Dimplex Clement Optiflame Review UK 2026
Quick verdict
Score: 8.7/10
Best for: A built-in focal point in a media wall or chimney breast
Not for: Heating a large or poorly insulated room - electric fires are supplementary heat
Bottom line: A practical electric fireplace (inset / media wall fire, 2kW) for a cosy focal point.
The Dimplex Clement Optiflame is an inset-style electric fire built for a media wall look, with an LED flame effect and a 9cm inset (recess) depth. It offers 1000W and 2000W heat settings, letting buyers choose between lower and higher output as needed. The 9cm recess depth is an important planning point, as shallow recesses may not provide enough space for a clean fit.
Key specifications
| Feature | Stated detail |
|---|---|
| Use type | Inset or freestanding |
| Flame effect | LED, logs |
| Heater | 2kW fan heater |
| Watt settings | 1000/2000W |
| Recess depth | 9cm |
Pros
- Inset / media wall 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 correctly sized recess - check the required depth carefully
- Running at full heat costs the same as any 2kW electric heater
Style and Installation
Style and installation for this electric fireplace depend on whether it is fitted into a media wall/inset opening or positioned as a freestanding display. The product title indicates both approaches. For an inset look, the fire suits a recess with a 9cm inset depth, and the spacer kit helps manage fit and spacing. The black finish supports modern media wall styling, while the included logs suit a more traditional flame display. For a freestanding setup, installation becomes more about room layout and access to the power point than about wall preparation. Secure positioning still matters to keep the unit stable and properly aligned. Installation steps should follow the guidance supplied with the kit, since specific additional requirements are not detailed here.
Heat Output and Room Size
With the look and placement options already covered, attention can shift to heat output. The Dimplex includes a 2kW fan heater with 1000W and 2000W settings, allowing the warmth to be matched to the room. The 1000W setting suits smaller spaces, while 2000W is for colder conditions or larger areas. Because the fire is inset with a 9cm recess depth, it is designed for media walls rather than protruding into the room, which may influence how heat is distributed in tighter layouts.
Flame Effect and Realism
The flame effect in the electric fireplace is delivered via an LED flame effect designed to suit an inset, media-wall style installation. Fitting it into a recessed surround helps the flame sit within a defined frame, so it reads as a more conventional fire appearance from typical viewing heights. In normal room light the LED effect can look strong, but it may look less convincing in very bright conditions. The inset approach matters for depth perception, since the display is set back into the recess. For the most realistic result, the unit should be installed as an inset in a correctly formed recess, rather than positioned in an open or uneven space.
Controls and Features
How do the controls and practical features work on the Dimplex in everyday use? In normal operation, the inset or media wall fire uses practical controls to run the flame effect and the heater, while the flame viewing remains separate from the heat output. The fan heater provides two power settings, 1000 W and 2000 W, allowing a lower or higher level of warmth. Switching between the settings is straightforward. The LED flame effect continues visually within the 9 cm inset (recess) depth, and a spacer kit is included.
Who Is This For?
The electric fireplace electric inset fire is aimed at people planning an inset, media wall-style installation with a realistic-looking flame display. It is designed for a 9 cm inset (recess) depth, making it a sensible fit where installation space is limited. Heat output is adjustable with a 2 kW fan heater, including 1000 W and 2000 W settings for milder days and colder rooms. It also suits buyers looking for a black LED flame effect fireplace with a logs-style appearance. Depth is fixed for this model, so it is not ideal where a deeper recess is required.
Where to Buy in the UK
Where to buy the Dimplex Clement Optiflame in the UK depends largely on the installation route, because it is designed for an inset installation with a stated 9 cm recess depth. For purchases, it is typically handled through mainstream UK electrical and home retailers such as Amazon UK, John Lewis, Currys, AO, and Argos, plus wider home and electrical outlets like B&Q, Wickes, Dunelm, Wayfair, and The Range where available. Many buyers also use the existing fireplace or media wall opening as the starting point, since the recess depth matters for a proper fit. The 2kW fan heater, with 1000/2000 watt settings, may affect retailer advice on room heat needs, but the unit remains an electric fireplace with a heat output intended as supplementary warmth. Stock can change by retailer, so checking current listings and delivery timelines helps prevent delays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Dimplex worth it?
As a focal point built into a media wall or chimney breast, the electric fireplace (inset / media wall 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 the Dimplex installed?
The electric fireplace is an inset / media wall fire, designed to be recessed into a stud wall, media wall or chimney breast. You'll need a correctly sized recess (check the required depth as well as the width and height) and a nearby socket or a spur fitted by a qualified electrician. Plan the opening before you build the wall - retrofitting a recess is far harder.
How much heat does this electric fireplace give out?
The Dimplex 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 the Dimplex Clement Optiflame?
The electric fireplace 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.