Electric Fireplaces? (renting, Home Depot, utilities)

[lukedaddy]

With this thing called winter approaching I was wondering what your take on Electric fireplaces are? I know, I know a real one is awesome.......but we no longer have a real one!
We were looking at getting one that just plugs in and also can give off a little heat. You may have seen them.....fake mantle and all?
Are they worth it? I seen price ranges from 199 to over 2k on these and I would be sticking to the low end.

[daniellefort]

I had one in Florida when i lived there. We used it in the winter time just to warm the room a little bit on the chilly days but i found it used a lot of electricity and didn't really heat as well for as much as it was running. We got ours at Home Depot and paid $300 for it. In NH during the winter months, I can imagine having to keep it running quite a lot and costing you a fortune.

[sgthoskins]

lukedaddy do you want it for a heating alternative or do you want it for looks?

[lukedaddy]

I want it for looks mainly.......however to have it as a "space heater" would be nice. Oh, and one thing I forgot to mention in the earlier post, we are renting and our utilities are included in the rent!
Yeah, I did my research on fuel oil heating costs before I left GA!

[sgthoskins]

Well if you are renting and it's for looks I can't help you. I wish I could. I was going to suggest a wood stove if you were planning on off setting your heat costs. Make sure you seal your windows with plastic that you heat and tighten. It will make a big difference. Even though it's paid for you won't get those cold drafts in January when it's subzero at night.

Glad to have you in NH.