Why is my electric fireplace clicking? + How to fix it [2023]

An electric fireplace is a convenient heating solution for homes without a chimney or gas supply.

However, if you’ve ever heard a clicking sound coming from your electric fireplace, it can be a cause for concern.

The good news is that this clicking sound is a common issue and is usually caused by expansion and contraction within the fireplace.

In this article, we will explore the reasons why electric fireplaces make a clicking sound and what you can do to fix the problem.

Understanding the underlying cause of this issue will help you troubleshoot and resolve it quickly, ensuring that your electric fireplace operates as smoothly and quietly as possible.

Why is my electric fireplace clicking?

Electric fireplaces make a clicking sound due to the expansion and contraction of materials within the fireplace. The sound is created when various components within the fireplace, such as metal parts, expand and contract as they are heated and cooled.

Expansion is the process by which materials increase in size as they are heated. Conversely, contraction occurs when materials decrease in size as they cool down. The temperature change that causes the expansion and contraction is due to the heating element within the electric fireplace. The heating element is responsible for generating heat and warming up the room, and it operates by converting electricity into heat. When the heating element is turned on, it heats up the metal parts within the fireplace, causing them to expand.

Expansion and contraction cause stress within the metal parts and other components, and the stress causes them to move or change position. When the components are under stress, they can produce a clicking sound as they shift and move. This clicking sound is usually due to the metal parts expanding and contracting at different rates and causing friction against each other. The sound can also be caused by the expansion and contraction of other components, such as plastic parts or electrical connections, that are exposed to the heat generated by the heating element.

It is important to note that the clicking sound produced by electric fireplaces is usually not a sign of a malfunction or defect. Rather, it is a normal occurrence due to the expansion and contraction of materials within the fireplace. However, if the clicking sound is accompanied by other unusual sounds or if the electric fireplace is not functioning properly, it may be a sign of a problem.

How do I stop my electric fireplace from clicking?

If the clicking sound isn’t due to the natural process of expansion and contraction, there may be something wrong with one or more of the parts in your fireplace.

Some common causes and solutions for a clicking sound in your electric fireplace include:

Loose Parts: One of the simplest explanations for a clicking sound in an electric fireplace is that there are loose parts inside the unit. The clicking sound may be caused by a loose screw or bolt that’s rattling around inside the fireplace. If this is the case, you can easily fix the problem by tightening any loose screws or bolts.
Blower Fan: Another common cause of a clicking sound in an electric fireplace is a problem with the blower fan. The blower fan is responsible for circulating air around the fireplace and distributing heat evenly throughout the room. If the fan blades are hitting something inside the fireplace, it can cause a clicking sound. To fix this problem, you’ll need to disassemble the fireplace and check for any obstructions that may be blocking the fan blades.
Thermostat: If your electric fireplace has a thermostat, it could be the cause of the clicking noise. The thermostat is responsible for controlling the temperature of the fireplace. If it’s malfunctioning, it may be clicking as it tries to turn the heating element on and off. To fix this problem, you’ll need to replace the thermostat with a new one.
Heating Element: The heating element in an electric fireplace is responsible for providing heat. If it’s not functioning properly, it can cause a clicking sound as it tries to turn on and off. If this is the case, you’ll need to replace the heating element to fix the problem.
Control Panel: The control panel in an electric fireplace is responsible for controlling all of the functions of the fireplace. If the control panel is faulty, it can cause a clicking sound as it tries to turn the heating element on and off. If this is the case, you’ll need to replace the control panel to fix the problem.

Why is my electric fireplace clicking? – Final thoughts

The clicking sound that is often heard in electric fireplaces is due to the expansion and contraction of materials within the fireplace as they are heated and cooled.

This process is normal and usually does not indicate a problem, but if accompanied by other unusual sounds or symptoms, it is best to have the electric fireplace inspected by a professional.

Read more: