Photo: ☺ Lee J Haywood / Flickr

We love to sit around the fire in cold weather, especially in the UK where winters tend to be long and frosty. Not everyone has a fireplace, though, and that’s where electric fire suites come in. They look just like real fires, and they can heat up a room very efficiently and cheaply. Some electric fires can run on less than £2 a year. They’re also easy to install, come in a range of designs, and are quite safe and reliable. If you think an electric fire suite is for you, here are some pointers on how to choose one.

Freestanding vs. wall-mounted units

While some electric fire suites are designed to be placed in an existing fireplace, many people choose them so that they can have a fire in a home that doesn’t have a fireplace. That’s where freestanding and wall-mounted units come in.

Freestanding electric fire suites can be placed anywhere in a room, which is great if you’d like your electric fire to be a central feature in your decor. Options that look like traditional fireplaces as well as more modern designs are available, so it’s important to choose an electric fire suite that suits your design style. Some freestanding electric fire units are designed to look like traditional fireplaces with open coals, for a rustic and cosy effect.

Photo: friskierisky / Flickr

Wall-mounted units have a more modern design, and make a great feature in a living room with a minimalist look. They can be mounted anywhere you have some space and an electrical connection. For a more traditional look, wall mounted electric fires that mimic traditional fireplaces are also available.

Pricing

Once you’ve decided on the look you’re going for, you’ll need to consider your budget. At the lower end, electric fire suites are available for as little as £60, but you could easily find yourself paying close to £1,000 for an elaborate suite.

Comparing prices and getting a feel for the design options offered by electric fires online before you make your final decision is a good idea.

Tags: fireplace