Choosing an Electric Fireplace

Why should I choose an Electric Fireplace

We all love fireplaces - the warmth, the ambiance, the style - but don't all live or work in a place where we can put a conventional wood or gas fireplaces for any number of reasons including codes, lease or association rules, space, availability of gas, installation costs, no room/way for chimney ... the list goes on!  You still have this dream, though, and a perfect spot (or spots) for a fireplace, if only there was a simple way to get one...  

With today's technology you no longer have to wait!  You can go with any number of styles of electric fireplaces based upon your space, your aesthetic, and your budget!  Usually, all you need to do is unbox it, assemble a cabinet mantel (in some styles) and put it in position or hang it on the wall, following the manufacturer's directions.  Then plug it in and voila, you have a working fireplace.  

Today, nearly anyone can enjoy the ambiance and warmth of a fireplace when electric is chosen, and they are nearly 100% efficient, as well!

Other reasons to go electric ...

• The warmth of a fireplace without costly gas
• Go with units LED units for even more savings (operational and maintenance-wise)
  
• Enjoy realism in the 'flames' produced by units designed with the latest technology
• Electric is safe!  No fumes, no cleanup, no excessive heat generated, no chimney fires
• Typically, the installation is a breeze
  
• The environmental and physical 'footprint' is smaller
• Many units are portable (for seasonal use, or take it with you if you move!)
  
• Year round ambiance, since you can have 'flames' with or without heat (no so with gas or wood!)
  
• A wide variety of styles from traditional looks to modern, contemporary looks
• Models with cabinet mantels, entertainment centers, free-standing stove looks, wall mounted unit and fireplace inserts (that 'slide' into your existing fireplace)
• Few, if any restrictions on where you can install an electric fireplace
  

Electric Fireplace Features or Style considerations

• LED vs. Incandescent
  
• Plug in vs. hard-wire
• Electric Outlet location
• Assembly Required or 'Plug and Play'
  
• Footprint (floor space vs. wall space)
• Cabinet mantel or flat wall mount mantel
• Corner mantel installation and/or entertainment center
• Wall mount, Insert into a fireplace or Freestanding
• Full size cabinet mantel vs. freestanding wood stove look
  
• Recessed into wall models
• Operable 'glass door look' vs. fixed glass viewing window
  
• Single or dual heat output settings
  
• Thermostat Heat operation vs. manual
• Variable flame speed control
• Brightness contol
• Down-lighting
  
• Multi-color options
• Backlighting options
  
• Timer for auto-off function
• Front Grill or Trim accessories available