On the hunt for a freestanding electric fire that doesn’t cost the earth? Or, perhaps you’re looking for the best possible model short of installing an actual fireplace?
Whatever the case, the market is awash with examples to choose from, making it hard to define exactly what suits your needs and budget.
Adding a freestanding electric fireplace to your home decor is an excellent way to enhance both the warmth and aesthetic appeal of your living space. These appliances are especially valuable for homes without a built-in chimney, offering flexibility in placement and installation.
This article considers 5 examples for each budget – whether it’s small, medium and large, while outlining the features, pros, cons, costs and much more for each one.
Best Freestanding Electric Fireplaces for a Small Budget
1 Warmlite Portable Electric Fire with Log Burn Effect (WL46016)
The Warmlite Portable Electric Fire offers a thoroughly traditional aesthetic with a log burn effect, ideal for those seeking a classic look without breaking the bank. Its 2000W heat output ensures it is capable of warming small to medium spaces effectively, making it an ideal choice for budget-conscious buyers.
- Specifications: 2000W heat output, freestanding design.
- Heating Abilities: Effective for small to medium spaces.
- Unique Features: Adjustable thermostat, log burn effect.
- Cost Range: Around £60.
- Ease of Installation: Plug and play.
- Pros: Low cost, easy to move and operate.
- Cons: Basic design, limited additional features.
- Where to Buy: Available on Amazon UK.
2 Daewoo Albany 2000W Portable Electric Fireplace
With its classic black cast iron effect finish, the Daewoo Albany Portable Electric Fireplace blends well with both traditional and modern decors. It features adjustable flame brightness and comes equipped with overheating protection, offering a safe and attractive way to heat up your rooms. Its 2000W output is capable of providing considerable warmth to small and medium-sized rooms.
- Specifications: 2000W power, freestanding.
- Heating Abilities: Good for small to medium rooms.
- Unique Features: Adjustable flame brightness, overheating protection.
- Cost Range: Around £75.
- Ease of Installation: No installation necessary.
- Pros: Economical, easy to operate.
- Cons: Basic functionality.
- Where to Buy: Widely available at UK retailers, including Daewoo.
3 VonHaus Electric Stove Heater with Log Burner Flame Effect
This electric stove from VonHaus is designed to replicate the inviting atmosphere of a good old wood burning stove. It features a realistic log burner flame effect that can operate with or without heat, providing flexibility and year-round usability. Its 1850W output can comfortably heat small spaces, making it perfect for enhancing the warmth and decor of a compact living area.
- Specifications: 1850W power, freestanding.
- Heating Abilities: Suitable for heating small areas.
- Unique Features: Flame effect can be used independently of heat.
- Cost Range: Around £80.
- Ease of Installation: No installation required.
- Pros: Compact and efficient.
- Cons: Not ideal for larger rooms due to limited power output.
- Where to Buy: Available at retailers like Argos and Amazon.
4 Igenix Oakmen Flame Effect Stove
The Igenix Oakmen Flame Effect Stove brings a touch of timeless elegance with its traditional design and realistic flame effect. It offers two heat settings and 1500W of power, making it an effective solution for medium-sized rooms. Its freestanding design allows for easy placement anywhere in the room, providing both warmth and a visual focal point.
- Specifications: 1500W power, freestanding.
- Heating Abilities: Effective for medium-sized rooms.
- Unique Features: Realistic flame effect, two heat settings.
- Cost Range: Around £85.
- Ease of Installation: Plug in and use.
- Pros: Affordable and functional.
- Cons: Limited to basic functions.
- Where to Buy: Available on multiple retail sites like Amazon UK.
5 Kingavon BB-CH600 Free Standing Electric Stove
The Kingavon BB-CH600 offers the charm of a traditional iron-worked stove, with a rustic, four legged design. This model also sports a classic black finish to mimic an authentic wood burner, making it an unobtrusive choice. This handy stove provides adequate heat for small to medium-sized rooms and includes two heat settings, and a built-in fan for better heat distribution.
- Specifications: 1850W power, freestanding design, two heat settings, built-in fan.
- Heating Abilities: Suitable for heating small to medium-sized spaces.
- Unique Features: Realistic flame effect, adjustable thermostat, fan-assisted to circulate heat.
- Cost Range: Around £80 – £100.
- Ease of Installation: No installation required; plug and play.
- Pros: Cost-effective, easy to use, no complex installations.
- Cons: Limited to smaller spaces, basic features compared to higher-end models.
- Where to Buy: Available at several retailers, including electrical world.
Best Freestanding Electric Fireplaces for a Medium Budget
1 52 Inch C-Frame Freestanding Fireplace Suite with 2 Heating Settings
Behold this sophisticated heating appliance! Crafted with minimalist finesse, its white wooden frame adds a contemporary flair to any space. Say goodbye to chilly winters as this fireplace delivers consistent warmth sans smoke or odour. Elevate your room’s ambience with this stylish heating solution!
- Specifications: 1000W-2000W heat output, freestanding or wall mountable.
- Heating Abilities: Efficient heating for medium-sized areas.
- Unique Features: Automatic Safety Shut off, remote control, LED light flame effect
- Cost Range: Around £399.
- Ease of Installation: Simple to install with wall mounting kit included.
- Pros: Automatically shutdown when the room temperature exceeds 22°C (71.6°F)
- Cons: May not fit with all decor styles.
- Where to Buy: Available at GardenSactuary
2 Adam Helios Brushed Steel Electric Fire
The Adam Helios Electric Fire features a sleek, brushed steel finish which sets it apart from many other electric options. The design is direct and industrial, and would suit modern homes exceptionally well. It offers a high heat output and a cool-to-touch front, making it a safe choice for homes with children or pets. The Helios is versatile enough to be wall-mounted or used as a freestanding unit, providing another layer of flexibility.
- Specifications: 2kW heat output, freestanding or wall mountable.
- Heating Abilities: Efficient heating for medium-sized areas.
- Unique Features: Cool to touch front, flame effect available without heating.
- Cost Range: Around £150.
- Ease of Installation: Simple to install with wall mounting kit included.
- Pros: Versatile design, safe to use.
- Cons: May not fit with all decor styles.
- Where to Buy: Available at Fireplaceworld
3 Galleon Fires “Agena” Electric Stove
The “Agena” from Galleon Fires mimics the look and feel of a traditional wood stove, but with softer edges and more delicate, modern features. It includes a remote control, adjustable flame brightness, and overheat protection, making it a safe and user-friendly option. This stove is ideal for those who want the vestige of tradition but love the arsenal of useful features delivered by the Agena.
- Specifications: Remote control operation, 2kW heat output, LED flame effect.
- Heating Abilities: Can effectively heat larger rooms than its size suggests.
- Unique Features: Overheat protection, adjustable flame brightness.
- Cost Range: Between £150 and £200.
- Ease of Installation: Freestanding unit, simple to place and plug in.
- Pros: Good heating capacity, attractive design, very highly reviewed on Amazon (4.5/5)
- Cons: Slightly higher end of the medium budget range.
- Where to Buy: Available on Amazon UK and direct from Galleon Fires.
4 Dimplex Cheriton Electric Fire (CHT20)
The Dimplex Cheriton Electric Fire is a free-standing model that exudes a classic charm with its elegant brass effect and Optiflame visual – ensuring your guests spot these features before realising it’s electric! It fits flat against the wall, offering a realistic coal bed and flames that can operate with or without heat, making it an excellent year-round option for those seeking both functionality and aesthetic appeal in their living space.
- Specifications: 2kW heat output, freestanding design with brass effect.
- Heating Abilities: Suitable for medium to large rooms.
- Unique Features: Optiflame effect with real coals, fits flat to wall.
- Cost Range: Around £250-285.
- Ease of Installation: Easy setup with no installation required.
- Pros: High-quality design, effective heating.
- Cons: Not as portable due to size.
- Where to Buy: Available at multiple retailers, including Carters Direct.
5 Beacon Electric Stove
The Beacon Electric Stove from Simply Stoves is modern and dinky, with soft edges and fewer of the trademark features linked to a wood-burning stove. Even so, it’s sleek black design is a nod to tradition. It features a robust metal body and a large viewing window, providing a cosy, realistic flame effect that enhances any room’s ambience without the need for venting or complex installations. It’s perfect for those who desire the fundamental charm of a wood burner but are on the hunt for a sleek and easy-to-use piece of kit.
- Specifications: Freestanding design, realistic LED flame effect, remote control operation.
- Heating Abilities: Ideal for small to medium-sized rooms, offering a comforting glow and adequate warmth.
- Unique Features: Adjustable flame brightness, thermostat control, timer settings.
- Cost Range: Around £550.
- Ease of Installation: Simple plug and play, no chimney or flue required.
- Pros: Offers the visual appeal of a traditional stove with modern features, easy to operate.
- Cons: While aesthetically pleasing, it may not offer the same heat output as larger, more expensive models.
- Where to Buy: Available at Simply Stoves UK and similar retailers offering home heating solutions.
6 BeModern Linmere Electric Fireplace Suite
The BeModern Linmere Electric Fireplace Suite offers a complete solution with its elegant almond stone effect surround and realistic log bed design, sitting flat against the wall. It’s definitely at the steeper end of any medium budget, but is has the features to complement the price. This all-in-one unit provides a substantial 2kW of heat, making it suitable for larger rooms, and its independent flame effect allows it to be used purely for ambience during the warmer months.
- Specifications: 2kW output, almond stone effect surround.
- Heating Abilities: Suitable for heating large living spaces.
- Unique Features: Log bed design, independent flame effect.
- Cost Range: Around £630-750.
- Ease of Installation: No installation is required, but the unit is larger and heavier.
- Pros: Complete suite solution, elegant design.
- Cons: Price may be on the higher side for medium budgets.
- Where to Buy: Available at numerous retailers, including Flames.
Best Freestanding Electric Fireplaces for a Large Budget
1 Be Modern Avant 750 3-Sided Floor Standing Electric Suite
This offering from Be Modern is an excellent gateway into the realm of luxury, electric fires. Like many of the most expensive designs, its lengthy, rectangular viewport lets you see both the flames and coals enclosed within sleek glass sheeting. Nevertheless, this model starts at only £812; other models with a similar style are hole-in-the-wall stoves which require significant installation, and are not freestanding. The Avant 750 also includes a range of flame colour options and heat settings, all adjustable via remote control, offering both customization and convenience.
- Specifications: 2kW heat output, three-sided glass viewing, floor-standing.
- Heating Abilities: Suitable for medium to large spaces, providing both aesthetic appeal and effective warmth.
- Unique Features: Remote-controlled settings, colour-changing flame effect, timer function.
- Cost Range: Around £812 plus
- Ease of Installation: Simple setup, no complex installation required, just plug in.
- Pros: Stunning design, significant heat output, easy operation.
- Cons: Premium price point, requires space due to its size and design.
- Where to Buy: Available at online retailers such as Fires2U.
2 Evonic C600 Electric Fireplace
The Evonic C600 is a cutting-edge electric fireplace that blends minimalist design with advanced tech. It’s dark colour scheme of greys and black draw out the colour of its flames, and ensure it stands as a statement piece in your living room. It’s part of Evonic’s esteemed e-series, featuring the latest LED technology for realistic flames and a comprehensive heat output system. The C600 is a built-in unit, allowing for a seamless integration into any living space design. It includes a customizable fuel bed, and various flame settings and can be controlled via an app, bringing convenience and ambience directly to your fingertips.
- Specifications: 1500W output, built-in installation, app-controlled.
- Heating Abilities: Efficiently heats medium to large rooms.
- Unique Features: LED flame technology, customizable flame and fuel bed colours, app compatibility for remote management.
- Cost Range: Around £1,200 – £1,400.
- Ease of Installation: More complex, but less so if choosing the freestanding variant.
- Pros: State-of-the-art flame technology, sleek integration into walls, customizable settings.
- Cons: At the higher end of the price spectrum, installation may be complex and require professional services.
- Where to Buy: Available through Evonic and other high-end retailers.
3 Dimplex Opti-myst Pro 1000
This product is quite something else. First off, it produces no heat whatsoever, so it is purely designed to catch the eye and become the centrepiece for a luxury room space. It offers unparalleled, realistic flame and smoke effects using ultrasonic technology. Additionally, its ‘open bed’ design ensures everyone is able to view the realist effects and admire them – wherever they are in the room.
- Specifications: Remote control, adjustable flame and smoke intensity, LED fuel bed.
- Heating Abilities: None! It is purely for visual effects.
- Unique Features: Water vapour flame technology, customizable length.
- Cost Range: Around £1,400 -1700.
- Ease of Installation: Professional installation is recommended.
- Pros: Exceptionally realistic flame effect, versatile size options.
- Cons: High cost, requires regular maintenance, no heating ability.
- Where to Buy: Available at specialty retailers like Fireplaces4life.
4 Katell Amalfi Italia Eco Electric Fireplace Suite
The Katell Amalfi Italia Eco Electric Fireplace Suite is a superbly crafted piece that combines Italian design flair with eco-friendly technology. This freestanding suite features a striking contemporary look with a clean white finish and a contrasting grey hearth, making it a focal point in any modern living space. The Amalfi Italia is not just about good looks; it also includes an efficient 2kW electric fire that offers both a radiant and convective heat source to efficiently warm larger rooms.
- Specifications: 2kW output, freestanding suite, eco-friendly features.
- Heating Abilities: Suitable for medium to large spaces.
- Unique Features: Contemporary Italian design, adjustable flame intensity and heat settings, energy-efficient operation.
- Cost Range: Around £1650.
- Ease of Installation: Simple setup with no building works required.
- Pros: Stylish design, effective heating, and eco-conscious operation.
- Cons: The modern design may not suit all decors, premium price point.
- Where to Buy: Available through specialized furniture like Fireplaces.
5 The Turin Solid Oak Electric Fire Suite
The Turin Solid Oak Electric Fire Suite by Designer Fireplaces is a premium addition to any home, showcasing the elegance of solid oak with the modern convenience of an electric fire. This suite stands out with its meticulously crafted oak surround and a highly efficient electric fire inset, making it a centrepiece in both traditional and contemporary settings. Its ample size and powerful heating capabilities ensure that it is not only a visual treat but also a practical choice for substantial warmth.
- Specifications: Freestanding suite, solid oak surround, LED flame effect, remote control operation.
- Heating Abilities: Suitable for medium to large rooms with effective heat distribution.
- Unique Features: Realistic flame effect, custom heat settings, energy-efficient performance.
- Cost Range: Approximately £1999
- Ease of Installation: Straightforward setup with minimal assembly required; no need for a chimney or vent.
- Pros: Luxurious design, robust construction, efficient heating.
- Cons: Higher price point, requires space to accommodate its substantial size.
- Where to Buy: Available from several independent suppliers, including Fireplace.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an electric fireplace cost to run?
The cost of running an electric fireplace in the UK in 2024 varies depending on several factors including the power rating of the fireplace, how frequently it’s used, and the current electricity rate. Here’s a general guide to help you estimate the costs:
- Power Rating: Electric fireplaces typically range from about 1 kW to 2 kW in power. Higher power outputs generally mean more heat but also higher energy consumption.
- Electricity Rates: The cost of electricity per kilowatt-hour (kWh) is a critical factor. Average electricity prices in the UK can be roughly estimated at around 24.5 pence per kWh, though this can vary based on your energy supplier and tariff.
- Usage Pattern: How often and how long you use the electric fireplace will significantly impact the running cost.
For example, assuming you have a 1.5 kW electric fireplace and you use it for about 5 hours a day:
- Daily Cost: £1.84 (for 5 hours of use)
- Monthly Cost: £55.13 (assuming 30 days per month)
- Cost over 6 months: £330.75 – assuming you run it for 6 months of the year and don’t use it over summer.
How do electric fireplaces work?
Most electric fireplaces work by drawing in cool air from the room, heating it internally using a heating coil, and then expelling the warm air back into the room. This process is facilitated by a fan located within the unit, which helps to distribute the heated air efficiently.
Additionally, electric fireplaces use LED lights or other visual technology to create a realistic-looking flame effect, which can be used with or without the heating element being turned on. Most simply require plugging into a standard household electrical outlet to begin heating the room.
How do you install an electric fireplace?
This is usually straightforward and is an almost instantaneous process for plug-and-play models.
- Pick a spot: Make sure it’s clear of debris or anything flammable – and close enough to the outlet that you don’t need an extension.
- Mount or Place the Fireplace: For freestanding models, simply place the fireplace in the desired location. For wall-mounted or inset models, lift the unit into position, secure it on the mounting bracket, and ensure it is stable.
- Plug in: Plug the fireplace into the nearest electrical outlet and avoid using an extension cord.
- Final Setup: Attach any additional components like glass panels or frames. Turn on the fireplace to test its operation.
- Safety Check: Review all safety instructions the manufacturer provides to ensure proper ventilation and operation. Regularly check and maintain the fireplace to ensure it continues to operate safely.
Can an electric fireplace sit on a carpet?
Yes, most electric fireplaces can sit on the carpet safely. They are typically designed with a built-in clearance and insulation on the bottom to prevent overheating and damage to the flooring. However, it is crucial to check the manufacturer’s guidelines for your specific model to ensure it is suitable for placement on carpet. Additionally, ensure that the fireplace is stable and level to avoid any potential tipping hazards. Consider using a fireplace hearth or pad to provide extra protection and stability for optimal safety.
Can you replace the heating element in an electric fireplace?
Yes, you can replace the heating element in an electric fireplace. However, this task varies in complexity depending on the model and design. It typically involves disassembling parts of the fireplace to access the heating element. For most users, it’s advisable to refer to the specific manufacturer’s manual for guidance or to seek professional assistance to ensure the replacement is done safely and correctly. Using an authorised service provider helps maintain the fireplace’s warranty and ensures that the new element functions properly.
And finally…
It’s no joke. Modern electric fireplaces have evolved considerably, leaving their merely functional predecessors behind. Including eco-friendly options, luxury materials, greater design investment, and varied price points make them an attractive option for many consumers. It’s well worth investigating the best option for your home – from mini black stoves that can sit in the corner to sweeping, glass-fronted centrepieces to wow potential guests.
