Best Electric Fireplaces in the UK

Review & Comparison, Last Update February 11, 2024
Are you sick and tired of looking for effective ways to warm up during chilly rainy seasons? Then, it’s time to consider one of the electric fireplaces. User- and eco-friendly, these devices will give you pleasant warmth as well as add elegance to your interior. ...Read more ...Read less
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BEST 2024
PROS
CONS
OUR VERDICT
Warranty
Placement
Type
Dimensions
Power
Heating Area
Features
Controls
Safety
 
PROS

The advanced remote control allows you to adjust the desired temperature in °C, and the device will automatically adjust the power to maintain it. There is also an option for an hourly and daily timer setting.

CONS

The assembly directions could be clearer. 

OUR VERDICT

If you are looking for an appliance that will heat your apartment and has an appealing design, we recommend buying this fireplace. It can also be fitted into the suite for a better look.

detailed parameters
Warranty

1 year

Placement

Free-standing (can be fitted into the suite)

Type

Media console, Flat to wall

Dimensions

87.6 x 122.1 x 28.8 cm

Power

2000 W

Heating Area

Up to 20 square metres

Features

On/Off Flame Effect, Mood lighting, Heater, Thermostat, Timer

Controls

Manual, Remote control

Safety

Cool-touch glass, Overheat protection

PROS

The frame of the fireplace, including a mantel, is made of sturdy MDF that can withstand the weight of different home appliances such as a TV or home theatre system. Frame assembly doesn't take much time and effort.

CONS

The fireplace is rather heavy. 

OUR VERDICT

The Endeavour Castleton is more than an electric heater. It is a real piece of art that allows you to spend cosy evenings in a homely atmosphere even when it's cold outside. 

detailed parameters
Warranty

1 year

Placement

Free-standing

Type

Media console, Flat to wall

Dimensions

82.5 cm х 100 cm х 27.9 cm

Power

2000 W

Heating Area

Up to 20 square metres

Features

Flame Effect, Mood lighting, Heater, Thermostat, Timer

Controls

Manual, Remote control 

Safety

Cool-touch glass

PROS

The model is sold assembled and it means you can use it right out of the box. The manufacturer has included real coal in the package that allows you to gain an even more realistic effect of burning wood.

CONS

Using real coal might be messy in a house with young children. 

OUR VERDICT

The Dimplex CHT20 Cheriton is an electric replica of a charcoal fireplace. Put this device in one of your rooms and you'll get an energy- and cost-efficient way to warm up whenever you want.

detailed parameters
Warranty

1 year

Placement

Free-standing

Type

Flat to wall

Dimensions

68.2 cm х 63.9 cm х 19.4 cm

Power

2000 W

Heating Area

Up to 20 square metres

Features

Two heat settings, Flame effect

Controls

Manual

Safety

BEAB Approved

PROS

The unit is fitted with massive legs that ensure stability on any surface. This minimizes the risk of knocking it over. And a built-in overheat protection system is an additional plus to safety measures.

CONS

The fan work might be rather loud.

OUR VERDICT

Despite the relatively small size, this electric fireplace can quickly heat the area up to 30 sq. metres. Turn it on, and you will feel the warmth very soon. The realistic fire effect is pleasing to the eye.

detailed parameters
Warranty

1 year

Placement

Free-standing

Type

Electric stove

Dimensions

54.8 x 41.5 x 28 cm

Power

1850 W

Heating Area

Up to 30 square metres

Features

Adjustable thermostat, 2 heat settings, Flame brightness, Flame effect only

Controls

Manual

Safety

Overheat protection

PROS

Thanks to the 2 power settings you can choose the optimal one depending on the heating area and your personal preferences. For instance, the setting with 925 Watts of power is efficient and energy-effective.

CONS

The white body is easily stained.

OUR VERDICT

Even though this model loses slightly to its rivals in terms of realistic fire effects, it is still able to spruce up any interior and create a cosy atmosphere. And thanks to the compact size it can fit even into a small room.

detailed parameters
Warranty

2 years

Placement

Free-standing

Type

Electric stove

Dimensions

54.5 x 41.5 x 27.5 cm

Power

1850 W

Heating Area

Up to 30 square metres

Features

Adjustable thermostat, 2 heat settings, Flame effect only

Controls

Manual

Safety

Overheat protection

X

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Endeavour Fires and Fireplaces Danby E119R/118S

Beneficial Purchase

The Endeavour Electric fireplace is ranked very high among electric fireplaces. This appliance will become a great addition to any place.

Let’s start with the most essential feature of any fireplace - heating. The performance of this device is definitely ten out of ten. Working on 2000 Watts, this device is able to heat up the area up to 20 sq. metres. It is fitted with an adjustable thermostat. The hi-end remote control with an LCD display allows adjusting the desired temperature in °C, and the device will automatically choose the power necessary to maintain it. You can also find all the necessary safety features in this fireplace. It has an overheat protection and a cool-touch glass. It is not completely noiseless, though. You can hear the fan working but it is still quieter compared to many other models on the market.

Review of Endeavour Fires and Fireplaces Danby E119R/118S Electric Fireplace

Easy to Assemble

What many customers seem to like a lot about the Endeavour Danby Fireplace is the fact that it is incredibly easy to assemble. Even though some users say they wish that assembly instructions were clearer, putting it together won’t take you long and the process will be pretty hassle-free. All the pieces are marked and all the holes are perfectly lined up. Hence, it can be set up together and turned on in a matter of minutes. The manufacturer can offer you a quick delivery. A lot of users also point out the great customer support service in case of any difficulties.

The appliance is free-standing. It can be put flat to a wall, plus you can fit it into the suite for an even more exquisite look.

Endeavour Fires and Fireplaces Danby E119R/118S Electric Fireplace in the use

Makes Your Place Fancy

Made in universal light creamy colour, it will perfectly fit into your interior. The overall dimensions are quite large (87.6 x 122.1 x 28.8 cm), thus it can become a great centrepiece of a big spacious room. To create a realistic fire effect, the manufacturer equipped the device with LED lighting. The flame effect and the 12-colour mood lighting has an adjustable brightness and intensity. So, you can choose the desired setting and enjoy the view of the fire.

In short, if you want to bring warmth and cosiness into your house, consider buying the Endeavour Danby electric fireplace. It has a wonderful design, is easy to assemble, and boasts great functionality. This superb appliance will quickly heat your home and create a wonderful atmosphere.

If you are looking for a top-notch electric fireplace and aren’t limited in budget, this one should be your top choice.

Detailed review of Endeavour Fires and Fireplaces Danby E119R/118S Electric Fireplace

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price £435.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B017ERXMU6

 

Endeavour Fires and Fireplaces Castleton

Warm and Cosy

The Endeavour Castleton Fireplace Suite is a powerful, effective, and stylish device that can serve both as a heating source and a decorative focal point in your living room or bedroom. It boasts 2000 Watts of power which should suffice to heat a room approximately 20 m2 in size. Speaking about the design of the Endeavour fireplace, it is a free-standing model made in the shape of a media console. Please note that the device comes disassembled, and before using it, you’ll have to spend some time to put MDF planks together to make a frame and attach an insert. Once you assemble your new fireplace, you can put it wherever you wish. But keep in mind that with the dimensions of 82.5 cm x 100 cm x 27.9 cm, it’s quite bulky and heavy, so you’ll probably need some help. When you finally set the Endeavour Fireplace Suite, you can adjust light settings - four flame effects and twelve backlight colours - so that the device would blend with your interior perfectly.

Review of Endeavour Fires and Fireplaces Castleton Electric Fireplace Suite

More Than a Simple Heater

As it was mentioned above, the Endeavour Castleton Fireplace Suite is designed as a media console, which means buying this model, you get more than an electric fireplace. The flat top surface of the suite allows for TV or speaker placement. Moreover, silent operation of this fireplace won’t distort the sound of your audio or home theatre system even if you place it on the top. You can also use the surface of the Endeavour fireplace as a storing space for cute souvenirs, your photo frames, or a flower vase. Why, it’s also possible to use it as a book shelf to always have access to your favourite readings. Don’t hesitate to choose this electric fireplace from Endeavour Fires and Fireplaces, and you’ll get so much more than just a nice heater.

Endeavour Fires and Fireplaces Castleton Electric Fireplace Suite in the use

Convenient Control

With the usability in mind, the manufacturer of the Endeavour fireplace has equipped the device with a remote control. It has six buttons that allow you to turn the device on/off, adjust flame effects, backlight colours, and the power of the heater, choose the temperature within 16°C - 28°C range, and even set a timer. The remote control also has a LED display where you can see all the functions you choose.

Detailed review of Endeavour Fires and Fireplaces Castleton Electric Fireplace Suite

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $0.00
Stock May be out of stock
ASIN B00Q7ISIX0

 

Dimplex CHT20 Cheriton

Realistic Look

If you’re looking for an alternative heating source that would look like a real wood charcoal fireplace, you’ll hardly find a better model than this CHT20 Cheriton Optiflame from Dimplex. To make it look like a charcoal fireplace, the manufacturer has included three packs of coal which you can put in a fuel bed to make it look even more realistic. As for the specifications, the Dimplex model has two heat (power) settings of 1000 Watts and 2000 Watts, so you can choose the one that meets your needs better. The beauty of this model is that you can use heat and light modes separately. Thus, if you want to enjoy the view of flickering fire on a summer evening, you can just turn the heating option off. In addition to great functionality, this electric fireplace is totally safe to use. It's got the certification of the British Electrotechnical Approvals Board which demonstrates its quality and safety. 

Review of Dimplex CHT20 Cheriton Freestanding Electric Fireplace

Ready to Use Right out of the Box

If you don’t like bothering with furniture assembly, you have one more reason to consider the Dimplex Cheriton Optiflame model. The thing is that unlike the majority of its counterparts, this fireplace is sold assembled so you can start using it right out of the box. Thanks to its flat-to-wall design, the device can be placed conveniently anywhere in a room on condition that there is a socket nearby. Moreover, if you decide to change its position or move it to another room, it’s easy to do due to its relatively light weight and 20-cm width that fits any doorway effortlessly.

Dimplex CHT20 Cheriton Freestanding Electric Fireplace in the use

Keep up With the Times

Dimplex has a considerable experience in inventing and incorporating new technologies into their devices. For example, the CHT20 fireplace features the Optiflame technology that uses the reflection of light for the maximum realistic effect. One more technology that can impress you is Opti-Virtual that provides a 5-dimensional image. And Dimplex fireplaces that feature Opti-Myst technology can charm you with the magic of water vapour. Don’t hesitate to choose Dimplex products to get smart and stylish fireplaces that keep up with the times.

Detailed review of Dimplex CHT20 Cheriton Freestanding Electric Fireplace

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price £205.00
Stock In stock
ASIN B00066XQD6

 

HOMCOM 820

Decent Heater

If you are looking for a nice heater to brighten the interior and bring warmth to your home, we would highly recommend checking out this model from HomCom.

The heating performance of this appliance is no slouch. The device has two heating settings, the switches are hidden under the front panel. It is also fitted with an adjustable thermostat, hence, you can set the desired temperature with one turn of a dial. Even though this fireplace from HomCom has a working power of 1850 Watts, which may not seem muсh, it still produces enough heat to warm up an area of 30 sq. metres. The lower setting requires 950 Watts and will suit you if want to heat a smaller area. For safety measures, the manufacturer equipped this device with overheat protection.

Review of HOMCOM 820 Freestanding Electric Fire Place Stove

Authentic Look

This electric fireplace is a real eye candy for all those who love having authentic looking things in their house. Encased in a black stainless steel body, this appliance will be a great addition to your living room. The dimensions of the unit are rather compact, its sizes are 54.8 x 41.5 x 28 cm. Therefore, finding a place for it in your room shouldn’t be a big problem. This unit is fitted with four massive legs that ensure stability on any surface, so you will have no worries about accidentally knocking it over.

This electric fireplace is free-standing and easily portable. And, despite the stainless steel body, it is also very lightweight.

HOMCOM 820 Freestanding Electric Fire Place Stove in the use

Lifelike Log Effect

In addition to the authentic design, the manufacturer also equipped this electric stove with a realistic fire effect. This HomCom appliance has the lifelike log effect with dancing flames that will make you feel like you are near an open fire without having a risk of a burn. You can spend cold winter evenings comfortably sitting in front of this device with no need to add wood or take out the ashes. For more comfort, you can manually adjust the brightness of the flames.

The only thing that may break the illusion of the fire for you is that this heater is not the quietest model on the market. Thus, when it is working, you may hear a fairly quiet noise from the fan. Though we wish there weren't any sound, we would not call it a big con.

To conclude, the HomCom electric fireplace can become a nice complement to your interior and warm you up during cold evenings. Thanks to the small size, it can fit into any room, yet it has the potential to heat up quite a large area. Plus, this purchase won’t cost you an arm and a leg. The HomCom fireplace will make you feel warm and cosy at any time of the year.
Detailed review of HOMCOM 820 Freestanding Electric Fire Place Stove
Last updated price £72.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B01LAO89ZW

 

VonHaus 14/025

Best For Heating Large Areas

The VonHaus Freestanding Electric Fireplace Stove will suit you if want to heat a big area. It has an average working power (1850 Watts), but it can heat the room of up to 30 square metres. Since the heater has two power settings, you can choose the optimal one depending on the heating area and your personal preferences. Using the lower setting is also more energy efficient.

The size of the device is rather compact, which allows you to place it even in small rooms or little corners. The design is very eye-pleasing as well. Performed in a good-quality plastic body, the VonHous fireplace looks very classic. All the buttons and a thermostat are subtly hidden under the front panel. This free-standing electric stove has four legs and can be put quite close to the wall. The device has a white finish, which makes it look nice, but also adds a little more hassle to the maintenance since the unit can be easily stained. However, we hope that this minor flaw won’t become a dealbreaker for you.

Review of VonHaus 14/025 Freestanding Electric Fireplace Stove

Budget Friendly

As mentioned before, this heater has an adjustable thermostat. You can also turn only the Flame mode on without producing the heat. We wish that this fireplace had a bit more realistic fire effects since it definitely loses a point to its rivals in this regard. However, this fact is due to the more budget-friendly price this model is sold at. It still creates a nice picture, and thanks to the authentic design, the overall look of this electric fireplace is pleasing to the eye.

VonHaus 14/025 Freestanding Electric Fireplace Stove in the use

Great Deal

When purchasing this appliance from VonHaus, you can be sure you are making a worthy investment. It has a pretty reasonable price compared to other electric fireplaces and it comes with a 2-year warranty. Thus, the prolonged service is guaranteed. The unit is also quite robust. Its main part is made of plastic, however, all the heating elements are completed in metal. Hence, you can be sure in its sound service. To touch upon safety measures, the fireplace doesn’t lose to its rivals. This device will automatically turn off to prevent fire in case of overheating.

All in all, the VonHaus Freestanding Electric Fireplace Stove is a combination of a decent heating performance, classic design, and reasonable price. Definitely the best electric appliance you can find for this money. Such a fireplace will bring you warmth even in the coldest days of winter. If that's what you need, you can safely purchase the VonHaus 14/025, it will not disappoint you.
Detailed review of VonHaus 14/025 Freestanding Electric Fireplace Stove
Last updated price £99.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B00VK9N7YG

 

What Is an Electric Fireplace?

After having a stressful day at a work, what's the best way to unwind? We dare suppose you'd like to come back home, settle yourself comfortably in your favourite armchair, snuggle up in a soft blanket, make a cup of tea, and just relax. It'd also be great if the room had the view of something nice to look at. What about burning fire? The market offers a great variety of electric fireplaces, from which you can choose one to add appeal to your home interior making it feel cosy and warm. The operation principle of an electric fireplace is quite simple – it has metal coils inside that heat up once a device is plugged in and turned on. There is also a fan behind the coils that blows over the heating elements and forces hot air outside through small vents. Besides heating function, electric fireplaces also serve as a decorative focal point, mimicking the burning fire with LED backlights. The beauty about electric fireplaces is that they can keep on "burning" fire even when the heating option is turned off, so you can enjoy the view of fire whenever you like. One more advantage of electric fireplaces is that they require very low maintenance, are totally mess-free, and eco-friendly. Choose an electric fireplace from these 5 best models we've reviewed and analysed for your consideration.

If you prefer spending your evenings outdoors, you might be interested in one of the patio heaters.

What Features to Compare

Placement

One of the first features you want to consider when choosing an electric fireplace is its placement. Depending on placement type, electric fireplaces are divided into three types:

  • free-standing
  • wall-hanging 
  • built-in models

Free-standing fireplaces can be placed whenever you want on condition that you have enough space in a room. The beauty of this type of fireplaces is that they are often made to serve you as media consoles so you can set your TV or other things on the top. Built-in fireplaces are supposed to be placed in a wall - a great choice for those who don't have much space. Fireplace inserts, which are bought to fit a fireplace frame you already have, are also considered built-in models. The name of wall-hanging fireplaces speaks for itself - they are hung on a wall to save space in your room and add a charming look to your interior.

Power

Pay attention to the power of a fireplace you want to buy since it determines how effectively a device can heat your room. The power of modern fireplaces can vary from 0.5 kW to 2 kW, and the more powerful model you choose, the larger area it can warm. For example, 1800W-2000W models can heat up to 20 sq.m. while less powerful ones might not handle premises these large. That's why it's also important to know the size of a room where you're going to place a device.

Features and Safety

Features and safety of a fireplace should also be taken into consideration. As a rule, all devices have two heat settings that allow you to choose the most comfortable temperature for you. You can also adjust light intensity of LED screen. A lot of electric fireplaces have a remote control option for your convenience. Silent operation of these devices adds to their usability, too. On top of that, electric fireplaces are among the safest heating appliances on the market. Featuring cool-touch front panels, they can be used safely in a house with young children and pets.

Did you know?

Electric Fireplaces vs. Wood-Burning Fireplaces

No doubt that having a fireplace at your house immediately makes it a few times fancier and more exquisite. Some people prefer old-fashioned wood-burning fireplaces, the others would rather have a modern electric piece in their homes. We would like to share some popular opinions on why the electric fireplaces are better.

First things first, the electric devices fit everyone. You can put them both in a house and in a flat. Needless to say that installing a chimney for a wood-burning stove is a pain in the neck even if you live on the top floor. Electric fireplaces don’t require any chimneys or other extras since they don’t produce any smoke. All you need is a socket.

Secondly, the maintenance of such devices is much easier compared to the real ones. To warm up your room, you don’t have to add wood to it and clean the ashes afterwards. And if you like to enjoy the gentle view of the burning fire, many models of electric fireplaces come with very realistic flame-and-log effects. To create an even better illusion, you can turn on the calming sounds of the fire and spend a peaceful evening without extra hassle. What is more, you can enjoy this view even in summer without dying from the heat since you don’t have to turn on the heater to get the picture.

In addition to this, probably the best thing about the electric appliances is that they are very safe to use. No matter how careful you are, there is still a risk of getting a burn or starting a fire if you’re using the real fireplace. Electric models, like most of the heaters, come with built-in safety features (overheat protection, cool-touch glass, etc.).

Now let’s touch upon the money side. To begin with, the general price of wood-burning fireplaces is much higher (starting from 500 pounds) compared to the electric ones. Plus, you cannot forget about chimney inspection and cleaning. And, of course, a fireplace is not just a fancy part of your interior, it serves to warm up your house. Thus, you have to buy wood to keep it working. Electric fireplaces are much more budget-friendly and energy-efficient. Like most heaters, modern electric fireplaces have a working power of about 2000 Watts. Most of them also have multiple heat settings, thus thrifty users can choose the lower one to save on the electricity bills.

To conclude, an electric fireplace can become a great complement to your home. This energy-efficient device will make it warm and cosy and spare you the extra hassle.

FAQ:

Q: How do I take care of my fireplace?
A: Electric fireplaces are extremely easy to take care of since they don’t need special maintenance. If you have a model with LED lights, the only thing you need to do to keep it in a proper condition is dust it from time to time. However, if the light panel of your fireplace works on incandescent lamps, you’ll have to replace them periodically as they tend to burn out with time.

Q: Do electric fireplaces usually come dis/assembled? Can I install a fireplace on my own?
A: It depends on the model you choose. Large and heavy fireplaces usually come disassembled for more convenient transportation while relatively compact devices can be sold fully assembled so you have a chance to use them right out of the box. If you opt for a former model, you’ll have to spend some time to install it but as a rule, the process of installation is quite simple. With the user in mind, the manufacturer supplies you with assembly instructions and all the tools necessary to put a fireplace together so you can install your new heating device on your own.

Q: Why should I choose an electric fireplace over gas or charcoal one?
A: In comparison to other types of fireplaces, an electric one is the greenest, safest, cheapest, and most energy-efficient option. You don’t need to burn charcoal or gas, thus, no harmful products of combustion are emitted. Moreover, with an electric fireplace at home, you won’t have to clean chimneys or install ventilation systems. In addition, you save a lot of money since there’s no need to buy a new pack of coal when you run out of it. Finally, electric heaters of this kind feature 100% energy efficiency. It has become possible due to fan system which forces all hot air into a room.

Q: I want to place a TV on my free-standing fireplace. Won’t the heat emitted from the fireplace negatively affect my TV?
A: Free-standing fireplaces are often designed as media consoles, thus, are intended for keeping different devices on their surface. In order to prevent your belongings from the harm of hot air, the manufacturers of free-standing fireplaces place a heat output grill at the bottom.

Q: I have a gas/wood fireplace at home and I like its design. But I want to convert it to an electric one. Is it possible to do without disassembling the whole piece?
A: Yes, it is. All you need to do to convert a gas/wood fireplace into an electric one is buy an electric fireplace insert, put it inside your fireplace, and plug it in. Keep in mind that before doing it, it’s important to close off an existing gas line/remove wood logs and ashes.

Sources:

1. Electric Fireplace Buying Guide, Lowe's.

2. Jeff Flowers How to Choose the Right Size Electric Fireplace, CompactAppliance.com. February 13, 2015.

3. Dave Donovan How to Buy an Electric Fireplace, DoItYourself.com.

4. Electric fireplace, Wikipedia. March 28, 2016.

5. Pros & Cons Of Gas, Electric, And Wood Burning Fireplaces, The Fun Times Guide.

6. Electric Fireplaces Buying Guide, Sylvane.

7. Jacob Hurwith Electric Vs. Wood-Burning Fireplace: How They Match Up, ImproveNet. February 04, 2016.

8. Electric Fireplaces Buying Guide, Wayfair.

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Publish Date: 2017-09-08 12:27:43