Do TV Stand Fireplaces Use a Lot of Electricity

by Renee Xia on September 02, 2025

do-tv-stand-fireplaces-use-a-lot-of-electricity

Electric fireplace TV stands offer flame effects that create mesmerizing flame patterns. If you’re considering replacing the mess and hassle of a traditional fireplace with a chimney, try this electric fireplace TV stand that costs slightly more than a standard TV stand with double functions value, especially in winter. Or you may wonder, what’s involved in the ongoing upkeep and investment.

How do Electric Fireplace Work?

An electric fireplace works by an electric supply to power heating elements and a blower to bring warmth to the room, while a look of real flames is created by light reflecting off a spinning refractor or through other methods like water vapor or LED screen or rotisserie-style light effect.

It mainly offers two functions: creating visual flame effects and producing heat. It draws in cool air, heats it with heating elements, and circulates the warm air into the room.

Do Electric Fires Use a Lot of Electricity?

This question involves factors affecting the operating costs of an electric fireplace. It depends on many such as the model, settings, heating efficiency, frequency and duration of usage, power and size, electricity prices, and energy-saving technology. Let’s break it down further:

do-tv-stand-fireplaces-use-a-lot-of-electricity

Model:

    • Most electric fireplaces consume between 1,000 to 2,000 watts per hour in full-power mode.
    • Most models allow flame-only mode for ambience, allowing you to enjoy the ambience without running the heater. The flames of an electric fireplace use slightly under 300 Watts of power for this mode.
    • An electric fireplace in intermittent heating mode uses roughly half the electricity of its full-heat setting, which is typically around 750-1500 watts total.
    • Many models include features such as adjustable timers and thermostats. You may use thermostat control to set an ideal heating temperature, or the timer to automatically turn off the fireplace at night or when you are away from home.

Setting:

    • The flame intensity can be moderately reduced. When you choose a low lighting setting, it creates a warm atmosphere while being more energy-saving.
    • If you run your fireplace at the maximum heat setting, it will use more electricity compared to the lower settings.

Power and Size:

    • The higher the power, the greater the power consumption and the higher the operating costs.
    • In the meantime, you may also adjust the frequency of usage based on seasons, reducing the use accordingly when the weather is warmer.

Heating Efficiency:

    • Some electric fireplaces are designed to be more energy efficient and thus use less electricity for the same amount of heat output.

Frequency and Duration of Usage:

    • The frequency and duration of use are the main factors affecting electricity costs. Naturally, the more you use your electric fireplace, the more electricity it will consume.
    • In the meantime, you may also adjust the frequency of usage based on seasons, reducing the use accordingly when the weather is warmer.

Energy Consumption of Electric Fireplaces Compared to Other Household Appliances or Heaters

1.Fireplace TV Stands vs Large Appliances vs Small Appliances

Electric fireplaces beat central heating for single rooms—no wasted energy heating empty spaces, making them relatively efficient for targeted heating.

Large appliances, such as refrigerators, dryers, water heaters, and dishwashers, can use a large amount of power. Water heater, with a 4500-watt capacity, potentially consumes 9 kWh of electricity daily, according to Bajaj Finserv.

Electric fireplaces’ power consumption is more similar to small appliances, such as toasters or coffee makers. A toaster might use 800-1400 watts per use, and a coffee maker 900-1200 watts. But features like intermittent heating mode make the difference—automatic adjustments mean they're not constantly running at full blast like most small appliances.

2.Fireplace TV Stands vs. Space Heaters vs. Traditional Fireplaces

An electric fireplace typically is less expensive in bills as it creates a near-perfect energy conversion. No chimney or ventilation system is required, thus creating almost zero energy waste. While the traditional wood-burning fireplaces can lose up to 70% of heat up the chimney.

Some electric fireplace also offers a 12-color flame log ember bed for a lifelike burning visual, providing the ambiance of a traditional fireplace without the need for fuel or venting.

do-tv-stand-fireplaces-use-a-lot-of-electricity

And how much gas does a gas fireplace use?

On average, gas fireplaces consume between 20,000 and 60,000 BTUs per hour. And before diving into the numbers, here's what you need to know:

    • BTU/h = watts * 3.412141633. You need to divide the BTU/h value by 3.412141633.
    • Least Consumption: 20,000 BTUs / 3.412141633 = 58614 watts
    • Best Consumption: 60,000 BTUs / 3.412141633 = 175842 watts

The thermal efficiency of a gas fireplace is normally 70% - 90%, and some of the heat energy will escape during the combustion process.

The adjustable thermostat on many electric fireplace models also contributes to their efficiency. By allowing you to set the desired temperature, the fireplace will automatically turn off once it reaches this temperature, saving energy compared to a wood-burning fireplace that continues to consume wood and produce heat. Fire can only be manually extinguished, or the wood is entirely burnt.

Benefits of Electric Fireplace Versus Traditional Heaters:

    • It is the least complex fireplace option in installation, fuel, and maintenance costs. Most need an electrical outlet to plug into.
    • By opting for an electric fireplace, homeowners can enjoy the warmth and feel of a fire while reducing their carbon footprint.
    • An electric fireplace requires little to no maintenance. Unlike wood-burning or gas fireplaces, electric models don't burn fuel, so there's no ash, smoke, or soot to clean up from the firebox.
    • The fire risk of an electric fireplace is lower than that of other types. Regular checks of the power source and electrical cords, together with many other home appliances, are enough to guarantee safety. Perfect for families with elders or kids at home, especially with timing setting or thermal overload protection.

do-tv-stand-fireplaces-use-a-lot-of-electricity

How Much Does It Really Cost to Run an Electric Fireplace?

According to data provided by the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), the average electricity rate in the U.S. is 17.47 cents per kilowatt-hour (as of August 2025). Here’s a simple breakdown of a monthly electricity cost for a standard 1,500-watt electric fireplace.

Estimated Costs:

Mode

Power Usage

Electricity Rate Per Hour

Cost Per Hour

Cost (4 hours/day)

Cost Per Month (4hrs/day)

Full-Power

1.5 kilowatt

$0.1747

$0.26

$1.05

$31.45

LED Only

0.02 kilowatt

$0.1747

<$0.01

<$0.02

$0.42

 

Energy Saving Tips for Using TV Stand Fireplace

    • Use the thermostat to maintain consistent temperatures.
    • Run the flame-only mode when you want ambiance without heat.
    • Place the unit in the main living area for maximum efficiency.
    • Choose the size and power that suits your home’s needs.
    • Set the timer to control the operating time.
    • Regular cleaning of the fan outlets.

With some simple adjustments, you can maximize your electric fireplace's efficiency and reduce electricity costs.

Though modern electric fireplaces cannot completely replicate the crackling sound or warmth of a real fire, they are more intelligent safety device than the traditional ones and cost less. Choosing a reliable brand like Homrest ensures you get both a stylish feeling and performance while making sure your energy bills are under control.

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