How do electric fireplaces work, and should you consider getting one? Firstly, electric fireplaces use electricity to generate heat alongside realistic flame effects, giving you all the warmth of a classic fireplace with a few unique perks.
Croft Fireplace is a trusted local expert for Utah homeowners seeking to enhance their home with a new fireplace or replace an existing one. While traditional gas fireplaces will never lose their appeal, electric fireplaces have become increasingly popular over the years.
These stylish alternatives to classic fireplaces could be a great addition to your home, so we’ll break down their benefits, types, costs, and more. By the end of this piece, you’ll know for sure if an electric fireplace is the right pick for your condo, apartment, or house.
How Do Electric Fireplaces Work?
How does an electric fireplace work if it doesn’t burn wood the old-fashioned way? Simply put, an electric fireplace uses electricity to power a heating element, then uses a blower to create warmth.
When it comes to flame effects, this fireplace model uses a mixture of LED lights, mirrors, and digital screens to create the illusion of a fire. The result is a fireplace that gives all the warmth and appeal of a traditional fire without the prep work, venting, or scent.
Electric fireplaces are easy to plug in and start using. Electric fireplace manufacturers recommend having a dedicated outlet for the fireplace to ensure the circuit will not get overloaded. All electric fireplaces use a 120V circuit, although some units can use a 240V circuit if more heat is desired. You can use either a remote or manual control to adjust the temperature, flames, or light intensity. There are also handy settings like a flame-only mode to give you the ambiance of a fire without the heat (an ideal feature for summer).
Built-in safety features, such as cool-to-touch surfaces and auto shut-off, make these installations even safer to use. When it comes to the comforts of daily life, electric fireplaces have turned convenience into an art form.
Electric Fireplaces vs Gas Fireplaces: What You Should Know
You may now be wondering, “How do electric fireplaces work compared to gas fireplaces?”. While both fireplaces provide heat and ambiance, their differences generally revolve around installation, cost, maintenance, and daily use.
| Fireplace Type | Electric | Gas |
| Installation | No venting required. You only need a standard outlet. | Requires venting and potentially permits or gas lines. |
| Cost | Costs less to install than the average gas fireplace. | Costs more to install but may cost less to run, depending on utility costs in your area.. |
| Maintenance | Very minimal. Usually only needs wiping down for dust or changing out the lightbulbs. | Requires annual servicing and vent checks. |
| Daily Use | Faster and simpler to turn on and use. The heat feels similar to a space heater. The heat source can be turned off to provide only the ambience of a fire no matter the weather outside | Are best used for cold weather. |
| Safety | No open flames or gas leaks. Especially safe if you have pets and/or children. | Safe to use when they are an enclosed unit. Safe with children and pets when the safety screen is installed. |
| Realism | Electric flame realism looks better than ever thanks to modern technology. | Some homeowners may still prefer real flames and the warmer heat. |
We offer free quotes for electric fireplaces to get you closer to the home you’ve always wanted. Check out our electric fireplaces to see how a little warmth and ambiance can enhance your decor.
The Main Benefits of an Electric Fireplace: Installation, Energy Efficiency, and More
How do electric fireplaces work to make your life easier? We’ll count the ways with benefits ranging from easy installation to energy-efficient perks.
1. Fast Installation and Easy Maintenance All Year Long
Electric fireplaces are not only easy to install, but they’re also easy to use and maintain. For starters, they have a plug-and-play design since they don’t require a gas line or chimney.
Technicians are usually able to install an electric fireplace within an afternoon. You also don’t need to call someone to service it constantly, thanks to its low maintenance. Just change out the bulb when it goes out and wipe down the exterior when it gathers dust.
2. Energy Efficiency and Cost Effectiveness
Since electric fireplaces convert nearly all electricity to heat, they’re a reliable option to make sure you get more bang for your buck. The average Utah resident spends around $145 per month on electricity, which is already 33% lower than the national average.
With an electric fireplace’s built-in cost-effectiveness and zone heating capabilities, you can save even more money.
3. Simple to Use and Safe for Your Family
Since electric fireplaces don’t use real flames, there are no emissions that could irritate your sinuses if you’re sensitive to smoke. These installations also have no burn risk for children or pets.
One of our favorite details about electric fireplaces is their increased safety features. At Croft Fireplace, we only provide UL-listed and safety-tested products to give you peace of mind when ordering a new fireplace.
4. A New Electric Fireplace Could Add to Your Home Value
Are you considering selling your home in the future? An electric fireplace could be a great way to enhance your resale value by making your home extra attractive to buyers.
Not only is the upgrade stylish, but it’s also incredibly functional for cold winters or adding a little atmosphere to peaceful evenings.
Do any of these benefits catch your eye? Browse our electric fireplaces to see multiple before-and-after photos of our past projects.
What Are the Different Types of Electric Fireplaces?
How do electric fireplaces work when it comes to different installations? While their basic function will be the same, the differences will make themselves clear in terms of design.
- Inserts: This option is ideal for existing fireplaces thanks to their easy fit.
- Wall-mounted: Sleek, modern, and space-saving. Ideal for condos and small homes.
- Freestanding: Portable and flexible placement. This option is great for renters.
For example, our LEX4 Electric Fireplace is well-suited to living rooms, offering an ambient glow that fills the space and creates an inviting atmosphere. Smaller homes, however, fare well with our tidy Redstone Insert. The snug fit makes a great statement piece, even for limited space.
Is an Electric Fireplace Right for Your Space? Style and Ambiance
How do electric fireplaces work for your interior design style? Overall, electric fireplaces are incredibly stylish and look good in a wide variety of rooms or interior design styles.
Whether you enjoy a sleek, minimalist home or prefer a rustic throwback, electric fireplaces seamlessly fit right in. If you can see yourself in any of the following statements, an electric fireplace could be in your future:
- You love curling up with a good book or movie in the cozy glow of your living room.
- You want to add a little more ambiance and atmosphere to family or couple activities.
- You enjoy having an inviting centerpiece for gatherings or relaxation.
Is It Worth Installing an Electric Fireplace?
If you’ve wanted a fireplace, but balked at the cost or safety requirements, an electric fireplace could be your new favorite home installation. This fireplace’s affordability, safety, style, ease of installation, and cost-effective design are a knockout win for many homeowners today.
See what our customers have to say about our history of fast and friendly fireplace installation:
“I had Croft do 3 fireplaces for me at my old house around 2019, so when I needed 5 new fireplaces for the new house, I called them. They did an amazing job with 5 very unique custom fireplaces that I am very happy with, and they were fairly priced.” – Dan J.
Croft Fireplace is Ready to Install Your Elegant and Cost-Effective Electric Fireplace
Electric fireplaces are one of the most beautiful, energy-efficient, and long-lasting home additions. Our experienced, local team offers free quotes to help you narrow down both the style and budget for your new electric fireplace.
Get your free quote today to see how a new installation can completely transform your home!