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Electric Stove Buying Guide
An electric stove isn’t just another household appliance; it combines convenience and style, providing warmth and visual appeal.
If you’re considering buying one, you’re in for an upgrade that could transform the vibe of your space. This guide will help you find the perfect electric stove to match your preferences.
Why choose an electric stove?
Electric stoves are becoming the go-to for many homeowners and for a good reason. Let’s dive deeper into some reasons you might choose this modern marvel.
Effortless installation
Do you value hassle-free installation processes? An electric stove might be perfect if you want a stove that you can plug and play.
No more complex setups
Electric stoves come out on top when it comes to easy installation. Gone are complicated setups involving chimneys, venting systems, or gas lines. The simplicity of an electric stove is hard to beat. All you need to do is find a suitable spot, ensure you have a nearby socket, and you’re all set. This straightforwardness makes the process faster and often cheaper, eliminating potential construction costs.
Versatility in placement
The ease of installation for an electric stove also means flexibility in placement. Want it in the bedroom? No problem. Thinking about the living room? Go for it. The lack of necessary ventilation means you can place your electric stove in almost any room – and even move it around if you like.
Eco-friendly option
Electric stoves stand out in a world becoming increasingly conscious about its carbon footprint. They don’t emit harmful fumes or pollutants, ensuring you’re heating your home without compromising the environment.
Plus, with many countries (including the UK) moving towards green energy solutions, the electricity that powers your stove might soon come from renewable sources like solar or wind power. This makes electric stoves a forward-thinking choice, aligning with future sustainable energy trends.
Safety first
One of the main safety features of electric stoves is the lack of real flames. This means less risk of accidental fires or burns. This relief can be significant, especially for households with curious pets or children.
Besides the inherent safety of no open flames, many modern electric stoves have additional safety features. Overheat protection ensures the unit doesn’t get too hot, while automatic shut-offs kick in if the stove is left on for too long or if a potential hazard is detected.
Consistent performance
Unlike wood-burning stoves, which can have fluctuations based on wood type or condition, electric stoves provide a consistent heat output. Once you set your desired temperature, the stove maintains it, providing a reliable and stable heating solution.
When the cold sets in and you want more warmth in your home, electric stoves deliver instantly. No waiting for logs to catch fire or adjusting settings to get the right flame. Just a simple push of a button or a flick of a switch, and you’re basking in the warmth.
Learn more: The Best Electric Stove Fires for Winter
Understanding electric stove heat settings and heat output
When choosing an electric stove, one of the crucial factors to consider is the heat output. But what does it entail, and how does it affect your electric stove experience? Let’s explore the nuances of heat settings.
The basics of heat output
Heat output, often measured in kilowatts (kW), dictates how much warmth your electric stove can provide. A higher kW rating typically means the stove can produce more heat. However, the desired heat output often depends on the size and insulation quality of the room.
Most electric stoves have a heat output of between 1-3kW.
Customisable heat settings
Many electric stoves come with adjustable heat settings. This flexibility allows users to choose between a gentle warmth perfect for a slightly chilly evening or a higher setting for colder nights.
Plus, having the option to adjust the heat output also allows for better energy management. Instead of running your stove at full power, you can select a lower setting and save money on your electricity bills.
Thermostatic controls
Some modern electric stoves are equipped with thermostatic controls. These smart devices can detect the temperature in the room and adjust the stove’s heat output accordingly. If the room gets too cold, the stove heats up, and vice versa.
The beauty of thermostatic controls lies in their ability to maintain a consistent room temperature. This ensures you always stay comfortable without constantly adjusting the settings.
Electric stove heat distribution
While electric stoves radiate heat, it’s essential to understand how they distribute it. Many units use a fan to disperse warmth evenly throughout the room, ensuring no cold spots.
Overheat protection
Safety is paramount, and overheat protection is a feature you should always look out for. This function ensures the stove doesn’t exceed safe temperature levels. If the unit becomes too hot, the system will automatically shut off, safeguarding both the appliance and your home.
Electric stove flame effects
The visual appeal of an electric stove isn’t just about its design; it’s also about the flame effects it produces. Even though electric stoves don’t have real flames, technological advancement has enabled them to mimic the real thing remarkably well. Here’s what you need to know about these mesmerising effects:
The science behind the magic
Most modern electric stoves utilise LED (Light Emitting Diode) or LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) technology to create vivid flame visuals. These technologies offer bright, clear, and realistic flame effects, adding ambience without the hazards of a real fire.
What’s more, some high-end models even offer 3D flame effects, which use a combination of lighting and reflections to give the illusion of depth and movement. This adds an extra layer of realism, making it almost indistinguishable from actual flames.
Read more: Our Most Realistic Electric Log Burners
Customisable flame brightness
Most electric stoves allow you to adjust the brightness of the flame effect. Whether you want a dim, romantic glow or a bright, lively blaze, you can modify the settings to fit the atmosphere you’re aiming for.
Brighter flame settings can be perfect for daytime use, making the flame visible even in well-lit rooms. As night falls, you can opt for softer settings for a more subdued and relaxing ambience.
Colour variations
While traditional fires have a characteristic orange and yellow hue, some electric stoves offer various colour options for their flame effects. You can use these variations, from soothing blues to fiery reds, to set a unique mood or as a conversation starter.
Flame without heat
One of the fantastic features of electric stoves is the ability to have the flame effect without emitting heat. This means you can enjoy the visual appeal of dancing flames even in warmer months without your room becoming uncomfortably hot.
Electric stove longevity and maintenance
LEDs used in flame effects are known for their longevity. Typically, they can last tens of thousands of hours before you need to replace them. This means you can enjoy the beautiful flame visuals for years without concern.
What’s more, apart from the occasional bulb replacement, the flame effect requires minimal maintenance. Dusting off the screen or glass occasionally will ensure clear, unobstructed views of the flame effect.
Electric stove sizes and designs
Size and design are crucial factors when choosing an electric stove. After all, this piece will warm your room and play a significant role in its aesthetic appeal. Here’s what you should consider:
Space assessment
Before choosing a design, measuring the intended spot for your electric stove is essential. Keep in mind the width, depth, and height. A stove that’s too large may overwhelm a room, while one that’s too small might look lost.
Heat output and room size
Size doesn’t just influence appearance; it also correlates with the stove’s heat output. To heat it effectively, a larger room might require a bigger electric stove or a model with a higher kW output.
Traditional vs. modern look
Electric stoves come in a plethora of designs, ranging from classic wood stove replicas to sleek, contemporary pieces. While traditional designs evoke a sense of nostalgia and rustic charm, modern designs can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any space.
Material choices
Electric stoves are crafted from various materials, including cast iron, steel, and glass. Each material offers a unique look and feel. For example, cast iron has a classic, rugged appeal, while glass-fronted models provide a sleek, minimalist vibe.
Display and electric stove controls
How the controls and displays are integrated into the stove’s design can influence its overall look. Some models offer hidden control panels to maintain a clean façade. In contrast, others might have visible knobs that add to a retro aesthetic.
Flame background
Behind those mesmerising flame effects, there’s often a backdrop. Some electric stoves feature brick-like backgrounds, while others might have a smooth, reflective surface to enhance the flame visuals. This background plays a subtle yet significant role in the overall aesthetic.
Electric stove colour palettes
While black and metallic shades are common, electric stoves are also available in a broader colour palette. Whether you’re looking for a stark white piece, a rustic red, or even a vibrant blue, there’s likely a design to match your interior décor.
Learn more: Next Generation Electric Stoves
Understanding electric stove running costs
When considering an electric stove, it’s not just about the initial purchase price. The long-term costs associated with running your stove are equally important. Understanding these costs can aid in making a financially sound choice that aligns with your budget.
Electric stove electricity consumption
The primary factor in running costs is the stove’s power consumption, often measured in watts. To calculate the costs, you need to convert this into kilowatt-hours (kWh).
For example, a 2000W (or 2kW) electric stove running for an hour consumes 2kWh.
Different regions and providers offer varying electricity rates. Check your electricity bill or contact your provider for your per kWh rate. Multiply this rate by the stove’s kWh consumption to estimate running costs.
Read more: How Much Do Gas & Electric Stoves Cost to Run?
Frequency of use and heat settings
The more frequently you use your stove, the higher the running costs. If you plan to use the electric stove daily during winter months but infrequently during other times, you’ll have varying monthly expenses.
What’s more, running your electric stove on a higher heat setting will consume more power. Adjusting to a lower setting, especially when you need gentle warmth, can lead to significant savings over time.
Energy-efficient features
Thermostatic controls: As mentioned earlier, electric stoves with thermostatic controls can auto-adjust their heat output based on room temperatures. This intelligent feature can prevent unnecessary power consumption, translating to lower costs.
Timers and programmable settings: Some stoves come equipped with timers or programmable settings. These allow you to set the stove to turn off after a certain period or at a particular time, ensuring you’re not wasting energy when it’s not needed.
Maintenance and longevity
Electric stoves generally have fewer parts that can wear out compared to gas or wood stoves. This means fewer repairs and replacements, leading to reduced maintenance costs.
Find the right electric stove for you at Direct Stoves
Ready to find the perfect electric stove for your home? Browse our extensive collection here. From modern to traditional designs, we've got something for every home.
Plus, we offer free delivery to the UK mainland, a range of finance options to spread the cost, and no-hassle 14-day returns.
Got a question? Our friendly customer service team is just a call or an email away. Contact [email protected] or call 0161516 3698. Or, visit us at our showrooms in Cheadle, Bromsgrove, and Stockport.
