An electric heater is a compact appliance focused on space heating. An electric fireplace combines a heater with a decorative flame display and usually a glass front or mantel or insert style.

They convert nearly all electrical energy to heat at the point of use. Efficiency depends on how you use them. Zone heating one room and lowering the central thermostat can reduce overall energy use.

Yes—when used as directed. Quality units carry third-party safety listings such as UL or ETL (look for the mark on the nameplate). Modern models include overheat protection, a tip-over switch on freestanding styles, cool-touch exteriors, and auto-shutoff timers. Unlike wood or gas, there’s no real flame, no combustion, and no carbon monoxide, which eliminates venting needs and soot. The glass on many units stays warm—not dangerously hot like a gas fireplace—but you should still keep hands away and maintain a 3-ft clearance to soft goods (blankets, curtains). Use a properly grounded 120 V, 60 Hz outlet (NEMA 5-15), avoid power strips, and keep cords tidy and out of traffic paths.

Do not. Plug directly into a dedicated wall outlet to avoid overheating cords and tripping

As a rule of thumb, a standard 120 V unit provides supplemental heat for a single room such as a bedroom, office, or living area. Check the listed coverage range in square feet on the product page.

For heat: match wattage to room size—1,000–1,500 W for bedrooms and dens; consider 240-V models or multiple zones for large, open living areas. For visuals: choose a width that’s ~2/3 the width of the wall or furniture below. Common recessed widths are 42–72 in; mantel/fireplace combos should center proportionally on the wall for balance.

Many units are DIY friendly with a mounting bracket. Use proper anchors and studs, follow the included template, and have a second person help lift and level.

Only if the unit is rated for recessed or built-in installation. Use the framing dimensions in the manual and maintain ventilation space.

Often yes—if the manufacturer allows it and the unit front-vents (blows heat out the front rather than up). Many brands publish minimum clearances such as 8–12 inches from the top of the heater outlet to the TV. Use a mantel or a deflector if recommended to shield electronics from rising warm air. Always follow the specific installation clearances in the manual.

Most portable heaters can sit on low pile carpet, but the base must be stable and vents unobstructed. Do not cover the heater with any fabric.

Only if the product is specifically rated for outdoor or patio use and installed as directed. Indoor models are not weatherproof.

Flame motors are typically very quiet; fan-forced heaters produce a gentle airflow sound (often comparable to 35–55 dB). If you’re highly noise-sensitive, look for noise specs, DC fan motors, or a flame-only mode for ambiance without the fan.

Many include a digital thermostat, multiple heat levels, and an auto shutoff timer. Check the product features.

Cost = local electricity rate × power (kW) × hours. Example: a 1,500-W heater is 1.5 kW. If your rate is $0.15/kWh, the heater portion costs $0.225 per hour (1.5 × $0.15). At 5 hours/day for 30 days, that’s ~$33.75/month. Actual costs vary with duty cycle (thermostat cycling), set temperature, and room insulation. The flame-only mode uses far less power (typically under 100 W).

Any resistance heat can reduce relative humidity as air warms. Electric fireplaces don’t burn oxygen like gas/wood, but you might notice drier air in sealed rooms during winter. A small humidifier or plants can help maintain comfortable humidity (30–50%).

Minimal. Dust the intake/exhaust grills seasonally, vacuum the air path with a soft brush, and wipe the glass. Replace remote batteries as needed. For mist-based flames, clean the reservoir and descale per the manual. No chimney sweeping, no gas line checks.

Wall mounted and inserts ship in protective cartons with foam and brackets. Larger mantels may arrive on a pallet. Inspect packaging on delivery and note any visible damage.

Contact customer service within the claims window with photos of the box and the item. Keep all packaging until your claim is resolved.

Usually yes, because there’s no venting or fuel line. Freestanding and wall-mounted units are popular with renters. Always check your lease/HOA rules, and avoid drilling/alterations that violate your agreement. Use a properly grounded outlet; do not run cords under rugs or doors.

Quality units commonly provide many years of service (often 5–10+), with LED flame systems rated for long lifespans. Longevity depends on daily runtime, dust exposure, and adherence to clearances and ventilation of the electronics bay.

Recessed/built-in: Set into a framed cavity (often 2×4 studs). Cleanest look; often hardwired.
Wall-mounted: Hangs like a TV. Easiest install; usually plugs into a standard 15-A outlet.
Insert: Slides into an existing wood-burning or gas fireplace opening (no venting required).
Recessed and insert models need careful attention to clearances, vent locations (front vs. top), and wiring requirements.