Most electric fire problems have a simple fix, whether it's a flame effect that won't come on, flickering, a noise, or a remote or heater that won't respond. This guide is based on the Econovex owner's manual, and most of it applies to other modern LED electric fires too. If something here doesn't solve it, contact us and we'll help. Please don't open any panels on the fire: there are no user-serviceable parts inside, and opening it can affect your warranty.
Flame effect not working or flickering
The flames won't come on
Check the fire is plugged in and the socket is switched on, then turn the flames on from the control panel on the fire rather than the remote. If the panel works but the remote doesn't, the remote needs pairing (see below). If nothing responds, unplug the fire for 20 seconds, plug it back in and try again, then hold the reset button for 3 seconds to return everything to default.
The flames are very dim
Flame brightness has several levels. Step through them with the brightness controls on the remote or the fire: the lowest setting can look as if the flames are off in a bright room. Also check the ember bed and ambient light haven't been set to off or a very dark colour.
The flames are flickering or flashing
Econovex fires have flashing modes for the flames and lights. If the effect is pulsing or strobing, a flashing mode has been switched on: switch the flashing mode off from the remote, or reset the fire. Uneven light can also come from the log set or ember media sitting over the flame opening, so spread the media evenly and place the logs as shown in the manual.
Part of the flame has gone out
If one section of the flame stays dark after a reset and with the media spread evenly, that points to a fault rather than a setting. Don't open the fire: contact us with a photo or short video and we'll arrange a warranty check.
Electric fire making a noise
- A low hum from the motor is normal.
- Crackling is the sound effect. Turn it off with the sound button on the remote.
- Fan noise: a small fan runs to keep the fire cool, and it keeps running with cool air for about 30 seconds after the heat is turned off.
- Light ticking as the fire warms up or cools down is the metal expanding and contracting, and is normal.
- Rattling or buzzing usually means the glass isn't fully seated in its channels or something is touching the fire. Switch off, unplug, let it cool and check the glass and surrounding trim.
- Grinding, squealing or a burning smell is not normal. Switch off, unplug and contact us.
Choosing a new fire and want a quiet one? Read are electric fires noisy? How to choose a quiet electric fire.
Remote control
The remote doesn't work
The remote has to be paired (synced) with the fire. There are two ways to do it:
- When plugging in: plug the fire in. While the orange light is showing, tap the red power button at the top of the remote several times. If the fire was already plugged in, unplug it, wait 20 seconds and try again.
- From the fire: turn the fire on with the red button on the unit, then hold that button for 3 to 4 seconds until the orange light comes on. Tap the red power button on the remote several times.
If it still doesn't respond, check the battery. The remote uses one CR2450 coin battery. Aim the remote at the front of the fire and press buttons one at a time, giving the fire a moment to respond to each command.
Can I control the fire without the remote?
Yes. The control panel on the fire turns it on and off, changes the flame brightness and colour, switches the heater and resets the fire.
Heat
The heater won't turn on
The heater only works when the flame effect is on. Turn the fire on first, then press the heater button: one press for low, a second for high, and a third to turn the heat off.
It blows cool air after I turn the heat off
That's normal. To prevent overheating, the fan keeps running with cool air for about 30 seconds after the heater turns off.
Can I have the flames without the heat?
Yes. The heater has its own button, so you can run the flame effect with the heat switched off.
The fire trips the circuit breaker
Unplug other appliances that share the same circuit and try again. The fire should have a circuit to itself where possible: a dedicated circuit is recommended. If the plug or socket ever feels hot, stop using it and have a qualified electrician check the socket.
Colours and settings
My colour settings have gone back to default
The fire remembers your last flame colour when you switch it off, but unplugging it resets the colours to the default.
How do I reset the fire?
Hold the reset button for 3 seconds to return all settings to default. The remote also has a reset button.
What can I change from the remote?
- Flame, ambient light and ember bed colour and brightness, together or separately
- Flashing modes
- Crackle sound on or off
- Heater: low, high or off
- A 1 to 9 hour timer
Cleaning and care
Always turn the fire off and unplug it before cleaning. Never spray it with water.
- Glass: spray a good glass cleaner onto a cloth (not onto the glass), then dry with a lint-free cloth.
- Vents: vacuum or dust the heater and vent areas to keep dust out.
- Plastic parts: wipe with a slightly damp cloth and a little washing-up liquid in warm water.
- Never use abrasive cleaners or anything that could scratch the surfaces.
The fan motors are lubricated at the factory and don't need any maintenance.
Warranty
Econovex panoramic fires come with a 5-year guarantee covering manufacturing faults: 1 year on-site, plus up to 4 more years on parts. It doesn't cover accidental damage, cosmetic wear, damage from damp or harsh cleaners, or breakage of the glass. If you think your fire has a fault, get in touch before trying any repair.
Time for a new fire?
If your old fire is beyond repair, our panoramic fire range and TV-size guides will help you pick a replacement, compare us with other brands in our electric fire brand comparison, and we can supply and fit it anywhere in the UK.
