Yes! Most of our electric fireplaces plug into a standard 120V household outlet. However, built-in electric fireplaces require direct wiring and are “dual voltage,” meaning they can be wired for 120V or 240V, which doubles the heat output. Plug kits are either included or available for purchase.

Our electric fireplaces provide supplemental heat for rooms up to 400 square feet. Most built-in electric fireboxes can be hardwired to 240V power to heat rooms up to 800 square feet, depending on the model. For larger spaces, our infrared electric fireboxes, which plug into standard 120V outlets, can heat areas up to 1,000 square feet.

No, electric fireplaces require minimal maintenance. Some units may need replacement of standard 40- or 60-watt light bulbs, which have an average lifespan of about 2 years. Many models now use LED bulbs that last up to 20,000 hours and won’t need replacement over the life of the fireplace. LED bulbs are also more energy-efficient.

A chimney is essential for wood-burning fireplaces and woodstoves to safely expel smoke and other combustion byproducts. Traditional gas fireplaces often require a chimney, but many modern options, like direct-vent and vent-free gas fireplaces, do not. Direct-vent models use a pipe to vent outside, while vent-free models don’t need any venting. Electric fireplaces do not require a chimney at all, as they produce no smoke or gasses.

It’s recommended to clean your gas fireplace annually. First, ensure the gas is turned off. Then, clean the individual parts of the fireplace. After that, gently vacuum the logs. Clean the glass with a fireplace glass cleaner (avoid standard glass cleaners as they may react with carbon deposits). Finally, wipe down the interior edges of the fireplace with a damp cloth.

Yes, certain gas fireplaces are specifically designed for outdoor use and are available in various styles to enhance any outdoor area.

What are some signs that my gas fireplace needs repair?

• The pilot light won’t stay lit.
• You detect a rotten egg smell or hissing sound, which may indicate a gas leak.
• Excessive soot on glass doors, indicating possible vent blockage.
• Fireplace switches on and off randomly.
• Worn or damaged components.

A brief gas smell is normal when turning on the fireplace, but it should dissipate quickly. If the smell lingers, it may indicate a leak. In this case, do not light the fireplace, turn off the gas immediately, and contact our experts. Avoid attempting repairs yourself, as this can be dangerous.

If the pilot light and burner won’t stay on, it’s often due to a faulty thermocouple, which can wear out over time. If your unit is 10 years or older, it may be time to replace it. Other possibilities include a low thermostat setting or insufficient fresh air reaching the fireplace – especially in very cold conditions if the vent termination is frozen or clogged with ice or debris. Professional servicing can help diagnose and fix this issue.