Best Realistic Electric Fireplace

Are you looking for a new way to heat your home? If yes, then you should consider installing an electric fireplace.

Electric fireplaces are becoming very popular these days because they provide warmth without using much energy. They also look great in any room.

An electric fireplace is a device that uses electricity to produce heat. The heat produced is similar to that from a wood or gas fireplace. These devices are usually placed near a wall outlet and plugged into a power source.

Electric fireplaces come in various sizes, shapes, and designs. Some models even offer remote controls.

There are several benefits associated with them. For instance, they don’t require fuel, they save energy, and they are environmentally friendly.

Below we look at the 8 best realistic electric fireplaces that are currently on the market.

8 Best Realistic Electric Fireplaces

Best Overall: PuraFlame Western Electric Fireplace Insert With Fire Crackling Sound

Overview

PuraFlame has a huge variety of electric fireplaces available, but this insert gets our vote for the best overall because of its great look and features.

This electric fireplace insert features realistic-looking flames, burning embers, and logs.

Once the fireplace is powered on you can choose from a range of settings using the remote control it is operated by.

Choose realistic crackling sounds or choose to only have the heat setting turned on.

The glow of the fire is created by LEDs which are low energy, meaning you can both heat and provide ambient lighting to your home while saving money on your household bills.

The control buttons on the fireplace are hidden behind a fence-style door, giving this fireplace a truly realistic look.

This is a very quiet fireplace and can heat rooms up to 400 square feet. You can control the temperature to heat your room as necessary.

The power cord is 1.8 meters in length and the insert can be fitted from the front in a quick and easy front fix installation.

Pros

• Remote control to operate
• 3-side brick wall interior
• 5 sizes available
• 1-year warranty

Cons

• Must be placed in an existing fireplace or frame
• Can’t be hard-wired

You can buy this realistic electric fireplace on Amazon by clicking here or pick from a range of sizes directly from the manufacturer by clicking here.

Best Luxury: Real Flame 56-inch Emerson Grand Electric Fireplace

Overview

If you are willing to spend a bit more money, then this could be the perfect fireplace for you.

This Real Flame electric fireplace features a gorgeous frame and mantle, giving it a gorgeous traditional look.

The frame is made from hardwood veneer and would be perfect in any larger space as this fireplace can heat spaces up to 1,000 square feet in size.

It is a freestanding piece so all you need to do is connect it to a free wall and ensure there is an electrical socket nearby to plug it in.

Choose from six different heat settings and also control the brightness of the flame from the comfort of your couch using the remote control.

Set the timer for a minimum of 10 minutes or a maximum of 9 hours and take comfort knowing that if you forget to turn the fireplace off before bedtime it will turn itself off.

Pros

• Adjustable thermostat and choice of flame settings
• Remote control operated
• Timer settings
• Chic and realistic design

Cons

• Mantle is only suitable for small items, weighing up to 30 pounds.

You can buy this realistic electric fireplace from Pottery Barn by clicking here or directly from the manufacturer by clicking here.

Best Budget: DOIT Electric Fireplace Logs

Overview

Finding an electric fireplace for a budget price can be difficult, especially if you are looking for something to go into an existing fireplace or frame.

These faux logs are a great way of changing the way you heat your home for a great budget price.

These realistic electric fireplace logs have a realistic bed of embers as well as feature realistic-looking flames and provide warm glowing light in your home.

This set is remote-controlled, and you can choose from a selection of choices for how you operate the noise, heat, and flames.

You can also choose to operate these electric fireplace logs on a timer, giving you peace of mind. Use this set to heat spaces up to 400 square meters.

Pros

• Choice of settings
• Remote control operated
• CSA Certified for safe use

Cons

• Must be placed in an existing fireplace

You can buy this realistic electric fireplace on Amazon by clicking here.

Best Faux Flames: Real Flame Foster Electric Stove

Overview

If you are looking for something with a more rustic look a stove may suit your decor more than a fireplace.

This freestanding electric stove is a great piece adding warmth and character to any home.

The flames in this electric stove are incredibly real-looking and the glass doors are framed to give a full view of the interior of the stove.

Simply place two or three logs beside the stove to give that extra authentic effect.

This stove has multiple heat settings and the chimney is detachable. Spaces up to 1,000 square feet can be heated by this electric stove, and you can choose from four different heat settings to heat your space accordingly.

There is also an option to turn off the heat but turn on the faux flames to enjoy the ambiance of a fireplace all year round.

Pros

• 1-year Limited Warranty
• CSA Certified
• Thermal overload protection
• Detachable chimney
• Choice of heat settings

Cons

• Assembly required

You can buy this realistic electric fireplace directly from the manufacturer by clicking here.

Best Faux Log: PuraFlame Klaus Electric Fireplace Insert

Overview

The Klaus electric fireplace by PuraFlame is a great choice for anyone who wants realistic-looking faux logs in their fireplace.

This electric fireplace features a gorgeous brick interior and can be operated by remote control.

The main power controls are hidden under a fence door on the fireplace itself. Choose from different heat settings to warm rooms up to 400 square feet.

Easily install this fireplace and simply plug it into an electrical socket to operate. This electric fireplace cannot be hard-wired.

Pros

• Multiple flames, sound, and heat settings
• Remote control operated
• Easy to install
• 1-year Warranty

Cons

• Requires an existing frame or fireplace

You can buy this realistic electric fireplace on Amazon by clicking here.

Best Portable: DuraFlame 3D Infrared Electric Fireplace Stove

Overview

Having an electric fireplace usually means that it is stuck in one room and only able to heat one space. This DuraFlame electric fireplace stove can easily be moved to different rooms in your home.

This electric fireplace stove weighs less than 30 pounds and has been built to ensure that the outside stays cool meaning you can move it at any time. It can heat spaces up to 1,000 square feet.

This stove offers views of the realistic flames and logs from three angles, meaning it gives off more light than most portable electric fireplace stoves.

Adjust the temperature to suit your needs and adjust the brightness and color of the flames also.

The infrared technology used to create the light in this electric fireplace stove means that this heater will not affect the humidity in your home.

Pros

• Multiple settings to choose from
• Overheat Protection
• Light, portable design
• Freestanding can be placed anywhere

Cons

• Settings must be adjusted manually on the unit

You can buy this realistic electric fireplace on Amazon by clicking here or directly from Walmart by clicking here.

Best With Mantel: Sei Furniture Electric Fireplace With Mantel

Overview

If you want to make your electric fireplace a key focal point in your living room then this Sei electric fireplace would be perfect.

This fireplace looks extremely realistic and features a stunning Carrara marble surround and herringbone layout.

The glow from the fire is given by LED power-saving bulbs, with an option to use the light from the fire year-round without having the heat turned on.

You can operate the fireplace by remote control and allow this piece to heat any room up to 400 square feet.

This electric fireplace can be easily cleaned with a damp cloth. Simply plug it into a standard wall socket for operation.

The LED lights are powered by a lithium battery, which is provided upon purchase.

Pros

• Stylish, expensive look
• Remote control operated
• LED power-saving bulbs powered by batteries, 1 lithium battery

Cons

• 2 person assembly and installation must include anti-tipping restraints
• Warranty must be requested after purchase

You can buy this realistic electric fireplace on Amazon by clicking here.

Best Wall Hanging: Touchstone 50-Inch Wall Hanging Electric Fireplace

Overview

If you are looking to bring a sense of clean modern aesthetics to your home, having an elevated wall-hanging electric fireplace is a great way to add this style to your home without having to change your decor entirely.

His Touchstone wall hanging electric fireplace emits a warm glow and looks like burning coals as the burning embers dance when powered on.

There is a built-in auto-shutoff should your fireplace be powered on for more than 7.5 hours, but you can set it on a timer to heat the home at certain times.

Installing this wall-hanging electric fireplace is straightforward and step-by-step instructions are provided.

Once the piece has been mounted to drywall with screws simply plug it in to power on. This electric fireplace can heat spaces up to 400 square feet.

Pros

• Two heat settings
• Timer settings
• Easy installation

Cons

• Not suitable for mounting in walls

You can buy this realistic electric fireplace on Amazon by clicking here.

Benefits Of Electric Fireplaces

There are many advantages to having an electric fireplace. Here are some of the reasons why people choose this type of heating system in their home rather than traditional fireplaces.

Energy Saving

An electric fireplace can be used as a heater instead of burning wood or gas.

Most electric fireplaces feature LED lights which are energy-saving, meaning your fire can heat your home and provide ambient lighting in one. This can help save money on your household bills.

It also prevents you from having to buy expensive natural resources, such as coal and gas. Over time this can make your home more eco-friendly.

Control Over Temperatures

Most electric fireplaces have a thermostat that allows users to set their desired temperature. When the fireplace is turned on, it heats up the surrounding air.

As a result, the surrounding area will feel warm. With traditional fireplaces, you do not have this luxury.

Safer Choice

Unlike traditional fireplaces, electric fireplaces do not emit harmful gasses. Therefore, they are safer than wood-burning fireplaces.

Most electric fireplaces are fitted with Stay Cool technology which means they are safer for pets and small children.

Electric fireplaces come with a glass partition also, keeping small hands out of harm's way.

Electric fireplaces are considered to be environmentally friendly since they don’t release smoke and fumes. They also reduce the amount of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere.

Cleaner Choice

With no need for coal or logs, you will find that you no longer need to constantly be sweeping or hoovering your floor. There is also no smoke which can damage light furnishings in your home.

Easy To Install

Electric fireplaces are relatively easy to install. All you need to do is plug it into an electrical socket. Once installed, all you need to do is turn it on.

Affordable

Compared to conventional fireplaces, electric fireplaces are more affordable. Thanks to the huge range on the market it is possible to find a style to suit anyone’s budget, big or small.

Buyer's Guide

Buying an electric fireplace is a great way to add warmth to your home.

When buying an electric fireplace there are some things that you should consider to make sure that you can find the best electric fireplace for you. We list and explain these below.

The Size Of The Electric Fireplace

You should always measure the space where you would like to place your electric fireplace to ensure that it will fit.

Consider whether you want something that can fit in a pre-existing fireplace if you would rather have a freestanding or portable unit and then also take into consideration how close electric sockets are to the space you are planning to put your electric fireplace.

Make sure that you measure your living room before purchasing one to ensure you find an electric fireplace that has the ability to heat the room in question. This information is usually given under the specifications of an electric fireplace.

The Material Of The Electric Fireplace

You can choose a material that would already blend into the current aesthetic in your home.

It is worthwhile considering the durability of the material as well as how easy it will be to clean. All of these factors will influence how long you will get from your new purchase.

If the electric fireplace features glass, always ensure it is tempered glass to avoid it from shattering.

It is also good to check whether the light from the fireplace is created using LEDs or bulbs. If the light is emitted from a bulb check how easy it is to change and replace these bulbs before purchasing.

The Design Of The Electric Fireplace

Some electric fireplaces come in a variety of designs. You can select from a classic design, modern design, rustic design, or anything else that suits your taste. The design of the electric fireplace should match your decor.

The Type Of Heating System

Electric fireplaces usually come with a built-in heating system. There are two types: convection and radiant.

Convection heaters work by circulating hot air through the unit. Radiant heaters use infrared rays to heat the air.

Both systems provide excellent results. Consider what would work best in your home before purchasing.

The Cost Of The Electric Fireplace

Electric fireplaces are generally cheaper than gas fireplaces. If you decide to get one, you will be able to find an electric fireplace to suit your budget and needs by shopping around.

Check manufacturer websites and competing websites to check for any discounts, and it is also worthwhile going to a store to physically see the product before purchasing it.

Read Reviews

Reviews are a great way of getting real information on a product. Often sales staff will be considering their commission when selling a product and so the information they provide may be biased.

There is a wealth of online spaces where you can find real reviews that can be helpful when making your choice between a number of different electric fireplaces.

Final Thoughts

Electric fireplaces are a great asset in any home. Whether you choose to make it a focal point in a room or want something that can fit into an existing fireplace there is a huge range of options available on the market today.

Don’t forget to keep our useful buyer's guide in mind next time you are shopping for an electric fireplace that is realistic looking.