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In-Depth Product Guide

Water Vapor Fireplaces: Help You Set the Mood

What type of fireplace adds beauty to your home, is environmentally friendly, and sets the mood for memorable gatherings? Water vapor fireplaces and inserts meet these demands and more. 

Beyond the aesthetics you expect, these fireplaces can operate 365 days a year and safely eliminate the risk of burning anything with their cold flames powered by water. With the decorative fireplace trend on the rise, we have identified the best products and benefits so you can make informed decisions when updating your space.

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Kelly Isley

By Kelly Isley, Rise Writer

Jul 15, 2025 · 6 min read

Water Vapor Fireplace AFire
Water Vapor Fireplace. Photo Credit: AFire

What Is a Water Vapor Fireplace?

The new technology powering water vapor fireplaces creates a realistic flame without the danger of a real fire. These designer-friendly fireplaces run on electricity and water and use LED lights to deliver the illusion of fire. They plug into a standard outlet, and once you add water to the tank, you can spend time enjoying your fireplace.

So, water vapor fireplaces are excellent alternatives for anyone living in or around a high fire-threat area or those concerned about fire risks from a traditional hearth.  

What Components Do Water Vapor Fireplaces Have?

Water vapor fireplaces contain an evaporator, a reservoir, a lamp, and a heater. Here's a closer look at these components:

  • Evaporator – is what creates the ultra-fine mist in the fireplace. Once the unit is turned on, this is where the water will flow. At that point, it begins the evaporation process that produces the mist that you can feel if you place your hand above the fireplace. 
  • Reservoir – contains water, which is a crucial ingredient for the fireplace. Once the unit is powered up, it moves from the reservoir to the evaporator.
  • Lamp – reflects light onto the mist that creates the illusion of fire. The lamp also allows the mist to rise, driving an essential function as mist tends to settle.
  • Heater – radiates heat within the room. The only component that performs this function, as everything mentioned above serves to create the image of the flame. 

How Much Electricity Does a Water Vapor Fireplace Use?

Water vapor fireplaces are budget-friendly. With most of the product models operating on a household outlet, the energy consumed is comparable to that of a space heater used to warm a room. 

Water Vapor Eectric Fireplaces With Germicidal UVC Lamps
Water Vapor Eectric Fireplaces With Germicidal UVC Lamps. Photo Credit: AFire

Is a Water Vapor Fireplace Healthy?

If you are looking for a healthy, fossil fuel free alternative to a traditional hearth, water vapor fireplaces deserve a spot on your list. These water mist generators do not produce toxic emissions or soot. 

Recent research and development at AFire have enabled their group to equip their new water vapor fireplace models with Germicidal Ultraviolet C (UVC) Lamps. They say that UVC radiation disinfects the air and water tanks and kills viruses, spores, bacteria, pathogens, and microorganisms while the water vapor fireplace is operating.

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Do Smart Water Vapor Fireplaces Exist?

Specific water vapor fireplace models and inserts currently on the market can be connected to smart-home systems and offer a user-friendly experience.  

What Are the Best Models of Water Vapor Fireplaces?

Two leading companies have popular brands to enhance your unique spaces. You'll want to check out the following models:

  • AFire Water Premium
  • Dimplex Opti-Myst Pro 1000: cassette and built-in versions
  • AFire Original

Let's take a look at each of these in detail now.

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AFire Original

Rounding out the top four is a second impressive AFire offering, the AFire Original. The user-friendly remote control and the option to connect with smart-home systems add significant value. This model is designed to help customers avoid condensation. The new healthy, UVC air and water disinfection function is also part of this water vapor fireplace. Adaptability is a crucial feature as it is easy to build into a wall based on its configuration. 

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By following this routine, you will have your water vapor fireplace fully functioning for years to come. 

Kelly Isley

Rise Writer

Expert. Practical. Sustainable.

Article by

Kelly Isley

Kelly Isley is a writer, author of four books and ASJA member. She has also been renovating homes for 12+ years, is an engineer, pilot, football fan, and lover of ice cream.

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