The Latest Features in Electric Fire Technology

Electric fires and fireplaces have been around for a while – and they have come a long way, especially over the past few years. New technologies and innovations have led to major improvements in flame effects, customisation, efficiency, connectivity, control, safety and design. 

If you’re looking to install a new electric fireplace in your home or upgrade an existing fire, here are some of the latest features to look out for. 

Ultra-realistic flame effects

One of the biggest areas of improvement in electric fires is in the flame effects. Modern electric fire units use advanced LED technology and projected imagery to create incredibly realistic flickering flames and logs that look just like a real wood-burning fire. 

Some of the enhancements include: 

• High-definition displays and HD video looping technology for crisp, clear and vibrant flames. The images are sharper and more refined than ever before. 
• Multi-coloured LEDs that can produce flames in different hues from orange to blue and green for a dynamic and authentic fire effect, or super colourful displays, depending on your preference. 
• 3D technology that creates a three-dimensional flame image, giving the illusion of depth and shadows for added realism. 
• Advanced reflector systems that refract and reflect the flames to mimic the way real fire dances and glows. 
• Realistic, uneven flames that fluctuate randomly in size and movement, avoiding a repetitive and unrealistic looped effect. 
• Lifelike simulated glowing embers beneath the flames using subtle changes in colour and intensity. 

With these improvements in technology, today’s electric fires provide an incredibly realistic optical illusion that makes the flames appear strikingly real and natural. 

Enhanced flame customisation

In addition to offering ultra-realistic flames, the latest electric fires allow you much more customisation over the flame effects compared to older models. Here are some of the flame customisation features you can expect:

• Adjustable brightness settings so you can control the luminance of the flames and embers. This allows you to set the right ambience, from a subtle flicker to a bright roaring fire. 
• Options to change the speed and movement of the flames from calm and tranquil to fast and erratic. This lets you create the perfect atmosphere. 
• Multiple flame effect options from traditional log fire to modern glass embers or crystalline ice effects. Select the style you prefer. 
• Ability to set times or schedules so the flames turn on and off at set times that suit your daily routine. For example, you could schedule the flames to activate in the evening when you get home. 
• Integration with smart home systems and voice controls so you can change your fireplace flames using your smartphone, tablet or voice assistant. 

With total control over the brightness, speed, style, timing and connectivity of the flames, you can fully customise your fireplace to match your preferences. 

Heating and efficiency upgrades 

A major benefit of electric fires is providing cosy, ambient heat on demand. The latest models feature upgrades that make them even more effective and efficient at heating your home. Some of the heating and efficiency upgrades include:

• More powerful heat output ranging from 750W to 2kW. Newer models can warm up larger rooms faster. 
• Improved thermostat technology that intelligently monitors and adjusts heat output to maintain a consistent temperature.
• Higher energy efficiency with cost savings of up to 50% compared to older electric fire models. New models maximise heat production while minimising energy consumption. 
• Low energy consumption even when not in active heating mode. Many new models use zero, or next to no energy when idle. 

With better heating power, coverage, controls and efficiency, the newest electric fires are an effective heat source providing cosy warmth at low operating cost. 

Smart home connectivity and control

One of the most exciting new features in modern electric fires is integration with smart home platforms for app and voice control convenience. The latest models offer:

• Support for leading smart home systems, WiFi, and Bluetooth.
• Dedicated apps to control your fire remotely via smartphone or tablet from anywhere inside or outside of the home. Adjust heat, flames, timers, and more. 
• Voice control compatibility with Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit and more. Change settings and activate heating or flames with simple voice commands. 
• Integration with home automation hubs like SmartThings, IFTTT and Hubitat to tie your fire into programmed scenes and automations with other smart devices. 
• Real-time status monitoring to check the current heat level, operating mode or schedule from your phone. 
• Geofencing capability to automatically turn the fire on or off based on your location. Arrive home to cosy warmth! 
• Remote software and firmware updates to add new features and upgrades over time. 

With smart connectivity, you can control your electric fire with unprecedented ease and customisation to complement your connected home ecosystem. 

Advanced remote controls 

While app and voice control offer exciting smart features, most electric fires also come with upgraded physical remote controls:

• Dimmable backlit buttons make controls visible in low light. 
• Customisable favourite modes to quickly activate your most-used settings. 
• Pre-programmed heating and flame schedules for convenience. 
• Indoor temperature readout to monitor how effectively the fire is heating. 
• Child lock functionality to avoid accidental changes. 
• Built-in storage stands or wall mountable options for safekeeping. 
• Extended RF and WiFi range for control from anywhere in the home. 

The latest remotes simplify manual control with all your essential features and settings just a few clicks away. 

Improved safety features 

Safety is paramount for any household heating appliance. That’s why modern electric fires include thorough safety enhancements: 

• Automatic shutoff if the unit overheats due to obstruction or overuse. This prevents fire hazards. 
• Glass fronts stay cool to the touch to avoid burns. 
• Sturdy screens and barriers to prevent interaction with heating elements and LEDs inside. 
• Tip-over switches that automatically power off the fireplace if it is accidentally knocked over. 
• Adjustable timers to shut off the fire after a set duration for added peace of mind. 
• Cool-touch exteriors and insulated sides/back to prevent injuries. 
• Hidden heating elements and wiring for reduced tampering risk. 
• Leakage circuit interrupters on select models to prevent electric shocks. 
• Thermal overload protection to shut off before overheating. 
• Compliance with latest British safety regulations for electric heating appliances. 

With multiple fail-safes and child-proof design, modern electric fires provide safe and reliable operation. 

New design options 

Along with technological advancements, electric fires have also expanded a lot when it comes to their design and installation options: 

• More compact and thinner profiles allow installation even in smaller spaces. 
• Larger sizing available for a dramatic fireplace centrepiece. 
• Frameless edge-to-edge glass for a clean and modern aesthetic. 
• Multiple media bed options from logs to crystals for unique fire effects. 
• Customisable interior finishes. 
• Mantel packages and surrounds for built-in installation. 
• Portable and wall-mountable designs for flexible placement. 
• Varied frame colours and materials from black steel to micro marble. 
• Compatibility with media walls and entertainment centres. 

With more choices than ever in size, media, finish and installation method, there’s an electric fire design to match any room and décor style. 

As we’ve seen, electric fire technology has rapidly evolved with major advancements across the board. From incredibly lifelike flames to smart home compatibility, today’s electric fires offer an unparalleled combination of aesthetics, functionality and convenience. 

If you’re ready to experience modern electric fire innovation first-hand, browse the extensive range on offer here at Direct Fireplaces. With all the latest features covered, and knowledgeable staff to help you find the perfect model, you’re sure to discover the ideal contemporary electric fire to complement your home, either online or at one of our showrooms. 

Plus, we offer free delivery to the UK mainland, 14-day no hassle returns, installation packages, and finance options. 

So, what are you waiting for? Take advantage of the stunning visuals, customisation, efficient heating, connectivity and clever controls that electric fires now provide. Bring home the ambience and comfort of a brand new electric fire from Direct Fireplaces today.