Electric fireplaces can be used in homes, mobile homes, RVs and basements. Styles include freestanding units, inserts into traditional fireplace openings, corner models that take up a triangular-sized space in the corner of a room, wall-mounted items that don't take up any floor space or dual sided, that allow viewing from two rooms at a time.
Typical costs:
Freestanding electric fireplaces cost about $80-$500 for compact black or colored metal stand-alone units that plug into regular household outlets and $400-$2,200 or so for models with built-in frames and mantels made to resemble wood, brick or stone.For example, the Dimplex Vienna Electric Fireplace costs $2,000-$2,200, and includes an ornate walnut finish and a purifier air system. Freestanding unit settings start with a cold view-only fire and warm throughout various heat settings. Some units emit crackling fire sounds or simulated smoke. Added features include remote controls, wall thermostats, glass door kits, overheat protection, adjustable flame action, brick refractory look, adjustable flame brightness or colored flames. For most models, the only installation required is plugging in the unit and the only maintenance is changing the light bulb.
Electric fireplace inserts slip into existing fireplaces and cost about $120-$2,275, depending on style and size and whether they are plugged in or hardwired by a licensed electrical contractor. Electric log sets[1] can be installed into the existing fireplace at $35-$500, depending on size, style and whether the unit is plug-in ready or needs to be hard wired.
Corner electric fireplaces[2] cost $450-$1,600 including mantel packages, depending on style. To make optimal use of space, many of the units can accommodate plants or media equipment on the mantel.
Wall-mounted electric fireplace units maximize floor space and cost about $350-$1,800, depending on size and style. Both flat and curved[3] units are available.
Sharing the fire between two rooms, dual-sided electric fireplaces cost $1,500-$1,700 or more, depending on size, style and materials from metal or wood to glass. Installation into the wall is required, so framing and drywall work will be necessary. Depending on whether or not the existing wall is load bearing, the installation could take about 2-5 hours.
A trim kit for fireplace inserts or a mounting kit for wall units is generally provided with the unit.
Additional costs:
Ready-to-install mantels cost $275-$850, depending on materials and size. Custom mantels may cost thousands of dollars.
Many electrical fireplaces may be installed and plugged in by a DIYer in less time than it takes to remove them from the packing material. For units that require hardwiring, an electrician costs about $30-$100 per hour, depending on location. If the desired fireplace location doesn't have an electrical outlet, adding one costs about $75-$250.
Discounts:
Free shipping[4] or online discounts[5] may be available through specific websites.
Shopping for an electric fireplace:
Prior to purchase, measure the intended area including the height of the windows. Answers to electric fireplace questions can be found through the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association[6] .
A variety of electric freestanding fireplaces and inserts are available at Amazon[7] , Sears[8] and specialty fireplace stores[9] including Quadrafire[10] and The Infrared Heater Store[11] .
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