There’s nothing quite like the cozy embrace of a warm, flickering fire to transform a living space, yet the realities of traditional fireplaces—the constant chore of wood, the ash, the smoke, and the chimney maintenance—can be a real deterrent. I found myself in a similar predicament, longing for that comforting glow but dreading the hassle. The absence of a central fireplace in my home left a void, a distinct lack of that welcoming warmth and visual appeal. This wasn’t just about aesthetics; it was about creating a specific atmosphere, a retreat from the everyday chill, both literally and figuratively. Without a solution, my living room felt incomplete, especially during cooler evenings. Finding an efficient, low-maintenance alternative, like the LegendFlame 23″ W Free Standing Electric Fireplace Log Set, became a priority to truly make my house feel like a home.
- 23" W x 20" H x 10" D size suitable for free standing in small and large existing openings or cabinet. Very simple installation, just place it into the opening.
- Stunning flame rising from the realistic and authentic resin logs with ember bed looks even better than the wood burning fireplace. 100% energy saving LED shorten your bill, while also enjoying the...
- Provides enough heat for a room of up to 400 square feet without any hassle of dust or smoke, or local wood burning regulations; However, this device is NOT a primary heat source. Uses a standard 120V...
Essential Considerations Before Investing in an Electric Fireplace Log Set
When you’re yearning for the charm of a fireplace but without the inherent complications of a traditional wood-burning one, an electric log set offers a compelling solution. These units address common problems like the need for firewood storage, the mess of ash and soot, and the significant costs and regulations associated with chimney maintenance. An electric fireplace log set is ideal for apartment or condo dwellers, those with non-functional fireplaces, or anyone seeking supplemental warmth and ambiance without the significant upkeep. However, if your primary goal is to heat a large, open-plan space as the sole source of warmth, an electric log set, generally offering 5000 BTUs of heat, might not be sufficient, and you should consider a larger, dedicated heating system. Before making a purchase, it’s crucial to evaluate several factors: the dimensions of your existing opening to ensure a perfect fit, the heat output for your room size, the realism of the flame effect, the quality of any accompanying sound effects, the type of remote control, and the overall ease of installation. Prioritizing these aspects ensures you select a unit that genuinely enhances your living experience.
- Charming Design: Includes side viewing windows, a glass door that really opens, and a brick-style back panel. This stove heater not only enhances your décor but delivers infrared heat in any room up...
- 69,000 BTUs heats up to 1,200 Sq. Ft
- Keep your House Warm: Ventless indoor gas fireplace with 25,000 BTUs heats 1,100 square feet, ensuring a warm and cozy home any time of year; Elevate your comfort with efficient heating solutions
Introducing the LegendFlame EF290: A Closer Look
The LegendFlame 23″ W Free Standing Electric Fireplace Log Set (EF290) promises to deliver the visual delight of a crackling fire without any of the associated mess or fuss. This freestanding electric fireplace insert, known by its model name Nora, is designed to fit seamlessly into existing fireplace openings or stand alone, bringing warmth and ambiance to any room. When you purchase this LegendFlame electric fireplace log set, you receive the resin log set with an ember bed, a remote control, and all necessary components for its simple plug-and-play setup. Compared to some market leaders like Dimplex, which can be significantly more expensive, the LegendFlame EF290 offers comparable synthetic flame technology at a more accessible price point. It’s particularly suited for individuals looking to convert an outdated or unused fireplace into a maintenance-free focal point, or for those in smaller living spaces where a traditional fireplace isn’t feasible. It might not be for someone who desires the exact smell and extreme heat output of a real wood-burning fire, as no electric unit can perfectly replicate that.
Here’s a quick rundown of its pros and cons based on my extended use:
Pros:
* Realistic Flame Effect: The LED-driven flames rising from the resin logs and ember bed are surprisingly authentic and mesmerizing.
* Easy Setup: True plug-and-play installation; just place it and plug it in.
* Supplemental Heat: Offers 750W/1500W heating modes, providing enough warmth for rooms up to 400 sq ft.
* Convenient Remote Control: Allows for easy adjustment of flame settings, heat, and sound from a distance.
* Clean & Safe: No smoke, ash, or local burning regulations to worry about; CSA certified for safety.
Cons:
* Crackling Sound: While adjustable, the crackling sound can sometimes sound repetitive or “tinny” to some ears.
* Plexiglass Visibility: The flame projection screen can be visible during daylight hours, although there are user-suggested remedies.
* Fan Noise: The heater’s fan, while effective, can be noticeable when the heat function is on.
* Not a Primary Heat Source: As stated, it’s a supplemental heater, not intended to replace a main heating system.
Deep Dive into Features and Their Advantages
Having used the LegendFlame 23″ W Free Standing Electric Fireplace Log Set (EF290) for an extensive period, I can confidently share insights into its core features and the tangible benefits they provide. This unit has become an integral part of my home’s ambiance, especially during the cooler months.
Realistic Flame Effect and LED Technology
The standout feature of the LegendFlame EF290 is undoubtedly its stunning flame effect. Unlike older electric fireplaces that used simple incandescent flicker bulbs, this unit employs 100% energy-saving LED technology. The flames rise from realistic resin logs with an integrated ember bed, creating an illusion that often fools guests at first glance. The depth and movement of the flames are quite remarkable, appearing to dance and shimmer with a lifelike quality. There are adjustable flame settings, allowing you to choose between various intensities and even remove the subtle blue tint if you prefer.
How it performs/feels: The visual experience is truly immersive. I often find myself staring into the ‘fire’, getting lost in its gentle dance. The resin logs themselves are well-crafted, designed to mimic charred wood, further enhancing the authenticity. The ember bed glows convincingly, adding another layer of realism.
Why this feature is important: This feature is paramount because it delivers on the core promise of an electric fireplace: ambiance without the hassle. It solves the problem of wanting the visual comfort of a fire without any of the drawbacks of real wood. The energy-saving LED technology also shortens electricity bills, a significant benefit. This means I can enjoy the beautiful flame effect all year long, with or without the heater function, making it incredibly versatile.
Effective Supplemental Heating Capability
The electric fireplace log set comes equipped with a heater that offers two power settings: 750W and 1500W, delivering a heat output of 5000 British Thermal Units. This is designed to provide supplemental warmth for a room up to 400 square feet.
How it performs/feels: When activated, the heater provides immediate warmth. I’ve found it to be highly effective for taking the chill off my living room on a cool evening. It’s important to note, as the product description states, that this device is not intended as a primary heat source. It uses a standard 120V polarized plug, making it compatible with most household outlets. While the fan is generally quiet for a space heater, it does produce some noticeable white noise, especially at higher settings. This is one of the slight downsides, as it can detract from the ambiance if you’re seeking absolute silence.
Why this feature is important: This feature addresses the desire for both visual warmth and actual warmth. It’s perfect for those transitional seasons or for supplementing your main heating system, allowing you to warm a specific area without heating the entire house. For me, it means I can keep my thermostat slightly lower overall and simply activate the LegendFlame electric log set for targeted comfort.
Adjustable Crackling Sound
To further enhance the realistic experience, the LegendFlame 23″ W Free Standing Electric Fireplace Log Set (EF290) includes a built-in crackling sound feature with multiple volume settings.
How it performs/feels: The sound effect aims to mimic the natural crackle and pop of a wood fire. It has six different settings, offering varying levels of intensity and even two different styles of crackling (one described by users as a “sizzling hot oil” sound, another more realistic). While some users, including myself initially, found the sound to be somewhat artificial or repetitive, especially at higher volumes, it can become quite enjoyable when set to a low, subtle level. Over time, I’ve grown accustomed to it, and it genuinely adds to the cozy atmosphere. Some dedicated users have even replaced the built-in speaker for improved sound quality, indicating a strong desire for this feature to be perfect.
Why this feature is important: The crackling sound adds an auditory layer to the visual flame, completing the multi-sensory illusion of a real fire. It helps to fully immerse you in the ambiance and can significantly enhance the feeling of coziness. Adjustability is key, as it allows users to find their preferred level of immersion without it becoming distracting.
Convenient Remote Control Operation
The convenience of a remote control cannot be overstated, and the LegendFlame EF290 comes with a high-quality remote that manages all settings.
How it performs/feels: The remote allows for effortless adjustment of flame brightness, heat settings (on/off, 750W/1500W), and the crackling sound volume without needing to get up. It’s responsive and works well within a reasonable range (about 10-15 feet). This small detail makes a huge difference in daily usability.
Why this feature is important: The remote control provides unparalleled convenience. It solves the problem of having to manually adjust settings, especially when you’re already settled in for the evening. It allows for seamless control over the ambiance, letting you tailor the experience to your exact preference with ease.
Effortless Installation and Freestanding Design
One of the most appealing aspects of the LegendFlame electric fireplace log set is its simple installation. Designed as a freestanding unit, it can be placed directly into an existing fireplace opening or used in a cabinet.
How it performs/feels: Setup literally involves taking it out of the box, screwing on the flame screen (if desired), placing it, and plugging it in. Its dimensions (9.5″D x 23″W x 20″H) are suitable for most small and large existing openings. The resin logs with ember bed make it lightweight enough to move easily if needed. While the plexiglass screen enhances the flame effect, some users, myself included, have found it to be slightly visible during the day. A simple trick, as suggested by other users, involves coloring the thin edge of the plexiglass with a black permanent marker to help it blend into the firebox, which significantly reduces its visibility. Alternatively, some choose to not use the screen at all, as the flames can still project onto the back wall of a dark fireplace, though less intensely.
Why this feature is important: This feature eliminates the need for complex installations, venting, or professional help. It solves the problem of wanting a fireplace without the permanent commitment or structural modifications. Its freestanding nature offers flexibility in placement, making it a versatile option for various home setups.
Durability and Build Quality
The LegendFlame 23″ W Free Standing Electric Fireplace Log Set (EF290) is constructed with resin logs and a powder-coated finish, ensuring durability for long-term use.
How it performs/feels: After using this unit for well over a year, almost every night for several hours during the cooler seasons, it continues to work like new. The resin logs are robust and withstand continuous use without showing signs of wear. The overall construction feels solid, not flimsy.
Why this feature is important: Durability ensures a long-lasting product that provides consistent performance. It means peace of mind, knowing that your investment will continue to deliver ambiance and warmth for many seasons to come, without the worry of premature failure or degradation. The one-year limited warranty also offers reassurance.
What Others Are Saying: Authentic User Experiences
Having spent considerable time with the LegendFlame 23″ W Free Standing Electric Fireplace Log Set (EF290), I’ve also taken the time to explore what other users are saying online. The consensus is overwhelmingly positive, with many echoing my sentiments. Users frequently praise the realism of the flame effect, often stating it’s surprisingly convincing for an electric unit. The ease of setup and the convenience of the remote control are recurring highlights, making it a truly “plug-and-play” solution. Many appreciate the supplemental warmth it provides, noting its effectiveness in creating a cozier atmosphere, particularly in condos or smaller living spaces where traditional fireplaces aren’t an option. While a few noted the fan noise when the heater is on, and some expressed mixed feelings about the crackling sound (often suggesting lowering its volume), the overall sentiment remains that this electric fireplace log set delivers excellent value and a genuine enhancement to home comfort and aesthetics.
Final Thoughts: Why This Electric Fireplace is a Smart Choice
The desire for a warm, inviting atmosphere in our homes is universal, but the challenges of traditional fireplaces—the mess, maintenance, and often prohibitive costs—can make that dream seem out of reach. The absence of a comforting glow can leave a room feeling cold and incomplete. The LegendFlame 23″ W Free Standing Electric Fireplace Log Set (EF290) offers an outstanding solution to this dilemma, providing the visual and, to some extent, the physical warmth without any of the drawbacks.
It’s an excellent fit for solving this problem due to three key reasons: its surprisingly realistic flame effect, its user-friendly plug-and-play installation, and its ability to provide supplemental heat, making your space genuinely cozier. If you’re yearning for the charm of a fire without the fuss, this unit is truly a game-changer. Don’t hesitate to transform your living space into a haven of warmth and ambiance. To check out this fantastic product and see it for yourself, Click here to learn more about the LegendFlame 23″ W Free Standing Electric Fireplace Log Set (EF290).
Last update on 2025-08-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API