A flame effect electric fire offers functionality as well as pleasure: the traditional, cosy atmosphere of a solid fuel fire, combined with the cleanliness and convenience of an electric fire. The most well known manufacturer of flame effect electric fires is probably Dimplex, and their new and revolutionary ‘Opti-Myst’ range of fires uses holograms to create flames – a very light water mist is illuminated with the colours of red and orange to form a realistic flame and smoke effect, with glowing logs and a glimmering ashbed completing the look.

The flames of an Opti-Myst fire do not crackle and burn like an authentic fire, but nevertheless, the fire still looks surprisingly authentic and thus produces the same feelings of comfort and warmth associated with a solid fuel fire. Dimplex have been producing opti-flame fires since 1988, but, as they say themselves, the Opti-Myst is ‘the most realistic flame and smoke effect ever seen in an electric fire’.

A flame effect electric fire comes with all the usual benefits of any other electric fire – the convenience, the easy installation, the affordable running costs. With many people today leading busy lives, the convenience factor is a big plus of the electric fire. The safety aspect is another big selling point – no more noxious fumes or smoke and ash to deal with.

So, the flame effect electric fire produces a stunning visual effect, but lacks the sounds and smells associated with a real fire. For the reasons above, most people would rather experience the comfort and warmth associated with a real fire without the associated sounds and smells, than have to make a fire every day, with all the time and budget constraints – for this reason, the flame effect electric fire will always be a big seller.