Things to Consider
There are several factors that need to be taken into account when selecting an electric fireplace for your home. Let's get started.
Styles
Whether you select a traditional mantel or a sleek built-in look, you'll want the style of your fireplace to match your home's interior.
Modern HomesA minimalist wall-mount design in black or white works well in a modern home. Consider using tile, marble or fluted panels around the fireplace to give it a sophisticated backdrop.
Rustic Homes
Looking for a rustic feel? Consider a gray or brown fireplace. Surrounding the fireplace with stone, wood or shiplap will complement the interior.
Traditional Homes
If you have a transitional or traditional space, an electric fireplace with more ornate moulding or a brick surround works well.
To learn more about selecting the perfect fireplace for your home, read our Electric Fireplace Buying Guide.
Sizes
Getting the right size fireplace is important. To ensure that your electric fireplace doesn’t overcrowd the space, measure the area where you’d like to place it. A fireplace that's too small can also look amiss in a large room.
Based on the layout of your home, you can place it in the center or the corner of a room. The assembled size of an electric fireplace can range from 10 inches to more than 100 inches.
Room Placement
Flat Wall
If you have a flat wall in a living room or bedroom, a freestanding fireplace or a TV stand electric fireplace will create a relaxing spot to stay warm in the winter.
Wall-Mount
Take advantage of unused space by installing a wall-mount fireplace. Wall-mount electric fireplaces have a polished and sophisticated feel, so they work best in modern or transitional homes.
Corner
If you have an awkward-shaped room or you live in a small space, a corner built-in electric fireplace is a great solution.
Types of Electric Fireplaces
You can select the type of electric fireplace you need based on your requirements.
Electric Fireplace TV Stand
A fireplace TV stand is a great addition to your home, creating ambiance and versatility. Here are a few benefits and considerations when selecting one.
Pros
- Easy Installation: No venting required. Just plug in and enjoy.
- Portable: Change it to another room in the house or take it with you when you move.
- Multi-purpose: These stands create a cozy feel by heating the room, but they can also accommodate a TV (wall-mount or sitting on the cabinet).
- Style Options: Fireplace TV stands come in a wide array of colors, sizes, materials and styles to suit any decor.
- Additional Storage: Depending on the cabinet that you get, they can hide electronics or display your favorite books and home accessories.
- Thermostat: Select one that has a thermostat where you can adjust the temperature and optimize the heat output.
- Heat Option: Do you want the ambiance without the heat? Most fireplace TV stands can have a flame that operates with or without heat.
- Additional Features: Select a fireplace TV stand with a remote control for added convenience or one that includes automatic shutoff. You can also choose one that has adjustable flame colors and brightness for a more realistic look.
Considerations
- Less Storage Space: Because of the fireplace, you won't typically get as much storage space as you would with a traditional media cabinet.
- Blower Noise: Depending on the model, the blower may be noisy when the fireplace is on.
- Weight: Fireplace TV stands are usually heavier and bulkier than standard media units.
Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- The TV should be a few inches smaller than the fireplace TV stand.
- Check the stand weight restrictions. If the TV is too heavy, hang it above the stand.
- Never block the exhaust fans or the air intake.
- Turn the heater off before going to bed or leaving the house.
Wall-Mount Fireplaces
Built-in electric fireplaces are great if you want one that seamlessly blends with the room. Let's explore the pros and things to consider.
Pros
- Modern Look: These look great in modern or transitional homes.
- Space Savers: Because they're embedded in the wall, they aren't taking up floor space, which is especially important in smaller homes.
- Clean and Safe: Electric fireplaces don't have any smoke or ashes. They're safer than wood or gas because they don't emit any harmful fumes.
- Control the Temperature: Using a remote control, you can modify the temperature settings to make it hotter or cooler.
Considerations
- Installation is much simpler than building a traditional fireplace, but DIY skills will still be needed to hang it.
- Sometimes wall-mount electric fireplaces don't get as warm as freestanding electric fireplaces.
- You can take a freestanding or fireplace TV stand with you when you move, but a wall-mount fireplace is better left in place.
Freestanding Fireplaces
A freestanding electric fireplace is a great addition to a home that doesn't have a built-in fireplace. Let's talk about the pros and considerations.
Pros
- Styles: Whether your home is modern or traditional, there are freestanding fireplaces to suit every style.
- Installation: This is easy. Just plug it in and enjoy the warmth.
- Portable: It can be moved if you decide you'd like it in another room.
- Low Maintenance: They're safer and easier to care for than a gas or wood-burning fireplace.
- Features: Select a fireplace that offers realistic embers and the ability to control the brightness and heat modes.
Considerations
- It can't heat up a large room as effectively as a gas or wood-burning fireplace can.
- If there's a power outage, an electric fireplace can't be used.
Are you still trying to decide between a gas or electric fireplace? Learn more about them before making a purchase.
Inspirational Ideas
Here are eight electric fireplace ideas that we think you'll love.
If you have an existing fireplace that's closed up or no longer being used, consider an electric fireplace insert. These inserts are easy to install and warm up a room, while creating a relaxing ambiance.
If you need a quiet place to drink coffee and read a book, this is the spot. A marble surround elevates the look of this wall-mount electric fireplace that sits next to a comfy velvet chair.
This rustic living room gets a warm upgrade with this freestanding black electric fireplace. Oak floors, a jute rug and wicker baskets bring texture to the space. Greenery and white walls keep things light and bright.
You don't need a fancy backdrop for your fireplace. This homeowner made a simple, yet modern box out of drywall. By painting it the same gray as the walls, it seamlessly blends into the space. It also creates a place to accessorize with home accents and artwork.
Fireplaces aren't just for living rooms. If you have the space, a wall-mounted fireplace in the bathroom is a luxurious addition. By encasing the fireplace in white marble tile, it matches the floors and allows the black freestanding tub to take center stage.
Traditional and modern farmhouse enthusiasts will love this black freestanding fireplace. It stands out against the white shiplap walls and acts as a centerpiece between the built-in bookcases.
Fluted wall panels are having a moment. They can be found on walls and ceilings, columns, kitchen islands, banquettes and more. But we think it looks particularly striking atop the low-profile wall-mounted fireplace in this living room.
If you need a fireplace, storage and a place to hang your TV, look no further than this white fireplace TV stand. This multi-purpose cabinet works well in small spaces or in any area you'd like a fireplace.
Let's Get Started
Electric fireplaces are an easy way to create a cozy atmosphere and warm up your living room, bathroom, bedroom and more. If you're looking to purchase one, you'll need to determine what style and size you'll need for your space. Here are some other factors to consider.
Types of Electric Fireplace
- Fireplace TV stand
- Wall-mount
- Freestanding
Room Placement
- Flat against a wall
- Hung on a wall
- Place in a corner
From modern wall-mount electric fireplaces to traditional freestanding fireplaces, Lowe's has thousands to choose from. Find your fireplace now.