If you're looking for the most realistic electric fireplace, you need to learn about virtual fireplaces.
A virtual fireplace is an electric fireplace that uses an LCD screen to display a video recording of flames. This is a new approach to electric fireplaces, and when done right, virtual fireplaces look incredibly realistic.
Virtual fireplaces look realistic thanks to the combination of the following components:
Note: Not all virtual electric fireplaces will have all these components or have them done right, so make sure to look out for these when shopping.
Virtual and LED electric fireplaces are similar in many other aspects like heat output, energy consumption, installation, and safety. However, they are entirely different in the way they produce flames.
In photo, LED Fireplace: Touchstone Sideline Electric Fireplace
Here's a handy guide on the differences and similarities between virtual and LED fireplaces:
As mentioned, installing virtual fireplaces is much easier and budget-friendly compared to most other types of fireplaces. There's no need for venting or special insulation. You can install these fireplaces directly into drywall or cabinetry with minimal clearances.
To install a virtual fireplace, all you need is an electrical connection on a dedicated circuit. It can either be an outlet or a hardwired connection. Most models operate on a standard 120V current, while some have an option to connect to 240V and produce double the heat.
There are multiple installation options for different applications. Let's review them all.
Like LED Electric fireplaces, built-in installation is the most popular type of installation of virtual fireplaces as well.
With this type of installation, you either create an opening in the drywall and frame it to support the fireplace or build out a bump-out to accommodate the fireplace. Some virtual fireplaces can fit into 2x6 walls while others require a bump-out. Make sure to check the depth of the fireplace and framing dimensions when you're shopping.
Wall mounted installation is when you hang your fireplace on a wall without creating any openings, just like how you would mount a flat screen TV. There is one virtual fireplace that is best for this type of installation: Modern Flames Orion Multi.
If you want to wall mount this fireplace, you need to buy the Floating Mantel Set for it that's designed to hide all the internal parts and cord of the fireplace. While it does cost extra, it can save you a lot of time and money on building out the bump-out. Plus, it looks unique and stylish.
Virtual Fireplaces inserts are designed to be installed in retrofit wood or gas fireplaces to convert them to electric. They usually have the same proportions and sizes as traditional fireplaces to make it easier for them to fit into existing openings. However, this is not the only way virtual fireplace inserts can be installed.
In photo: Litedeer Homes LiteStar Smart Built-In Electric Fireplace Insert
They can be built into drywall or cabinetry just like other linear virtual fireplaces. The only difference is that virtual fireplace inserts are usually deeper so you will definitely need to create more depth in the wall to fit them in and they look more traditional.
Virtual fireplaces can range from $1,500 for a basic insert to $13,000 for a large 120" top-of-the-line unit. Overall, expect to pay about 10%-20% more for virtual fireplace compared to LED electric fireplaces. Prices are higher mostly due to the new technology that hikes up manufacturing costs.
However, virtual fireplaces are still more affordable than most quality gas fireplaces. They're also more cost effective to install because you don't need to run any lines aside from electrical or do any ductwork.
Virtual fireplaces are gaining popularity. The very first brand that introduced them was Modern Flames. They still hold the golden standard of quality when it comes to virtual fireplaces and continue to innovate in this category with all the other brands following suit.
However, it's worth mentioning that Modern Flames' virtual fireplace was more of a re-introduction. Years before that, Dimplex had a slightly different version of a virtual fireplace called Opti-V. This model is still around.
The way it works is slightly different and involves mirror reflection, however, the video of flames playing on a screen is still the core feature so it's fair to call it a virtual fireplace as well. However, as of this writing, Dimplex Opt-V is outdated. We are hoping Dimplex will come out with the new version of it soon.
Dimplex and Modern Flames have always been at the forefront of innovation when it comes to electric fireplaces. They are the best brands to consider for a high quality virtual fireplace.
Other brands to consider are Napoleon, Dynasty, and Litedeer. They are more affordable, might not have all the bells and whistles but have a reliable track record so we feel confident recommending them.
If you want to learn more about virtual fireplaces, I invite you to check out my conversation with Kris Richardson, the founder of Modern Flames.
In this video we cover all the main questions about virtual fireplaces and dive deep into Modern Flames' line of virtual fireplaces called Orion, including some amazing DIY installation options they have available for Orion Multi and Orion Slim. Kris announces an exciting upgrade that is being rolled out to all Modern Flames electric fireplaces and shares their plans for the future.
Virtual fireplaces represent an exciting breakthrough in technology. They completely change expectations of what an electric fireplace can look like. Thanks to virtual fireplaces, electric fireplaces are now more realistic than ever and this is only the beginning.
Best part, virtual fireplaces have all the benefits of electric fireplaces like the ease of installation, maintenance, and controls, better safety, energy efficiency and cost effectiveness. At the same time, they also eliminate some of the downsides to traditional LED electric fireplaces, like fake-looking flames and potential technical issues with the motor.
Are you excited about virtual fireplaces yet? Check out our collection of virtual fireplaces to start shopping now.
If you have any questions that we haven't covered, please drop a comment below or ask as directly via phone at 866-713-2399 or email at support@modernblaze.com. We'll be happy to hear from you!
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