Whether you’re looking for a replacement electric fireplace or a first time buyer, it’s always wise to do some background research to see how satisfied consumers were with the unit you’re looking at. In the Electric Fireplace Reviews section of our blog, you will find up to date reviews of some of the most popular brands including Dimplex, Holly & Martin, Real Flame, ClassicFlame, Napoleon, ChimneyFree, and Ambella Home.
Dzonlic Electric Wall Fireplace
Looks aren’t’ everything especially when it comes to an electric fireplace. How long will one of these last? How well does it produce heat? How realistic is the flame? These are some of the questions that will pop into your head when going through the purchasing process. Below you will find an outline of the criteria that will be used to review popular units and evaluate them based upon heating efficiency, style, craftsmanship, and flame technology.
Craftsmanship
Craftsmanship is of utmost importance especially when it comes to home furnishings. When you decorate your home, you want it to last a lifetime. This is the reason that you are willing to pay more in lieu of cheap unit with serious deficiencies. Build quality will address structural integrity, quality of finish, wood composition, woodworking skills, and attention to detail.
Efficiency
Efficiency is paramount when it comes to an electric fireplace. It is one of the biggest reasons why people choose to replace traditional wood burning fireplaces with a modern electric insert. While the gains are evident in comparison to wood burning stoves, its important to evaluate heating efficiency among other similar products. In short, how does this unit fare in comparison to other electric fireplaces?
“Received everything works great thanks happy customer!” – Proud owner of our 50.75″ Churchill Espresso Entertainment Center Corner Electric Fireplace, Kenna S., Victortia, Texas.
View a side by side comparison of wood burning, gel, and electric fireplaces.
Flame Quality
One of the main reasons people were reluctant to adopt electric inserts was the loss of aesthetic appeal. Witnessing a flame dance across glowing logs in luminescent tones is enough to take the stress right off your shoulders. The most realistic electric fireplaces have closed the gap between simulation and reality with monumental advances in flame technology.
ClassicFlame SpectraFire Curved Electric Fireplace Insert.
Dimensions
The dimensions are fairly straight forward but sometimes there are discrepancies between the listed dimensions and what they actually are. This can be attributed to several causes. Sometimes when manufacturers release a new model, the dimensions may change by a fraction of an inch. This is important for consumers because an added inch can create clearance issues when installing an electric insert. Be sure you know how to accurately measure the dimensions of a fireplace opening by reading this post.
How to Convert a Gas Fireplace to an Electric Insert
Specifications
Specifications will give all of the detailed information including voltage, watts, BTU’s, amps, and bulb size. This will help with the technical details that you are required to know for compatibility issues. To learn more about BTU readings, we recommend checking out these supplemental readings:
Assembly/Installation
Assembly for free-standing and media console electric fireplaces is fairly simple but installing an insert may require a little more know how. Even then, setting up an electric fireplace is easy and can be accomplished by anyone with a little wrenching experience. Under this section, you will find information regarding any reported installation problems. This is useful to know so that you are aware of any complications that may arise during installation.
Maintenance
Does this unit have to be cleaned frequently? Are there any hard to get areas that can cause a problem later on down the road? Everything you need to know about the upkeep and maintenance of your electric fireplace. Refer to our previous post to learn about electric fireplace maintenance.
Pros and Cons
Model specific qualities that should be noted. If you were going to recommend this unit to a friend, what would you highlight to them as being particularly useful? Is there anything that you wish you were aware of before purchasing? Consumer reports/recalls will also be included in portion of the review.
Consumer Reviews
This section will include real life testimonials from consumers who have purchased the unit in question. This provides powerful insight from individuals who have actually used the device that you are considering. Consumer reviews are collected from past customers who have sent emails via email, phone, or online forums.
Warranty & Customer Support
Warranties are important for a few reasons. Even the most credible brands can have a hiccup every now and then. In the unfortunate case that you received a faulty electric fireplace, you want to have the peace of mind knowing that it is under full-warranty. Here we will list any applicable warranty information as well as the level of service that manufacturers provided when requested support. When applicable, Manufacturer contact information will be listed here.
Price Comparison
In this section we will set the unit beside other comparable models with similar features and specifications. This will help you make an informed decision with key details in mind. Overpaying for features that are found in more cost-effective models is pointless. Nobody likes being hustled for their hard earned money.
Additional Resources:
Portable Fireplace.com is one of the largest e-tailers of electric fireplace inserts. Shopping online saves you time money, and plenty of headaches. Shipping is FREE and FAST! Speak with one of our Heating Specialists by calling 1-888-682-2591 or email us by filling out this contact form.