It used to be the case that electric fires were not very powerful but the technology has improved so much in the past few years that the heat output is now good enough to warm even a fairly large room. Along with fake electric logs which look like real logs, these fires can now add a great design element to any room. But of course it is the heat output that is the main thing, and some of the best electric fires can now provide 1000 BTU of heat, usually enough to heat a room the size of around 400 square feet. This means it is suitable for a large living room, a large bedroom, and can be a great supplemental heating source for a place such as a kitchen. The smaller fireplace inserts have heat output of around 300 BTU, which is suitable for a small bedroom, for instance.

Since an electric stove is portable, there really is no need for them to be fitted into a fireplace hearth, and if you have a studio or a playroom that needs some extra heat they can be a great choice. Mostly the electric fire will use a standard 110 V power source, which will enable you to have heat instantly. An economical electric fire can be the best way to add a second heating source without having to worry about installation problems. Many of these units are now available with remote control, which enables you to control the heat output from a distance. Most electric fireplace is also have a thermostat which will control the heat output automatically, while a blow system can help to circulate the heat in the room, again cutting down on the amount of heat output needed to warm the room to a comfortable temperature.

Pay the price for power

Prices can vary, and you can pay up to $1500 for a very powerful electric stove, though at the cheaper end you can buy a decent electric insert for less than $500. Usually the larger the fireplace the higher the price, and it is worthwhile working out how much heat you actually need before you go ahead and spend the money. Some suppliers that are worth looking at include Dimplex, which provide a wide range of electric fires of varying heat outputs. The Classic Flame range is also worthy of consideration, since some of them are available with built-in fireplace mantels and realistic fireplace logs. The sizes range from a 32 inch insert, up to a 45-inch insert, with heat output ranging from around 2000 British thermal units right up to 5000 BTU. Of course, you need to choose a mantel in the style to fit with your decoration, with cherry wood mantles and oak mantles being among the more popular choices.

One model worth taking a look at is the Dimplex electric fireplace insert, a 1500-watt model with remote control. The unit plugs into standard household outlet, and has a fan heater to distribute heat evenly. The unit has various setting of full heat, half heat, or flame only for warmer weather when only the ambiance is needed. The unit measures 25" x 21" x 13" inches and can be installed in most standard fireplaces.

Blower powered heat

There is also the Flame Builders electric fireplace, which gives a heat output of 5000 BTU, running on 1440 Watts. Retailing at $530 or so, this fireplace can be installed in any room on interior or exterior walls and corners, being able to heat a 400 sq ft room adequately. It has a blower for better heat convection. Another model is the Potomac 28" electric fireplace, which plugs into any standard 120 volt outlet and has a faux river rock design for a classic antique look. The unit measures 52" wide x 44" high x 15.5" deep

It is obvious that the wide range of electric fireplace inserts now available gives you a wide choice, especially if you want something as a secondary heating source for a large room that cannot be heated by the central heating system or boiler alone. With a wide range of functions now available, including remote control and automatic thermostat controls, electric fireplaces have really come into their own, and it's really just a case of choosing one that suits your style and is powerful enough to make sure you spend the winter time in comfort.