Electric fireplaces provide the same overall visual interest as most gas units without the actual flame. These fireplaces offer the same warmth and affect of a fireplace for those living in apartments and have homes without a chimney, or are on a tight budget. Electric hearth products do not need a chimney and can be easily installed almost anywhere. Because the heat output can be regulated or turned completely off, they are ideal and economical for year-round use and for the more temperate areas of the country.

Usually the fireplace's visual appeal has nothing to do with the flame. The attraction comes primarily from the decor created by the hearth, the mantle and the decorative face. In new construction, electric fireplaces offer all the same interior design options, such as rustic stone, brick, marble and wood. For existing homes, the electric unit may be feasible where wood-burning or gas fireplaces simply are not. The current designs are designed with rich wood tones, stone, marble and brick. While some electric fireplaces are designed for appearance only, others are constructed with heaters replacing the worries of fumes.

Electric fireplaces are much simpler to install than either wood- or gas-fired units. Most electric fireplaces can simply be plugged in and are ready for operation. Because they fit entirely inside the insulated envelope of the house, the unit doesn't interfere with the insulation, air sealing or moisture protection of the building's outside shell. They look exactly like a wood burning fireplace and are ideal for a bedroom, family room, or office and create a warm, inviting feel to the room. The cost of operation for these electric heaters is the same as any other electric resistance heat, which is usually higher than that of gas or wood.

Electric logs are often used that easily convert a wood fireplace to electric. The logs are set in the opening and the cord plugged in. Electric logs come in different styles, some mimicking the look of wood and others the style of glowing coals. The electric freestanding stoves are also available that can be installed virtually anywhere. The selection of models range from the "old woodstove" look to more modern and formal designs.