Electric fireplaces: built-in vs freestanding
The electric fireplace market is full of interesting designs, each with its own style and installation requirements.
From hang-on-the-wall fires to electric stoves, it can be challenging to determine which one is most suitable for your home. The best place to start is with two of the most commonly purchased options: built-in and freestanding fires.
What are freestanding electric fireplaces?
Freestanding electric fires don’t require installation within a wall or structure. These units are designed to stand independently and are best suited to those who prefer a fireplace that can be positioned in different areas of a room.
What are the advantages of freestanding electric fireplaces?
So, what makes these fires such a staple? Freestanding units are reminiscent of old-fashioned log burners, and electric models can bring this cosy feel into the home with minimal effort.
- Easy to install: Freestanding electric fireplaces are loved for their installation simplicity. You don’t need professional assistance or complex setups; just place the unit where you want it and plug it into a standard electrical socket! Their ease of installation makes them great for renters or those living in smoke-controlled areas, as they offer energy-efficient heating without the need for structural modifications.
- Classic ‘stove’ look: As we’ve mentioned, some of our freestanding fires resemble traditional log burners. These products can be an excellent way to bring the joy of rustic fire burning into your home without real fire! Buyers looking for something a little different are in luck: freestanding stoves can also be purchased in different finishes, like matt white, or with different sized viewing windows and fuel bed effects.
- Movability: Freestanding electric fireplaces can be relocated easily. Unlike inset models, which are fixed, you can move a freestanding fireplace from room to room or even take it with you when you move house. If you’re someone who gets bored with their decor, freestanding stoves or freestanding electric fires will make redecorating much easier.
What are the disadvantages of freestanding electric fireplaces?
While freestanding units are a classic choice, they can also be the wrong fit for certain homes.
- Space: The amount of space that a freestanding stove occupies can be a concern, especially in smaller properties. Freestanding units require enough room to stand independently and have to be placed on a flat service, which might limit placement options. So, in rooms where floor space is a priority, these fires may not be especially suitable.
Which freestanding fireplace should you choose?
Struggling for inspiration? We’ve listed 3 of our most popular freestanding fireplaces from established brands like Elgin & Hall, Dimplex and British Fires.
1. Elgin & Hall Beacon Electric Stove
The Elgin & Hall Beacon Electric Stove is what many people picture when they think of freestanding stoves. Complete with a lightweight timber frame (painted to resemble steel), this is a fire you can take from home to home.
Its 2kW output will warm all corners of your small-to-medium-sized lounge, and its glowing fuel bed really seals the deal. This Elgin & Hall model also comes in two sizes, small or large.
2. Dimplex Chevalier electric stove
Dare to be different with the Dimplex Chevalier electric stove. This white, cream-gloss freestanding unit has all the hallmarks of a traditional log burner with innovative electric heating technology.
Enjoy its 2kW remote-controllable heat output, complete with a stunning Optiflame effect (that can be used independently of heat!)
3. British Fires Ashurst Electric stove
An imposing option for larger rooms, the British Fires t Electric stove is a feat of engineering. This cylindrical stove comes with an exceptionally large viewing window so that you can view its glowing coal-effect bed and authentic logs in action!
Take the realism further by purchasing their optional stovepipe.
What are built-in electric fireplaces?
Built-in fireplaces, also known as ‘inset electric fires’, are installed directly into a recess in your wall or chimney opening.
These units sit flush with the wall and usually require some degree of professional installation. They are often connected directly to the home’s electrical wiring, though many models also offer plug-in options for an easier setup.
What are the advantages of built-in electric fireplaces?
- Media wall integration: Media walls are one of the most popular interior trends of 2024, and built-in electric fires are the perfect pairing. They don’t require venting or connection to gas lines, and their lower heat outputs of 1-2kW mean they won’t damage your electrics. Simply recess the unit into the wall underneath your TV!
- Space: The design of built-in fireplaces makes them inherently space-saving. As these units are installed directly into the wall, they don’t take up any extra room, an excellent choice for smaller rooms.
- Minimalist design: If you’re someone who likes to keep a tidy home, built-in fires will leave nothing out of place. Without protruding elements or the need for floor space, a built-in unit works well for minimalists.
What are the disadvantages of built-in electric fireplaces?
Some designs are inappropriate for homes, and inset fires are notably less flexible and more complex to install.
- Fixedness: As their name suggests, built-in fires must be installed into a specific recess within the wall. Unless a new recess is created (which would require significant structural alterations), the fire cannot be relocated. Their fixed nature can be a drawback if you want to rearrange your space or relocate the fireplace in the future.
- Installation difficulties: The process of installing inset fires requires more effort and, possibly, professional assistance. The process typically involves cutting into walls or building a false chimney breast, and may also require electrical wiring modifications to accommodate the unit.
Which built-in fireplace should you choose?
Inset fires from brands like Be Modern and Flamerite have consistently made it into people’s winter shopping baskets.
1. Elgin & Hall 16" Chollerton Edge Inset Electric Fire
Owners of the Elgin & Hall 16" Chollerton Edge Inset Electric Fire can choose between their beautiful Chrome or Black Nickel finish. The standard 16″ sized version of this widescreen edge fire is remotely controllable and also comes with an authentic log bed.
2. Be Modern Avella Electric Fire
If your wall recess is higher up, the hole-in-the-wall Be Modern Avella Electric Fire is sure to impress. The 34″ wall-mounted fire is noticeably wider than traditional models and gives buyers three finish options: black nickel, brushed steel or matt black. As it is hung on the wall fire it does not require to be inset into the wall it is being fitted on.
3. Flamerite Ennio 3 electric fire
When it comes to LED technology, the Flamerite Ennio 3 electric fire stands head and shoulders above the rest. This inset fire features Radia Flame 3D flames, which offer radiant flickering flames with a deep fuel reflection.
Shop for freestanding and built-in electric fireplaces with Fires2U!
Ultimately, the choice between a freestanding or built-in fire will depend on three things: your budget, property, and preferences. If you’re always reinventing your space, an easily moveable unit means you’ll always have a flexible heat source.
But if you know what you like, a built-in model will stand strong in your home for years to come. Shop for inset fires and freestanding fires today, and be sure to contact us if you need advice!
