Electric fireplaces: types, characteristics, how to choose, manufacturers

A modern model of an electric fireplace with the effect of a live fire is a worthy replacement for a classic wood-burning hearth, which is simply impossible to install in an apartment in an apartment building without violating fire safety rules. Such devices may be equipped with a heating element, but often they are simply a decorative element. This publication will tell you how to choose the right model of electric fireplace for your apartment, and what nuances you should pay attention to when purchasing it.

Heating element type

From a design point of view, an electric fireplace is still a heating device.
The choice of the type of heating elements with which the electric fireplace is equipped can be closed or open. The element is a closed type, usually a tubular electric heater (TEH), or it can also be a special source of infrared radiation. Open heating elements are conventional coils made of highly resistant alloys. An open spiral is usually used in cheaper, usually outdated models. Such an electric fireplace dries the air more actively and burns the oxygen contained in it.

The most environmentally friendly choice is an electric fireplace that uses infrared heating. Such an electric heater produces heating with radiant energy, thanks to which, first of all, interior items and walls are heated, and not the air in the room itself. It is preferable to choose such an electric fireplace, since with infrared heating the apartment will have a healthier atmosphere.

In the Fornax company catalog you can see photos and find out detailed characteristics of electric fireplaces for home heating.

Ferrodynamic measuring mechanism

The operating principle of this measuring mechanism is the same as the electrodynamic one. It differs from the latter in the presence of a steel core made of sheet steel, on which a stationary coil is superimposed, and a stationary cylinder made of the same steel, which is covered by a moving coil (Fig. 6).

The steel magnetic core strengthens the field of the measuring mechanism, as a result of which the torque increases, which leads to a more durable structure and reduces the influence of external magnetic fields on the readings of the measuring mechanism. The use of steel increases errors from residual induction and eddy currents in the magnetic circuit.

Rice. 6. Ferrodynamic measuring mechanism

Installation method

According to the method of installation indoors, an electric fireplace can be classified into one of the following types:

• Angular. There are devices that occupy the inner corner of the room, or form a protruding outer corner.

• Wall. An electric fireplace of a hanging type, which can be located on any convenient part of the wall. If you have a small apartment, it is advisable to choose such a fireplace.

• Floor. Installed on the floor. There are models designed for installation along walls or in the center of the room.

• Desktop. Compact models that fit on a desk.

Guarantee

The standard warranty is issued for one year from the date of purchase of the product. Trading companies provide extended warranties for their products up to 18 months.

Warranty service is provided by a network of authorized service workshops. A list of centers with addresses is attached to the warranty card.

When purchasing an electric fireplace, check the warranty card for information about the seller, the seal of the selling company, whether it is filled out correctly, and check the date of purchase.

Guaranteed obligations become invalid in the following cases:

• damage associated with mechanical, electrical, thermal effects;
• damage resulting from non-compliance with the operating instructions;
• ingress of foreign objects (insects, animals) and chemicals;
• use of abrasive cleaning powders, chemical compounds, organic solvents;
• unauthorized opening or repair by the manufacturer;
• careless handling;

• operation without an equipped ground loop;
• damage caused by non-compliance with the rules and regulations of cable networks;
• melted thermal insulation;
• damage caused by force majeure circumstances (fire, flood, lightning).

Products that have been cleaned from dirt and dust and with drained liquid will be accepted for warranty repair.

Operating modes

Operating modes supported by the electric fireplace. - Only imitation of flame. In accordance with the name, in this mode the fireplace does not heat up and only displays a simulated flame. This allows you to admire the artificial fire even in hot weather or in a well-heated room where additional heat would be unnecessary. — Imitation of flame + heating. This mode is closest to the format of a traditional wood-burning fireplace: the device not only displays an artificial flame, but also heats the room.

Fireplace with Dimplex Verona Eco cladding

Rating of the best electric fireplaces (autumn 2021)

The corner electric fireplace Dimplex Verona Eco is designed in an elegant style, so it will suit a classic interior. The model has a walnut-colored wooden case. An additional element is an insert imitating light marble. The included remote control panel allows you to select settings from the comfort of your couch.

The dimensions of the corner electric fireplace are as follows: height – 101.6 cm, width – 104.1 cm and depth – 33 cm. Its thermal power is 1.6 kW. An efficient fan heater protects against overheating and possible equipment failures. The model also has a thermostat that maintains the appropriate heating temperature. The flame effect was achieved using LED technology. The flame is visible regardless of the selected operating mode. What is important is that burning wood looks realistic, so the difference between using a traditional and electric fireplace is practically invisible.

Regular use of Dimplex Verona Eco equipment does not cause a noticeable increase in the amount of electricity bills, which should be considered a big advantage. The elegant design of the fireplace is also a definite plus. The model fits perfectly into a traditionally furnished living room and gives it a unique character. Maintaining perfect cleanliness of equipment is not a problem.

Types of electric fireplaces

The design is an infrared electric heater of directed radiation. The fireplace consists of a body, a heating element, decorative parts, a protective screen and a remote control. The operating principle is to heat a tubular electric heater. After turning on the equipment, the air is reflected from the internal walls, due to which a heating effect is created.

Therefore, heat is directed forward and not dissipated to the sides. Electric fireplaces are available in different sizes, shapes, textures and colors. Not only these characteristics made the equipment so popular. On sale you can find models made in different design styles:

• classic;
• eastern;
• African;
• modern;
• Art Deco.

If the thought of an electric fireplace haunts you, it is important to find out all the advantages and disadvantages of the design. This will help you understand which one is best to buy from the wide range offered by manufacturers.

The type of heating element can be open or closed. Each of them has its own subspecies. For example, open-type fireplaces are easily recognized by the spiral stretched between ceramic rods. In closed-type equipment, the heating element is sealed inside a glass bulb, which can be frosted, transparent or translucent.

The main parts of the structure are the portal and the firebox. The first is a place to place the hearth, made of metal, wood or ceramics. The firebox can be built-in, specially made for a specific model. It is controlled by remote control. The second type is a replaceable firebox, which is available in various sizes.

An electric fireplace with a live fire effect is powered by a built-in silent fan heater. Its operating principle is as follows: the fan drives cold air through the heating element and releases it into the room. How warm and strong the air flow will be depends on the power of the fan.

Device classification

Equipment varies in mobility, location and type of placement. Electric fireplaces can be built-in or portable. The first group includes a wall-mounted type, which is installed with the back part flush against the wall. The second type of electric fireplace is distinguished by the presence of rollers and compactness. It does not require permanent placement and is easy to operate.

Manufacturers offer wall-hung, floor-standing and even table-top models that differ in size and design. Thanks to the large selection, you can find a fireplace that will fit seamlessly into any space. For example, a corner device will be useful for those who have a very small apartment.

The equipment is available in various standard sizes. Among the range of manufacturers there are mini-models, as well as large-format devices. When deciding which one to buy for an apartment, you should focus on the correct ratio of the size of the electric fireplace and the area of ​​the room.

Problems

Most of the features are not used by users for two reasons:

• Inconvenient management. Even with a remote control, some of the functionality is enabled from the panel on the device.
• Difficult to control. Operation is possible after careful study of the instructions.

The lack of oxygen caused by the constant operation of an electric fireplace has a negative impact on people's health. High-quality ventilation will help mitigate the risks.

Implicit disadvantages:

• the slight hum of a fan heater produced by electromechanical devices;
• as rotating parts wear out, the noise increases;
• flat image of fire.

Models without a brightness adjustment option tire your eyes. The range of LED lamps is not rich in color and can also cause eye fatigue.

Thinking about installation

Buying a fireplace is not a problem; difficulties may begin with its installation, so we recommend that you think about the installation method in advance. The installation method depends on the type of electric fireplace; it can be corner, wall-mounted, wall-mounted (front-mounted) or cassette. Let's look at the features of each option.

Angular

Models that are installed in the corner of the room or form an outer corner. They save space, although not as much as their wall-mounted or built-in counterparts. Their main advantage is their cozy and interesting design. It is important to choose a corner portal so that it is in harmony with the furniture and other design elements. The design of corner-type electric fireplaces looks original and attractive.

Wall

Such fireplaces can be hung on the wall or mounted in a special niche in the wall. They do not require the installation of a decorative portal; it is enough to install a hearth with the effect of a “living” 3D flame and cover it with tempered glass. They save space well and have a modern design. Ideal for small apartments in High-Teck and Minimalism style. An electric fireplace can be of any size, depending on the size of the room.

Cassette

A popular type of electric fireplace, suitable for almost any room. These can be various models that can be built into tables, cabinets and other surfaces, depending on the idea.

Advantages and disadvantages

Like any other technology, electric fireplaces have both obvious advantages and some disadvantages. Let's start with the positive aspects:

• First of all, it is operational safety. The fireplace portal does not heat up during operation, which eliminates the possibility of getting burned if touched accidentally. This is especially important for families with small children;
• Easy to use. To ensure the functionality of stationary models, it is enough to provide an outlet for their power supply;
• The ability to not only decorate a room, but also heat it in a short period of time;
• Compared with some other climate control devices, for example with the same water heater, we can come to the conclusion that the fireplace does not have the highest electricity consumption. Moreover, if it does not work in heating mode;

• The artificial origin of fire completely eliminates the need to purchase fuel, regular cleaning of the firebox and chimney, and other procedures that are required by real fireplaces. That is why, even those who live in a private house and have the opportunity to equip a real fireplace, increasingly prefer an electric analogue;
• The possibility of installing a fireplace does not depend on the area of ​​the room. Indeed, thanks to the wide variety, you can choose both a compact corner model and a small device that can even be placed on a coffee table;
• If you choose a model that is not built-in, you can easily move the fireplace to another location or to another room if desired;
• There are no restrictions on the design, color scheme and style of the portal. A variety of models allows you to choose the most optimal fireplace model for your interior. And especially selective users can purchase a fireplace separately and build a portal on their own, taking into account all their wishes;
• Since the combustion process in an electric fireplace is created artificially, the possibility of releasing harmful carbon monoxide is completely eliminated.

As you can see, there are more than enough advantages. Now about the disadvantages:

• Additional electricity costs. However, this is a rather controversial issue, since any equipment operates from the network. Unless you can complain about the high electricity consumption of high-power models that are purchased specifically for heating. But even in this case, if compared with a conventional oil convector, the difference will not be so significant;
• Possibility of purchasing a fake. Due to the huge increase in popularity, cases of detection of cheaper counterfeits on the market have become more frequent. The characteristics indicate, for example, the country of origin is Great Britain, whose fireplaces are of high quality and durability, but in fact you will buy a Chinese equivalent for a lot of money. Of course, Chinese products are also of high quality, but only if they are factory-made. Therefore, buy climate control equipment only from trusted dealers and large stores;
• Unrealistic image rendering of some models. However, again, this depends on the cost of the product.

Flame simulation principle

A method used to recreate the appearance of a flame. — Electromechanical. The easiest way to create a flame effect. The design of such fireplaces includes light sources in the form of lamps or LEDs, as well as a drum rotated by an electric motor. In some models, the drum has irregularly shaped slots, in others it is covered with separate pieces of reflective film, but in any case, the idea is that the light hits the back wall of the “firebox” unevenly, simulating flames. Many similar models provide for changing the speed of movement of these “tongues”, which provides adjustment of the flame intensity (see “Functions”). The advantages of electromechanical systems include low cost and minimal maintenance requirements (in fact, it is only required in case of malfunctions). On the other hand, such a “fire” is not very realistic, and the mechanical parts can create noise during operation. — Steam generator. As the name suggests, the operation of such a simulator is based on the creation of steam, usually using ultrasound. This steam is illuminated in the appropriate color, due to which it creates the effect of not only fire, but also smoke, and a very realistic one. And in combination with mock-ups of firewood and coals, which are usually supplemented with such systems, the steam “flame” becomes almost indistinguishable from a real fire - except that up close you can notice the difference, and the nature of the heat (with the heating on) is somewhat different. In addition, steam generators by definition have a humidification function. Their main disadvantage is the need for regular refilling with water and periodic cleaning of salt deposits. — LCD monitor. In accordance with the name, this simulation method assumes the presence of a full-fledged LCD screen on which a video recording with an image of a burning fire is projected. In terms of realism, such fireplaces are noticeably superior to electromechanical ones, but are somewhat inferior to steam generators, since the “fire” turns out to be flat. On the other hand, they can provide many additional features - for example, sets of several flame options, interchangeable backgrounds on which an image of fire is superimposed, and much more. The main disadvantage of such fireplaces is their high cost.

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Malfunctions

If the warranty period has expired, you can do troubleshooting and troubleshooting yourself at home. If such work causes difficulties, contact a specialist.

Unstable operation of the device

• turn off the device, let it cool and clean it from dust;
• blow out the electric heater;
• check the presence of voltage in the electrical network;
• check the connecting cord, socket, plug;
• Check the condition of the fan blades.

Repair of circuit elements

You will need a probe with a tester equipped with a warning light.

Thermostat. When turned off, its contacts are closed. Check by connecting the tester probes to the terminals. Clean the carbon deposits and cut off the shells. Wipe the contacts with a soft cloth soaked in alcohol.

If the contacts are open due to plate deformation, return them to their original position.

Power regulator. Repairs are carried out in the same order as the thermostat.

Power off buttons. Set all buttons to the “on” position and check the conductivity in order with a tester. Clean burnt contacts.

When performing work, protect your hands with gloves. Follow the rules and requirements for working with electrical equipment.

Functions

— Temperature adjustment. Possibility to change the heating temperature of the fireplace. Due to this, you can customize the device to suit the particular situation. — Thermostat. A thermostat is a device that automatically regulates temperature, or more precisely, maintains it at a certain level. When the air in the room heats up to a certain degree, the thermostat turns off the heating element, and when the temperature drops slightly, it turns the heating back on. As a rule, the temperature maintained in this way can be set by the user at will. — Fan heater. The presence in the design of the fireplace of a special fan that supplies hot air from the device. Due to this, the room warms up faster than with natural convection (without a fan). — The sound of crackling wood. The operation of an electric fireplace is accompanied by the reproduction of the sound of natural wood burning, the main purpose of which is to enhance the atmosphere of a real fireplace. The basis of this sound is the crackling of the brazier. The sound is reproduced by a special emulator, which additionally allows you to adjust the volume of the fire sound. Depending on the model, this effect can be adjusted in volume or turned off, but in any case, this solution allows you to bring the electric fireplace closer to a real home... — Adjustment of flame brightness. The ability to change the brightness of the flame visible in the firebox. This function allows you to customize the appearance of the device to suit your mood and environment: for example, in soft evening lighting you can “dim” the fireplace so that it does not dazzle your eyes, and in bright light (for example, on a clear day) you can make the flame brighter and more noticeable . — Adjustment of flame intensity. The ability to change the intensity of the flame simulated by a fireplace - so that it looks relatively calm or, conversely, stormy. In models with electromechanical and steam generator simulation (see above), it is quite simple to provide for such adjustment, but in the presence of an LCD monitor, the intensity of the flame is entirely determined by the video recording, which is broadcast on the screen, and cannot be adjusted on the fly. — Air purification filter. The presence of a filter in the fireplace design ensures air purification from various impurities. True, the efficiency of such cleaning is usually not as high as when using special equipment (for example, hoods in recirculation mode); on the other hand, intensive filtration is not required in residential premises. The filter can be designed to both remove small particles (smoke, dust) and combat odors; The specific features of its work should be clarified separately in each case. — Air humidification. Possibility of operating the fireplace in air humidification mode. The most comfortable relative humidity for humans is considered to be about 60-70%. However, for a number of reasons, during the cold season, the humidity in residential premises may drop (the effect of “drying” the air with heaters); To restore optimal conditions, humidifiers are used. In electric fireplaces, this function, by definition, is present in models with the steam generator principle of simulating flames (see above) - in fact, it is not even an intentional function, but a “side effect” of the operation of the steam generator. But with another type of simulation, humidification is almost never provided - not so much because of technical difficulties, but because of a number of considerations of expediency. — Shutdown timer. This timer ensures that the electric fireplace automatically turns off after a time specified by the user. Thanks to this, you can, for example, turn on the device in flame simulation mode instead of a night light, set a timer and go to bed peacefully, without worrying about the need to turn off the fireplace manually.

Selection rules

On sale are both simple budget models of electric fireplaces and more technologically advanced devices equipped with a number of additional options for more comfortable use.

It is worth paying attention to the technical features of the devices:

• screen dimensions;
• flame imitation method;
• heating power;
• electricity costs;
• operating modes.

Initially, you need to determine the location of the fireplace, the desired appearance and its compatibility with the existing interior of the room.

Based on the needs and location of operation, you should decide on some device parameters:

• design;
• set of functions;
• cost;

• noisy operation;
• ease of setup and management.

Would you like an electric fireplace in your apartment?

Of course! Not really

When choosing a fireplace, it is important to take into account the available set of additional device options:

• Presence of a timer . By setting the operating period of the device, you don’t have to worry about the need to turn it off; the power supply will stop automatically after the countdown has completed.
• Humidifier . Models with a steam generator can additionally humidify dry air, which is especially important for city apartments in winter.

• 
  Remote control included

  . With its help, you can control the operation of the unit from a distance and make the necessary adjustments to the operating parameters of the fireplace.
• Setting the temperature mode . Allows you to select a comfortable heating level for the device.
• Sound control . Many models are equipped with a sound simulation of burning wood logs, which adds realism to the electric fireplace. Some devices allow you to adjust the volume of such effects or turn them off completely.
• Setting the flame level . This function allows you to adjust the intensity of the flame display and its height.

Which electric fireplace is better to choose?

This concludes our TOP of the best electric fireplaces. Which one is best to buy? For a cozy and small bedroom, a compact RealFlame Andromeda or RealFlame Fobos Lux BL S can be a good purchase. For a spacious living room, it is better to choose ENDEVER Flame-03 or Electrolux EFP/W-1200URLS. Fans of truly unusual and at the same time realistic simulations will certainly like RealFlame Cassette 630 3D. However, no matter which model you choose from the rating, you definitely won’t regret this purchase.

Internal organization

Knowing how an electric fireplace works will help you understand how it works. First of all, it is worth noting that this device consists of two components: the hearth and the portal. The hearth is the place for the firebox, that is, the main part of the fireplace, and the portal is its outer frame.

The hearth can be built-in or replaceable. Built-in ones are usually made for a specific portal, so installing it is quite simple. The replaceable one can be of almost any size, and therefore the portal for it is selected in each specific case separately.

If the portal serves only as a decoration for the fireplace, then the hearth performs at least two functions: heating and lighting.

An indisputable advantage of the device is the ability to use it in the summer heat. To do this, you need to turn off the heating, leaving only the lighting.

TOP 5 electric fireplaces

5 - Royal Flame Majestic FX Black

• Price
  - 7,548 - 34,335 rubles.
• Dimensions (WxHxD)
  - 50x61x23 cm
• Country of origin
  : China

Closed electric fireplace 2 kW, weight without portal 11.6 kg. Imitation of flame, sound effect.

Royal Flame Majestic FX Black Electric fireplace

4 - Electrolux EFP/W-1200 URLS

• Price
  - 14,650 - 23,520 rubles.
• Dimensions (WxHxD)
  - 88.5x56x13.5 cm
• Country of origin
  : China

The wall-mounted fireplace is available in three colors - white, orange, black. Device weight 18.1 kg, power 2 kW. Live fire effect.

Electrolux EFP/W-1200 URLS Electric fireplace

3 – Royal Flame Dioramic 28 LED FX

• Price
  - 20,550 - 49,750 rubles.
• Dimensions (WxHxD)
  - 71.5x60x12 cm
• Country of origin
  : China

Built-in closed-type electric fireplace with a power of 2 kW with doors made of heat-resistant glass. There is a mode without heating. There is a timer and thermostat. The brightness of the flame, backlight, and sound are adjustable. Brickwork effect. Weight 20.8 kg.

Royal Flame Dioramic 28 LED FX Electric Fireplace

2 – Dimplex Mozart RC DELUXE

• Price
  - 27,990 - 32,900 rubles.
• Dimensions (WxHxD)
  - 92.5x86x38 cm
• Country of origin
  : Ireland

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Fireplace set with ivory colored portal. Combined case: MDF + metal + plastic + glass. The temperature of the heating mode is adjustable, there is a hidden fan. Imitation of live fire. Power 2 kW, weight 48 kg.

Dimplex Mozart RC DELUXE Electric fireplace

1 — Electrolux Classic EFP/P-1020 LS

• Price
  - 8,777 - 35,480 rubles.
• Dimensions (WxHxD)
  - 48.2x59.2x18 cm
• Country of origin
  : China

Closed-type hanging electric fireplace with a power of 2 kW, weighing 8.9 kg. MDF cladding. Has a decorative mode + 2 heating power modes. The brightness of the live flame visualization is adjustable, and there is the sound of crackling wood.

Electrolux Classic EFP/P-1020 LS Electric fireplace

Fireplace set Electrolux Porto 25

Rating of the best electric fireplaces (autumn 2021)

If you want to buy a white electric fireplace, read the description of Electrolux Porto 25. It has a stone body in the color of bleached oak and is additionally trimmed with decorative stone. The product looks elegant and gives the room a unique character. The equipment is most often chosen for the salon. The model does not require complex assembly and you can start using it immediately after connecting to the network - you do not need to resort to the help of professionals, which would be associated with additional costs.

Dimensions of the electric fireplace: height – 104 cm, width – 96 cm and depth – 31 cm. Its weight is 54 kg. The heating power is adjustable from 0.7 kW to 2 kW (2 steps). The device has an electronic thermostat, which guarantees efficient operation. The timer allows you to set the time after which the equipment should automatically turn off (from 0.5 to 8 hours). An interesting addition is a sound emulator, thanks to which the model resembles a traditional fireplace even more.

A user test of electric fireplaces showed that the Electrolux Porto 25 model works efficiently and has no problems with operation. Optiflame technology ensures that the image of the hearth is realistic, which means that the user can feel like sitting in front of a regular fireplace into which fuel is thrown.

The best inexpensive electric fireplaces with a live fire effect

The most popular model this year is the live fire electric fireplace, which is as close as possible to the ideal model. The flame effect is a matter of aesthetics, synonymous with comfort, warmth and beauty in the room. It’s not for nothing that they say that you can look at a living fire forever. Having studied all the presented models with this effect, experts came to a consensus that in 2022, 3 models from previously announced brands and companies became the best.

Electrolux EFP/M-5012

The main advantages of all models from this manufacturer are complete fire safety, high efficiency, easy installation, and low maintenance. The body is made of high-quality plastic with internal finishing with metal heat-repellent plates; the model combines classics and impeccable aesthetics. The main “bun” is advanced LED technologies that create an imitation of a real 600 kW fire. The control panel is hidden behind the door, and a control panel is also provided. Heating area 17 m², power 1.2 kW, dimensions 340x250x170 mm and weight 4 kg, tabletop type, has a timer.

Advantages

• Nice appearance;
• Compact size;
• Variety of colors;
• Affordable price;
• Suitable for home, office, commercial premises;
• Realistic transfer of fire.

Flaws

• There is noise during operation;
• The fire imitation lamp burns out quickly.

An excellent fireplace for such a price, the Electrolux electric fireplace, reviews of which confirm this, is small in size and weight for installation on a table or on the floor. Warm air is blown from above, which means there is no risk of overheating the surface on which the device stands. Sometimes the lamp in a new model burns out quickly; it is recommended to replace it with a new LED lamp.

Endever Flame-02

One of the cheapest brands for the production of such devices, but a low price does not mean insufficient quality. The company guarantees a well-thought-out quality control service that works from the moment of assembly to the release of each product for sale. Endever Flame-02 is an excellent solution if you need to buy an inexpensive electric fireplace. There are mechanical controls here that allow you to select the operating mode from 3 options. There is also an overheating protection system and automatic shutdown if the device is tipped over. The heating area is 30 m², power 1600 W.

Advantages

• Stylish design;
• Protection against falls and overheating;
• Possibility of installation on the floor, on a table;
• Buttons for switching;
• Fast heating of the room;
• Low price.

Flaws

• Lack of remote control;
• Insufficient cord length.

The device has legs for clear fixation on the surface. Light weight and small dimensions allow you to move it to any room as needed. Heating occurs in a matter of minutes.

GardenWay Yorkshire 18D1

The rating of the best devices with imitation of live fire is completed by the GardenWay Yorkshire 18D1 model, which is not inferior to world brands in terms of quality and technical equipment. It is worth noting the high-quality assembly, the choice of different fire simulation modes, the sound, and the stylish design. The dummy of the declared model is a fireplace with firewood, floor fixation, made of dark metal and internal heat-resistant insulation. The antique effect is due to the glass door and lattice fencing. There is a function for changing power modes - 950 and 1850 W. Added timer and thermal fuse option.

Advantages

• Low price;
• Operating mode “Flame without heating”;
• Remote control;
• Adjustment of flame brightness;
• Thermostat.

Flaws

• Weight is greater than that of competing models;
• Floor installation only.

Any user can customize the device for themselves. You can choose the operating mode, the degree of heating of the room, the intensity of the flame effect - a blazing fire or smoldering flames. And in the summer, the device will not sit idle; it can decorate the interior with a flame, but without heating the room.

Corner electric fireplace Dimplex Milano Cabrera

Rating of the best electric fireplaces (autumn 2021)

The Dimplex Milano Cabrera corner electric fireplace has a classic look and is finished in walnut wood veneer. This is a model that would look good in the corner of a living room or office. The corner electric fireplace is equipped with a heating function, timer, thermostat, fan heater and electronic display for setting parameters. The equipment can be installed for aesthetic purposes, where burning wood, highly similar to natural wood, creates a cozy atmosphere in the room.

In this case, the energy consumption will be insignificant and amount to only 18 W. This involves the use of LED lighting to generate flame lights. The second option is to turn on the heating, the power of the equipment is 1.5 kW and when the fan heater is turned on, it will quickly heat a medium-sized room.

The dimensions of the proposed model are as follows: height 930 mm, width 932 mm and depth 662 mm. Weight only 40 kg. By purchasing the device, you can get an acoustic buzzer that produces the sound effects of burning wood. Customers who have purchased this model are pleased with the natural look of burning logs and the coziness that the fireplace creates.

The best wall-mounted electric fireplaces

Wall-mounted fireplaces are considered a separate category; their design is as close as possible to classic wood-burning fireboxes. They involve a decorative casing and an electrical installation inside, designed to simulate a real flame. Thanks to this option, the fireplace creates a feeling of warmth and comfort in the room. Today, leading manufacturers of such portals offer options with frames made of wood, plastic, veneer, natural stone and MDF, some decorated with plaster and marble. The experts reviewed 2 models from well-known brands.

Electrolux Sphere EFP/P – 2620RLS

The declared electric hearth stood out with an excellent panorama, creating the impression of volume and depth of the flame. Thanks to the innovative Real Fire technology, the device simulates the image of a burning fire as realistically as possible, and the developer offers to start a timer to operate for a period of 30 minutes to 5 hours. The decoration mode without accompanying heating of the room will consume only 6 W of electricity. The thermostat is responsible for safe and uniform heating. The owner is offered the opportunity to adjust the brightness of the fire in 4 modes. The screen is 26 inches, the device is protected from overheating, the heating area is 25 m².

Advantages

• Remote control with a special remote control;
• Timer programming;
• Ability to change the brightness of the picture;
• Panoramic view;
• Acceptable price;
• Realistic flame effect;
• Brickwork effect.

Flaws

• The lamp burns out quickly;
• Short cord for mains operation.

The model can be installed independently near a wall or built into a niche. It is allowed to use all year round, in winter for heating and creating comfort, in summer only to imitate a burning hearth.

Exploitation

• Before connecting, check the condition of the electrical wiring. A prerequisite is the presence of a grounding loop. The current parameters are indicated by the manufacturer in the product passport.
• Do not place devices opposite window openings or light sources. This reduces the brightness and contrast of the visual effect.
• When installing, make sure there is space and a clear approach for maintenance. The source should be easy to remove.

Installation of an electric fireplace with a 3D hearth

Heaters with a 3D screen are installed in specialized portals, mounted in plasterboard structures, and built into furniture.

When attaching to the wall, the building material from which the partition is made is taken into account. If necessary, the wall is strengthened, the device is fixed with rivets in the corners.

Care

Before cleaning, unplug the appliance and let it cool:

• Regularly wipe the body and decorative fuel with a damp cloth.
• Clean the air intake grille with a vacuum cleaner.
• Wash the protective screen or glass with soap and water using a soft cloth.

Do not use abrasive cleaning powders, glass cleaning chemicals, or organic solvents.

Electric household units with a steam generator:

• fill with distilled water to prevent scale formation;
• remove scale regularly;
• change the water once a day;
• When not in use, drain the water.

Electrical devices with halogen lamps require lamp replacement if they burn out.

The most important question

We all tend to spend a long time preparing for a serious purchase, so we tirelessly collect information. In order to dream about a fireplace, you don’t need to know everything about it. This is where frequent questions arise from potential buyers: “Do electric fireplaces provide heat?” In order not to drive consultants to white heat, read a couple of lines on this matter.

Good to know: What types of electric fireplaces are there, we consider all existing types

The manufacturer treats you so carefully that the position on this issue depends on your desire. One movement of your hand can cause the fireplace to heat the room. You can just as easily disable this feature.

But the question out of nowhere is, do electric fireplaces provide heat or not? – would not have arisen. This is due to the fact that some models are completely devoid of heating elements. When choosing, this fact must be taken into account so as not to get disappointment instead of pleasure. From an economic point of view, a fireplace without heating will be the best solution both in terms of cost and operating costs.

Security measures

Despite the fact that the future fireplace is considered safe, additional measures must be taken. If the hearth has a heating function, then it is possible that the wall to which the portal is adjacent may heat up. It is recommended to cover its surface with a heat-resistant substance. Asbestos sheets can be used.

If it is not possible to install the fireplace directly near an electrical outlet, you will have to lay an additional power cable. While the profile has not yet been sheathed, it’s time to think about it.

The cable should be selected based on the power of the heating element. Offhand, the cross-sectional area should be at least 2.5 mm2. For complete safety, it would be a good idea to hide the cable in a corrugation or cable duct.

How to decorate - making decorative firewood

Cardboard is rolled into tubes

Creating a dummy firewood yourself is not a difficult task.

Elements are connected to each other

They can be made from materials that everyone has on hand. As an example, we will look at firewood that is made from cardboard, glue, tape and paint.

Imitated logs need to be painted

Of course, decorative firewood can also be purchased ready-made. They just aren't cheap.

First, cut out a cardboard blank for firewood. Then glue this blank so that it resembles a log. Paint the resulting firewood and place it in the fireplace.

Decorative cardboard logs placed in a simulated hearth - cheap and cheerful