Gas and wood-burning fireplaces require a vent or a full chimney, making retrofitting one into an existing home costly and complicated. A more affordable option is an electric fireplace heater, which produces authentic-looking faux flames through LED lights and reflectors. We recently tested some of the best models identified through extensive research and narrowed them down to these top options.
Unlike traditional fireplaces, electric versions don’t produce any emissions or operate with an open flame, so they can be installed virtually anywhere in the home. They do, however, include integrated electric heaters that produce up to 5,100 British thermal units (BTUs) of heat. This guide examines electric fireplace heaters, some special features to consider, and the best electric fireplace heaters on the market based on our experience with their ability to heat up rapidly, run safely, and function with regard to other important standards. Keep reading to learn more about our findings.
- BEST OVERALL: Duraflame 3D Infrared Electric Fireplace Stove Heater
- RUNNER-UP: Ameriwood Home Farmington Electric Fireplace Console
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Turbro Eternal Flame EF23-LG Electric Fireplace Logs
- BEST FAUX WOOD STOVE: Turbro Suburbs TS25 Electric Fireplace Stove Heater
- BEST MODERN: R.W.Flame 50-Inch Recessed Electric Fireplace Heater
- BEST FIREPLACE INSERT: PuraFlame Klaus Electric Fireplace Insert
- BEST CORNER: Walker Edison 48-Inch Wood Corner Fireplace TV Stand
- BEST COMPACT: Shinic Electric Fireplace Heater
How We Tested the Best Electric Fireplace Heaters
Electric fireplace heaters have to serve two purposes: keeping a room warm and providing a cozy ambience. We wanted to make sure that every model we suggested could do just that. We came up with some features we thought fireplace shoppers would be looking for, found some models that had most of those features, and put them head-to-head in hands-on testing.
First, we assessed each model based on setup. Models that were easy to set up and came with decent hardware received preference, while those that were difficult to set up or came with subpar hardware were docked. Next, we tried all of the different modes and functions to make sure they worked as intended. Finally, we let each model heat a 400-square-foot room for 2 hours to see how well they worked at their primary function. The electric fireplace heaters that passed were given awards based on their strengths, and any that failed were removed from the list.
Our Top Picks
The list below includes some of the best electric fireplace heaters organized by type. Our hands-on use of the heaters showed that each produces high heat outputs, has authentic-looking flames, and comes in different styles to suit varying tastes to match the current space and fireplace accessories.
Photo: amazon.com
Product Specs
- Type: Freestanding
- Recommended placement: Stand-alone
- Heating power: 5,200 BTUs
Pros
- 5 brightness settings to set a specific mood or turn off glowing log for sleeping
- Plenty of heating power to warm spaces of up to 1,000 square feet
- Comes with a remote control for added convenience when adjusting settings
- Available in multiple colorways; suits most decor choices
Cons
- Difficult to adjust the temperature with the remote, so we adjusted it on the unit
With its authentic look and powerful infrared heater, this electric fireplace stove is one of the top models on the market. The stand-alone cabinet-style stove is 23.4 inches high by 24 inches wide by 13.07 inches deep. It features a classic wood stove look with realistic logs and flickering LED flame lighting, which can be adjusted to five brightness settings.
This freestanding electric fireplace has a powerful infrared heater that pumps out 5,200 BTUs, which is enough to warm about 1,000 square feet. A remote control allows the user to control all of the fireplace’s settings without having to get up from the sofa. The Duraflame 3D electric fireplace features durable all-metal housing and comes in seven different colors.
We really liked the Duraflame during our test. It has plastic legs, but they were very easy to install with decent-quality hardware. The flames and logs look fairly realistic, and the heat output was excellent (it brought the temperature up from 60 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit and maintained it). One complaint we have is that adjusting the temperature with the remote is wonky (though all the other features worked well), so we had to make our adjustments on the unit itself. Also, it does get hot on top, so it’s not a great place to set houseplants or other items.
Get the Duraflame electric fireplace heater at Amazon or Target.
Photo: amazon.com
Product Specs
- Type: Freestanding
- Recommended placement: Integrated
- Heating power: 4,600 BTUs
Pros
- Cabinets and fireplace included to provide storage space in a stylish unit
- Heats up to 400 square feet and is suitable for most farmhouse-style living rooms
- Supports flat-screen TVs of up to 60 inches, offering both utility and style
Cons
- It takes about 90 minutes for an experienced DIYer to assemble the unit
By combining an electric fireplace with a TV console, this model from Ameriwood Home is a unique option for rooms with limited space. The fireplace insert is framed by two large wooden-door cabinets for storage and a broad cabinet top that can support a large flat-screen TV of up to 60 inches. The fireplace insert is 23 inches wide, while the entire console cabinet is 29.12 inches tall by 59.62 inches wide by 15.69 inches deep.
The manufacturer says this heater insert is powerful enough to heat a room up to 400 square feet in size, and it produced ample warmth in our 400-square-foot space. The fireplace’s settings are adjustable via remote control. The Farmington electric fireplace comes in five different finishes as well.
It took one of us 1.5 hours to put the Farmington together, so it’s not something that just pops out of the box ready to go. However, it’s very attractive and would fit in with any farmhouse design. The laminate layer on top can scratch easily, but the unit itself is sturdy and durable. The heater was quiet and produced ample heat, warming the space by about 10 degrees Fahrenheit in 2 hours.
Get the Ameriwood electric fireplace heater at Amazon or Lowe’s.
Photo: amazon.com
Product Specs
- Type: Freestanding
- Recommended placement: Insert
- Heating power: 4,777 BTUs
Pros
- Plenty of heat output for a compact electric fireplace heater
- 3 heat settings to choose among and includes a remote control for added convenience
- Heats up to advertised 150 square feet, though we found it could heat a bit more
Cons
- Very cheesy design, but that’s part of the fun of this model
A fireplace insert doesn’t have to cost hundreds of dollars. This simple insert converts an existing fireplace into an electric one at an affordable price. At 13 inches high by 23 inches wide by 9 inches deep, this electric heater is a good fit for many medium-size hearths. An integrated convection heater puts out 4,777 BTUs, which is nearly enough to heat up about 150 square feet.
The heater is controllable via a remote control that allows the user to set specific temperatures and adjust the height of the flames to one of three settings. A programmable timer shuts the fireplace off after a specific amount of time that can be set for up to 6 hours.
We feel it’s important to recognize what the shopper is getting here. These are fake logs that don’t look real at all. They seem to sparkle instead of glow, and the flames on the wall behind the logs don’t look real. However, it is the real deal when it comes to heating. It has almost 4,800 BTUs of heat output, which we found to be adequate in our 400 square feet, even though it’s rated for much smaller spaces. It has a digital display and a remote, making it easy to adjust. We also liked that we could just take it out of the box and place it on the floor anywhere it was needed. Still, it’s definitely cheesy in appearance—no two ways around that.
Get the Turbro Eternal Flame electric fireplace heater at Amazon or The Home Depot.
Photo: amazon.com
Product Specs
- Type: Freestanding/3-sided
- Recommended placement: Stand-alone
- Heating power: 4,777 BTUs
Pros
- Durable, heat-resistant design, and the top stays cool enough for houseplants or other items
- 3 brightness settings can set a cozy mood or shut off the glow for bedtime
- Programmable thermostat included to manage temperature and keep users warm in the winter
- Comes with a remote control for hassle-free temperature adjustment, brightness adjustment, and setting timers
Cons
- Poor-quality metal legs and hardware make setup difficult
Adding a real wood stove to a living area can be complicated. This electric option from Turbro creates the look and feel of a wood stove fireplace without smoke, ash, or the need for a chimney. With its design of black metal with curved molding and a paned glass door (complete with heat-resistant knob), this fireplace has an authentic look to go with its function. LED lights with three levels of brightness create realistic flickering flames and burning embers that show through windows on three sides.
This fireplace is 25 inches tall by 24 inches wide by 14 inches deep and includes a fan-heater that produces 4,777 BTUs of heat, an ideal amount for many medium-size rooms. A programmable thermostat allows the user to enter specific temperatures via remote control.
Let’s get the negative out of the way first: The Turbro’s metal legs are poorly made and difficult to attach with the low-quality hardware included. Beyond that, this was a great little heater. First, we liked that the heater is on the bottom of the unit, so the top stays cool and can be used as a shelf or stand. We also found it was powerful enough for our 400-square-foot room, though it didn’t heat up as much as the larger heaters—just 8 degrees Fahrenheit in 2 hours. The remote was easy to use (much easier than other wood stove heaters we’ve tried), allowing us to adjust the temperature, set a timer, and control the brightness.
Get the Turbro Suburbs electric fireplace heater at Amazon.
Photo: amazon.com
Product Specs
- Type: Wall-mounted
- Recommended placement: Insert/wall-mounted
- Heating power: 5,100 BTUs
Pros
- Large, sleek design is a great addition to a contemporary room (and comes in 6 sizes)
- 12 color options included for flame color and background to help set ambience in a room
- Flexible mounting options ensure that it will work in just about any room
Cons
- Inwall (recessed) mounting requires framing work, but it will be worth the effort
With its sleek streamlined looks and adjustable flames, this wall-mounted electric fireplace from R.W.Flame is a fitting option for those with modern decor. Its large size—18.1 inches tall by 50 inches wide—adds to its modern statement in a living room. It also comes with plenty of options, including 12 color choices for both the flame color and flame bed. The fireplace can also be adjusted for brightness.
Vents on the sides of this wall-mounted electric fireplace release heat from a 1,500-watt fan heater. All of the fireplace’s settings are controllable via its remote control. The fireplace, which has a depth of 3.85 inches, can be mounted to the wall or recessed into a hole. It’s also available in 30-, 36-, 42-, 60-, 68-inch widths.
Full disclosure: We played with the customizable light settings on this unit for far too long since it allows users to pick the background color and the flame color. Also, we liked that mounting the unit on the wall is so easy; it just requires removing the bracket, attaching it to the wall, and resecuring the fireplace heater to the bracket. Heat output was excellent during the test, easily heating the room to 75 degrees Fahrenheit (about a 10 degree Fahrenheit jump from when the test started). The biggest downside is the amount of work it will take for inwall mounting, but it would most likely be worth it.
Get the R.W.Flame electric fireplace heater at Amazon.
Photo: amazon.com
Product Specs
- Type: Built-in
- Recommended placement: Insert
- Heating power: 4,600 BTUs
Pros
- LED flames, glowing logs, and crackling sounds add an extra level of realism
- Features a stylish glass door covering and spark-arresting curtain for an authentic look
- Stays fairly cool, and can be a good option for a DIY fireplace
Cons
- Heat output is noticeably less than the other models in the test
- It doesn’t have a digital thermostat
With its authentic flames and sound, this electric fireplace is an excellent insert option for transforming a wood-burning hearth into a low-maintenance electric one. In addition to LED flames and embers, this insert adds an extra level of authenticity with its six different crackling sounds. It also comes with a spark-arresting curtain for an authentic look.
A powerful 1,500-watt heater provides ample warmth for up to 400 square feet. All of the fireplace settings can be controlled via remote control. The insert comes in five different sizes, ranging from 23 to 33 inches wide and up to 24.63 inches tall, allowing it to fit a broad range of hearth sizes.
There are things we really enjoyed about the PuraFlame Klaus electric fireplace insert, but let’s start with our one hang-up: its output. The PureFlame is noticeably less powerful than the other heaters in the test when it comes to heat output. It’s effective, but not what we were expecting from a fireplace insert (it raised the temperature around 7 degrees Fahrenheit). However, it was the most realistic looking electric heater we tested, from the spark-arrest curtains to the log glow and the flames. It also stayed fairly cool during the test (the top can get warm), so it might be a good fit for a DIY fireplace design. We didn’t like the lack of a digital thermostat, however.
Get the PuraFlame electric fireplace heater at Amazon.
Photo: amazon.com
Product Specs
- Type: Freestanding
- Recommended placement: Insert
- Heating power: 4,600 BTUs
Pros
- Capable of heating large areas; over 400 square feet
- 2 glass-door cabinets adds elegant storage options; great for smaller spaces
- Comes in 10 colorways to suit almost any existing decor style
Cons
- Quite pricey compared to similar sized options
- No remote control included; disappointing when most units do include one
Fill a cold, empty corner with some warmth from this cabinet-style electric fireplace from Walker Edison. This corner TV stand features a fireplace insert that produces lifelike burning logs and flames. A fan heater produces 4,600 BTUs of heat, which is enough to warm up to 400 square feet. The cabinet measures 32 inches high, 20 inches deep, and just over 47 inches long.
It offers plenty of storage with two glass-door cabinets, each of which has three shelves and a shelf above the fireplace. The top of the cabinet has a 100-pound weight capacity, which is plenty of strength to support a flat-screen TV. The Walker Edison Alcott fireplace cabinet comes in 10 different wood-grain finishes.
Get the Walker Edison electric fireplace heater at Amazon.
Photo: amazon.com
Product Specs
- Type: Portable
- Recommended placement: Stand-alone
- Heating power: 5,118 BTUs
Pros
- Features a compact, lightweight design that can fit just about anywhere
- Has a crackling noise, glowing logs, and dancing flames for a cozy atmosphere
- Provides up to 5,118 BTUs of heat output from a compact heater
Cons
- Unfortunately, it doesn’t have a remote or a digital thermostat
The Shinic electric fireplace heater is a great choice for anyone looking for a compact electric fireplace heater with plenty of output. This small heater measures just 14.6 inches tall by 11.8 inches wide by 5.9 inches deep and weighs just over 8 pounds, making it portable and easy to set up. It has a faux-leather strap for easy carrying as well.
This heater sits in a faux-wood cabinet that comes in two colors and features burning logs and dancing flames behind a glass pane. It has an adjustable thermostat and an output control on the front, as well as a crackling sound switch on the rear to make the fireplace sound like it’s actually roaring. It also produces 5,118 BTUs of heat output from its compact design and features an overheat switch and tip-over switch for safety.
The Shinic electric fireplace heater is really unlike any of the other heaters in the test. It reminds us more of an old-school radio than a heater, but it produces plenty of warmth from its compact frame. The crackling noise is a nice touch, but it sounded a little more like rain than fire to us. We would prefer if it had a remote and digital thermostat, but we found the Shinic’s design to be fun and functional, raising the temperature in the room about 8 degrees Fahrenheit over 2 hours.
Get the Shinic electric fireplace heater at Amazon.
What to Consider When Choosing an Electric Fireplace Heater
Choosing the right type of electric fireplace heater is critical when shopping for one to suit a specific space. There also are many other aspects to think about when deciding which electric fireplace heater is best, including heating power, size, installation, and style.
Type
Electric fireplace heaters come in a surprisingly diverse number of shapes and sizes, ranging from stand-alone models that are easy to set up to more complex wall inserts.
- Similar in appearance to a wall-mounted TV, wall-mounted electric fireplaces are flat and include brackets that allow them to be attached to a wall. With these units, users can adjust brightness and even flame color.
- A built-in fireplace fits into a recessed hole in the wall. The surface of the fireplace fits flush to the wall, creating a more modern look than a traditional fireplace. Installation of a built-in fireplace requires a niche to be cut out of the wall.
- A three-sided fireplace mounts to a wall inside a wall niche but extends beyond it to give the fireplace a 3D appearance. This type of fireplace has a cubelike shape that allows the user to view the flames from three sides.
- A two-sided fireplace is similar to a three-sided fireplace; however, the flames are viewable from two sides as opposed to three sides.
- A freestanding electric fireplace resembles a real wood-fired stove. They have a cabinet shape and legs that support the entire fireplace. The flames in these fireplaces are typically viewable from more than one side.
- Portable fireplace heaters can be placed anywhere in the home to replenish heat where required. Most of these options are lightweight and/or have wheels and carrying handles and emit small amounts of heat.
Style
Since electric fireplaces do not create any actual flames, much of their style comes from their ability to create an authentic look. Many accomplish this by using LED light bulbs that bounce light off a refractor that spins to create realistic-looking flames. Most electric fireplaces allow the user to alter the look of the fireplace with controls that adjust the flame size, brightness, and color.
Electric fireplaces come in a variety of different styles and finishes, ranging from sleek and modern fireplaces that fit inside walls to those that resemble a traditional existing wood-burning fireplace. While there are many different style options, the factory finish on an electric fireplace heater cannot be modified.
Size and Placement
Since an electric fireplace isn’t limited by a chimney or a gas line, it can go almost anywhere in a home. With that in mind, electric fireplaces come in a broad range of shapes and sizes to suit different spaces.
- Space-saving electric fireplaces are integrated with TV consoles or corner cabinets, allowing the user to add the warmth of a fireplace in rooms with little space to spare.
- Stand-alone fireplaces take up more floor space and therefore are better suited to a large room.
- Fireplace inserts that fit inside of an existing fireplace require exact measurements so that they fit cleanly without any noticeable gaps between the insert and the existing hearth.
Heating Power
Unlike electric fireplaces that mimic flames but produce no heat, an electric fireplace heater has an electric heater that goes with it. All types of electrical heaters top out at 1,500 watts, which is the maximum amount of power a heater can use on a 15-amp electrical circuit. A 1,500-watt heater produces 5,100 BTUs (1 watt equals about 3.4 BTUs), allowing it to warm a space up to 150 square feet. These heaters come in three different types.
- An infrared fireplace heater works very similarly to an infrared space heater. Coils inside the fireplace heat up, warming objects around the heater. These heaters provide intense warmth to people in proximity to the fireplace but don’t do as good of a job warming the air in a room.
- A fan fireplace heater blows air across heated coils. This type of heater may not provide the intensity of an infrared heater, but it does a better job of distributing heat around a room. The noise of the fan, however, can detract from the authenticity of the fireplace.
- A ceramic heater creates convection heat by allowing air to flow through the fireplace and over heated ceramic plates before recirculating back into the room. Some models include fans that help circulate the air over these plates and throughout a room.
Safety
Since electric fireplaces don’t have a real open flame and don’t produce carbon monoxide from burning wood or gas, they are generally safer than either wood-burning or gas fireplaces. That said, they do carry some risks and should include safety features to protect a home.
Electric fireplaces do create intense heat, so they are required to have automatic shut-off switches that turn the unit off when it reaches a set heat level to prevent them from overheating. In addition to these safety features, it’s also important to keep furnishings at least 3 feet away from the fireplace and ensure that vents leading into and out of the fireplace are not blocked.
Additional Features
There are some electric fireplaces that come with additional features that make them easier to use while adding enhanced functionality.
- Automatic timers allow the user to set a shut-off time of up to 6 hours or so, after which the fireplace will automatically shut off.
- Flame controls allow for different flame sizes and colors.
- Remote controls are included with many electric fireplaces.
- Cabinet electric fireplaces that double as entertainment centers can support a flat-screen TV and often have shelves and other storage spaces.
- Tip-over switches are one of the most important safety features that prevent portable units from falling over and creating a fire or burning the surface it falls on. If a unit reaches a certain tipping angle, the unit will automatically shut off.
Setup and Installation
How difficult an electric fireplace is to install is largely dependent on the type of fireplace and where it will be installed in a home. The following are a few typical types of electric fireplace heater installation and setup.
- A recessed fireplace involves cutting into a wall, and safe installation requires experience with house framing.
- Hanging wall-mounted fireplaces requires basic tools such as a drill, screwdriver, and mounting hardware.
- A cabinet-style electric fireplace may involve assembling a piece of furniture.
- Fireplace inserts typically rest inside an existing fireplace, but they require careful measurements to ensure the right size is purchased.
FAQs
Now that you know more about electric fireplace heaters, you may have some new or lingering questions. If you have questions about how electric fireplace heaters work or whether they’re safe, then read on for answers to these and other common burning questions about these appliances.
Q. Do electric fireplaces have to be vented?
No. Since electric fireplaces create no emissions, there is no need to vent an electric fireplace as you would a wood-burning or gas fireplace.
Q. How much space do electric fireplaces heat?
That depends on the heat output of the fireplace heater. Most electric fireplace heaters put out about 5,100 BTUs of heat, which is enough to heat about 150 square feet or 400 square feet for supplemental heat.
Q. Are electric fireplaces safe?
Yes. Since electric fireplaces produce no emissions and do not have an exposed flame, they are much safer than gas or wood-burning fireplaces. They also have standard safety features, such as a shut-off switch that automatically turns them off if they reach a certain temperature.
Q. Can you install an electric fireplace under a TV?
Yes. In fact, some electric fireplaces are designed to fit under the TV in a TV console cabinet.
Q. Do electric fireplaces use a lot of electricity?
An electric fireplace uses about the same amount of energy as an electric space heater. Based on the national average of 12 cents per kilowatt-hour, it costs about 15 cents per hour to operate an electric fireplace.
Q. Can I paint an electric fireplace?
An electric fireplace unit cannot be painted. The housing of the fireplace heats up, so painting it could cause the unit to overheat or the paint to melt or peel.
Why Trust Bob Vila
Bob Vila has been America’s Handyman since 1979. As the host of beloved and groundbreaking TV series including “This Old House” and “Bob Vila’s Home Again,” he popularized and became synonymous with “do-it-yourself” home improvement.
Over the course of his decades-long career, Bob Vila has helped millions of people build, renovate, repair, and live better each day—a tradition that continues today with expert yet accessible home advice. The Bob Vila team distills need-to-know information into project tutorials, maintenance guides, tool 101s, and more. These home and garden experts then thoroughly research, vet, and recommend products that support homeowners, renters, DIYers, and professionals in their to-do lists.
Meet the Tester
Tom Scalisi is a full-time DIY and construction writer for many of the largest websites in the industry, including BobVila.com, This Old House, Family Handyman, and Forbes. He’s tested dozens of heaters over the past few years, from electric fireplace heaters to garage heaters, so he knows a thing or two about what to look for in a great heater.
Additional research provided by Tony Carrick.
