Frequently Asked Questions
Got a question? Our FAQs are a great place to start.
If you can’t find what you’re looking for, feel free to get in touch with our team.
GENERAL
What types of fireplaces does Escea have?
In North America, Escea's electric fireplace range is available – a collection of inbuilt and freestanding models, built around Escea's holographic flame technology.
What support does Escea provide to architects, designers, or specifiers?
Escea has a dedicated in-house Architectural Advisory service, providing free support at both the planning and implementation stages of a project.
The team can assist with reviewing plans, advising on fireplace integration, and resolving technical considerations such as venting, clearances, placement, and finishing materials.
We also provide a full suite of specifier and trade resources — including CAD and BIM files — to support specification, along with CPD and product training for architects and design teams.
Where are Escea fireplaces made?
Every Escea fireplace is designed and manufactured at our headquarters in Dunedin, New Zealand. Founded in 2002, Escea is proudly locally owned and operated.
Learn more about Our Story.
How early should a fireplace be considered in the design process?
Ideally, at concept stage. Early coordination allows integration with structure and services to be resolved upfront, avoiding constraints later.
Escea's Architectural Advisory team can assist from early design through to installation.
Heating
Do electric fireplaces actually heat?
Yes. Escea electric fireplaces include a built-in heater, designed to provide supplemental warmth for a home.
Prior to installation, maximum heat output can be set to either 5,100 BTU/hr or 10,200 BTU/hr, depending on your space. The flames can also be used independently — allowing for ambience year-round, with heat when you need it.
Safety
Are electric fireplaces safe?
Yes. Electric fireplaces are one of the safest fireplace options available.
With no real flame or combustion, there are no emissions, fumes, or open fire risks. Escea electric fireplaces include built-in safety features such as overheat protection, temperature control, and cool-touch glass.
Operation & Maintenance
Can I control my Escea electric fireplace with smart home voice assistants?
Yes. Alexa and Google Home compatibility is available for select Escea Electric Fireplaces, letting you control your fire with just your voice. To find out if your model is compatible and get started, visit the SmartHeat App page.
Design & technology
What is Holographic Technology?
Holographic technology captures high-definition, real flame footage and projects it from above onto angled glass, creating the illusion of flames rising directly from the fuelbed beneath.
Unlike traditional electric fireplaces that rely on flat screens or simple lighting effects, this layered projection creates depth, detail, and dynamic movement — so flames appear three-dimensional and more natural.
Learn more about holographic flame technology or explore Escea's holographic electric fireplaces.
Installation
Can fireplaces be installed in apartments or multi-residential buildings?
Yes. Escea fireplaces can be integrated into apartments and multi-residential projects, however the requirements will vary depending on the fuel type and building design.
Electric fireplaces are typically the simplest option. Gas fireplaces are also well suited, though flue pathways must be considered early in the design process. Wood fireplaces are less common due to more stringent or complex vertical flue pathways required.
As regulations vary, it’s best to consult early – our Architectural Advisory team can assist with project-specific advice.
Do I need consent to install an electric fireplace?
In most cases, no. Electric fireplaces typically don't require building consent, as there’s no venting or gas connection involved. However, requirements can vary depending on your home and location. Electrical work should be completed by aan electrician.
For guidance, an Escea retailer can advise based on your specific setup and local requirements.
Other
How to register your fireplace?
Registering your fireplace helps us provide faster, more tailored support whenever you need it. To complete your registration, simply locate your fireplace’s serial number and fill out the form here.
Your details are stored securely in accordance with our Privacy Policy.
Where do I find my fireplace serial number?
Depending on your fireplace, your serial number can be found in different locations.
Gas Fireplaces
Via the remote display:
- Shake the remote to wake the display.
- Tap the three lines (Menu) at the bottom of the display.
- Go to Settings → Advanced → Information. Your serial number will be listed here.
Other locations:
Smart Heat App (MK2 and above) — visible in the top left-hand corner of the app on the home page.
Owners Manual — printed on a sticker on the cover page. Quick Start Card included in the remote control's packaging.
Electric Fireplaces
Via the remote display:
- Shake the remote to wake the display.
- Tap the three lines (Menu) at the bottom of the display.
- Go to Settings → Advanced → Information.- Your serial number will be listed here.
Other locations:
Smart Heat App (MK2 and above) — visible in the top left-hand corner of the app on the home page.
Owners Manual — printed on a sticker on the cover page.
Quick Start Card — included in the remote control's packaging. For further specifications and detailed instructions, refer to your Owner or Installation Manual.
Can I control my Escea electric fireplace with smart home voice assistants?
Yes. Alexa and Google Home compatibility is available for select Escea Electric Fireplaces, letting you control your fire with just your voice. To find out if your model is compatible and get started, visit the SmartHeat App page.
What types of fireplaces does Escea have?
In North America, Escea's electric fireplace range is available – a collection of inbuilt and freestanding models, built around Escea's holographic flame technology.
Where are Escea fireplaces made?
Every Escea fireplace is designed and manufactured at our headquarters in Dunedin, New Zealand. Founded in 2002, Escea is proudly locally owned and operated.
Learn more about Our Story.
How early should a fireplace be considered in the design process?
Ideally, at concept stage. Early coordination allows integration with structure and services to be resolved upfront, avoiding constraints later.
Escea's Architectural Advisory team can assist from early design through to installation.
Can fireplaces be installed in apartments or multi-residential buildings?
Yes. Escea fireplaces can be integrated into apartments and multi-residential projects, however the requirements will vary depending on the fuel type and building design.
Electric fireplaces are typically the simplest option. Gas fireplaces are also well suited, though flue pathways must be considered early in the design process. Wood fireplaces are less common due to more stringent or complex vertical flue pathways required.
As regulations vary, it’s best to consult early – our Architectural Advisory team can assist with project-specific advice.
What support does Escea provide to architects, designers, or specifiers?
Escea has a dedicated in-house Architectural Advisory service, providing free support at both the planning and implementation stages of a project.
The team can assist with reviewing plans, advising on fireplace integration, and resolving technical considerations such as venting, clearances, placement, and finishing materials.
We also provide a full suite of specifier and trade resources — including CAD and BIM files — to support specification, along with CPD and product training for architects and design teams.
Does an electric fireplace need a flue?
No. Electric fireplaces don't require a flue, chimney, venting, or grills. Because there’s no combustion, there are no emissions to remove — allowing for greater installation flexibility than wood or gas fireplaces.
Escea's freestanding electric fireplaces can be installed with or without a decorative flue. When included, this is purely aesthetic — designed to replicate the look of a traditional wood fire, without serving any functional purpose.
What is Holographic Technology?
Holographic technology captures high-definition, real flame footage and projects it from above onto angled glass, creating the illusion of flames rising directly from the fuelbed beneath.
Unlike traditional electric fireplaces that rely on flat screens or simple lighting effects, this layered projection creates depth, detail, and dynamic movement — so flames appear three-dimensional and more natural.
Learn more about holographic flame technology or explore Escea's holographic electric fireplaces.
Can I put a TV above an electric fireplace?
Yes. Electric fireplaces don't require venting and are Zero Clearance rated, so there are fewer restrictions on what can be installed above the fire. They also produce less heat than gas or wood fires, making them well suited to TV-above installations. We recommend placing the TV about 4 inches above the fireplace, however this is not essential.
Escea electric models are designed with controlled heat output and clear installation guidelines to support this. It’s important to follow the installation guide or speak with your Escea retailer to ensure the correct setup.
Do I need consent to install an electric fireplace?
In most cases, no. Electric fireplaces typically don't require building consent, as there’s no venting or gas connection involved. However, requirements can vary depending on your home and location. Electrical work should be completed by aan electrician.
For guidance, an Escea retailer can advise based on your specific setup and local requirements.
Do electric fireplaces actually heat?
Yes. Escea electric fireplaces include a built-in heater, designed to provide supplemental warmth for a home.
Prior to installation, maximum heat output can be set to either 5,100 BTU/hr or 10,200 BTU/hr, depending on your space. The flames can also be used independently — allowing for ambience year-round, with heat when you need it.
Are electric fireplaces safe?
Yes. Electric fireplaces are one of the safest fireplace options available.
With no real flame or combustion, there are no emissions, fumes, or open fire risks. Escea electric fireplaces include built-in safety features such as overheat protection, temperature control, and cool-touch glass.
Can’t find what you need?
If you can’t find the answer you’re looking for, our team is here to help. Get in touch with Escea for personalised advice and support.
