Curling up in front of a fireplace on a cold winter day is incredibly cozy. If you don’t have a chimney, an electric fireplace can provide the same ambiance and extra heat. These devices offer supplemental warmth and recreate the warm glow of a real fire without the need for sparks or chopped wood.
There is a wide variety of electric fireplaces available, including models resembling wood stoves and traditional built-in fireplaces with mantles. Safety should be a consideration alongside appearance. When comparing products, take into account the heat output, heating mechanism, and wattage.
To help you find the best electric fireplace for your home, we tested over 20 top models in our lab and used our favorites in our living rooms for two months. Here are the best electric fireplaces of 2023 that Food and Meal tested.
What to look for when shopping for the best electric fireplace inserts
Consider the power source (hard-wired or plugged in) before buying. Check the installation requirements and ensure proper sealing. Fireplace inserts generate heat, so be cautious. They can use convection or infrared heating methods.
| Inserts can either be hard wired or plugged in | Hard-wiring may require professional installation by an electrician, so ensure you’re comfortable with the option you choose. |
| These devices create heat | While most allow you to use the fireplace function without heat, it’s essential to recognize that they can be costly. However, they can be a more aesthetically pleasing and space-saving alternative to traditional space heaters. |
| Proper installation is crucial | If you install the insert into a pre-built fireplace, ensure it is adequately sealed from the chimney to prevent water, dirt, or debris from damaging the machine. |
| Fireplace inserts can heat your home in two ways. | The conventional method uses a fan to distribute heat into the air through convection. The other way is infrared heating, which heats objects directly, similar to feeling the warmth of the sun or a campfire on your skin. |
| Consider your fireplace situation | Inserts are designed to fit inside existing fireplaces, but if you don’t have one, some can be wall-mounted or recessed. Understand the installation requirements to ensure a proper fit. |
Best Electric Fireplaces of 2024
Costway 20-Inch Freestanding Electric Fireplace
| Dimensions | 23 x 11 x 20 inches |
| Weight | 17.5 pounds |
| Wattage | 1,400 |
| Heat Output | 4,777 BTU |
| Room Size | 700 sq. ft. |
The Costway 20-inch Freestanding Electric Fireplace combines an attractive design with impressive heating capabilities, all at an affordable price. Despite its compact size, this fireplace provides efficient warmth and weighs just 17.5 pounds, allowing for easy mobility within your home. It is certified by the CSA Group for safety and includes an automatic shutdown feature to prevent overheating.
During testing, we observed that the warmth from this fireplace could be felt up to 4.5 feet away, and it effectively raised the temperature of surrounding objects by over 10 degrees in approximately 15 minutes. The faux flames have a pleasing orange color and realistic movement, adding to the overall appeal. Even after two months of home testing, the performance and warmth remained consistent, providing a cozy experience.
With a temperature control knob offering four settings between 68 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit, you have flexibility in maintaining your desired temperature. Although we didn’t notice a significant difference between the heat levels, this fireplace’s three-sided panoramic design and cool-touch exterior make it safe to display decorative items on top.
- Affordable
- Lightweight design
- Realistic flames
- Impressive heat output
- Not ideal for large rooms
- No noticeable change between settings
Real Flame Silverton 48 in. Electric Fireplace
| Dimensions | 41 x 48 x 8.75 inches |
| Weight | 101 pounds |
| Wattage | 1,500 |
| Heat Output | 4,780 BTU |
| Room Size | 1000 sq. ft. |
If you’re willing to invest in a visually striking fireplace that will become the centerpiece of your living space, the Real Flame Silverton Electric Fireplace is an excellent choice. This model received an exceptional rating in our testing due to its high-quality construction, versatile settings, and above-average heating. With its mantel-style design, it resembles a built-in fireplace and adds a beautiful touch to any room.
Not only does this CSA-certified fireplace have an appealing appearance, but it also offers convenient functionality. Using the remote or control panel, you can adjust the temperature, flame height, brightness, and color, as well as set an automatic shut-off timer. During our home testing, we found that the automatic shut-off feature worked reliably, turning off the fireplace exactly at the designated time. The warmth from this fireplace can be felt from a distance of over 11 feet, making it an ideal choice for larger rooms. The only drawback we noticed is the absence of multiple blower speeds, a feature found in other high-end models.
- Attractive and durable construction
- Wide range of settings
- Heats large area
- Remote control included
- Only one blower speed
Turbro Suburbs TS17 Electric Fireplace Stove
| Dimensions | 18 x 15 x 9Â inches |
| Weight | 13 pounds |
| Wattage | 1,400 |
| Heat Output | 4,777 BTU |
| Room Size | 400 sq. ft. |
For those on a budget, the TURBRO Suburbs TS17 Electric Fireplace is an affordable and compact option. Weighing just 13 pounds, this freestanding fireplace can easily fit into any corner of a room. During our testing, we found that its size and heat output resembled that of a small space heater. The fireplace comes fully assembled, allowing for quick and easy setup, and it is certified for safety by the CSA Group.
Due to its compact size, this fireplace is not the most powerful option available. We observed that it only projects heat up to 32 inches in front of the unit, requiring close proximity to feel the warmth. The fireplace offers four temperature settings controlled by a dial on the side, and you can operate the flames and heat separately if desired. While it effectively heats small spaces, the TURBRO Suburbs TS17 received lower scores in terms of appearance. The flames emit a cozy orange glow, but they lack a realistic appearance.
- Affordable price
- No assembly required
- Compact and lightweight
- Unrealistic flames
- Doesn’t push heat very far
Pleasant Hearth Sheridan Mobile Infrared Fireplace
| Dimensions | 31.75 x 12.76 x 27.25 inches |
| Weight | 55 pounds |
| Wattage | 1,350 |
| Heat Output | 5,200 BTU |
| Room Size | 1,000 sq. ft. |
The Pleasant Hearth Sheridan Electric Fireplace offers impressive heating power at a reasonable price. With a robust 5,200 BTU output, recommended for spaces up to 1,000 square feet, this fireplace effectively distributes heat throughout the room, as confirmed by our testing. It features a mantel design available in four finishes and can be easily moved with optional caster wheels.
This CSA-certified fireplace provides five heat settings, offering noticeable differences in warmth levels, according to our testers. The heat can be felt from a distance of up to 8 feet, making it an efficient option for heating an entire room. However, it’s important to note that this unit does not have a flame-only setting, so it cannot be used solely for ambiance. We did not observe a decline in heat production during months of testing, but caution should be exercised when young children are near the heating element. Additionally, while the flames and logs may not appear highly realistic up close, they do present a better visual effect from a distance.
- Heats large area
- Limited assembly
- Five heat settings
- No flame-only setting
- Not the most attractive design
 Walker Edison Glenwood Highboy Fireplace TV Stand Â
| Dimensions | Â 32 x 15.75 x 58Â inches |
| Weight | 120 pounds |
| Wattage | Not listed |
| Heat Output | Â 4,600 BTU |
| Room Size | 400Â sq. ft. |
For a seamless integration of a fireplace into your living space, we recommend the Walker Edison Glenwood Highboy Fireplace TV Stand. This stand has the capacity to support a TV up to 65 inches and 150 pounds. It features two enclosed cabinets and two open shelves with cable management ports, providing ample storage for entertainment devices. The electric fireplace is positioned between the cabinets and is designed to generate up to 4,600 BTU of warmth.
- Attractive design
- Supports TVs up to 65 inches
- Cord management ports
- Heavy
- Time-consuming assembly
- Only one heat setting
FESTIVO 36 in. Freestanding Electric Fireplace
| Dimensions | 34 x 36 x 11.5 inches |
| Weight | 72.6Â pounds |
| Wattage | 1,000 |
| Heat Output | 3,400Â BTU |
| Room Size | 1,000Â sq. ft. |
If ou appreciate the rustic look, the Festivo Freestanding Electric Fireplace is our top recommendation for a mantel-style design that closely resembles a built-in fireplace. We were pleased that it arrived almost fully assembled, requiring minimal effort to set up. Simply unbox it, install the anchor bracket, and it’s ready to use. This CSA-certified fireplace offers a range of settings, including adjustable temperatures from 62 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit, customizable flame brightness, and a built-in timer. During our testing, all of its features worked flawlessly.
While we admire the aesthetic appeal of this mantel fireplace, it may not provide the most powerful heat output for warming up larger spaces. We could only feel the heat when within 3 feet of the fireplace, and it only raised the temperature by a degree or two after 15 minutes. However, it should be sufficient for smaller rooms. One advantage is the cool-touch top, allowing you to safely display decorative items on the mantel, enhancing the fireplace’s resemblance to a real fireplace.
- Minimal assembly required
- Cool-touch top
- Built-in timer
- Doesn’t push heat very far
- Rustic design isn’t for everyone
Real Flame Foster Stove Electric Fireplace
| Dimensions | 56.5 x 25 x 15 inches |
| Weight | 42 Â pounds |
| Wattage | 1,400 |
| Heat Output | 4,700 BTU |
| Room Size | 1,000Â sq. ft. |
The Real Flame Foster Freestanding Electric Fireplace showcases an attractive wood stove-inspired design, complete with a faux stove pipe that connects to the wall for an authentic touch. This CSA-certified fireplace features a powder-coated steel frame and glass windows on all three sides, offering a multi-angle viewing experience. We were particularly impressed by the realistic flames, considering them the most lifelike we’ve seen on an electric fireplace. Even after two months of testing, we continued to appreciate the antique appearance and enjoyed exploring the various features and adjustable visuals this heater provides.
With four heat settings ranging from 68 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit, we noticed a notable difference in heat output between settings. The warmth can be felt up to 4.5 feet in front of the unit, and the controls are simple and user-friendly (though a remote control is not included). However, we did encounter difficulties during assembly and installation. It required two individuals to assemble the stove pipe, and the provided screws seemed inadequate for establishing a stable connection.
- Realistic flames
- Quiet during operation
- Impressive heat output
- Complicated installation
- No remote
FAQs
1. What is an electric fireplace, and how does it work?
- Answer: An electric fireplace is a heating appliance that simulates the appearance of a traditional fireplace without the need for gas or wood. It typically uses LED lights and/or infrared technology to produce realistic flame effects.
2. What types of electric fireplaces are available in 2024?
- Answer: In 2024, you can find various types, including wall-mounted electric fireplaces, freestanding electric stoves, electric fireplace inserts, and TV stand electric fireplaces.
3. Do electric fireplaces provide actual heat?
- Answer: Yes, electric fireplaces are designed to provide supplemental heating. Some models allow you to control the heat output independently from the flame effects.
4. Can I use an electric fireplace as the primary heating source for a room?
- Answer: While electric fireplaces can provide efficient supplemental heat, they are generally not intended to be the primary heating source for larger spaces. They work well in adding warmth to specific rooms.
5. What features should I consider when choosing the best electric fireplace?
- Answer: Look for features such as adjustable flame effects, heat settings, thermostat control, remote control, safety features, and design options that complement your home decor.
6. Are electric fireplaces energy-efficient?
- Answer: Electric fireplaces are considered more energy-efficient than traditional wood-burning fireplaces because they convert more of the electrical energy into heat. Look for models with energy-saving features.
7. Can I install an electric fireplace on my own?
- Answer: Yes, many electric fireplaces are designed for easy installation. Wall-mounted units may require mounting, while freestanding models simply need to be plugged into an electrical outlet.
8. Are electric fireplaces safe for homes with children and pets?
- Answer: Electric fireplaces are generally safer than traditional fireplaces since they don’t have open flames or hot surfaces. However, it’s essential to follow safety guidelines and choose models with cool-touch exteriors.
9. Can I use an electric fireplace without the heating function?
- Answer: Yes, most electric fireplaces allow you to use the flame effects without activating the heating function, making them suitable for year-round ambiance.
10. Are there different flame settings on electric fireplaces?
- Answer: Yes, many models offer adjustable flame settings, allowing you to customize the appearance of the flames to suit your preferences.
