Imagine coming home on a bitterly cold winter’s evening to a cozily warm house, and after you have made yourself a steaming cup of cocoa, and have settled into your favorite recliner chair, you sit back and relax in front of a beautiful fireplace.
The traditional-style mantelpiece is impressive with an antique oak mantel and rich brown brickwork. Your eyes settle on the fire that is aglow with golden flames, burning logs, and smoldering red coals. As the flames flicker and dance and the warmth embrace you with just the right amount of heat, you smile and say, ‘This electric fireplace is one of the best investments I’ve ever made’. And you would be right!
If you are looking for a cleaner and smoke-free way of heating your homestead, the electric fireplace is a great choice. It is a beautiful and stylish way of heating your home as well as giving you that much-desired ambiance of a wood-burning fire.
The 8 Best Electric Fireplaces
- Touchstone Sideline Electric Fireplace
- R.W. FLAME 42-Inch Electric Fireplace
- LIFE SMART Electric Fireplace
- Antarctic Star 36-Inch Electric Fireplace Mantel
- SEI Furniture Electric Fireplace
- PuraFlame Electric Fireplace Insert
- Duraflame Infrared Electric Fireplace Stove
- HOMCOM Freestanding Fireplace Heater (Our Top Pick)
Our Top Pick for the Best Electric Fireplace
Our top pick for the best electric fireplace is the HOMCOM Freestanding Fireplace Heater.
This sturdy, but lightweight stove heater has a beautiful antique design, and it produces a lot of heat and can heat a small room very quickly. The log fire display offers you a mellow glow with pulsing red coals and golden flickering flames, which you can adjust to suit your mood. You can also adjust the heating and there is a safety device to stop the unit from overheating.
Check the price on AmazonWarm-up Your Winter with an Electric Fireplace
There are multiple reasons why an electric fireplace should be a part of every homestead.
1. No mess: No fuss
An electric fireplace gives you the authentic feel of a real fire without having to mess around with heavy wood, fiddly fire-starters, dirty ash, or smelly gas or smoke. It simulates very realistic-looking flames and coals through light globes that reflect or refract light in a 3-dimensional pattern.
The light-infused pattern is projected onto a screen, thereby giving the allusion of the glow and movement of a wood-burning fire.
The heat is generated via heating coils or an element and a fan gently moves the heat out of the fireplace into the room. All of this heating and fireplace display comes with just the press of a button.
2. Environmentally Friendly
Electric fireplaces are environmentally friendly. They do not produce any toxic fumes like a traditional wood-burning or gas-powered fire. You do not have to worry about inhaling any smoke, which is great for allergy sufferers.
3. Child Proof and Pet-Friendly
If you have children or pets, having a real fire can be a constant concern. Even if you use a fire or spark protection screen, you have to be aware of the safety issues. However, with an electric fireplace, there are no real flames and the coils or elements that generate the heat are hidden by heat-resistant material and the fireplaces’ screen is similar to the television screen, so there is no danger of being burnt or experiencing any discomfort.
Also, most electric heaters have a thermostat or an automatic shut-off, so there is no danger of overheating.
A good safety tip is; even though the electric fireplace has in-built safety features, it is still recommended that you switch it off after use and do not leave it on during the night.
4. To Heat or Not to Heat?
As well as providing heating for the winter months, some electric fireplaces allow you to switch off the heating, so that in the warmer seasons you can just enjoy the flickering flames and glowing embers.
Hopefully, you are now inspired to buy your own magical electric fireplace, but before you do, have a look at the 5 different available styles.
5. Electric Fireplace Styles
Electric fireplaces are a great choice for heating almost any room in your homestead and there is a style to fit all types of living spaces. You can buy a wall-mounted fireplace, a freestanding fireplace that you can stand against a wall, a mantelpiece fireplace, a fireplace insert that you can place inside your existing fireplace, or an electric fireplace that looks like a traditional wood stove.
Keep in mind electric fireplaces are specially designed to heat small to medium-sized rooms, so if you have a large living room, and you want to benefit from the beauty and ambiance of a mantelpiece fireplace, you will have to close some doors or use a partition to trap the warmth.
– Wall-Mounted Electric Fireplaces
A wall-mounted electric fireplace is the best choice if you do not have a lot of furniture space. They make a mesmerizing centerpiece that you can feature in your living room or dining room. They require some installation, and you may need someone to help when screwing the fireplace to the wall.
Some larger models may stick out from the wall, so if you want to maintain the overall aesthetic look of the fireplace, you can install them into a recess in the wall.
One thing to remember if you would like to buy a wall-mounted fireplace, they look best on a large wall, especially if they are of the slim-line variety.
Another great feature of a wall-mounted fireplace is that it can be out of reach of children and pets, and as they are displayed up on the wall, you will benefit from the full effect of the log fire.
– Freestanding Electric Fireplaces
A freestanding fireplace is ideal for a medium-sized room. It looks like a large flat-screen television with the smoldering log fire display inside, and it can be placed up against the wall and it requires minimal installation.
Freestanding fireplaces are especially ideal if you rent a property and cannot make any renovations or adjustments to the property. You can set up the fireplace and switch it on and bask in the warmth and glow of the fire.
A good tip to remember is if you want to place the freestanding fireplace inside an existing fireplace, it is best to measure the fireplace first to make sure the unit will fit.
– Mantelpiece Electric Fireplaces
Mantelpiece fireplaces are one of the most stunning types of electric fireplaces.
They maintain the look of a traditional fireplace with solid oak wood, 3-patterned slate panels, and polished wood.
A mantel fireplace not only provides ample heating for a medium-sized room, the ambiance it can create is incredible, and it will enhance the decor of your home.
– Mantel Fireplace Electric Inserts
If you have an existing fireplace that you cannot or do not want to use anymore, a fireplace insert is a great choice. Some homes have beautiful fireplaces with well-maintained brick or stonework, but their owners do not want to have to mess around with starting a fire and having to clean up the ash. A fireplace insert will eliminate all the fuss that comes from a wood-burning fireplace.
Fireplace inserts can look like a box that can easily be fitted into your fireplace, and all you have to do is plug it in and sit back and enjoy the warmth and soft glowing ambiance.
An electric fireplace insert can supply enough heat for a small to medium-sized room, and the LED display looks like realistic flickering flames, glowing coals, and smoldering logs.
– Electric Fireplace Stoves
An electric fireplace stove looks just like those stoves that great-grandma used to slave over in the days before the wonders of modern electric appliances. However, besides the hard work that was demanded by these stoves, they have a traditional antique appeal with black steel construction and a beveled glass viewing window.
This type of electric fireplace is especially ideal for smaller rooms, although, some models give out a surprising amount of heat. As well as their aesthetic appeal and realistic dramatic log fire effect, and sturdy frame, they are lightweight, so they can be used anywhere around your home, as long as they are located near a power outlet.
They also make beautiful Christmas or Birthday presents. The only downside of a fireplace stove is they require ventilation and they do not work the best in a larger room. Still, they do not require any installation, just plug in and savor the cozy, smoldering ambiance. And they are more energy-efficient.
Four Tips for Choosing the Right Electric Fireplace for Your Homestead
Besides having to consider the right size or type of electric fireplace for your home, there are 4 other specifications or features to look out for.
1. Controls
Many of the larger electric fireplaces like wall-mounted or mantelpiece fireplaces offer you a range of controls.
They may have heat settings or thermostat controls to adjust the temperature or maintain the desired heat setting.
To change the ambiance in the room or the look of the log fire, some of the more high-end electric fireplaces (and a few of the stove fireplaces) offer you brightness settings to change the intensity of the flames or coals.
The fireplace might have a remote control or a timer, or a safety cut-off switch to stop the unit from overheating.
Just remember, if you wish to purchase a fireplace oven, they usually only come with standard controls and may not have a remote control.
2. Power Cord length
The cord length is especially important for wall-mounted, mantelpiece or mantel insert fireplaces. Some electric fireplaces give you a power cord of 6-feet, but others might have a shorter cord, so before you purchase your perfect electric fireplace, make sure there is a power outlet located nearby before you install the unit. It is not recommended to use an extension cord.
3. Replacement Globes
It is a good idea to keep some extra globes, (standard or LED) when the globes lose their power. The heating will continue to function but you will miss out on the dynamic fireplace display.
4. Crackling Fire Sound Machine
As well as enjoying the view of a near-perfect wood-burning experience, why not take the ambiance up a level by purchasing a device that simulates the sound of a crackling fire.
8 Best Electric Fireplaces – Reviews
1. Touchstone Sideline Electric Fireplace
With its sleek and modern design, and featuring a large flame and log insert, the 50-inches Touchstone Sideline Electric Fireplace will stand out as a beautiful centerpiece in your home, and it will be the envy of all your friends.
The Touchstone is designed to be mounted on a large wall so that you can view its full effect, and with 1500-watts of power, it is ideal for heating a small to a medium-sized family room or dining room. You can also organize for it to be installed into a recess in the wall.
The fireplace can be controlled via a remote or by using the control panel on the side of the unit, and there are 2 heat settings, 5 brightness settings from a subdued glow to a brighter blaze, and there is also a timer.
It is one of the heavier models at 58.2 pounds and it can stick out from the wall at 5.5-inches, so if you want to mount it near anything else like television, you will need to leave at least 2-feet for a safe clearance and 12-inches from the ceiling, so the heat can disperse around the room.
The fireplace also includes faux logs and crystals to create an overall genuine fireplace feel.
Pros
- Ideal for a small to medium room
- Looks best on a long or low wall
- Beautiful design
- Realistic log fire
- Looks great against a stone wall
- Works as a heater or just a display
- Adjustable heat and display settings
Cons
- Not enough heat for a large room
2. R.W. FLAME 42-Inch Electric Fireplace
The newly designed wall-mounted R.W. FLAME 42-Inch Electric Fireplace will keep you cozy and warm while you gaze at its beautiful fireplace display. Its flickering LED flames and coals look realistic and the stylish glossy black glass frame makes this fireplace the perfect wall feature. The 750-1500-watts energy-efficient fan heater provides you with ample heating for an area of up to 400-square-feet.
The 2 adjustable heating settings mean you can take control of the temperature with the remote control, or you can turn the heat off and sit back and relax while you watch the flickering flames. There is also a timer for up to 8 hours, so can you switch it on when you get home and the flames will spring into action.
You can adjust the appearance of the flames and coal bed with 12 LED colors, choose from 5 flame speeds and 5 flame brightness levels, from a soft glow to brighter light.
The fireplace comes with a bracket and mounting hardware and it is easy to install either on the wall in your living room or dining room to create that extra special elegant ambiance.
Pros
- Beautiful and stylish fire display
- Good heating for a small to medium room
- Adjustable heat and display settings
- Durable mounting hardware
Cons
- Other flame colors besides the orange color aren’t very realistic
3. LIFE SMART Electric Fireplace
This ultra-portable LIFE SMART Electric Fireplace can be installed anywhere since no venting or costly installation is required. Ultra-stylish, the beautiful dark oak cabinet, and mantle will match any type of décor. The realistic flames and glowing amber coals will give your living room, bedroom, or dining room a warm and romantic feel.
The 28-inches electric fireplace produces 51000 BTU’s and its quiet scroll fan can circulate heat around a room up to 1000-square-feet.
You can enjoy the soft, cozy warmth from the comfort of your lounge chair or bed as the fireplace comes with a convenient digital remote control that has 3 heat settings and a 12-hour timer. The fireplace also has E-Z glide casters to move it from room to room.
The fireplace can be used without the heating element, so you can use it as a relaxing centerpiece while you enjoy a glass of wine after dinner.
Pros
- Stylish
- High quality
- Good value for money
- Simple to install
- Generates good heat
- Attractive fire display
Cons
- Takes a while to heat a room
- Emits a slight humming noise
4. Antarctic Star 36-Inch Electric Fireplace Mantel
This freestanding Antarctic Star 36-Inch Electric Fireplace Mantel is the epitome of classical elegance. The electric firebox is surrounded by a black tempered glass trim and the rich brown Birchwood paneling is beautifully crafted.
If you want to add a touch of traditional style while providing much-needed heating during the winter months, the Antarctic Star fireplace is the ideal choice for a living room, bedroom, or office.
The fireplace has 2 heating modes, 750 and 1500-watts, so it can heat a small area up to 400-square-feet. The simulated log fire creates a mellow, realistic glow and you will find it hard to believe that is not a real-life fire.
Although the heating function does emit a low humming noise, it is quieter than a “regular” fan. For on-demand heating, you can use the remote control to adjust the thermostat. The fireplace can be used as a heater or just as a stunning log fire display. It also comes in a stylish white finish.
Pros
- Ideal for a room up to 400-square-feet
- Birchwood paneling has a rich brown finish
- Beautifully crafted design
- Very good level of heating
- Authentic log fire display
- Also available in a stylish white finish
Cons
- Expensive
- Not ideal for open-plan medium-sized rooms
- Wood can be scratched easily
5. SEI Furniture Electric Fireplace
This SEI Furniture Electric Fireplace is one of the best fireplaces available. It features a stunningly beautiful fireplace mantelpiece that is truly a work of art.
The high-quality 46-inches mantel is made from Salem antique oak and the rich brown polished wood grain finish and multi-patterned arched panel give this fireplace a timeless classic look, which will add a touch of elegance and style to the decor of your home.
The heater gives out enough heat for up to 400-square-feet, so it is ideal for a small to medium room like a living room, and the LED displays create realistic flickering flames and glowing coals.
As well as the remote control with a child safety lock, the electric fireplace has a handy safety feature, an automatic shut-off system, and the glass screen remains cool. The intensity of the log fire display and also the heating level can be adjusted. You can also turn the heating element off so that you just sit back and enjoy the beautiful fire.
Pros
- Ideal for a small to medium-sized room
- Easy to assemble
- Beautiful oak mantel and attractive slate panel
- High-quality construction
- Gives off a lot of heat
- Quiet
- 6-feet power cord
- Child safety lock
Cons
- Expensive
- Do not place heavy items on the mantel
6. PuraFlame Electric Fireplace Insert
If you have an existing fireplace that is no longer functioning or you would prefer to have a smoke and emission-free heating appliance that still looks like a real wood-burning fire, then the PuraFlame Electric Fireplace Insert is a great choice.
This high-quality fireplace insert will make an impressive furniture statement in your living room and will provide you with an authentic wood-burning experience without the mess and fuss of a real fireplace.
PuraFlame offers you a captivating experience that is created by the flickering flames that emanate from the glowing coals and resin logs that are reflected onto the 3-sided brick wall design. The wispy blue flames add a special touch.
The 1500-watts heater has electronic temperature control, and the heat is generated by a super quiet fan that quickly springs into action at the press of a button, and it can provide very good heating for a medium-sized room.
You can choose from 3 levels of brightness and intensity to vary the effect of the fire, and the down-light design increases the brightness of the fire’s effect.
Pros
- Ideal for a small to medium-sized room
- High-quality workmanship
- Beautiful design
- Great log fire effect
- Very good heating
- Super quiet
Cons
- Power cord could be longer
7. Duraflame Infrared Electric Fireplace Stove
With its strong metal construction and beveled glass front, the Duraflame Infrared Electric Fireplace Stove provides ample heating for a small room, and the 3D flames and coals pulse and flicker, creating the movement of a real log fire.
You have a choice of 5 different brightness settings, and the powerful infrared quartz heater can quickly heat a small room while maintaining the natural humidity in the room.
The stove heater is lightweight, which means you can use the unit anywhere around your homestead. In the warmer months, you can switch off the heating function, relax, and be mesmerized by the flames that flicker and curl around the glowing coals. A multi-function remote control is also included with the stove heater.
Pros
- High-quality metal construction
- Lightweight
- Portable
- Effective heating for a small room
- Five adjustable brightness and speed settings
- Impressive fire display
- Large viewing window
Cons
- Not enough heat for a medium-sized room
- Plastic legs
8. HOMCOM Freestanding Fireplace Heater
The traditional antique design of the HOMCOM Freestanding Fireplace Heater is reminiscent of that bygone era where the family used to gather in the kitchen and warm themselves by the stove in the hearth. However, with the addition of electricity, this strong and beautifully designed fireplace heater is made to look like a real wood stove as the spectacular logs fire display is generated by LED lighting.
There is a large tempered glass window, and the solid shiny black metal body stays cool to the touch as the heating element is located at the bottom of the stove.
You can choose from 2 heat settings, 750 or 1500-watts for heating up to 215-square-feet, and there is a safety timer to stop any overheating, and you can also adjust the brightness of the fire. The heating function can be switched off, which allows you to use the stove as an attractive fireplace feature all year round.
Even though it is small, the stove can generate quite a lot of heat, and it is quiet; the sound it emits is similar to a small box fan. The wood stove works best in a small living or dining room, a study, or a bedroom.
Pros
- Great value
- Generates a lot of heat
- Fast
- Authentic antique wood stove design
- Sturdy construction
- Lightweight
- Quiet
Cons
- Not ideal for larger rooms
- No remote control
Our Top Pick for the Best Electric Fireplace
Our top pick for the best electric fireplace is the HOMCOM Freestanding Fireplace Heater.
This sturdy, but lightweight stove heater has a beautiful antique design, and it produces a lot of heat and can heat a small room very quickly. The log fire display offers you a mellow glow with pulsing red coals and golden flickering flames, which you can adjust to suit your mood. You can also adjust the heating and there is a safety device to stop the unit from overheating.
Check the price on Amazon
