Electric fireplace log sets work much like an electric fireplace insert but without the firebox surround, meaning that you’re left with only the fireplace grate and ember bed.

This makes electric logs more versatile when it comes to choosing a location for them because they can be a relatively small and compact type of electric fireplace.

Electric logs sets are commonly placed inside existing open fireplaces to imitate the look of a real fireplace grate with logs, but they can be used in many other smaller spaces around your home.

Log sets typically come as a plug-in appliance meaning that you’ll need to plug them into a nearby electrical outlet in order to work. If you have an electrical outlet near your open fireplace then this may suffice but you’ll need to try and hide the power cable for a more built-in look.

If you want to put an electric log set in your existing open fireplace and you don’t have one nearby then you’ll need to get a professional to install an electrical outlet inside the firebox of your open fireplace.

There are two main sub-types of electric fireplace log sets that have different ways in which they display the flame effects. These include:

Rear projection

Panel projection

Rear projection electric fireplace logs project the flame effects onto the back wall of your open fireplace.

Panel projection electric logs display the flame effects on the unit itself, much like how other types of electric fireplace work.

Which type of electric logs you choose will be down to personal preference and there isn’t one that’s better than the other for all circumstances.

There are also certain models of electric fireplace logs that provide the most realistic looking flame effects possible by using water vapor to generate smoke along with the flames.

The Dimplex Opti-Myst electric fireplace log set is the perfect choice for those who want the upmost in flame realism from an electric fireplace. However, this realism comes at a cost and the unit isn’t able to produce supplementary heat.

A popular optional extra for an electric fireplace log set is a crackler sound system that helps to further improve the real fireplace experience provided by electric fireplace logs.

For our complete buyers guide to the best electric fireplace logs sets click here.

Electric Fireplace Logs – Summary

Electric log sets are ideal for use in existing open fireplaces where you don’t want the whole opening of the fireplace to be taken up (as with electric inserts).

Need to be plugged into an electrical outlet to work.

Can come as panel projection or rear projection.

Certain models can come with smoke effects for added realism.

A crackler sound system is a popular optional extra.