Buying Guide
How to Buy an Electric Fireplace
This short guide helps you choose the right electric fireplace for your room and budget. It covers what to measure, the main product types, key features and specifications to prioritize, where to buy, common mistakes to avoid, and quick expert recommendations so you can act fast.
What to consider first
Measure the space: width, height, and depth of the opening or wall area. Check mantel clearances if you plan to mount a TV above it.
Decide purpose: do you want supplemental heat, ambiance only, or both? Most units offer a 750W/1500W heat range; 1500W commonly heats up to about 400 sq ft, while larger mantel units may advertise higher coverage. Verify the maker's claim.
Power and installation: most models are plug-in 120V; some can be recessed and need shallow depth (some newer recessed units are under 4 inches deep). Confirm if hardwiring is required or allowed.
Safety and certification: look for ETL, CSA, or UL certification and features like auto shutoff on overheating and anti-topple devices.
Decide purpose: do you want supplemental heat, ambiance only, or both? Most units offer a 750W/1500W heat range; 1500W commonly heats up to about 400 sq ft, while larger mantel units may advertise higher coverage. Verify the maker's claim.
Power and installation: most models are plug-in 120V; some can be recessed and need shallow depth (some newer recessed units are under 4 inches deep). Confirm if hardwiring is required or allowed.
Safety and certification: look for ETL, CSA, or UL certification and features like auto shutoff on overheating and anti-topple devices.
Types and where they fit
- Freestanding mantel or TV stand - quick setup and decorative, ideal for living rooms and bedrooms.
- Insert - fits into an existing fireplace opening; good for replacing old units without new framing.
- Wall-mount or in-wall recessed - slim profile and modern look, requires planning for wall depth and wiring.
- Hybrid with replaceable inserts - lets you swap heater modules or aesthetics over time.
Where to buy: online marketplaces give wider selection, pricing deals, and customer reviews but check shipping details (some mantels and inserts ship separately). Big-box retail locations let you see finishes and ask installation questions. For recessed installs consider buying from a retailer that offers installation guidance or contractors.
Features and common mistakes to avoid
Must-have features: remote control, adjustable thermostat, timer, multiple flame colors and brightness levels, and the ability to run flame effect without heat.
Nice-to-have: low noise operation, crackling sound option, interchangeable ember beds or logs, app or smart home compatibility.
Common mistakes:
Nice-to-have: low noise operation, crackling sound option, interchangeable ember beds or logs, app or smart home compatibility.
Common mistakes:
- Buying the wrong size or depth for your opening.
- Ignoring electrical limits and plugging multiple high-draw devices into the same 120V 15A circuit.
- Assuming electric fireplaces are a primary heat source; most are supplemental.
- Overlooking safety certifications and anti-overheat shutoff features.
- For mantel models, not checking weight capacity or separate shipment notes.
Quick buying checklist and expert tips
- Measure twice: width, height, depth, and clearance above mantel.
- Pick the installation type first: freestanding for ease, recessed for a built-in look.
- Choose 1500W if you need meaningful supplemental heat; choose lower wattage for ambiance only.
- Prioritize certified safety features and automatic shutoff.
- Prefer models where the flame works independently from the heater for year-round use.
- Check return policy, warranty length, and whether parts like the insert are replaceable.
- If mounting above a TV, follow clearance recommendations and verify mantel weight limits.
Price snapshot from similar products: expect a range from about $200 for basic inserts to near $1,000 for large mantel units with premium features.
Final Thoughts
Pick the installation style that fits your space, confirm electrical and clearance requirements, and choose a unit with safety certifications and the control features you will actually use. Measure carefully, check shipping and assembly details, and prioritize a model that lets you use the flame without heat for year-round ambiance.
