While electric fireplaces are extremely safe, leaving them on overnight (or any time they will not be attended) is not recommended. But electric fireplaces from ClassicFlame® have a number of built-in safety features to help protect you and your home, no matter the situation. For example, many models come with a timer.
An electric fireplace can be left on for an indefinite period of time. However, with the heating element on 24/7, you will notice a difference in your electric bill. That being said, many people leave their electric fireplace operating for extended periods of time, with the heat turned off.
Electric fireplaces are generally safe to leave on overnight, provided they have safety features like overheat protection. Use timers, ensure proper ventilation, and avoid blocking vents for safe overnight operation.
Risks of Leaving an Electric Fireplace On Unattended
Electric fireplaces, while generally safer than wood-burning stoves, can still pose a risk if left unattended for long periods. Some older models lack advanced safety features and may get too hot, increasing the risk of electrical hazards or even fires.
The average total cost to operate the flame and heater is approximately 8¢ per hour (when the heater cycles at 50%). These amounts can fluctuate depending on the electricity rates in your specific area. Compared to a gas fireplace, which can only be used with the heat-activated, gas often runs at 17¢ per hour.
For many, the biggest drawback of an electric fireplace is its inability to replicate the authentic experience of a wood-burning fireplace. The distinct sound of crackling wood and the characteristic smell of burning logs are conspicuously absent in electric models.
Hourly Cost: Electric fireplaces typically cost around $0.18 per hour. Factors Affecting Cost: Fireplace size, wattage, room insulation, and local electricity rates. Cost-Saving Tips: Use timers, choose energy-efficient models, and insulate rooms to retain heat.
No, you should never leave a fireplace burning overnight or unattended during the day. While fireplaces are made to contain fires, fires can and do spread from fireplaces, so it's crucial that you're there to monitor them and put them out if needed.
There's No Flame Danger
The “flames” themselves do not produce any heat or pose any danger. The heat comes from a system similar to a space heater, which blows air over an electric coil. Infrared heating units use electromagnetic heating and a fan to create and distribute heat. Either way, the dangers are minimal.
Is it safe to leave an electric on overnight? 'Generally, I would never recommend that you leave an electric heater on all night, unless it's an electric heater that's very specifically designed to be on overnight.
Many electric fireplaces come with an automatic shut-off feature, which turns off the fireplace if it overheats or detects any abnormal operation. This can prevent accidents and potential fire hazards. Space heaters also have safety features, but their portability can increase the risk if not used correctly.
There are two basic rules for leaving a fireplace operating during the night. DON'T leave the unit on overnight. DO leave the flue open so that excess carbon monoxide is vented. The main concern with a gas-burning appliance is the exhaust of carbon monoxide and leaving the unit on overnight is simply risky.
Electric fireplaces don't produce an actual flame, which reduces the risk of fire. No fumes. Even the best gas and wood-fueled fireplaces raise the risk of leaking fumes and smoke into your home.
It's Dangerous
Depending on the temperature you use, leaving the stove on too long can melt temperature dials. In a scarier scenario, the longer an electric stove runs unattended, the greater the chance of an electrical breakdown and possible fire.
Artificial fireplaces are equipped with multiple safety features: Overheat Protection: Automatically shuts off the unit if it becomes too hot. Cool-Touch Glass: Ensures that the glass front stays cool to prevent burns.
The duration for which you can leave a space heater running depends on the time of day and your specific needs. During the Day: It's safe to leave your heater on for 6-8 hours if you're in the room. If you're busy or moving between rooms, consider using a timer to automatically shut it off after a few hours.
While electric fireplaces are extremely safe, leaving them on overnight (or any time they will not be attended) is not recommended. But electric fireplaces from ClassicFlame® have a number of built-in safety features to help protect you and your home, no matter the situation. For example, many models come with a timer.
As previously mentioned, most electric fireplaces consume between 1,000 to 2,000 watts per hour, with an average model using about 1,500 watts or 1.5 kilowatts (kW) per hour. This gives an estimate of 180 kWh per month for an electric fireplace running 4 hours per day.
While sleeping with a fireplace on can be comforting, it poses risks such as carbon monoxide exposure, ventilation issues, and fire hazards that need to be considered. Carbon monoxide exposure is a particularly concerning risk when it comes to sleeping with a fireplace on.
Traditional fireplaces can be a major fire hazard if not properly maintained, and even with proper maintenance, a chimney fire can still occur. Electric fireplace inserts, on the other hand, do not produce any flames or emissions, making them a safer option for homes with children or pets.
If you're leaving the home or retiring for the evening, always close the glass doors but leave the flue open.
Most manufacturers recommend only leaving the fireplace running if the heating element is turned off. You can still leave the faux flames flickering for as long as you want without worrying about any safety issues.
Daily and Monthly
Some states have higher electricity prices making electric fireplaces expensive to use in those areas. Using the average price of $0.1319 per kWh and the typical wattage of electric fireplaces (1500 watts), you'll spend about $4.75 a day if you run your fireplace for 24 hours.
Fireplaces can boost property value by 6-12%. Electric fireplaces often offer the best return due to low costs and minimal maintenance. Energy-efficient features attract eco-conscious buyers. Different types—wood-burning, gas, electric, gel, or ethanol—can impact your home's value and marketability.