Shopsmith Forums

I have been looking at electric fireplaces at Costco, Lowes, and Home Depot and have not been impressed with the quality of the woodwork in the surround and mantle. I figure I could make something better but I don't know where to get the electric heater part with the fake flames. It appears that all of the electric fireplaces are shipped as two separate boxes: one box has the fireplace while the other has the surround and mangle. Anyway looking on the web I can't find a source for the flame and heater part. Any one here have an idea where I can get one?

Mike

I haven't checked into these but I would guess the displays are made in China and are the most expensive part of the total unit. If they are packed separately that's a plus. Buy the item and make your own surround and mantle. Use the supplied wood for another project. One other plus.... the supplied wood will probably have holes for assembly which could be used as a template for the cabinet you build.

I am thinking along the lines of SS50th with a frugal twist.

Find a used one that has an insert that you like and dismantle the rest for project wood. http://fredericksburg.craigslist.org/search/?areaID=457&subAreaID=&query=electric+fireplace&catAbb=sss

My Inlaws, who used to live in suite in our house, had one and they could only use the decorative part as the heater would blow the breaker. The instructions said that it should have it's own circuit to use the heater.

Are you sure that the big box stores don't sell the "firebox" alone? Home Depot in our area used to. I don't know about this year since I haven't looked yet but I have considered it in the past to fit into our fake fireplace opening.

Or, they may be willing to order one for you.

Good luck.

John

Try Electricfireplaces.com they have plenty of choices in both built in and plug in models.

Thanks everyone. I didn't think of the Craigslist approach but that is certainly an option. Also, I didn't see just the firebox alone at any of the stores I visited but that might vary by locations. Electricfireplaces.com does have some units I apparently missed in my google searches so that might be a good option too. Anyway, thanks again for all the assistance. Now I have some things to check out.

Mike

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I bought this electric fireplace at Ace Hardware. Dimensions were specified by In-Laws. They wanted the mantle to go with their bookcases. I didn't agree with how tall they wanted it but it was for them and they like it. Shouldn't be hard to find just a fire box.