Water Vapor Fireplace Buying Guide - US Fireplace Store

Water Vapor / Opti-Myst Fireplace Buying Guide

Nowadays, many Fireplaces are obtainable in the market, from the Traditional Wood Fireplaces to the beloved Gas-Powered Fireplaces.

However, as technology keeps developing, there are more selections to choose from when it comes to Fireplaces, such as the up and incoming Water Vapor Fireplace. I bet you got a few questions about Water Vapor Fireplaces, right?

Things can be a bit confusing, and that can be a hindrance to any buyer. After all, who would want to purchase something they do not understand 100%? 

That is where we come in. We want to walk you through the, What's, Why's, and How's of a Water Vapor Fireplace. We aspire to help guide you before you make any purchase. Please read on.

WHAT IS A WATER VAPOR FIREPLACE?

The Water Vapor Fireplace is a result of innovative technology and the modernization of Fireplace. It is an artificial fireplace specifically designed to deliver a homey ambiance to your place without using any woods, gas, or anything to generate carbon monoxide.

It is a green alternative since it uses LEDs, water mist and runs only on electricity. It generates a highly realistic flame; however, since this is basically just a fire illusion, it does not generate natural heat. 

So, if you are looking for a fireplace that would help you keep warm during the cold season, then this Fireplace is not for you.

But if what you fancy is the aesthetic and illusion of flames without the anxiety of burning your house or getting sick due to oxygen deprivation or carbon monoxide, then ladies and gents, this is the Fireplace you would appreciate.

HOW DOES A WATER VAPOR FIREPLACE WORKS?

Water vapor fireplace works by combining the efforts of electricity, water, and LEDs. The Fireplace system evaporates the water, producing a mist of excellent water vapor, which the LEDs placed in the units reflect. The result is what you see, a realistic illusion of smokes and flames. 

THE PROS AND CONS OF A WATER VAPOR FIREPLACE

As in all products out there, the Water Vapor Fireplace comes with pros and cons. Check out the graph below for conditions that we believe are the benefits and drawbacks of buying a Water Vapor Fireplace:

 

PROS

CONS

It produces the most realistic flame imitation out of all other alternative fireplaces.

The visual is incredibly realistic. However, it lacks other aspects, such as no sound of wood popping and crackling. It also does not produce the distinct smell of burning wood. There are add-on available, however, which you can purchase that can provide the wood burning sound.

It does not produce any harmful emissions, which guarantees clean and fresh air.

Maintenance and cleaning can be a nuisance for some. Most Water Vapor Fireplace needs to be clean once every two weeks.

It does not produce real heat; therefore, it is safe for pets, kids, and crowded commercial areas.

It does not directly produce heat. Water Vapor Fireplace will not be ideal if you intend to warm your home. You can buy an additional heater (usually fan-powered) with the water Vapor Fireplace, but it would not compare to the warmth other Fireplace can provide.

There are many installation options, and it is also ventless and customizable.

The initial buying price for a Water Vapor Fireplace can be expensive compared to buying the conventional Fireplace in the market.

Cheap to operate; it only needs LEDs and tap water and consumes minimal electricity.

It also comes in smaller sizes which can be a better fit for people who wants to save space.

Since it does not emit real fire, there are lesser chances of damage, which guarantees a longer lifespan.

 

THE CRITERIA YOU SHOULD CHECK BEFORE BUYING A WATER VAPOR FIREPLACE

To find the best Water Vapor Fireplace for you, you must pick one where it all has the features you are needing. But what features should you prioritize? What are the things that you cannot compromise when it comes to buying a Water Vapor Fireplace? We thought about it, and we also based it on what most of our customers ask and look for, and the following are the criteria’s that, after deliberation, we think matters the most:

Installation and Maintenance

A lot of Water Vapor Fireplace comes equipped to use; just plug and use it right away. It is highly known to be an easily installed product. However, of course, there are still some processes and instructions to familiarize and follow. Make sure to check on the installation and maintenance steps before buying.  It would help if you asked questions such as: 

How to set up the water vapor insert?

  • How to fill the water tank?
  • How much cleaning does it need and how often?
  • How often does the filter need to be changed?
  •  

    Warranty

    A product with a generous warranty is always a good sign. It assures you that the manufacturers are confident with the quality of their products and that there are no manufacturing defects. If in any cases that you indeed encounter any issue, then a good warranty should be able to fix that. Make sure to find a product that not only offers a great warranty package but one where the process of claiming a warranty is handled smoothly.

    Size

    Before buying a Water Vapor Fireplace or any product, assessing the size you need is vital. How much space do you have available for it? If you are displaying it in a vast area, then a small one would not be a good choice, or if you only have a tiny room, then buying a huge one would be a mistake. That is why before making a purchase, make sure you already know what size you need and want.

    Budget

    Set a budget. Set one even before you start looking for possible options to buy. Setting a budget makes sure you do not overspend. You should also take note of the budget you are willing to spend not just on the initial price when buying a Water Vapor Fireplace but also on the budget you are ready to pay when it comes to maintenance.

    WATER VAPOR FIREPLACE WE RECOMMEND

    All right, first, let us be frank here. We did our research and tried every product we can out there, and at the end of the day, the top products on our list are all from Dimplex Opti-Myst.

    The water vapor fireplace originated from them, so I guess it is understandable why they excel and why each product is fantastic. We love them, and we firmly believe anyone who purchases and gives them a try would also feel the same way. 

    Dimplex Opti-Myst Pro 1500 Built-in 60" Electric Firebox

     

    The Dimplex Opti-Myst Pro 1500 Fireplace is aesthetically delightful and can also act as a heating solution for rooms with limited wall space. It can be installed as a single-sided unit, or you can opt to remove the included backer panel and convert it to a see-through design that presents the view between rooms. Please note, though, that for see-thru installations, the Rear Glass Panel accessory must be purchased independently. 

    The Dimplex Opti-Myst Pro 1500 also comes with exceptional sound system features that add the soothing crackling sound of an authentic burning fire to its magnificent flame effects. A powerful fan-forced heater is also a part of the Fireplace so it can warm your place. Lastly, it also comes with a remote control that can run the flames, heater, and sound with a simple press.

     

    Product Dimensions

  • H 31 3⁄4 in x W 65 in x D 16 1⁄4 in
  • H 80.5 cm x W 165 cm x D 41.2 cm
  • Product Details

  • Finish: Black
  • Volts: 120
  • Wattage: 1,460
  • Amps: 12.17
  • BTUs: 4,981
  • Warranty: Two years
  •  

    Dimplex Opti-Myst Pro 1000 46" Built-In Electric Firebox

    The love we have for Dimplex Opti-Myst Pro 1000 46" Built-In Electric Firebox is just over the top. Like all Water Vapor Fireplaces from Dimplex, this one is also highly realistic and can be installed as a single-sided unit, or if you prefer, you can convert it to a see-through design.

    It only requires the most basic installation, which means no more additional expenses in gas lines, venting, chimney, or even labor cost for someone to set it up. It also boasts an easy-fill water tank wherein you can use the Fireplace for eight hours before you need to refill. There is also an optional plumbing connection available which can provide continuous water supply, including a complete overflow safety sensor, so goodbye to any potential leaks.

    Product Dimensions

  • H 31 3⁄4 in x W 46 5⁄8 in x D 16 1⁄4 in
  • H 80.5 cm x W 118.4 cm x D 41.2 cm
  • Product Details

  • Finish: Black 
  • Volts: 120 
  • Wattage: 1,460 
  • Amps: 12.17 
  • BTUs: 4,981 
  • Warranty: Two years
  •  

    Dimplex Opti-Myst 1000 Water Vapor 40" Electric Fireplace Cassette

    We included this cassette option on our list because Dimplex Opti-Myst 1000 Water Vapor 40" Electric Fireplace Cassette is fantastic! It is customizable; you can build a standard fireplace with a custom surround and 2-sided 3-sided, and 360 fireplaces, and even a fireplace built into a furniture piece. 

     

    With this Fireplace, you can control the flame appearance with adjustable widths and heights using the included spacers. It also has an adjustable volume crackling fire sound feature which makes everything even better.  

     

    Product Dimensions

  • H 9 1⁄2 in x W 40 1⁄8 in x D 12 in
  • H 24.1 cm x W 101.8 cm x D 30.3 cm
  • Product Details

  • Technology: Opti-Myst
  • Volts: 120
  • Wattage: 460
  • Amps: 3.83
  • BTUs: 1,569
  • Warranty: Two years
  •  

    Dimplex Opti-Myst 500 Water Vapor 20" Electric Fireplace Cassette

    We are a massive fan of Dimplex Opti-Myst 500 Water Vapor 20" Electric Fireplace Cassette, and so are the thousands who already got it in their homes. 

    Fun fact, multiple 20" and 40" cassettes can be combined in series until you are satisfied with the length.

    If you want, you can even achieve those dramatic linear installations, which are impossible if you use gas fires.

    The cassette alone does not have a heat function, but you can purchase a heater for supplemental heat.

    Product Dimensions

  • H 9 1⁄2 in x W 20 in x D 12 in
  • H 24.1 cm x W 50.8 cm x D 30.5 cm
  • Product Details

  • Technology: Opti-Myst
  • Volts: 120
  • Wattage: 230
  • Amps: 3.83
  • BTUs: 785
  • Warranty: Two years
  •  

    FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT WATER VAPOR FIREPLACE

    • DO WATER VAPOR FIREPLACE GIVE OFF HEAT?

    The Water Vapor Fireplaces look realistic but there is no fear of getting burned if you reach out and touch the flames, they will instead feel cold to touch. If you want your Fireplace to be a source of warmth as well then you can try purchasing water vapor fireplaces that come with a heater, like the in demand Dimplex Opti-Myst Pro 1000 Firebox.

    • IS IT HARD TO CLEAN HOW TO CLEAN A WATER VAPOR FIREPLACE?

    The maintenance and cleaning of a water vapor fireplace is easy and simple. When you first try it, there can be some confusions; you can follow the basic steps below to guide you (but of course, we strongly suggest reading your manual since each product varies and the same goes with their cleaning and maintenance needs)

  • Cleaning the outer surface first is highly suggested. There is no extra special step to do, you can use a soft damp cloth and wipe down the surface. If you want to use a cleaning product, choose one that it is not abrasive. 
  • At least once every two weeks, the top cover assembly of the unit must be cleaned. You can clean it using soap and water. Make sure to gently press the spring in the fill cap and the one in the water tank. By doing this you make sure that there is no blocking or any issue on it; this would help in keeping the efficiency of the unit. 
  • We also suggest that you clean the air filters once every two weeks. If you notice any sort of discoloration or build-up, just rinse and dry with a soft towel. Make sure you handle the parts gently to avoid damage.
    • WOULD OPTI MYST FIRES CAUSE CONDENSATION?

    Water Vapor Fireplaces produces mist and releases it into the area around it. This mist can cause condensation in the room and it could be evident on the surfaces of the room where the unit is placed. However, there are Water Vapor Fireplaces where the mist is absorbed back real fast and can cause very little to no condensation at all. 

    • IS IT EXPENSIVE TO RUN AND MAINTAIN A WATER VAPOR FIREPLACE?

    How much it would cost would vary on different factors such as for example, how many hours would you be using it. Are there additional features that consume electricity such as sound features? Just on average, these fireplaces usually cost around 15.00 – 18.00 cents for every kW/hour. It is not that much. Even by reading reviews left by people who bought Water Vapor Fireplaces; they mostly state that they do not notice any huge change on their electric bills after adding the Fireplace in their homes.

    • WOULD USING WATER VAPOR FIREPLACES ADD HUMIDITY INTO THE AIR?

    Water Vapor Fireplaces produces water vapors, for it to work and since it does not use venting it would add humidity to the air. It might make the temperature around the unit feel warmer than it is.

     

    CONCLUSION

    Water Vapor Fireplaces are nifty, aren't they? Nowadays, you can catch sight of them in hotels, resorts, celebrity homes, or even some great offices! But it is something you can also get for your home. You can also impress friends, family, and visitors with how beautiful your Artificial Fireplace is, and you can even wow them with the scientific explanation behind how a Water Vapor Fireplace works! 

    Technology updates every day; thus, the Water Vapor Fireplace can now have those crackling wood sounds by adding the music feature. You do not have to worry about it not producing heat; a heater can also be added to it, and voila, almost no more cons in buying. 

    I hope that you appreciated this review. Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have any other questions! We would always be happy to help.

     

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