Common electric fireplace error codes (E3, E5, E2, E1, CO) & troubleshooting tips for 2023

Electric fireplaces are a popular choice for homeowners looking to add warmth and ambiance to their living spaces without the hassle of traditional wood-burning or gas fireplaces.

However, like any piece of technology, electric fireplaces can sometimes encounter problems, and display error codes to indicate the issue.

Understanding what these error codes mean can help you troubleshoot and fix the problem, and get your electric fireplace back up and running as soon as possible.

In this article, we will discuss the most common error codes and what they indicate.

Please note that error code meanings can vary by model, so our explanations are based on the most common meanings for the specific error.

Why does my electric fireplace say error?

There could be a number of reasons why your electric fireplace is displaying an error message.

Some common reasons for error messages on electric fireplaces include issues with the thermostat, issues with the wiring, or problems with the flame sensor.

If your electric fireplace displays a specific error code, it will be much easier to troubleshoot the problem.

Electric fireplace error codes and troubleshooting tips

While the list below features the most widely known cause for error codes, it is always worth checking the user manual for your specific fireplace model.

This should provide further information on troubleshooting steps that can be taken to resolve your issue.

E5 error code: What does E5 mean on my electric fireplace?

An E5 error code usually indicates a ventilation problem or that the fan isn’t working in your electric fireplace.

This can be due to an issue with voltage or something as simple as an object blocking or stuck in the fan.

How to fix an E5 error code

If the E5 error code on your electric fireplace is indicating a problem with ventilation or the fan not working, try these steps to fix the issue:

1. Unplug your electric fireplace and wait for it to cool down.
2. Check the ventilation system: Make sure that the vents or ducts of your electric fireplace are not blocked by dust or debris. Clean them out if necessary.
3. Check the fan: Make sure the fan is not clogged with dust and debris. Clean the fan blades if necessary.
4. Check the wiring: Make sure all the wiring is connected properly. If you find any loose or disconnected wires, try to reconnect them securely.
5. Reset the unit: Try unplugging the unit for a few minutes and then plugging it back in. This can sometimes reset the system and clear any errors.
6. Contact the manufacturer: If none of the above steps work, you may need to contact the manufacturer of your electric fireplace for further assistance or to schedule a repair.

E3 error code: What does E3 mean on my electric fireplace?

An E3 error code either indicates that the electric fireplace is overheating or that there is a problem with the overheating sensor itself.

If your electric fireplace does turn on but shuts off soon after, this usually indicates that the fireplace is indeed getting too hot. If the E3 error code displays instantly and the fireplace never turns on, this is likely a problem with the sensor.

How to fix an E3 error code

To fix an E3 error code on an electric fireplace that indicates overheating, you can try the following steps:

1. Unplug the fireplace and wait for it to cool down completely.
2. Check for any blockages in the air vents or the blower fan. Clean them if necessary.
3. Make sure the room where the fireplace is located has adequate ventilation.
4. Inspect the heating elements and check for any damage or wear. Replace them if necessary.
5. Check the thermostat and ensure it is working properly.
6. If none of the above steps resolve the issue, it may be necessary to contact the manufacturer or a professional for further assistance.

E1 error code: What does E1 mean on my electric fireplace?

An E1 error code on an electric fireplace typically indicates that the unit’s overheat protection has been activated.

This could be caused by a malfunction in the unit or by something blocking the airflow to the heating element.

How to fix an E1 error code

An E1 error code on an electric fireplace that indicates the unit has overheated or there is a problem with the sensor can be resolved by taking the following steps:

1. Turn off the electric fireplace and unplug it from the outlet. Allow the unit to cool down completely before attempting any repairs.
2. Check the air vents on the electric fireplace to ensure that they are not blocked by dust or debris. Clean the vents if necessary.
3. Inspect the heating element for any visible damage or wear. If the heating element is damaged, it will need to be replaced.
4. Check the thermostat sensor for any visible damage or wear. If the sensor is damaged, it will need to be replaced.
5. Verify that the room temperature is within the operating range of the electric fireplace. If the room is too cold or too hot, the fireplace may not operate properly.
6. Check for any loose or damaged wiring. If any wiring is damaged, it will need to be replaced.
7. If the above steps do not resolve the issue, it may be best to contact the manufacturer or a professional electrician for further assistance.

E2 error code: What does E2 mean on my electric fireplace?

An E2 error code on an electric fireplace typically indicates a problem with the thermostat or temperature sensor.

This error can occur if the sensor is not properly connected or if it has malfunctioned.

Other causes could be a problem with the control board or wiring, or a malfunctioning thermostat or temperature sensor.

How to fix an E2 error code

To fix an E2 error code on an electric fireplace, you can try the following steps:

1. Unplug the electric fireplace and make sure it has cooled down completely.
2. Check the thermostat and temperature sensor connections: Make sure the sensor is properly connected to the control board and that the wiring is secure.
3. Clean the thermostat and temperature sensor: Make sure there is no dust or debris blocking the sensor or thermostat, which can cause incorrect readings.
4. Check the control board: Make sure the control board is functioning properly and that there are no loose or damaged wires.
5. Reset the fireplace: If your fireplace has a reset button, try pressing it to reset the system.
6. Check the manual: Consult the manual for your specific fireplace model to see if there are any other troubleshooting steps you can try.
7. Contact the manufacturer: If none of these steps resolve the issue, you may need to contact the manufacturer for further assistance.

CO error code: What does CO mean on my electric fireplace?

The CO error code is very rarely seen on modern electric fireplaces, if ever.

If your electric fireplace shows this error we would recommend checking your user manual or finding the manual online for your specific model.

How to fix a CO error code

To fix a CO error code on an electric fireplace, you can try the following steps:

1. Firstly, reset your electric fireplace and see if this clears the code in case it is a misfire of the code.
2. If this doesn’t work, check your user manual for any solutions it may offer for your specific model.
3. Contact the manufacturer if none of the above steps work.

Electric fireplace error codes – Conclusion

Understanding the meanings of error codes on an electric fireplace can help diagnose and fix any issues that may arise.

It is important to refer to the manufacturer’s manual for specific codes and their meanings, as they can vary depending on the brand and model of the fireplace.

Regular maintenance and inspections can also help prevent errors from occurring.

By being familiar with the error codes and how to address them, you can ensure that your electric fireplace is functioning properly and safely.

Interested in reading more articles? Check out our guides on the quietest electric fireplaces or how long can you leave an electric fireplace on.