Electric Fireplaces Direct is a legitimate retailer offering a variety of electric fireplaces, with positive customer reviews and a secure purchasing process, ensuring a reliable shopping experience.
Electric Fireplaces Direct is a legitimate online retailer specializing in electric fireplaces and heaters. With thousands of customers served since their founding, they offer same-day shipping on most products and carry top brands like Dimplex, Napoleon, and ClassicFlame. However, customer experiences vary – while many praise their selection and service, others report issues with returns and product quality.
Company Background and Reputation
Electric Fireplaces Direct operates from North Liberty, Iowa and has been recognized as one of the fastest-growing companies in the Eastern Iowa Corridor. They claim to have “the largest in-stock selection of electric fireplaces available anywhere” with inventory ready for same-day shipping in most cases.
The company maintains a 3.5-star rating on Trustpilot based on 50+ reviews. Positive reviews highlight:
- Knowledgeable sales staff
- Fast shipping times
- Good product selection
Negative reviews frequently mention:
- Difficulty with returns (especially for opened items)
- Noisy blower fans on some models
- Customer service responsiveness issues
Product Quality and Selection
Electric Fireplaces Direct carries major brands known for quality electric fireplaces:
| Brand | Price Range | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|
| Dimplex | $300-$2,500 | Realistic flame effects, Optimyst technology |
| Napoleon | $500-$3,000 | High-end designs, large viewing areas |
| ClassicFlame | $200-$1,500 | Budget-friendly options, media consoles |
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Shipping and Return Policies
The company offers free shipping on most orders within the continental U.S. Their stated shipping policy includes:
- Same-day shipping on in-stock items ordered before 3 PM CST
- Delivery within 3-5 business days for most locations
- White glove delivery available for large items
Their return policy has drawn criticism from some customers:
- 30-day return window for most items
- Original packaging required for returns
- Customer pays return shipping costs
- Restocking fees may apply (typically 15-20%)
Customer Service Experience
Customer service appears to be a mixed bag according to reviews. Positive experiences highlight:
- Knowledgeable product specialists
- Helpful installation advice
- Responsive email support
Negative experiences report:
- Long hold times on phone support
- Difficulty reaching returns department
- Inconsistent follow-up on issues
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Product Performance and Common Issues
Based on customer reviews, some common product experiences include:
Positive Aspects
- Realistic flame effects (especially with Optimyst technology)
- Good heating capacity for supplemental heat
- Easy installation compared to gas fireplaces
Common Complaints
- Noisy blower fans on some models
- Plastic components that feel cheap on budget models
- Limited heat output in very large rooms
One Trustpilot reviewer noted: “The blower was very loud, which was unacceptable in my living space. I couldn’t use it, so I called to return it. Fireplace Direct refused to issue a return because I didn’t have the original plain white box it came in.”
Comparison to Other Retailers
Electric Fireplaces Direct competes with several other online fireplace retailers:
| Retailer | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Electric Fireplaces Direct | Large selection, same-day shipping | Mixed customer service reviews |
| Wayfair | Free shipping, easy returns | Less fireplace expertise |
| Home Depot | Local pickup available | Limited high-end options |
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Final Verdict: Is Electric Fireplaces Direct Legit?
Electric Fireplaces Direct is a legitimate business with thousands of satisfied customers. They offer:
- Genuine products from reputable brands
- Competitive pricing
- Fast shipping options
However, potential buyers should be aware of:
- Strict return policies
- Possible quality issues with some products
- Inconsistent customer service experiences
As with any major purchase, it’s wise to research specific models and read multiple reviews before buying. The company appears best suited for customers who:
- Know exactly what model they want
- Don’t anticipate needing returns
- Value fast delivery over hand-holding service
