Image source: https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/41gIQ4baCvL.jpg
An electric fireplace heater is an easy and cost effective way to add welcome additional heat and a touch of elegance to any room.
What you won't be getting is the smoke, potentially deadly CO2 fumes, and the mess associated with a conventional fireplace.
Prices for an electric fireplace start at $299 and can skyrocket to $2,300 for a combination fireplace/home entertainment center. However, there are many well made, attractively designed models in the $450 - $700 range.
The heating unit, or electric insert, includes the blower, log set and controls. Depending on the model, heat output varies from 1,350 to 1,500 watts. This is enough power to comfortably heat 150 square feet.
In general, the electric insert accounts for roughly $200 (retail) of the total price. So whatever you end up spending over $200 will be for decorating and romance, not additional heat.
Electric Fireplace Styles
In addition to the standard fireplace design, corner units are available to make excellent use of wasted space. Other models offer enhancements such as book shelves, curio cabinets or home entertainment centers. The mantel piece itself can be constructed of finished wood, wood with tile inserts, or expensive cast marble.
Electric Fireplace Sizes
Electric fireplace heaters are usually advertised in three sizes: 33", 28" and 23". This measurement represents the width of the fireplace insert at the front; the larger the insert, the larger the log set and flame display.
Usually, a larger insert means a larger mantelpiece. But different combinations of insert and mantel sizes are available to match the size and scale of your room.
The compact design of an electric fireplace makes it well suited for smaller homes, apartments, condos and even RVs.
Quality of Construction
When you shop online for an electric fireplace you're forced to judge the quality of the merchandise by examining a photograph. Most of the time it's easy to spot a piece of junk, but sometimes it isn't.
A sure way to judge the quality of a fireplace is by its shipping weight. All things being equal, you could reasonably assume an electric fireplace weighing 210 pounds is built to a higher standard than one weighing 120 pounds.
Standard Features and Extras
Standard features on most electric fireplace heaters include the mantel, electric insert, 2 speed blower, on/off remote control, and log set. All models plug into a standard 120V receptacle and are completely portable. Also, the flame feature can be enjoyed at any time of the year with or without the heater.
Some of the available extras include hand carved glowing logs, deluxe trim, bi-fold glass doors, dimmer control and thermostat.
No matter which electric fireplace heater you finally decide to buy, it's important to read the complete product description to find out exactly what's included in the price and what's going to cost extra.
