Dimplex Home Comfort Electric Fireplace Not Heating: How to Fix It Yourself
Dimplex electric fireplaces have a separate switch for the flame effect and the heater — many people do not realize the heater has its own control. If the flames are working but there is no heat, the heater may simply not be turned on, or the built-in overheat protection has tripped. This is a quick troubleshoot.
⚠️ Safety First
- Unplug the electric fireplace before cleaning or inspecting it.
- Do not spray water or cleaning products into the heater vents.
- Keep all objects at least three feet away from the heater outlet.
Parts You May Need
Affiliate links — we may earn a small commission at no cost to you.
Step-by-Step Repair
- 1
Make sure the heater is actually turned on
Dimplex fireplaces have separate controls for the flame visual effect and the actual heater. The flame display can run without the heater. Look for a heater button or switch — it is usually separate from the flame on/off. On remote-controlled models, there is a dedicated heat button. Press it and set the thermostat to the highest setting.
- 2
Check the power source
Electric fireplaces draw 1,500 watts. Make sure the unit is plugged directly into a wall outlet — not a power strip or extension cord, which can overheat or not supply enough power. Try a different outlet to rule out a dead circuit. Check the breaker panel for tripped breakers.
- 3
Reset the overheat protection
Unplug the fireplace and let it cool for 20-30 minutes. The built-in thermal cutoff trips if the unit overheats due to restricted airflow. After cooling, plug it back in and test the heater. If it works, the overheating was likely caused by blocked vents.
- 4
Clean the air vents and fan
Unplug the unit. Use a vacuum with a brush attachment to clean the intake vents (usually at the bottom) and the exhaust vents (usually at the top or front). Dust buildup restricts airflow and triggers the overheat shutoff. If you can access the internal fan, vacuum it gently as well. Compressed air works great for getting dust out of tight spots.
- 5
Test the fan
Plug the unit in and turn on the heater. Put your hand near the exhaust vent. You should feel warm air being pushed out by the internal fan. If you feel heat but no air movement, the fan motor may have failed. If you feel air but it is not warm, the heating element may be burned out.
If That Didn't Work
- Burned-out heating element
- Failed blower fan motor
- Faulty thermostat not calling for heat
- Defective control board on smart or remote-controlled models
When to Call a Professional
If the heater element or fan motor is dead, Dimplex offers warranty support and replacement parts. Contact their customer service first — they are known for good support. For out-of-warranty units, a local appliance repair shop can replace a heating element or fan for $50–$100 in labor. Given that Dimplex fireplaces cost $200–$1,000+, repair is usually worth it.
Related Repairs
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute professional repair advice. All repairs are performed at your own risk. RepairItFree.com is not liable for any personal injury, property damage, device damage, voided warranties, or other losses resulting from the use of this information.
If you are unsure about any step — especially anything involving electricity, gas, water, or refrigerant — stop and consult a qualified professional. Your safety is more important than saving money.
See our full Terms of Service for complete legal details.