How to Choose the Best Electric Fireplace With Mantel
A good electric fireplace adds warmth and ambiance to any living space. When selecting a fireplace be sure to consider aspects such as flame realism as well as heat output.
Think about the dimensions of your room Be sure that the heater's BTU rating is equal to the heating capacity. Think about the type of flame: mechanical fireplaces may be less expensive, but they are not as realistic. Water-based and gel fire places provide a great balance between price and realism.
Aesthetics
There's nothing quite like a glowing fire to create a cozy, relaxing atmosphere in a space. Electric models can create the same warm and inviting ambience like a gas or wood-burning fireplace, but with more ease and flexibility.
Electric fireplaces with mantels are available in a variety of styles that will fit any style. They can be adapted to meet your cooling, heating and aesthetic requirements. If heating is your priority look for small infrared heaters that have a high BTU output. If ambiance is more important, consider premium models with modern flame effects and contemporary or traditional designs that complement your home's style.
Some electric fireplaces use basic LED lighting to mimic the appearance of flames, however, others use advanced LCD or Holographic technology that makes them almost indistinguishable from actual fires. The latter category is typically more expensive but also provides the most realistic flame effect available on any type of electrical fireplace.
Aesthetics is a big factor in how an electric fireplace that has a mantel will be perceived, but you'll also want to make sure that the controls and design are user-friendly. Find touch panels that are simple to use or remote controls that let you adjust the temperature and flame settings quickly and intuitively. The best electric fireplaces are CSA-certified and feature an adjustable thermostat, security features such as a tip over shutoff, overheat protection, and a clock.
This wall-mounted model by R.W.FLAME is an excellent choice for a minimalist, yet elegant look. It's lightweight and slim, so you can place it flush against the wall without taking up precious floor space. The frame can be used with any color scheme, and can be recessed into an opening in the wall to create an even more personalized installation.
Another alternative is this TV stand with integrated electric fireplace by Festivo. The modern, sleek design is ideal for living spaces but it is also suitable in bedrooms and home offices. This TV stand comes with a fireplace, large top surfaces for your electronics, and plenty of storage beneath. It also features an inbuilt firebox that you can cover when it's not in use. This model also has the ability to control the remote with five flame display settings, and the ability to have a timer set between 30 minutes and six hours.
Safety
Nothing can give a warm and hygge-like feel to a room more than an ethereal fire. However, installing a wood-burning or gas fireplace could be prohibitive and not feasible for renters. This is where an electric fireplace with a mantel can come in handy.
Some of these units are independent, but most are hung on the walls. They typically use a heat-producing insert that provides the warmth you require and may have a fan for cooling purposes. The majority of models are controlled with an on/off button and a remote. For a more advanced option look for one that allows you to adjust the brightness and color of the flame.
While electric fireplaces can provide many benefits, they're not completely safe, especially when left unattended. Make sure you utilize a remote control or a shut-off feature that automatically switches off. Also make sure that it is kept away from items that ignite, such as curtains and blankets. The good thing is that they don't create smoke, real flames or carbon monoxide like traditional fireplaces and don't carry the same fire risks as space heaters.
Overheat and tip over protection are the most important security features of an electric fireplace that has an upper mantel. You should also look for models that have been approved by UL or ETL. Both meet the stringent North American electrical and environment standards. They also will likely have other important features such as overheat protection, timers, and power-off protection. Additionally, a great electric fireplace must be cool to the touch on top so you can place decorative items or other electronics without risk of burns or melting. This is a very important factor for families with children or pets.
Ease of Use
The most effective electric fireplaces that have mantels will be easy to control and operate, allowing you the chance to enjoy a real flame appearance without worrying about smoke or heat. Most models have at least a couple of different options for flame brightness and color while more sophisticated models can be controlled through an app or voice commands. Depending on your preferences you may also opt for models with additional features such as adjustable thermostats or timings.
The best electric fireplace with mantel depends on a myriad of factors, including the purpose that you're looking to purchase it for and the size of the room it will be positioned in, as well as the amount of ambiance you'd like to create. The most important thing is to select an electric fireplace that offers the authenticity you desire. This can be judged by the size and the color of the flames, and also the brightness of the firebox.
It's also a good idea to assess your ability in assembly or installation and if you would prefer a wall-mounted or freestanding unit. Make an outline of the features you would like or require in an electric fireplace with mantel. fireplace mantel with electric insert could include features such as remote controls, built-in timers, and customizable flame settings as well as safety certifications such as CSA or ETL.
Some of the best electric mantel fireplaces also provide additional heat for rooms of up to 1,000 square feet. This makes them a great choice for a variety of living spaces. For example the Dimplex Featherston is a stone-look unit with wood offsets that can be attached on the wall or positioned on its legs to make an easier and more portable option. It comes with a CSA certificate and an automatic shutoff to provide safety. However, it does not have tip-over protection or overheating detection.
To narrow down your options for your fireplace, visit a store that sells these units or shop online for more options. They usually have showrooms with models you can test out in person, and also detailed product descriptions and customer reviews to aid you in making an informed purchase. Consider all your options to ensure that you get the best electric fireplace for your space.
Installation
Many homeowners (or renters) don't have the option of installing a wood-burning or gas fireplace. Choose an electric fireplace that comes with an elongated mantel to increase warmth and visual appeal. Think about an electric fireplace that you can connect and use straight out of the package. It will come with pre-set heating settings, so you can experience the comfort of flames and warmth right away.
A high-quality electric fireplace will have an authentic flame, and many models come with different heat settings to fit your room. Some models have thermostats that maintain an appropriate temperature for your room, and basic heat-level controls to determine how warm your home is. Some are simply decorative, but still offer an inviting glow that can assist you in relaxing.
Some models can be set on a mantel or table, such as the Real Flame Crawford, which includes resin logs and allows you to customize the color, brightness, and flicker speed of its LED flames. It's a sturdy piece furniture that doesn't fall over, and it has an anchor for wall use to ensure it's safe. Its CSA certification means that it's been tested for safety, and despite the absence of a tip-over shutoff or overheat protection, it does have a firebox that is UL-listed and backed by a one-year guarantee.
Other kinds of electric fireplaces are more similar to modern pieces of decor that feature sleek, wall-mounted options which resemble flat-screen TVs. They can be mounted on an unfinished 2x6 wall with brackets (usually included). The Dimplex Featherston for instance, has an attractive faux stone exterior, and a solid-wood mantel that's built for durability.
If you're looking for a model that is extremely convenient, consider a recessed smart fireplace with an integrated display, like the Touchstone Sideline electric fireplace. Its Wi-Fi and mobile app control capabilities allow it to connect with your existing smart home system and offer you a variety of power options.