For my birthday I received an electric fireplace.  It is the coolest thing.  We saw one at my soon to be in-laws house which was just fake logs that glowed and made crackling noises but we wanted something a bit more for our house.  I’ve always wanted an actual fireplace in my house but yet the risks and the cost I didn’t want so here’s a great compromise.  This fireplace is antique looking and has logs inside and flames that go up (or look like they do) then there is an option to make it kick out heat if you want.  So far this is great because it adds just a bit more heat to take the edge off the cold days when you really don’t want to spend the money and turn up the heat.  Plus unlike real fire places this doesn’t get too warm and can be set on carpet rather than having an area strictly cemented for a real fireplace.  The best part is they aren’t that expensive.  I highly recommends them they add heat, atmosphere and are just cool!