Electric fireplaces can heat a room but they have a variety of pros and cons versus traditional wood-burning and gas fireplaces. PROS: - Heats quickly - Low maintenance - Low cost - Pollutant-free - Safer for children and animals - Efficient energy to heat conversion - Variety of installation options CONS: - Produces less heat than gas and wood-burning alternatives - Power-dependent - Artificial flame less aesthetically pleasing than the real thing NOTE - Infrared electric fireplaces can heat a much wider area than electric fan heaters.