For too long, the thought of winter filled me with a familiar dread: the perpetual chill in my small home office or bedroom, even with the central heating running full blast. It wasn’t just about being cold; it was about the uncomfortable, unwelcoming atmosphere that made it hard to relax or concentrate. I knew I needed a supplemental heating solution that could also inject some much-needed ambiance, because facing another season of skyrocketing energy bills or constant discomfort simply wasn’t an option. Finding a compact yet effective infrared electric fireplace stove became a priority for transforming those chilly spaces.
Essential Points Before Investing in a Space Heater with Ambiance
Many of us experience the frustration of cold spots in our homes or a desire for the cozy aesthetic of a fire without the mess and hassle of a real one. This is precisely why electric fireplace stoves have become such a popular choice. They offer targeted warmth and visual comfort, enhancing a room’s appeal. The ideal customer for an electric fireplace is someone living in a small apartment, a modest home, or even an RV, looking for supplemental heat and a decorative focal point. They value ease of use, safety, and a clean operation over the complex maintenance of traditional fireplaces.
However, these units aren’t for everyone. If you’re attempting to be the primary heat source for a large, open-plan living area, or if you’re seeking the authentic crackle and scent of burning wood, an electric fireplace might not meet your expectations. In such cases, a more powerful central heating system upgrade or a larger, dedicated space heater for expansive areas would be more appropriate. Before making a purchase, consider key factors such as the unit’s size, its heat output (measured in BTUs or wattage), crucial safety features, the realism of the flame effect, its portability, the available control options, and how its design will integrate with your existing decor.
Unveiling the TURBRO Suburbs TS17Q: A Closer Look at this Freestanding Electric Fireplace
The TURBRO Suburbs TS17Q Infrared Electric Fireplace Stove is a compact, 19-inch freestanding unit designed with a modern aesthetic. It promises to deliver instant, safe heat alongside a realistic and charming flame effect. When you purchase this model, you receive the sleek unit itself, complete with four sturdy support legs that are simple to attach. Having used this specific model for a considerable period, I can confidently say it’s a significant upgrade in terms of size and portability compared to bulkier, older electric fireplace designs on the market. Its defining feature, the modern 3-sided view, truly sets it apart from traditional single-pane models, offering a wider, more immersive visual experience.
This particular electric fireplace is perfectly suited for small spaces, be it a cozy bedroom, a home office, or even an RV, providing both supplemental warmth and a delightful decorative touch. It’s a great fit for anyone who values convenience and safety. However, if your goal is to heat a sprawling living room or if you require advanced smart home integration beyond basic controls, this particular model might feel a bit limited. Its charm lies in its simplicity and effectiveness for targeted comfort.
Here’s a quick rundown of its strengths and weaknesses:
* Pros:
* Compact, lightweight, and highly portable design with an impressive 3-sided flame view.
* Generates a surprisingly realistic LED flame effect that can be operated independently of the heat.
* Provides quick and efficient infrared heating, warming people and objects directly.
* Equipped with excellent safety features, including a cool-to-touch body and dual overheat protection.
* Extremely easy to set up and straightforward to use with simple controls.
* Cons:
* Lacks variable heat output control; it’s either on or off, with temperature determined by a thermostat knob.
* The support legs are made of plastic, which, while sturdy, might not appeal to those preferring all-metal construction.
* Some users have reported that any included sound effects are less than ideal, and there have been occasional long-term durability concerns with switches.
* The power cord length is somewhat restrictive, occasionally limiting versatile placement options without an appropriate extension solution (though extensions are generally not recommended for high-wattage heaters).
Diving Deep into the TS17Q’s Performance and Advantages
After living with the TURBRO Suburbs TS17Q for an extended period, I’ve truly come to appreciate its various features and the tangible benefits they bring to daily life. It’s not just a heater; it’s an experience.
1. Upgraded Design and Seamless Portability
The first thing that struck me about the TS17Q was its sleek, modern design. With its compact footprint—measuring just 6.1″D x 12″W x 19.1″H—it effortlessly blends into any room without feeling obtrusive. The lightweight nature of the unit, at only 10.1 pounds, combined with the four robust support legs, makes it incredibly stable yet remarkably easy to move around. I’ve shifted it from my bedroom to my office, and even briefly to the living room for a party, with absolute ease. This level of portability is a game-changer for anyone living in a dynamic space or a smaller home where flexibility is key.
But the real marvel of this design is its 3-sided view. Unlike older, bulkier models that offer only a front-facing flame, the TURBRO Suburbs TS17Q allows the captivating LED flame effect to be enjoyed from multiple angles. This creates a much more immersive and expansive visual experience, genuinely elevating the ambiance of any space it inhabits. It truly makes a room feel more inviting and cozy, becoming a genuine focal point rather than just a functional appliance.
2. Captivating Flame Control for Year-Round Ambiance
The LED flame effect is surprisingly realistic for an electric unit. The artificial logs inside appear to glow with a warm, ember-like quality, and the flames flicker with a gentle, hypnotic rhythm that mimics a real fire quite convincingly. What I particularly love is the ability to turn on this flame effect independently of the heating element. This feature is brilliant. On a warm evening when I crave the cozy atmosphere but don’t need additional heat, I can simply switch on the flames and instantly transform the mood of the room.
This means you get all the charm of a fireside environment without any of the drawbacks: no messy ash to clean, no smoke to worry about, and no fire hazards. It’s instant visual comfort at the flip of a switch, perfect for setting a relaxing mood, whether you’re reading a book, enjoying a cup of tea, or simply unwinding after a long day. The flame effect alone makes the TURBRO Suburbs TS17Q a valuable decorative piece.
3. Effortless Operation and Instant Infrared Heat
Simplicity is at the heart of the TURBRO Suburbs TS17Q‘s operation. There are no complicated menus or remote controls to decipher; it’s refreshingly straightforward. To get the heat going, you simply flip a switch and then turn a knob to your desired temperature setting. That’s it. Within moments, you can feel the warmth beginning to radiate into the room.
The infrared heating technology employed here is a distinct advantage. Unlike conventional forced-air heaters that primarily warm the air, infrared heating directly warms objects and people in its path. This results in a more natural, penetrating warmth that feels incredibly comfortable, akin to basking in the sun. Crucially, infrared heating is known to cause less moisture loss in the air, preventing that dry, stuffy feeling often associated with other heating methods. It’s wonderfully efficient for spot-heating or taking the chill off a specific area without over-drying the environment.
4. Superior Safety: Cool-to-the-Touch Body and Dual Overheat Protection
Safety is paramount, especially when introducing a heating appliance into your home, and the TURBRO Suburbs TS17Q truly excels in this regard. One of its most reassuring features is that the body of the stove remains cool to the touch, regardless of how long the heating element has been running. This is achieved by strategically placing the heating component at the bottom, directing the warmth outward and away from the exterior casing. This offers immense peace of mind, particularly if you have curious pets or small children who might accidentally brush against the unit. I never have to worry about putting anything on top of it either.
Beyond the cool-to-touch exterior, the electric fireplace stove is equipped with dual overheat protection. This means it automatically shuts off if it detects that it’s getting too hot, preventing any potential hazards. Furthermore, a built-in safety fuse provides an additional layer of protection against electrical overload. The fact that this unit is CSA certified for use in North America further solidifies its commitment to safety, giving me complete confidence in its operation.
5. Targeted Heat Output for Small Spaces
With a heat output of 5118 British Thermal Units (BTUs), or 1500W, the TURBRO Suburbs TS17Q is perfectly engineered for small to medium-sized rooms. It’s not designed to be the sole heating source for an entire house, nor will it blast you with intense heat. Instead, it provides a gentle, consistent warmth that effectively takes the chill out of the air and maintains a comfortable temperature in areas like bedrooms, home offices, or small dens.
This targeted heating capability is incredibly efficient. It allows you to create a warm, inviting zone without needing to crank up your central thermostat and heat rooms you aren’t even using, which ultimately leads to energy savings. For those cooler evenings when you just need a little extra warmth to make a space truly comfortable, this freestanding stove heater hits the sweet spot.
6. Durable Construction and Modern Aesthetics
The construction of the TURBRO Suburbs TS17Q combines metal and plastic components, finished in a polished black that gives it a sleek, contemporary look. While some might prefer an all-metal build, the material choice keeps the unit lightweight and contributes to its portability. It feels robust enough for regular use and its modern styling is versatile, easily complementing a variety of interior decors from minimalist to more traditional settings. I particularly appreciate that it doesn’t try to look like an antique, instead offering a clean and understated elegance.
7. Freestanding Versatility
True to its description, this electric fireplace stove is designed for freestanding installation. This means there’s no need for complex mounting, wall cut-outs, or intricate wiring. You simply choose your desired spot, plug it into a standard electrical outlet, and it’s ready to go. This level of simplicity makes it an ideal choice for renters who cannot make permanent alterations, or for homeowners who enjoy rearranging their living spaces. The ability to easily reposition the heater provides unparalleled flexibility, ensuring you can enjoy its warmth and ambiance wherever it’s most needed, without any fuss or the expense of professional installation.
What Others Are Saying: Real-World Experiences with the TURBRO Suburbs TS17Q
I’ve scoured various online communities and user forums, and the general sentiment regarding the TURBRO Suburbs TS17Q aligns closely with my own positive experience. Many users consistently praise its remarkably small footprint, making it an ideal fit for compact living situations. The realistic flame effect, particularly its visibility from three sides, is a frequently highlighted feature that greatly contributes to the desired cozy ambiance. Customers often express pleasant surprise at the significant amount of heat it generates for its size, effectively warming up their personal spaces.
The built-in safety features, such as the cool-to-touch exterior and automatic shut-off, are also a source of great appreciation, providing peace of mind to many. While there are occasional mentions of minor drawbacks, such as the plastic legs or the lack of variable heat settings, these rarely detract from the overall satisfaction. A few individuals have reported isolated issues with the longevity of internal switches, but they’ve also pointed out that the company has been responsive and supportive in addressing these concerns, which speaks volumes about their customer service. Overall, the consensus remains overwhelmingly positive, especially for those seeking to enhance comfort and coziness in smaller areas.
Final Thoughts: Embracing Warmth and Ambiance with the TURBRO Suburbs TS17Q
Living with persistent cold spots in your home can significantly detract from your overall comfort and well-being, especially during the colder months. Failing to address these chilly areas often leads to unnecessary discomfort, inflated heating bills from over-compensating with central heating, or simply enduring a less enjoyable and inviting home environment. It’s a problem that genuinely needs a practical and effective solution.
The TURBRO Suburbs TS17Q Infrared Electric Fireplace Stove stands out as a superb fit to solve this common predicament for several compelling reasons. First, it delivers efficient, targeted infrared heating directly to you and your immediate surroundings, making small spaces wonderfully cozy without wasting energy. Second, it creates a captivating flame ambiance that instantly elevates the mood of any room, offering the charm of a fire without any of the mess, smoke, or safety hazards of a traditional fireplace. Finally, it’s packed with robust safety features, including a cool-to-touch exterior and dual overheat protection, ensuring complete peace of mind during its operation. If you’re looking to transform a chilly corner into a warm, inviting haven, I wholeheartedly recommend this versatile and charming appliance. Click here to check it out and bring warmth and charm into your home today!