Electric fires are some of the most reliable appliances available. They work by using an electric-powered heating element (typically a fan heater and coil) to send 1–2kw of heat around your room.
Manufacturers then use a clever combination of LED technology and mirrors to replicate the pattern and depth of authentic flames. Despite lasting between 10–20 years (with proper care), even the most reliable of fireplaces will start to break down.
So, we’re here to tell you the warning signs! If your appliance is especially noisy, breaking down more often, or even costing you more in utility bills, it might be time to shop for brand-new electric fireplaces.
Does it sound noisy?
Has your fireplace started to ramp up the volume over the past couple of weeks? Clattering noises aren’t a good sign, as electric units are designed to operate quietly. Unexpected sounds are often an indication that something isn’t quite right internally.
It may be that screws and fittings have become loose in the machine. Elements such as tubes or rods may become bent or misaligned, or there may be a problem with the fan. Humming and grinding noises may suggest that it’s time for an all-around replacement.
Does it require frequent repairs?
Being at the constant beck and call of your fireplace can be especially time-consuming. Electric units are designed for reliability, but over time, components can wear out. The heating element may degrade, or the fans that distribute heat could suffer motor fatigue.
Electrical components (e.g., wiring and circuit boards) are also susceptible to wear and tear. Although it’s tempting to fix each issue as it pops up, the cumulative cost of parts can quickly add up.
You could pay between £100–£300 for each part, at which point you’d have been better off buying a whole new fire!
Does it have faulty/uneven heating?
Another major red flag is if your fire’s heating element is malfunctioning. This telltale sign may crop up in a number of ways, but inconsistent heat distribution is usually the result of a malfunctioning heat element.
Even more worryingly, it could be related to the thermostat. A faulty thermostat can misread temperatures and cause the fire to underheat or overheat certain areas. The internal fan, which is responsible for dispersing heat evenly, may also cause intermittent heat.
Some of these issues might be fixable, but they often signal that the unit’s overall health is declining. If your electric fire is consistently underperforming, the most sensible option is a full replacement.
Are your energy bills increasing?
If you’ve noticed your home’s energy bills creeping up without a clear explanation, your electric fire might be to blame. An electric fire that’s over 10 or even 15 years old will certainly not be operating at the same level of efficiency as it first was.
As such, it’ll be using the same amount of energy to produce reduced levels of warmth. One of the biggest draws of electric fireplaces is that they convert 100% of the electricity they produce into usable heat.
They also typically operate between 1,000 to 2,000 watts. If your unit is working harder to provide the same heat output, it’s consuming more electricity. At an average electricity rate, this increased consumption can add a noticeable amount to your monthly expenses.
Is your electric fire showing signs of wear and tear?
Electric fireplaces are often the go-to choice for comfort and reliability in homes. They operate by using an electric heating element—typically a fan heater and coil—to distribute 1–2kw of heat throughout your space.
Modern designs also incorporate LED technology and mirrors to create the illusion of authentic flames. That adds ambiance without the hassle of real logs or chimneys. With proper care, these fireplaces can last anywhere from 10 to 20 years. But like all appliances, they do eventually show signs of aging.
If your electric fire is becoming more trouble than it’s worth, you may be in need of a replacement. From unusual noises to higher energy bills, you need to be able to identify the warning signs. If your fire is operating loudly, frequently breaking down, or running up your utility costs, it could be time to explore newer, more efficient models.
Time to shop!
So, is it really time to replace your electric fireplace?
If you’ve been experiencing any of these four major issues for a prolonged period, we’d say yes. Luckily, the fireplace manufacturing industry is bigger than ever. You can find hang-on-the-wall models, electric media wall fires and inset models, all for incredible prices.
Recent Comments