If you are searching for a realistic electric fireplace, you may have heard of Dimplex Opti-V. However, you may not have seen it in person, because not many hearth dealers have one on display. We keep two of them in our Toronto-area showroom, because it really does have to be seen to be believed. Here’s what you need to know about the Dimplex Opti-V electric fireplace.
Dimplex Opti-V comes with flames or fish
The Dimplex Opti-V comes in two versions. The fireplace option was created first, and is available in a 30-inch Solo or 54-inch Duet size. The aquarium version was added later, and comes in the 30-inch size. Dimplex has recently created a free-standing cabinet to house the Opti-V aquarium, making it an easy-to-install option for waiting rooms.
The ‘V’ in Dimplex Opti-V stands for Video
Dimplex describes the Opti-V as ‘the perfect blend of magic and realism’. It’s a combination of a high-definition video of a wood fire and an illusion that makes the flames appear if they are dancing among glowing logs. It is a truly mesmerizing effect, and one that keeps people guessing.
Likewise with the Opti-V aquarium option, young visitors to our showroom love to sit in front of the ‘fish tank’ and watch ‘Nemo’ frolic with the other fish. (It’s not really Nemo, but there are clown fish.)
Dimplex Opti-V has sound effects
Because the Dimplex Opti-V is based on video, there are sound effects. With the fireplace option, the Opti-V has the sound of a real wood fire snapping and crackling. With the aquarium version, the Opti-V has the sound of bubbles in the virtual tank. These sound effects may be soothing to some, but they can be turned down or off if you find them annoying or distracting.
Dimplex Opti-V won’t heat up your room
The Dimplex Opti-V is one of the few electric fireplaces that does not have a heater option. It is meant to be enjoyed purely for the atmosphere it creates. In fact, one of the most brilliant applications we’ve seen is for bedrooms, where the crackling of the Opti-V fireplace soothes you to sleep, without the nuisance of overheating.
Dimplex Opti-V is great for commercial applications
Because the Dimplex Opti-V has incredible realism and no visible buttons for curious passers-by to play with, it is ideal for commercial applications like lobbies and waiting areas. Likewise, because the Opti-V has no heater, there is no chance that someone can accidentally turn on the heat in July. It’s a no-maintenance option that is ideal for installations where ease of care is a must. (You will need to have a supply of glass cleaner handy, as visitors do like to put their fingers on the glass while they try to figure out exactly what they are seeing.)
Stylish Fireplaces & Interiors specializes in electric fireplaces and custom fireplace design. There are over 50 electric fireplaces on display in their Toronto-area showroom, with unique wallcoverings and accessories to complete any project. Their expert staff are NFI Certified Hearth Design Specialists, and are qualified to advise clients on their fireplace needs.