Different types of electric fireplaces 

Electric fireplaces are increasingly popular among homeowners due to their simplicity and convenience. Plus, you can easily install them without experiencing the installation challenges posed by their gas or wood-burning counterparts. More importantly, they offer significant cost savings associated with running a gas line or renovating an outdated wood-burning fireplace. 

Interestingly, every home can now have an electric fireplace as there are many types available, making it easy to find the perfect option for any space. In this blog post, we’ll look at the different types of electric fireplaces on the market to help you choose the best one for your home! 

Types of electric fireplaces 

• Electric fireplace inserts 

An electric fireplace is designed to slide right into an existing space or traditional fireplace opening. This provides an economical alternative to the conventional gas or wood-burning fireplace. It has the same features as a wall-mounted unit, with the exception that it’s installed into the wall instead of mounting it. As a result, this type of fireplace sits flat within the wall, instead of sticking out of the wall. 

On the downside, electric fireplace inserts are a bit more complicated to install than other types of fireplaces. Nonetheless, it will ultimately create a more finished, appealing look. Better yet, you can even install the electric fireplace into the hearth of an existing, unused traditional wood-burning fireplace or a mantel surround/ cabinet. 

It’s also worth mentioning that there are 2 types of electric fireplace inserts; electric log inserts and firebox inserts. 

A firebox insert looks just like an inbuilt fireplace and it’s very easy to install. You only need to find the right size of the firebox insert, put it inside your existing traditional fireplace, plug it into a standard 110V outlet & enjoy. 

On the other hand, an electric log insert looks like a grate with logs and has inbuilt lights that create the flame effect on the walls of an existing fireplace. Also, this type of fireplace has an inbuilt heater and includes a remote control that you can use to change the flame intensity, height, and ember bed lighting.

• Wall-mounted fireplaces

As the name suggests, a wall-mounted electric fireplace is mounted on the wall. For that, they help to save floor space, making them ideal for small spaces such as apartments, lobbies, and condos. 

In addition, these types of fireplaces are available in a wide range of styles, including modern and contemporary models. At the same time, they have different aesthetics, which allows you to choose a model that suits your interior decor. Plus, they’re easy to mount and dismount, making them a perfect option if you’re planning to move or renovate your house. 

• Free-standing electric fireplaces 

A free-standing electric fireplace either comes as a stand-alone unit or media cabinet. In essence, a media cabinet is a TV stand with an inbuilt fireplace. This makes it an excellent option for apartments since it’s movable, saves space, provides supplemental heat, and serves a double function. 

On the other hand, a stand-alone unit is put on an included pedestal. Either way, both types of free-standing fireplaces are extremely easy to move around. Plus, you can put them against any wall in your home, making it a great solution for apartments. 

Another notable feature of these models is that they resemble conventional fireplaces with their mantels. However, they’re also available in corner models that fit well in the corner of the room. Also, some models have collapsible panels that allow the fireplace to sit on a wall or against a wall. 

• Electric fireplaces with mantels 

An electric fireplace with mantel is extremely easy to set up as it doesn’t need any remodeling. Instead, you only need to assemble the mantel, insert the fireplace, plug it into a standard 120V outlet and you’re good to go! 

In most cases, this type of fireplace has 2 main components: a vent-free firebox with a realistic flame effect and a separate mantel for housing the firebox. Moreover, fireplace mantels come in a variety of finishes and colors, while some are corner convertible to fit into any room. On the same note, some units double as media consoles, while others feature shelving for additional storage or holding your flat-screen TV. 

• 2-sided (See-Through) & 3-sided electric fireplaces 

At the moment, there is only one 2-sided electric fireplace from Napoleon fireplaces that allows you to see through. It’s commonly installed into a dividing wall to enjoy the view of the realistic flame effects in both rooms. Interestingly, you can control the heat output of this fireplace in each room. Moreover, it generates enough heat to warm an area of up to 800 sq ft and even features a privacy screen that you can put up on as desired. 

On the other hand, an inbuilt 3-sided electric fireplace is a special modern model that has multicolor flames that you can view from all three sides. 

Final Word 

Since electric fireplaces do not need venting, they are a great alternative to traditional gas or wood fireplaces. And as you can see, there are various installation options and types of electric fireplaces to choose from. Besides, they’re a cost-effective way to add supplemental heat to your living space while upgrading your home’s aesthetic appearance.