Skip to content

FAQs

Fireplace Questions

Are permits required for installing my electric fireplace?

Specific permits for installation are not required. It is recommended however to get a certified electrician to direct wire a built-in fireplace.

Can I plug my electric fireplace into any standard outlet?

Yes, most of our electric fireplaces are able to plug into a standard 120V household outlet. Some fireplaces require direct-wire installation in order to run at 240V, which allows them to double the heat output. But most of those models also include a plug-kit which allows them to plug into a standard outlet and run at 120V.

How much electricity does an electric fireplace use?

Most electric fireplaces plug into a standard 120-volt outlet and use up to 1,500 watts when the heater is running, which works out to about 12.5 amps. If you’re just enjoying the flame effect without heat, the power draw is minimal—usually only a few cents per hour. When operating at full heat, the fireplace uses around 1.5 kilowatt-hours (kWh) per hour, which equals roughly 23¢ per hour based on an average electricity rate of 15¢ per kWh.

Is there any maintenance with electric fireplaces?

The short answer is no. On some models, you may occasionally need to replace the standard 40- or 60-watt candelabra bulbs that create the flame effect—these typically last about two years and are easy to find at most hardware stores or home improvement centers. However this is very rare. Many newer units use long-lasting LED bulbs, which can run for up to 20,000 hours. LEDs not only eliminate the need for replacement during the fireplace’s lifetime but also use less electricity, making them a more energy-efficient option.

How many watts/BTUs does it give off an hour?

On average, 4600 BTUs for all standard units. Built-in models, which can be hardwired for 240V, can produce up to 8900 BTUs. Infrared units generally produce approximately 5200 BTUs.
To see specific information on each fireplace, take a look at the specifications table listed on the product page. Owner's manuals are also provided on the product page.

How large of an area will my electric fireplace heat?

Our electric fireplaces are designed to provide supplemental warmth for spaces up to 400 sq. ft. For larger areas, many of our built-in fireboxes can be hardwired to a 240V line, allowing them to comfortably heat rooms up to 800 sq. ft. If you’re looking for even more power, our infrared fireboxes can warm spaces as large as 1,000 sq. ft.

Are electric fireplaces cost efficient?

Most electric fireplaces run on a standard 120V outlet and use about 1,500 watts per hour when running at full heat output. Since your energy provider bills you per kilowatt-hour (kWh), you can estimate the operating cost by multiplying your rate by 1.5 kWh. For instance, if electricity costs 15¢ per kWh, running the heater at full power would cost around 23¢ per hour. The flame effect itself requires very little electricity, adding only a few cents per hour to your bill.

Because of this efficiency, electric fireplaces are often more affordable to run than other heating options. They’re especially effective for zone heating—you can turn down your central furnace and just heat the room you’re using, lowering overall utility costs. For comparison, many gas fireplace manufacturers list average operating costs of around 30¢ per hour, which is higher than electric.

Can I save money using an electric fireplace over a gas or wood burning fireplace?

Most likely, yes. Unlike gas or wood-burning fireplaces, electric models don’t need venting, gas hookups, or chimney upkeep, which makes them far less expensive to install. They’re also very low-maintenance once in place. On top of that, electric fireplaces are great for zone heating—allowing you to turn down your main thermostat and warm only the rooms you actually spend time in. This targeted approach can lead to noticeable savings on your overall energy costs.

Is it safe to move the fireplace to another location once it is assembled?

Yes. Once assembled, an electric fireplace is safe to relocate if needed. Unlike traditional fireplaces, electric models don’t require a chimney or venting system. This gives you the flexibility to install them almost anywhere in your home—whether that’s against an interior or exterior wall, on an upper floor, or even in the basement.

How can I turn my fireplace on or off? What are the control options?

The majority of our electric fireplaces include a convenient remote control. At the very least, the remote lets you power the fireplace on and off, while many models also allow you to adjust the flame brightness and heat output directly from your seat. Every unit also features built-in manual controls, which are typically located on the front, side, or back of the fireplace, depending on the model’s design.

Do electric fireplaces need any venting or a chimney?

No, our electric fireplaces are all vent free, so there is no need for any chimney, venting, or gas lines. There is no open flame, no mess or clean up either. You may place or install them on an outside or inside wall, upstairs or down. They are a great option for any home, apartment or condo.

Does the glass front of an electric fireplace get hot?

No—the glass front on electric fireplaces stays cool to the touch, making them completely safe around children and pets. The heating element is kept separate from the flame display and is positioned either above or below the glass on fireboxes and freestanding stoves, or beneath the logs on log set models. These elements sit behind protective screens and never reach temperatures high enough to cause burns.

Ordering Questions

How long until my electric fireplace arrives?

Most items ship same day. Transit times will vary, but delivery should be expected within 2-7 business days.

When the order ships, a notification will be sent to the email address we have on file. This will include a tracking number that gives estimates on delivery times.

You can find more information about shipping on our shipping policy.

What is your price match guarantee?

We offer the best prices on fireplaces online. If you find a lower price for a fireplace elsewhere, send an email to us at support@fyreplaces.com with a link to the listing. Upon confirmation that it is in fact the same product at a lower price, we will send you an invoice with that price matched.

Do I have to be home when my order is delivered?

For smaller items that deliver via FedEx, you generally do not have to be home. FedEx will leave the package at your door or designated package delivery area.

Larger items that are delivered via freight carrier require your signature. The freight company will call you at least 24 hours in advance to make a delivery appointment.

Can I purchase a fireplace without the heating element?

No, however, most of our fireplaces can operate with or without heat, so you can use your fireplace for display only.

What is your return policy?

If you’re not completely satisfied with your purchase, or just want an exchange, we will handle returns and provide a refund for any reason at all. Simply contact us by phone or email within 30 days of receiving your order to request return instructions. For full details, see our Return Policy.

What does the fireplace shipment look like when arriving at my home?

Electric fireplace mantel packages will typically arrive in two boxes. One will contain the mantel and the other will contain the electric firebox. Smaller and lighter items ship via FedEx. Larger and heavier items will be shipped freight.

You can see more details on our shipping by looking at our shipping policy.

What if my order is damaged during shipment?

We would like to stress that products incurring damage during shipment is very rare. But in the unlikely event that your product arrives damage, please file a damage report claim within 24 hours of receiving your order. Please contact us as soon as possible and we will help you through the process of filing a claim.

Free Shipping
Price Match Guarantee
#1 Authorized Online Dealer
Exceptional Customer Service

Compare products

{"one"=>"Select 2 or 3 items to compare", "other"=>"{{ count }} of 3 items selected"}

Select first item to compare

Select second item to compare

Select third item to compare

Compare