If you’re searching for an electric fireplace, you’ve probably seen all sorts of options: LED, log sets, steam, holographic, etc. What do all these different terms mean? And, more importantly, which technology produces the most realistic flames?
This article will give you an overview of each of these technologies to see how they work, how long they last, and how realistic they are. Let’s get started!
LED
How does it work?
The technology often has multiple color settings. Most will come with a “realistic” flame setting, and many offer other colors like blue, red, and purple. LED fireplaces can go virtually anywhere that has an outlet.
These fireplaces have lots of moving parts, which means that they break down over time. The more affordable options may have beautiful flames but cheap mechanics that wear down quickly.
Does it produce heat?
These fireplaces will never be hot to the touch. However, most models have a heating coil and fan that blows out warm air.
These heaters often have a high and low setting. They range in power, but many are quite loud. Overall, these fireplaces have a lower risk of fire-related accidents than traditional gas or wood fires.
What are my style options?
In addition, some units are made to be freestanding. These heaters require no insertion or installation. They are also portable and can be moved around a room, a home, or even carried to work or an event.
The style of LED fireplace you get determines the feel it gives your room. Electric fireplace inserts are quite traditional while a wall mounted fireplace adds a more modern touch to the space.
In addition, you can choose a burning media. Your flames can dance on rocks, fire glass, or ceramic logs. Most models come with just one of these choices, but some come with multiple options so you can change the media depending on your mood.
For prime relaxation, these fireplaces often come with remote controls. This allows you to change the settings from the comfort of your couch.
How realistic is it?
Here are some of the top selling models on Amazon to get you started on your search.
Amazon.com
Amazon.com
Amazon.com
Amazon.com
The Bottom Line
I’d recommend an LED fireplace if your priority is ambiance. This technology is sure to add warmth and coziness to your room. It comes with a low price tag, some small maintenance and cleaning tasks, and lots of fireside feels.
Log Sets
How does it work?
The benefit of just a log set vs a whole firebox is twofold. First the logs are easily portable while a full electric firebox is heavy and bulky.
Second, an electric firebox has to fit the exact dimensions of the fireplace it’s installed into. Your fireplace obviously has to be large enough for the logs to be set inside, but it’s less of a precise fit.
Does it produce heat?
The heat production is usually a setting that you can turn on and off. The logs themselves won’t radiate heat or be hot to the touch. The heat comes from a fan that blows warm air into the room.
What are my style options?
Some may come with remote controls and temperature settings. Almost none will come with color choices. They usually just have one “realistic” flame setting.
How realistic is it?
Again, it's essential to read reviews and see what previous buyers are saying about the product. Here are some of the top models selling on Amazon.
The Bottom Line
I’d recommend a log set if your priority is ease. Logs require no cleanup and usually no maintenance. You don’t have to worry about installing them either. Just set up as required by the manufacturer and plug them in wherever you like. This technology produces the least realistic flame effect, but it is also the simplest to manage!
Steam
How does it work?
Steam fireplaces are gaining in popularity. To operate, you fill the fireplace with water (or attach it to your waterline), plug it in, and turn it on. The fireplace diffuses the water into the air and uses LED lights to make it look like a fire.
By connecting the fireplace to your water line, you can turn it on at any time. If you choose to fill it manually, you’ll need to keep an eye on the water level.
Does it produce heat?
The flame effect of other fireplaces is just that: an effect. It can’t be touched. The flame effect of a steam fireplace is a real substance. That gives the flames a very lifelike effect since they are real in the same sense that regular flames are.
Though this fireplace produces something that looks like real flames, they are cool to the touch. That means the unit can be placed anywhere. You don’t have to worry about ventilation or heat ruining your walls or electronics.
What are my style options?
You can also add fire glass, rocks, or other accessories if you desire. The fire glass can be exceptionally pretty since the LED lights can make it glow.
Many models also come with color-changing options. You can choose from a realistic setting and a variety of other colors like blue and purple.
How realistic is it?
Steam technology is one of the newer forms of electric fireplaces. It is still only manufactured by a couple brands. The quality of Dimplex fireplaces is something our team has trusted without fail time and time again.
Dimplex Opti-Myst Pro 500 20-Inch Built-in Electric Cassette - CDFI500-PRO
Features
- Color: Black
- Material: Metal
- Opti-myst remote: Includes remote control - operates heat (full-heat and half-heat) and smoke effect on/off
- Overall Dimensions: 20'' (W) x 12'' (D) x 9.5'' (H)
The Bottom Line
The modern technology of a water vapor fireplace is sure to impress! Plus these models are safe, efficient, and pose no fire safety hazard!
These models offer both a traditional and modern aesthetic. I’d recommend it to anyone who has the time and money for the extra maintenance this technology requires.
Holographic
How does it work?
The flames dance in and around the logs, not just on top of or behind them. The technology used to create this effect has few moving parts and lasts much longer than traditional technology. This is an important factor to consider since it’s also the most expensive option on the list.
Does it produce heat?
These units won’t be hot to the touch, but they do have heaters. These heat the room without posing any safety hazards.
What are my style options?
You can get a holoflame insert for your pre-existing fireplace or a holoflame insert built into a mantel if you don’t already have a fireplace. You can get the mantel in a variety of sizes, finishes, and colors including natural wood and white.
The flames do not have color choices, but you can control the heat and flame settings. The fireplace comes with multiple flame settings from a relaxing glow to a full blaze. You can control it with a remote control or with your phone!
How realistic is it?
MagikFlame Electric Fireplace 28" Insert - Large Black Firebox - 30 Flames, Large, Freestanding, 5,200 BTU Heater, Crackling Log Sound, Bluetooth, App - New Home Design, Remodels, Family Atmosphere
Features
- PERFECT FOR NEW HOMES, REMODELS: Whether you are an interior designer, architect, or electric fireplace enthusiast, a MagikFlame is ideal for any living space. Our 28” Insert, freestanding electric firebox is a cozy focal point for the family atmosphere. It also includes built-in 5,200 BTU infrared quartz heater, warms up to 1,000 sq/ft. as secondary heat source.
- MOST REALISTIC ELECTRIC FIREPLACE: 30 ultra-realistic flames that simulate wood, gas fires. We use patented HoloFlame video technology of actual burning fire. This innovative experience surpasses traditional mechanical electric fireplace products on the market. MagikFlame is ideal for new home design, remodels, and family atmosphere.
- ATTRACTIVE AND PRACTICAL DESIGN: 28″w x 32″h x 12”d. Upgrade your existing combustion fireplace to a safe an efficient electric. This traditional firebox insert has a textured black finish, perfect for homes and condominiums to add opulent beauty with ease.
- MADE IN THE USA: MagikFlame uses "solid-state" electronics with few moving parts that will last for years. Our LED and LCD technology is rated at 50,000 hours. When we ship a fireplace, have confidence that it is built to last.
- MULTI OPERATING USE WITH PHONE: Touchscreen and iPhone App for the latest mobile integration. These intuitive and easy to use controls can be used from any room in the home. Features an app for flame selection, power functions, volume levels, heat control, sleep timer, and nature sounds.
The Bottom Line
I’d recommend a MagikFlame fireplace if your priority is realistic flame effects. If you hate giving up your wood burning fire, this will make it feel like you never did!
Final Thoughts
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