Everyone loves a nice, warm fire, especially during the cold season. However, a traditional fireplace can be hard to maintain and get pricey in the long run. That’s where electric units come in. A worthy low-maintenance alternative to the real thing, fireplaces that run on electricity only require an outlet to work their magic. Moreover, the flames have gotten extremely realistic nowadays, to the point where the illusion can fool even a trained eye. Especially if you decide to go with a Dimplex Optimyst model.

These devices from Dimplex use the latest ultrasonic technology on the market to produce an incredibly lifelike wood-burning fire. As you might have guessed from the name, the units, which range from stoves to electric suites, use an ultra-fine mist of water that rises up through the logs or coals. The light reflects against the water, enabling the fireplace to produce a dazzling flame and smoke effect. In other words, red, orange and yellow lights illuminate the mist to simulate a fire that’s as close to the real thing as possible.

Does that sound like an appealing investment? Read on as we go through the pros and cons of purchasing a Dimplex Opti-myst product to help you figure out if it’s a good fit for you.

What kind of Dimplex products are available?

The Optimyst ultrasonic technology is featured in over 25 Dimplex designs, so it’s likely that you’ll find a model to catch your eye. There are five main categories of electric units to choose from:

• Electric stoves – these freestanding units come with a rustic look and can add a vintage flair to any room of the house. Models generally feature opening doors, so you can admire the realistic flames in all their glory.
• Inset fires – these types of electric units are meant to be incorporated into an existing fireplace. Or, you can get inventive and build your own unit (for example by using a cabinet). Either way, they are available with a choice of styles and finishes to make sure they will match your décor to a T.
• Wall-mounted fires – if you’re a fan of more modern design trends, a wall-mounted fireplace is an elegant choice. They make for excellent statement pieces, adding both warmth and a healthy dose of opulence to your living room or study.
• Electric baskets – these dashing electric units are great for adding to an existing fireplace, providing a relaxing ambiance for when you don’t feel like maintaining a real fire.
• Electric suites – these models offer the whole package, so to speak, as they feature both the electric fire and the surrounding mantel, perfectly resembling a traditional fireplace.

Dimplex Optimyst Products: Functions and Controls

While there are multiple Dimplex products with the Optimyst tech to choose from, they all come with a suite of similar features.

1. Dimensions

Dimensions range, but the units are typically portable and easy to fit in any space. One of our favorite models, the Dimplex DLGM29 Opti-Myst Open Hearth Fireplace Insert, measures 14.8 x 28 x 12 inches. It weighs a little under 30 pounds and is available with an alabaster finish. Of course, electric suites will take up more space, so check the product’s measurements carefully before placing your order.

2. Voltage & Remote Control

There are no batteries required when using electric fireplaces. You simply have to plug them in and you’re good to go. They come with a remote control to easily adjust the settings and turn the unit on/off.

3. Water Tank

As mentioned, Dimplex Opti-myst electric fireplaces make use of mist to produce stunning three-dimensional flames, so a water tank is involved. When running constantly, the Optimyst tank will last for approximately 8-10 hours, so you will have to fill it out on a regular basis. Dimplex recommends that you use filtered water when possible.

4. Emissions

Dimplex units are a green choice – they’re 100% efficient, with no harmful particulates to worry about. They’re also a safe option for your home since no actual flames or emissions are involved. The smoke effect, though realistic, is perfectly harmless.

Pros and Cons of Dimplex Units

As most fireplaces currently on the market, Dimplex units with the Optimyst patented ultrasonic technology come with pros and cons. We’ve listed them below to help you make a more informed purchasing decision.

Dimplex Optimyst Advantages

• Products are 100 percent safe to use. No need to worry about flames or real smoke messing up your carpet or upholstery. Plus, there’s no need to pay for expensive chimney cleanings or deal with the ashes associated with real fire. It’s also really fun to put your hand on these cool misty “flames” and shock guests at get-togethers, as most units come with glass that is cool to the touch.
• Units are generally portable and thus easy to move around. You can literally place one of these Dimplex devices anywhere you want – in foyers, bedrooms, kitchens, bathrooms, or dining rooms.
• If you’re worried about your carbon footprint, it’s good to know that these products are a green alternative, since no dangerous chemicals are involved. This is especially great news if you have kids or pets.
• The flames are incredibly realistic. Most customers who enjoy these products recommend dimming the lights for a cozier atmosphere, but the fire and smoke effect will look gorgeous either way.

Dimplex Optimyst Disadvantages

• Some users complain that these products don’t look like a “roaring fire.” Even people who are pleased with their Dimplex Optimyst units admit that the flames aren’t as impressive as they expected, despite the realism. If you’re interested in creating the illusion of a really big fire, you would be better off looking elsewhere. However, if you’re just interested in a nice gentle dying ember to gaze at, Dimplex Opty-myst electric fireplaces should be a wise choice.
• A few consumers have complained about the mist negatively affecting the metal firebox. The mist apparently causes this metal firebox to rust faster since the water tends to pool on the bottom of the tank. Not everyone has this problem, but it’s worth mentioning.
• Dimplex Optimyst units tend to be quite expensive. Thanks to the many models available, you can probably find one to suit your budget, but prepare to pay more than the industry standard for these realistic flames.
• The cords used in some products tend to stick out a bit. You might be required to find a clever way to hide these cables if you want to get as close to an “authentic” experience as possible.
• Although these devices are supposed to be silent, there have been reports that you can hear a light gurgle from the water in the tank. Again, not everyone has this problem, but it’s something to think about.

Dimplex Optimyst FAQs

How often should I clean my Dimplex electric fireplace?

If you run it on a regular basis, it’s important to maintain your unit so that it will last you longer. Dimplex recommends that you clean your Optimyst fireplace every two weeks. That’s also how often you should change the water. The models are easy to spruce up – the sump unit, nozzle, and water bottle can be cleaned with washing up liquid and even go in the dishwasher. Always read the user manual carefully for more detailed instructions concerning each product.

Can I use scented water inside the fireplace?

No. However, you can invest in a Dimplex Aroma Diffuser if you’re looking to add more fragrance to your room.

How energy efficient are Dimplex Opti-myst units?

A Dimplex Opti-myst fire uses 212 watts when operating in flame-only mode. With the heating function on, it shouldn’t consume more than your average electric fireplace.

Bottom Line

Dimplex Optimyst units are currently some of the best and most popular electric fireplaces on the market. And for good reason. They’re fairly pricey; however, when you consider what you’d be spending on maintaining a traditional fireplace, a Dimplex Optimyst model might end up cheaper in the long run. The illusion of the dying ember is great, but the mist/smoke is what makes this product particularly charming.

Moreover, every Dimplex Opti-myst electric fireplace is convenient; you’ll literally be able to control it with a handheld remote. As mentioned above, these products are perfect for those with children running around the house. With a Dimplex Optimyst unit, there’s no more worrying about toxic smoke or accidental burns. They’re safe, efficient, and produce great artificial flames and a stunning smoke effect. Homeowners not interested in investing in a wood-burning fireplace, or even apartment dwellers, will find that, more often than not, these units perfectly fit their needs. And if not, the company has its own dedicated customer care division ready to handle any of your questions or complaints.

All in all, if you don’t mind the fact that this product was designed to give off a “dying ember” instead of a roaring fire and if you’re OK with cleaning up mist and re-filling the water tank every so often, this product offers a viable alternative to a traditional fireplace. If you have the money, it’s worth giving Dimplex Optimyst units a go. We guarantee that you’ll be pleasantly surprised.

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A freestanding electric fireplace is a great way to add warmth to your home while also adding a bit of character. Most of them are small, so they’re mainly used for heating up small rooms. With so many out there, though, how do you know which one is the best?

We’ve compiled a list of the top freestanding electric fireplaces on sale today to help you make your decision. They are sorted by price going in descending order, with the most expensive at the top and the least expensive on the bottom. We will also discuss their main features and specs.

The Benefits of Owning An Electric Fireplace

Before we share our selection of electric units, there are many benefits to owning one which can help change your mind if you’ve previously been skeptical about freestanding heaters.

Easy Installation

First, let’s acknowledge that these electric heaters are easy to operate and don’t require any complicated installations. In fact, you can add one to your home yourself without a professional’s guidance. All you have to do is place the heater in a suitable area in your home and plug in the power cord for it to work.

Some come in interesting, space-saving designs so you can store your books or any decorations on top to not limit the space in your home. A freestanding electric fireplace is lightweight and easy to move around so you don’t need to worry about finding it a permanent home. So long as you research the recommended room size it can heat and suitable floor types, there’s no need to do anything else other than plug it in and switch it on.

Safe to Use

Not everyone wants a gas or wood fireplace because they produce toxic gases that are harmful to your health. Also, these gases have a negative effect on the environment, too. Thankfully, electric fireplaces keep your home free from gases as the unit doesn’t emit anything. Instead, they use electricity, which means that this won’t irritate anyone with a respiratory problem and is better for your health overall.  

If you have children or animals in your home, you’re probably wondering after their safety, too. There are many units on the market that are equipped with an automatic switch that turns off should the heater get knocked over, so it won’t cause a fire. Most heaters are also cool to touch so should a child put their hands on the glass, they won’t burn themselves.

Elegant Design

Electric fireplaces aren’t just designed for convenience, but to add personality and a calming ambiance to your home. They’re generally small so finding somewhere to store them when they’re not in use shouldn’t be too much of a problem. But when they’re in operation, you’ll love how homely they look. Aside from being smaller and using electricity, they produce flames that look like a real gas fire.

If you’re interested in purchasing an electric unit because it’ll be cozy in your home, you can switch off the heat setting and allow the flames to flicker for decoration. This is a common way many customers use their electric heater so it sets a calming mood to your home.

Easy to Operate

Many electric fireplaces come with a remote control and you can also adjust the temperature and switch the unit on and off manually. Having a remote control is great for the elderly as it prevents you from having to get up all the time to monitor your heater. Some advanced electric fireplaces come with a thermostat so you set the desired temperature and it’ll maintain this heat until you switch it off.

Extremely Durable

You’ll be pleased to hear that you won’t have to constantly renew your fireplace as these are built to last. Compared to a gas or wood fire, they don’t require any fuel so there’s no need for a combustion chamber. This means little maintenance and the fireplace’s texture will remain the same for years to come. In addition, the fireplace’s body is painted with anti-corrosive materials to keep it lasting a long time.

Suitable For Almost Anywhere

An electric fireplace won’t take up much space in a room, which makes it suitable for use in almost any room. You can also move it around your home with ease to focus on heating the room you’re in. Although these units have safety features built into them, we recommend not having it in direct contact with objects or furniture; this will also improve the speed it heats up a room.

Things to Consider When Buying an Electric Fireplace

There are many different types of freestanding units, so how do you know which one to purchase? This is why we’ve created a buying guide to choose the best one for your needs, budget, and preferences.

Flame Effects

High-standard electric fireplaces come with numerous flame effects that you can choose depending on the style you’re looking for. The ribbon flame is the most popular effect as it creates a flickering flame by air blowing through ribbon strips. Alternatively, LED lights create a more realistic glow and are an advancement on traditional electric fires. Another flame effect is an ambient glow, which consists of a warm light rather than replicating flames. Using a lightbulb, this creates a calming and relaxed vibe in your home.

Space and Location

These units are great for most homes because they’re lightweight and small so you have a wide selection of locations for them. But before making a purchase, consider where you’ll store your fireplace when it’s not in use. Do you have enough spare space in the wardrobe or a cupboard to keep it out of the way in summer? If not, perhaps you could purchase a fireplace that has additional features – such as storage capabilities – so you can always keep it on display and make the most of it.

Which room will you use the heater for? Does the size of the room accommodate the size of the heater? Most generate adequate heat into a room up to 400 square feet. If it’s any larger, you should increase the wattage and size of the heater you’re looking at otherwise you won’t feel the heat benefits.

Finally, you should also consider if you want to use the heater outside. Perhaps you’d like to have a calm mood in the garden at night without generating any heat. If so, is the heater waterproof and suitable for outside use? Always check the manufacturer’s guide before doing so.

The Best Freestanding Electric Fireplaces to Consider

Regal Electric Fireplace – e-Flame USA 25 Inch White Portable Electric Fireplace Stove with 1500W Space Heater

Heating System

The first electric fireplace on our list is the Regal Electric Fireplace. It has the option to be used with or without heat and is made with a discreet, fan-enforced heater for even heat distribution. It can heat up to 400 square feet. The heat is generated by a fan so you needn’t worry about any the heater releasing any loud noises as you use it. This fan technology makes the heater user-friendly so you can adjust the heat settings to suit your preference or the weather.

This Regal unit is energy-saving and will keep your electricity bill in comparison to using a gas fire. With two heat settings, you can pick the energy that best suits your budget.

Design

It’s the most expensive on the list, but has a very realistic flame with mesh doors. The design includes a unique curved front, and it is classic enough to add a cozy flair to any room. The overall design of this fireplace is stunning and makes it elegant to look at. Built with smooth curves, this will accentuate any living room and provide a warm ambiance in a home. It’s the second largest heater on this list, with dimensions of 25” H x 22” W x 12”D. The material used to build this fireplace is lightweight, which makes it portable to move between rooms. But despite this lightweight, it’s still durable and built to last.

Features

Finally, this heater is equipped with excellent safety features, which makes it a great purchase for households with young children and pets around. The automatic shut-off system means that this fireplace won’t continue to heat up once it reaches the desired temperature. It’ll also switch off automatically should it accidentally get knocked over. In addition, the heater the exterior of this heater doesn’t get hot so you won’t burn your fingers should you touch it.

Hamilton 22-inch Portable Free Standing 1500W Electric Fireplace

Heating System

It has the option to be used with or without heat and uses a fan on high or low to provide an even distribution of heat. It plugs into any standard outlet for easy placement. If you’re looking for a portable heater that is economical, this is a great choice for you. Specifically, this unit uses 90 percent less energy than a gas heater. It’s also equipped with two heat settings so you don’t have to use it on the full heat seating if you only want to heat one room or merely quickly a quick burst of heat. Set the device to your desired temperature and enjoy the pleasurable experience.

This unit comprises of 1500 watts and features a 6-ft. cord so you can place it in the desired location without disrupting your current layout. It can comfortably heat up to 400 square feet and assembling it only takes a couple of minutes.

Design

The Hamilton Portable Standing fireplace is a 22-inch heater with a very realistic-looking flame. This heater stays cool to the touch so there are no worries about children or pets getting burned while this heater is on. Its elegant design also adds a classic feel to any room it’s in. One thing to keep in mind with this heater is that not only does it emit the light from the faux flames, but also a sliver of white light a few inches below where the flames are. This may be something to keep in mind if you only want to see the light from the flames. The unit comes in a selection of colors so it can accommodate any room and decorative choice.

Features

This heater is easy to use, making it a great purchase for an array of people. It is cool to touch, which makes it safe to use in a busy household, and it is also odorless and smokeless to further enhance its safety. Finally, if the unit is accidentally knocked over, it’ll automatically switch off to prevent overheating or causing a fire.

Aspen Free Standing Electric Stove

Heating System

The Aspen electric heater works on either high or low, so you can control how much heat it puts out. This unit can heat up to 400 square feet and uses 90 percent less energy than a gas heater. In just a matter of minutes, you’ll feel the heat generating around the room, without paying an extortionate fee. Operating this unit is easy too; simply set the desired temperature and the fireplace will switch off once it reaches it.

Design

This electric fireplace has a classic design with real glass doors. You also have the option to use this fireplace with no heat, and just enjoy the image of flames. It requires a bit of assembly, but it’s very simple to put together. Finished in grey with a brass-effect trim, this is the best freestanding electric fireplace if you’re determined to find one that accentuates your home and looks homely.

This unit remains cool on the outside so you don’t need to worry about young children or pets coming into contact with it and hurting themselves. This design also means that you can spontaneously move it to another location without waiting for it to cool down first. It’s also suitable for an array of flooring types, making it ideal for the office, living room, garage, and even motorhome.

Features

It uses a quiet fan to provide even heating, which makes it ideal if you’re working at the time or the family is watching TV. The flames generate a warm glow for a cozy atmosphere any time of the year. Alternatively, you can set the unit to distribute flames without radiating any heat. Finally, this unit automatically switches off when it reaches the desired temperature or should it accidentally be knocked over.

HomCom 16″ 1500W Free Standing Electric Wood Stove Fireplace

Heating System

This freestanding electric oven has two heat settings that are 750W or 1500W. It can heat up to 400 square feet, and it has a LED fire flame effect with adjustable brightness. This heater is a little small, with dimensions of 15.5” W x 10.5”D x 21.75” H, so it may be best for heating up small spaces. It’s also the most affordable of all the choices, making it great for people on a budget. This heats 400 square feet, making it great for the average-sized room.

Design

This unit looks like natural wood burning when it’s in operation for a cozy vibe whenever you use it. The flames have a subtle glow with red and golden flames to suit your mood.  Made up of metal and glass, its design is sophisticated and luxurious to suit any room in your home. Moreover, this freestanding electric fireplace is also equipped with an automatic turn-off timer for worry-free heating. We love that this unit is lightweight to make it convenient to move around your home.

Features

Moreover, this freestanding electric fireplace is also equipped with an automatic turn-off timer for worry-free heating. You can adjust the heating at any point to increase or decrease the temperature, and the unit comes with a safety feature to prevent the fireplace from overheating.

How Much Does it Cost to Run an Electric Fireplace?

So, you might be interested in purchasing one of these units, but have you considered the cost of running one? The first point to mention is that electric fireplaces are much cheaper to install and run compared to gas and wood-burning versions. In fact, they’re generally an economical method of heating your home without it costing a fortune to do so.

The main reason for this acceptable running cost is that you’re heating one room rather than the entire house. This is a suitable option if you or the family spend most of your time in one room. As a result, it makes sense in heating that space rather than other rooms you won’t be in.

Electric fireplaces are efficient to use because any heat that they produce doesn’t get lost up the chimney which means that any heat stays in the room. Depending on the wattage and your energy rating, an electric heat generally costs 8 to 23 cents per hour. If you want to purchase one of these units just for the flickering flames, make sure you have a no-heat mode on your unit as this costs only 1 to 2 cents per hour when turned on.

To calculate your estimated costs, calculate the wattage of your unit, multiply by the number of hours you use it per day and then multiply by your kWh rate. Therefore, the higher the wattage your unit is, the more expensive it’ll cost to run.

The Winning Freestanding Electric Fireplace

If we could only choose one electric fireplace to share with you, it’d be the Hamilton 22-inch Portable Electric Fireplace. We love the rustic appearance and color range available to provide a wide selection for customers. It’s also quiet when in operation and the frame remains cool to prevent any burning. This also means that you can add decorations to the top without safety being a concern.

The Hamilton unit also comes with a long cord so you’ll likely not need an extension cord, for extra convenience.

We invite you to give any of these recommendations a try. Also, feel free to let us know in the comments what you thought of these recommendations, or let us know of any electric fireplaces that are top-quality that we might have missed.

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What to look for when comparing the most realistic electric fireplace options

Obviously, if you’re keen on getting the most realistic electric fireplace on the market, how authentic the flames look should be on top of your list of priorities. However, there are a few additional features you might want to consider. Maybe you’re interested in learning more about safety, or simply eager to find a fireplace with a dazzling flame effect. Whichever the case, here are the most important factors to weigh when shopping for electric fireplaces.

Size

While some electric inserts are designed to fit into existing fireplaces, others can be mounted on a wall or stand on their own. Regardless of which option you’re after, always check the measurements of a potential purchase to make sure it will fit snugly into your available space.

Design and flame effects

Electric fireplaces are accent pieces – they instantly catch the eye and add a touch of warmth to any space. In other words, they should be seamlessly integrated into your room’s décor. If you’re a lover of everything rustic (and your home stays testament to that), go for an electric fireplace with a traditional, classic look. On the other hand, if you prefer all things modern, a fireplace with a more urban design should do the trick.

On the same note, check the specifications carefully to determine whether the extra features are worth your cash. Some realistic electric fireplaces come with multiple flame effects, offering the user the option to choose how the faux fire will look. Check reviews to see what others are saying and whether they’re happy with their investment.

Sound

The most realistic electric fireplace won’t just perfectly replicate the burning logs, but also that soothing, crackling sound of burning wood. Again, it’s important to carefully go through the list of features and see if your top choices offer these perks. Also, if the electric fireplace comes with a heating function, the fan can get loud. Product reviews can help you figure out if that’s the case.

Safety

When it comes to realistic electric fireplaces, there are no dangerous emissions to cause worry. Also, regardless of how realistic the flames look, they don’t get hot. However, if your fireplace includes a heating function, the area directly near the heating element can get hot and pose a threat to children or pets. While shopping, keep an eye out for any advertised safety features – like safe-to-touch glass or a built-in safety shutoff switch.

Shopping for the most realistic electric fireplace: Frequently Asked Questions

Is it possible to turn off the heat function, but not the flames?

With most electric fireplaces, yes. If they come with multiple heat settings, including no heat, so you can enjoy the coziness of a fire even during the warm season.

Can I use an electric fireplace as a sole heating source?

Usually no. There are realistic electric fireplaces on the more expensive side that can indeed warm up a space up to 1,000 square feet (like option #4 on our list), but most budget options should only be used as a supplemental heating source or to warm up a small room.

Is it OK if I plug the fireplace into a standard outlet?

Generally yes. However, if the fireplace comes with a powerful heating source, you may need the assistance of a skilled electrician to wire it directly into your home circuit. Always check the manufacturer specifications about powering up the fireplace.

Is there any danger of real fire when using an electric fireplace?

Not really, but better safe than sorry. Don’t keep the fireplace plugged in when not in use and keep it some distance (about 3 feet) away from pillows, blankets, or anything that can be in danger of catching fire. It’s also not recommended to leave the fireplace on overnight.