A contemporary covered patio space with a large, angular couch, a wood and glass coffee table, a white area rug with a black circle pattern, and a large natural stone hearth with a large electric fireplace and weathered, Driftwood log set.

The Top 5 Outdoor-Rated Electric Fireplaces  

Relax on the patio year-round with a cozy, affordable outdoor-rated electric fireplace

By: Tiffany Kurilla, NFI Certified Master Hearth Professional

Last Updated: May 28, 2025


Whether you’re looking to keep your patio open year-round or boost your home’s property value with luxurious upgrades, adding an outdoor-rated electric fireplace is the quickest, easiest, and most affordable solution.   

Electric fireplaces offer a hassle-free installation that won’t require masonry work, a chimney, or a gas line. And with no clearance requirements, you’ll have the freedom to place it almost anywhere in your outdoor living space. 

It also won’t produce any toxic fumes or emissions, so you can maximize safety while reducing your carbon footprint.  

How to Find an Electric Fireplace for Your Patio

It’s crucial to make sure that the electric fireplace you purchase for your patio is outdoor rated. Electric fireplaces that are meant for indoor use aren't built to withstand the elements, whereas outdoor-rated models are made with durable, weatherproof materials.   

You’ll also need to install your outdoor-rated electric fireplace on a covered patio or screened-in porch.  

It should be placed at least 3 ft. away from combustible materials and be protected by an overhang, plus side walls to safeguard against water exposure. If the internal components are directly exposed to rain, snow, or dew, you could run into costly issues, like rusting parts and electrical failure due to moisture damage.  

We also recommend choosing a location away from direct sunlight and purchasing a weatherproof cover for extra protection, especially if you live in a climate that experiences drastic weather changes.  

To make your buying process easier, we’ve narrowed down our best-selling outdoor electric fireplaces to help you create a safe and relaxing patio space you can use anytime of the year!   

#5: Tru-View XL Indoor/Outdoor Electric Fireplace 

By Amantii

What Makes It Great: 

With its three-sided design and 22-inch-tall viewing area, the Amantii Tru-View XL Indoor/Outdoor Electric Fireplace gives your guests a glimpse of the fire no matter where they sit. Multi-colored ambient canopy lighting adds a cool yet cozy vibe to your patio, while the Tru-View XL’s deep media tray showcases the log set or fire glass of your choice.   

Key Features: 

Three LED light strips create a mesmerizing flame display, which can be adjusted using the multi-function remote control. With the click of a button, you can switch the flame color to blue, rose, violet, yellow, and orange to find a look that matches your mood. Warm up to 500 square feet with the Tru-View XL’s energy efficient heater or turn the heater off and leave the flames lit to enjoy your fireplace year-round.  

#4: Remii Deep Indoor/Outdoor Electric Fireplace 

By Amantii

What Makes It Great:  

Instantly add modern style and dimension to your patio with the Amantii Remii Deep’s sleek, linear silhouette and 12-inch depth. Three distinct sizes and 18 burning display options let you find a model that fits your space perfectly and suits your design preference, while a clean, full frame viewing area allows you to customize the look with your choice of finishing material.   

Key Features: 

Ambient canopy lighting in 13 vibrant shades enhances the Amantii Remii Deep’s unique “fire and ice” flame presentation. You’ll be able to alter the look and feel of your fireplace whenever you’d like using the full-function remote control, which individually adjusts the heat, flame color, and accent lighting.   

#3: Extra-Slim Indoor/Outdoor Electric Fireplace 

By Amantii

What Makes It Great:  

If you want to upgrade a small patio or have limited wall space, the Amantii Extra-Slim is the perfect solution with its modest, four-inch depth, four size options, and full frame viewing area! It features incredibly lifelike flames that transition from yellow to orange to red for high impact and dazzling ambiance in a compact design. Pair the dancing flames with the 5,000 BTU heater for maximum comfort and style or switch the heater off to enjoy a soothing fire without the extra warmth.  

Key Features:  

The Amantii Extra-Slim heats up to 500 square feet and is equipped with an angled glass front, two-stage heater, and a fan that allow the heat to cascade down the front of the fireplace for optimal warmth. Choose from 15 media bed options, including sparkling fire glass and smooth fire gems in an array of colors to match your outdoor décor. Make your new patio focal point permanent by hardwiring it into your home’s electrical system and installing it with a wall thermostat for quick, manual control. 

#2: 43” Forum Outdoor Electric Fireplace 

By Simplifire

What Makes It Great:  

Simplifire’s Forum Outdoor Electric Fireplace is heatless, allowing you to enjoy the allure of a fireplace without the extra warmth. Customize the ambiance with multiple flame styles, ember-bed colors, and stylish media options, all effortlessly controlled by a multi-function remote. 

Key Features:  

Designed for all-weather durability, the Forum electric fireplace offers easy, flexible installation. Simply plug it into an outlet or hardwire it into your home’s electrical system. Create a clean, seamless look with custom finishing materials or add a frame for decoration. With a 15-inch-tall viewing area and natural-looking electric flames, its the perfect focal point for your outdoor living space. 

#1: 55” Forum Outdoor Electric Fireplace 

By Simplifire

What Makes It Great: 

Perfect for warm climates, the Forum features heatless electric flames to capture the feeling of a cozy fire, without changing the temperature. With no safety risks or installation restrictions, you can easily incorporate it into an outdoor entertainment center, complete with a TV mounted directly above.  

Key Features: 

Set the perfect mood for every gathering with four flame styles and 13 vibrant accent lighting colors. You can also choose from three ShadowGlo HD log sets for a realistic, rustic touch. Available as a plug-and-play design or hardwired unit, the Forum comes with an intuitive, multi-function remote control, so you can conveniently change the flame display and ember bed lighting at any time.  

How Adding an Electric Fireplace Can Boost Your Commercial Business

FAQs

An outdoor electric fireplace is a weather-rated electric heater designed for outdoor use, typically installed in patios, decks, or other outdoor living areas.  

It uses electricity to produce heat and simulate a realistic flame effect, often with adjustable flame colors and an ember bed for ambiance.  

Unlike a wood burning fireplace or gas fireplace, it requires no venting, making it a cleaner and safer option for most settings. 

Outdoor electric fireplaces come in several styles: 

  • Wall-mounted electric fireplaces – Great for small patios and modern aesthetics. 
  • Freestanding electric fireplaces – Portable and flexible for various outdoor spaces. 
  • Electric fireplace inserts – Ideal for converting existing wood-burning fireplaces. 
  • Built-in electric fireplaces – Perfect for a bespoke, in-wall, or see-through installation. 
  • Mantel electric fireplaces – Traditional look, often used in living rooms, but outdoor-rated models exist. 

When choosing an electric fireplace for your patio, consider: 

  • Weatherproof design for extended outdoor use 
  • Realistic flame or flame effect 
  • Adjustable heat output (BTUs) 
  • Remote control or WiFi connectivity 
  • Multiple flame colors and settings 
  • Thermostat for temperature regulation 
  • Compatibility with your outdoor area’s size and layout 
  • Brands like Dimplex, Napoleon, Amantii Panorama, Modern Flames, Simplifire, and Remii for high-quality options 

While gas fireplaces and wood burning fireplaces can produce higher BTUs, electric fireplaces typically range from 4,000–5,000 BTUs, enough for small to mid-sized areas.  

Some high-end models function as space heaters and provide supplemental warmth for year-round comfort in outdoor living settings. 

Yes, with an electric fireplace insert or firebox, you can transform an existing traditional fireplace into a more efficient and cleaner electric model, even in an outdoor setting — provided the unit is rated for outdoor use. 

We're Here to Help

Have more questions about outdoor-rated electric fireplaces? We'd love to help! Call our team of NFI Certified experts today at 800.919.1904

More Resources  

Need an affordable, eco-friendly way to enhance your home? Start with our Electric Fireplace Buying Guide

Learn the essential questions you’ll need to ask to find the right installer for your fire project

Discover how adding a fireplace can increase your home’s property value


Photo of Tiffany Kurilla Tiffany Kurilla, Technical Sales Representative, has five years of experience at Woodland Direct. As an NFI-Certified Master Hearth Professional, she’s recognized for her deep knowledge of fireplace products and safety standards. Tiffany’s dedication and mastery earned her the title of Woodland’s top sales representative in 2021 and 2022. Outside of work, Tiffany is an avid traveler, exploring national and international destinations. Her favorite spot to visit? The Happiest Place on Earth — Disney World! Call Tiffany or one of our experts in fire at 800.919.1904.