 inches and can heat the place from 400 to 1000 sq.ft. The heat output performance is quite impressive despite having a low price tag.

Flames

The flame of it exactly looks like a log burning in a traditional fireplace. One can set the thermostat from 59 F to 86 F. In addition, the fireplace offers the timer function as well so users can set timer for heating from 30 minutes to 9 hours.

Overall Performance

The overall performance of this electric fireplace is more than what we expected especially as it comes under a low budget. The heating vent of this fireplace is located at the bottom of it so it doesn’t get heated up and is safe for children and pets to touch it.

Also, the protective button it comes with alerts the users when the parts of the frame start to heat up when used for prolonged time.

Pros

  • Quiet operation.
  • Offers zone heating feature.
  • Safe to touch for kids and pets.
  • It offers the overheating protective button.
  • It offers child locks as well.

Cons

  • The quality of the door could have been a bit better.

Buyer’s reports

Buyers have rated this electric fireplace with 4.3 stars out of 5.

The majority of buyers praised the heating performance of this electric fireplace and found it is easy to place in any place. The safety features like protective heating option (to not overheat) impressed them the most.

Our suggestion

We rate this electric fireplace with an 8 score out of 10.

This one would be the best for those who have a low budget and looking for the best bang of buck. The price to performance ratio is very impressive though.

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9. Ameriwood Home Chicago Electric Fireplace

Ameriwood Home Chicago Electric Fireplace consumer reports

This one is another Ameriwood electric fireplace and another freestanding one. Unlike the previous ones, this one offers a TV console which allows the user to place a LED or TV screen on it. 

It offers other features as well and for that we need to have a deeper dive in it. 

Specifications

BrandAmeriwood 
MaterialLaminated MDF and particleboard
ColorBlack 
BTU4600 BTU
Heating capacity (square feet)400 sq.ft. 
Weight94.2 pounds
Dimensions47.24 x 15.87 x 31.77 inches

Heater type and Design

This one uses forced air as well to warm up the environment. You can place an LED TV up to 50 inches on it.

The size of the fireplace is 18 inches which is good for small places but the whole frame with shelves would be good to be placed in a medium sized house. 

Flames 

The fireplaces feature Ultraflame technology which uses built-in reflectors to create realistic flames which mimics the traditional ones. 

Overall Performance

When we tested, the overall performance of this electric fireplace was quite impressive. The heat output of this fireplace is good for 400 sq.ft. We would recommend you to assemble the frame by using common sense instead of following the pre-drilled holes.

Pros

  • Good quality material.
  • Good looks.
  • Independent flame.
  • Easy installation

Cons

  • No remote control.
  • The frame is a bit wrong pre-drilled. 

Buyer’s reports

Thousands of buyers have rated this fireplace with 4.6 stars out of 5.

The buyers who have been using this electric fireplace for months now still enjoy the cozy environment and flames view. The build and construction speaks for itself (quality-wise) and can be installed easily (if you don’t follow the pre-drilled holes).

Our suggestion

We rate this electric fireplace with an 8 score out of 10.

If you are looking for a freestanding electric fireplace with a TV console for LED to be placed in your living room, then this one would be a good option. Also, it won’t cost you a fortune.


10. Touchstone 80001 – Onyx Electric Fireplace

Touchstone 80001 - Onyx Electric Fireplace review and reports

Last but not the least, we recommend the Touchstone Onyx electric fireplace. Comparing this one with others, it offers a 50 inches frame size and is to be mounted on the wall only.

Let’s have a look at what it has more to offer us. 

Specifications

BrandTouchstone
MaterialGlass 
ColorBlack 
BTU5118 BTU
Heating capacity (square feet)400 sq.ft
Weight46 pounds
Dimensions50.4 x 5.5 x 21.65 inches

Heater type and Design

Plain and simple. That’s what we thought when we unboxed it first. This electric fireplace exactly looks like an LED screen with all that thin bezels and sleek design.

It is made up of high quality glass material (unlike previous ones which are mostly made up of metal).

The heating duct present on the top of the frame uses forced air to heat the environment. It offers two heat settings (high and low) unlike other ones.

Flames 

The flames of it look like burning faux logs and crystals and you can intensify the brightness up to 5 levels. It comes with the dual-mode feature as well which allows you to use the fireplace with flames with or without heat. 

Overall Performance

The overall performance of this heater is pretty good but is good for small places only. For one small room or living room as the heating duct is of small size. However, the 50 inches of frame looks very impressive when mounted on the wall.

Also, the assembly of it is super easy and it is assembled only when mounted on the wall (wall-hanged).

TIP: It would be best to mount it on the wall 4 feet below the ceiling to avoid burnt prints.

Pros

  • Best wall-mounted electric fireplace.
  • Good aesthetics.
  • Good quality build.
  • Easy installation.

Cons

  • The heating duct is about 5 inches despite having a 50 inches frame. 
  • A bit loud.

Buyer’s reports

Thousands of buyers have rated this electric fireplace with 4.6 stars out of 5.

As per the reports, this wall mounted electric fireplace offers very easy installation and is made up of high quality glass material which makes it look like an LED TV. Also, the design and look attracted them the most as well.

Our suggestion

We rate this electric fireplace with a 7.5 score out of 10.

If you are looking for a wall mounted 50 inches electric fireplace with quite impressive features and performance, then this one would be a good consideration.

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How to Install an Electric Fireplace Insert?

Electric fireplaces inserts are preferable to choose when you want to install them in the pre-existing fireplace specifically when your older one is not working or you want to shift from wooden fireplaces to electrical one (to save yourself from the hassle of ashes)

When installing the insert type, first of all block the chimney for temporary time to prevent water falling on the frame. Close the damper (the mechanism in every fireplace which is specifically designed to seal the chimney when you are not using the fireplace) and insert the power outlet. 

Then insert the firebox and your electric fireplace frame in it.


How to Turn On Electric fireplace and How does it Work?

As we know electric fireplaces are specifically made to make life easier by keeping the house/rooms warm in winter, so by just plugging them in an electrical power outlet and pressing the On/Off button, you are done for the day. And similarly, one can also turn On a Gas Fireplace.

As far as its working is concerned, Conventional electric fireplaces (forced air heaters) draw in the air from the surroundings, heat the air up with the help of a heated coil and then with the help of a fan, throw out the warm air. 

How to turn on an electric fireplace

On the other hand, infrared electric heaters use infrared light/radiation to warm up the temperature of the Human body first and then heat the surroundings.

Whether you are using an infrared electric fireplace or forced air one, you can control it via remote control.


FAQs

What are the best electric fireplaces brands?

  • Ameriwood.
  • DuraFlame.
  • PuraFlame.
  • Homedex.
  • TURBO.
  • Touchstone.

Do electric fireplaces give off heat?

Yes! Most of the electric fireplaces give off 4600 BTU of heat output which is considered good for small to medium sized houses. The higher output of the electric fireplace, the faster it will warm up the environment. Also, most of the electric fireplaces nowadays offer 5200 BTU as well.

Are electric fireplaces safe?

Yes! Electric fireplaces are totally safe and come with protective buttons as well so they wouldn’t heat up unnecessarily and will shut down automatically when the target temperature reaches. Also, electric fireplaces offer a “timer” option as well.

Do electric fireplaces use a lot of electricity?

Just like any ordinary space heater, an electric fireplace uses around 1400W to 1700W of electricity depending upon the frame size and model.

Are electric fireplaces energy efficient?

As compared to traditional and ordinary room heaters, electric heaters are two times more efficient.


Conclusion

Electric fireplaces are the best alternatives to traditional fireplaces when you have a low budget. The electric fireplaces don’t only mimic the crackling sounds but also mimic the whole vibe of traditional fireplaces. 

And, we hope through this guide you would have been able to get what you were looking for. In our opinion, BTU and heating capacity as per the area matters a lot when making a choice. We have reviewed every product in detail so you can choose the best one according to your preferences.

Still, if you are facing any difficulty regarding making a choice or want more information, feel free to ask us.

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