Dimplex Cheriton Deluxe Optiflame Review UK 2026
Quick verdict
Score: 8.4/10
Best for: Adding a fireplace feature and supplementary warmth without a chimney
Not for: Heating a large or poorly insulated room - electric fires are supplementary heat
Bottom line: A practical electric fireplace (freestanding fire, 2kW) for a cosy focal point.
The Dimplex Cheriton Deluxe is a freestanding electric fire with a 2kW heater and an LED flame effect. It offers plug-in style ambience with a coal-style fuel bed look, suiting rooms where quick, straightforward warmth is the priority rather than a traditional fuel fire experience. As a standalone electric fireplace, it can complement existing heating but it will not replace a real fireplace for long, deep warmth.
Key specifications
| Specification | Status |
|---|---|
| Heater output | 2kW |
| Flame effect type | LED |
| Fuel bed | Coal |
Pros
- Freestanding fire
- 2kW heat output
- LED flame effect
- No chimney, flue or fuel needed - just a socket
Cons
- Supplementary heat only - not a replacement for central heating
- Needs a socket within reach; avoid extension leads at full heat
- Running at full heat costs the same as any 2kW electric heater
Style and Installation
Style and installation work best when the unit's freestanding format is matched to the room layout first, because this electric fireplace is designed to sit on the floor rather than being built into a wall. Position it on a stable, level surface, and check that the surround and floor finish provide even support. The brass and black styling forms a strong focal point, while still requiring clear sight lines to the coal fuel bed and the flame display. After positioning, keep items nearby tidy and accessible so they do not interfere with safe operation and day-to-day use.
Heat Output and Room Size
With a 2kW heater setting, the Dimplex can help take the edge off a room, particularly when the space is not very large or when it is used alongside normal heating. As a freestanding electric fire, it can be positioned so the heat is felt more directly by seating and airflow, but coverage will be limited in larger areas.
Flame Effect and Realism
The flame effect is the first element most people notice, and it shapes how convincing the fire feels in everyday use, particularly when the unit is used mainly for ambience rather than heating. In the electric fireplace, the LED flame effect sits over a coal fuel bed, producing a layered look rather than a single flat light source. Variable flame brightness helps the display suit different room lighting levels, appearing softer in darker spaces and clearer in brighter rooms. Realism is still limited by a lack of specific information on heater-linked flame behaviour, so the flame effect prioritises visual ambience over lifelike motion authenticity.
Controls and Features
Controls on the Dimplex electric fireplace centre on matching the flame appearance and the heat output to the room. The title indicates variable flame brightness, so the coal fuel bed display can be dimmed or brightened to suit surrounding lighting. The heater output is adjustable, allowing heat levels to be raised or lowered without switching off the flame effect. As a freestanding electric fireplace with an LED flame effect, day-to-day control use is simple.
Who Is This For?
This freestanding The Dimplex Cheriton Deluxe electric fireplace suits people who want a coal-style flame display alongside straightforward, everyday operation. The model includes a brass and black, freestanding design with an adjustable 2kW heater, making it a practical fit for UK homes that prefer a plug-in heater setup. Variable flame brightness helps tailor the effect to different rooms and times of day. It is less suitable for buyers who need a built-in installation, as the freestanding format limits placement options.
Where to Buy in the UK
Where to buy the Dimplex Cheriton Deluxe freestanding electric fire in the UK is usually easiest through major UK electrical and home-heating retailers, along with online marketplaces that stock The Dimplex freestanding models. It is described as the electric fireplace freestanding electric fire in brass and black, with an LED flame effect and adjustable 2kW heat, so listings may vary by colour or bundle. When comparing listings, check that the title specifically matches "Cheriton Deluxe" and look for clear photos of the flame effect and coal-style fuel bed. Third-party sellers can change delivery times and availability, so checking the delivery window and returns terms is sensible before ordering.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Dimplex worth it?
As a room feature with supplementary heat, the electric fireplace (freestanding fire) does the job, with 2kW of heat. Electric fires are chosen mainly for the look and the instant, flue-free warmth. Check the current Amazon UK price, as fireplaces are discounted heavily outside the autumn peak.
How is this electric fireplace installed?
The Dimplex is a freestanding fire. Wall-mounted fires hang on the wall using the supplied bracket - check the wall type and use appropriate fixings, especially on plasterboard - and need a socket or a spur within reach.
How much heat does the Dimplex Cheriton Deluxe give out?
The electric fireplace is rated at 2kW. Most electric fires top out around 2kW, which realistically takes the chill off a small to medium room rather than heating a large or poorly insulated space. Treat it as supplementary heating and a focal point rather than a replacement for central heating. The lower setting is usually the more economical everyday choice.
How realistic is the flame on this electric fireplace?
The Dimplex uses LED flame effect. Flame realism is largely why people choose one electric fire over another, so it's worth looking at video of it running.
Are electric fireplaces expensive to run?
Running cost depends on the heat setting and your electricity tariff. At full output most electric fires draw around 2kW, so an hour at full heat costs roughly the same as running any 2kW heater - use the lower setting or a thermostat to cut that considerably. Crucially, the flame effect alone uses very little (it's just LEDs), so leaving the flames on without heat costs pennies.