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Fireplaces not only give living rooms an exotic appeal, but they also make them warm, cozy and hospitable to relax, for you and few of your buddies – these make the best moments in life.
The best electric fireplace saves you from the hassle of dealing with real flames, smoke, and ash while adding the same appeal of traditional fireplaces without the chimney and all.
To tell you the truth, going through the various electric fireplaces, testing and listing them from the best to the best is no mean feat. It took us a significant amount of time to examine the products based on the features that customers desire most.
But after examining, consulting and weighing user satisfaction, duraflame fireplace emerged as the undisputed top choice.
Before go on to the in-depth review, here is a quick helpful video that demonstrates, how to select a best electric fireplace for heat.
How to choose an electric fireplace
Top Electric fireplace comparison table (Updated 2021)
Inserts, Wall Mounts, Recessed Mounts, and TV Stands
Here is the comparison table of our 12 best electric fireplace model. (Traditional & Latest)
Best For Medium Sized Room
Best Electric Fireplace Reviews: Updated List
#1. Duraflame DFI-5010-01 Infrared Quartz Fireplace Stove
Most Realistic Electric Fireplace
The Duraflame Fireplace takes the top spot based on some factors that make a product stand out in a sea of others. More importantly, the product has an astonishing amount of user satisfaction scores. In other words, the fireplace is one product that users were glad to have, even after a period of use.
There is nothing more satisfying and enjoyable than a warm and cozy home, on a cold afternoon. Well, the fireplace makes this dream a reality, minus the mess and hassles that characterize real fireplaces.
But apart from a user satisfaction score of 4.4 out of 5, which are these features that make it a top choice?
Appearance and Compatibility:
For starters, Duraflame DFI-5010-01 is a fireplace that looks everything like the real traditional fireplace. The patented 3D flame effect is relaxing, and you can sit back, look into the flames and reflect on the day – a magical moment. You will not find this feature in many fireplaces you see on the market, making Duraflame, a genuin
ely top product, and the pride of those that acquire it.
Everyone these days is looking to save some dollars for a rainy day, and this fireplace allows you to do just that. The Duraflame Quartz infrared fireplace can heats up to 1,000 square feet area without drying out the room. That means, this fireplace will maintain the natural humidity or oxygen content in your room.
As it’s an infrared fireplace, which means, you don’t have to wait for a long time to get warm. It instantly emits a beam of heat that will warm the room directly.
It’s 5,200 BTU heater, boasts the zone heating feature, giving you optimal control on the heat and energy it produces. In other words, you can quickly adjust the temperature, and even turn it off for the rooms that don’t need it.
It also features adjustable brightness settings. With Duraflame, you have total control over the brightness and heat, which is a good thing. It means you can choose the most appropriate settings depending on the temperature and time of the day – life could never be this easy.
Safety Feature:
The fireplace comes with a functional safety feature – critical! You will not need to worry about the pets and the children messing with it, and causing a fire hazard. It also boasts a cool to touch feature and chances of getting hurt are minimal, or non-existent.
The overheat protection feature switches the device off in case of overheating, providing an extra layer of safety for your household and its occupants.
Drawbacks of Duraflame fireplace:
Despite managing an excellent user score, the fireplace is not without several drawbacks. For example, it is a little noisy, and those that love total silence may not find this appealing. The fireplace also has plastic legs, which might look out of place for some people.
fAQ’s about Duraflame fireplace:
Q 1: What is the size (measurement) of this fireplace?
Ans: It’s 24″ W x 23.4″ H x 12.9″ D
Q 2: How many Watt’s it is?
Ans: It’s 1500 Watt’s?
Ans: You can hear the fan, but it’s not noisy.
Q 4: Does this unit have a thermostat temperature control?
Ans: Yes, You can easily adjust the temperature as per your preference.
#2. Touchstone 80001 Onyx Wall Hanging Electric Fireplace
Best Wall Mount Electric Fireplace
The second spot deservedly goes to Touchstone 80001 based on easy installation, appeal and two heating options among others. And like our top choice, the electric fireplace manages a user satisfaction score of 4.4 out of 5 – pretty decent.
Touchstone 80001 has been a best seller for such a long time for a good reason – undoubtedly! But what is so right about the fireplace?
Appearance and Compatibility:
Weighing at only 46lbs, the fireplace is easy to handle and install. You need to read the accompanying instructions, and you are good to go.
The soothing effect and ambiance, the fireplace creates is what you can rightly refer to as, ‘out of this world.’ It makes your home very hospitable that your guests will never want to get out of your living room.
Primarily, the fireplace features two heating options; high and low. The adjustable heat options, thus allow you a natural choice as to the heating you are most comfortable in, depending on the weather and current temperature.
Another highlight feature is the flame effect. There is no single customer review talking about the ‘fake flames’ highlighting its exceptional design. It features crystal and faux logs, responsible for the life-like appearance.
The Safety Feature of touchstone electric fireplaces:
You will not need to worry about the safety of the children as the device is cool to the touch. It also does not contain mercury and has no harmful emissions – something to applaud!
Drawbacks of Touchstone 80001 Electric Fireplace:
The only thing that may stand in the way of the realistic look is the mirror finish. On a bright day, you will see the reflections of other things as opposed to the thought-provoking flames that most of us love. But the thoughts may not be an issue for some people and are happy with its performance.
fAQ’s about Touchstone 80001 Electric Fireplace:
Q 1: What is the measurement of this fireplace?
Ans: The Touchstone 80001 is 50.4” in width, 21.65” in height, and 5.5” deep.
Q 2: How many Watt’s it is?
Ans: It’s 1500 Watt’s?
Ans: You can hear the fan, but it’s not noisy.
Q 4: Does this unit have a adjustable temperature control?
Ans: No, there are only two heat settings available f
or this unit, high & low.
#3. Southern Enterprises Tennyson Electric Fireplace
Best Electric Fireplace Tv Stand Review
For the people that love to read, and have a few books here and there, the Southern Enterprises Tennyson Electric Fireplace has the ideal design. That means you can enjoy the warmth, as well as, catch up on your favorite genre, as the sun gradually retires.
The shelves are not only for books, but you can also put other things, as we are not all book fans. The top section can as well fit a 68-inch flat panel TV – talk of killing two birds with a single stone!
Among the other great features, the bookcase designed fireplace boasts, include an efficient, quiet and quick space heater. The fireplace will disseminate warmth up to 400 square feet within a short time, and you don’t have to wait for long, for things to heat up.
For convenience’s sake, it comes with a remote control to adjust the timer, thermostat, and logs. It’s one of the best freestanding electric fireplace model, which you can relocate anywhere you want.
In the appeals department, the bookcase-design fireplace features a soft traditional style, with floral design and ivory finish – not too bad.
With a rating of 1500 watts, the fireplace is energy-efficient, and will not eat into your monthly heating budget. And to protect the ever-curious children, the fireplace features a glass protective, that doesn’t heat that much. The remote control also has a child-safe lock.
The freestanding fireplace is not too massive, weighing 152lbs, and you can quickly move it should you need to. The bookcase fireplace manages the top five spot, deservedly – don’t you agree?
Drawbacks:
Well, the materials that make up the fireplace are not what we would call, the best. The plastic screw covers, cams and sometimes ill-fitting pieces, do not do justice to the bookcase.
Assembly is another issue that will leave you with a headache. The base fireplace is not easy to assemble, as you will require all the four walls instep, and you may have to call a woodworker or handyman.
#4. LifeSmart Large Room Infrared Quartz Fireplace
Best For Medium Sized Rooms
At first glance, LifeSmart Large Room Infrared Quartz Fireplace strikes you as a product made to impress, and it sure does. The fireplace is among the bestsellers with a high customer satisfaction rating. But what is this that makes people love the fireplace?
Appearance:
Well, several factors make it a top product, and among them are the realistic and attractive embers, that illuminate your living room sufficiently. The simulated embers and flames make your home, a truly desirable place, and you will be looking to get home, after a hard day at work. And there is a remote control you can use at the comfort of your chair – you don’t need to move.
Comfort & User Friendliness:
With the remote control, you can adjust the flame effects, the temperature and the timer, conveniently.
More importantly, the fireplace has a decent 5100 BTUs per hour, sufficient to heat a large room in a matter of minutes. Its user-friendliness extends from the remote control to lightweight; you can move it around the house as is necessary.
The good thing about infrared technology in fireplaces is, its heating effectiveness, without drying the air in your house. It targets people and objects, rather than just heating the air. It also means that you will not need a humidifier along with this fireplace to keep the moisture level in your house at a decent level.
It also has a convenient shutoff feature that switches the unit off on reaching a specific temperature. It also means that you will not have to get up in the middle of the night, to switch the unit off on reaching unbearable temperatures.
Drawbacks of lifesmart electric fireplace:
Many users love the design and appealing life-like embers and flames. However, there are several complaints of blown up fuses, soon after connecting the device. Others do not like the actual size of the unit. A more prominent fireplace, in the same standalone design, is usually better, according to them.
#5. Touchstone Sideline Recessed Mounted Electric Fireplaces
Best Recessed Electric Fireplace Review
There is something quite appealing about in-wall installation fireplaces, and it is the realistic look they give. Recessed mounted fireplaces make it seem as if you have a real log fireplace, with real embers, and that is what you get with Touchstone Sideline Recessed Mounted Electric Fireplaces.
Appearance and User satisfaction:
There are five settings for the authentic-looking flames that complement the effective heating that fireplace gives off. But there are also brightness settings, ranging from slight ember glows to a full bright blaze to choose from.
The black frame Touchstone fireplace, adds a unique appeal to the living room, ensuring a truly unique appearance.
Many people think that recessed fireplaces mean a lot of work to install, but nothing could be farther from the truth. This 36″ electric fireplace comes with easy-to-follow instructions, and you may not need a handyman to do it for you. But further from it, is this something reliable? Is it something that you can call upon when the chill decides to conquer your area?
The fireplace has two heat settings; the high and low. It disseminates heat through the upfront area, and you can conveniently adjust it according to preference. It means you can turn it up when the weather is all freezing or low when there’s only a little evening chill.
Drawbacks Of touchstone sideline 36″ electric Fireplace:
Some limitations accompany the fireplace and among them is the requirement to leave at least a 12-inch gap from the ceiling. It should also not be directly below the flat screen television as it can limit its working, remember it has a top area heating action.
It might also not be bright enough, especially during the day. The unit is also too loud, for the people that love a bit of quiet when they come home.
#6. Real Flame 8020E-W Crawford Electric Fireplace
Best electric fireplace heater
For an authentic-looking fireplace, Real Flame 8020E-W Crawford may be what you are looking for. Ideally, the unit intelligently fuses the modern technology with the traditional fireplace appearance, for a complete exotic feel and look.
The realistic logs and fire is something that adds an original appearance to the fireplace, and your guests may mistake it for the real thing – that’s the idea!
It features a wooden mantel that takes the traditional appearance further, and cheaply. The fireplace has an adjustable heat that gives you total control over the heating. Not many people are fond of leaving their seat to adjust the heat, and the fireplace comes with convenient remote control.
Apart from the remote control, the fireplace features a timer function and programmable thermostat making it easier to control the unit – technology is all about convenience, don’t you agree?
For safety’s sake, the unit requires anchoring to a wall, and there is hardware for this purpose. The electric fireplace easily plugs to a standard outlet, and will not need any electrical modifications.
Even though some assembly is necessary, there are easy-to-follow instructions to put the mantle together. The rest is only to plug it as you sit back, and enjoy the resulting warmth.
The fireplace is also not hot to touch, and cases of burned body parts are minimal – essential, especially in homes with children.
For this unit, the assembly is necessary. Some of us balk at the thought of having to assemble something before use. The fireplace also blows at one speed, which may be quite slow for some people. Some users don’t like the noise it develops after a period of use.
#7. PuraFlame 30″ Western Electric Fireplace Insert
Best Electric Fireplace Insert Review
The electric fireplace insert is another authentic-looking fireplace that adds an extra appeal to your room, in addition to the heat. However, PuraFlame 30″ Western Electric Fireplace Insert has some of the top features that make it a truly decent unit. But what are these features that make the fireplace manage a top ten finish?
For starters, the unit pretty much looks like the real thing. It seems like an authentic traditional fireplace, and some of your guests may not tell the difference, but really? Well, the ember bed, resin logs, as well as, the interior brick wall design, does the unit some justice in looking authentic – I am sure you will agree.
Many people have this wrong notion that quality, authentic-looking fireplace insert is expensive. However, that is not the case with this unit. It has some of the best features without closing the $400 mark, meaning that you get a quality product at an affordable price – talk of landing a bargain.
The options are even impressive, with the choice of having the ‘fake flames’ and brightness with heat or without heat. The 30″ electric fireplace insert features electronic temperature control which provides precise temperature readings, and together with the adjustable thermostat, you have a complete, easy to control fireplace for a hospitable living room– you couldn’t ask for more!
It can heat a room, as large as, 400 square feet, adequately – it is a decent unit with a fair amount of power.
And should it be necessary, the unit is a breeze to install and uninstall – important when relocating.
Even though the fireplace looks authentic enough, the glass it comes with may produce reflections, foiling the almost real look. It is easy to install, but still, it may give a few new users some headache.
The customer service could do better, as several reviewers frequently point out the non-responsive attitude of the company.
#8. HomCom 16″ Free Standing Electric Wood Stove Fireplace Heater
Best Portable Electric Fireplace Heater
If you are among those that value portability more than anything else in a fireplace unit, this is your product. The Homcom electric fireplace combines stylish design, with a high level of portability.
The copper-effect handles and the metal finish give the unit an authentic stove look, making it ideal for a workplace, garage or home. It also boasts a realistic log effect, with an appealing visual, and an independent heating function.
And to ensure optimal comfort, the unit features a controllable thermostat you can use to select the heat to suit your comfort level. You can turn up the heat as high as you want during those chilly nights you can’t sleep.
Safety features include a thermal cut off to avoid overheating. The functionality also switches the equipment off, in case it falls off – you can rest assured that nothing related to fire breakout may happen.
The fireplace stove is pocket-friendly, and will not leave your savings dry – pretty much what most people want. It has clean energy, and you will not have to handle all that fire-related mess and fuel. The unit is maintenance-free meaning that you will have to do very little to keep the equipment in a good running condition.
At only 17lbs, the fireplace stove is very lightweight, and while it makes it easier to move, the children in the house can easily topple it. As a result, chances of damage or injury are high.
The requirement to be five inches away from anything makes it even more unfriendly.
#9. Ameriwood Home 1766196PCOM Carson Electric Fireplace
The Ameriwood Home 1766196PCOM Carson takes it further by having a TV console – a significant feature for those who want space-saving and budget-friendly equipment. It is lightweight, and you can easily move it wherever necessary. If you’re searching for an electric fireplace entertainment center unit, then this is for you.
Featuring laminated particleboard, and a cherry finish, the electric fireplace adds a particular level of appeal. And with open shelving, and two large cabinets, it boasts adequate space for Blue-ray players and DVD among others – you name them!
The fireplace insert can warm up a room, 400 square feet big. It also features ambient flames that you can enjoy with heat or without heat; the choice is yours. The unit also comes with energy-efficient lighting, with a long lifespan of up to 50000hrs.
The open shelving can hold up to 30lbs while the shelves behind the door can hold 10lbs – pretty sturdy construction.
The fireplace needs at least two people to assemble effectively. It also takes some time to figure out where everything goes. Another apparent weakness is in the materials; they are not among the most durable. You will find better products on the market, without the cheap elements as this fireplace. Regardless, the price is favorable.
#10. Dimplex CS33116A Compact Electric Stove
Best Freestanding Electric Fireplace
If you are looking for a quality, and not so expensive fireplace, then Dimplex CS33116A Compact Electric Stove may be just what you are looking for. It features a 3D frame technology that makes it seem as if you are enjoying the heat from an actual fire.
It boasts a heating capacity of 5115 BTU and does not require venting. The unit has a thermostat control for comfortable control of the heat, depending on the current temperature. It also has an independent realistic-looking frame control that you can turn up, with or without the heat.
The unit is free-standing and portable. You can move it from one room to the next smoothly, depending on the room you want to heat.
It can warm up a room of up to 400 square feet – pretty decent. The unit comes with a remote control that makes it even more comfortable, and convenient to use.
The fireplace can cause a fuse blowup if plugged into the same socket with other electrical appliances. Looking at the majority of the reviews, a good number of users complained of breakdown, and so may not last like some of the high-end products on the market.
#11. Moda Flame Houston 50 Inch Electric Wall Mounted Fireplace
A quality wall-mounted unit is always a joy to have, especially during those chilly evenings that you want to enjoy your favorite program. The fireplace does not require any venting and is quite clean. It is also maintenance-free equipment, and will not demand a lot from you.
And to make it easy for you, the fireplace has three settings; high, low and no heat. The unit also makes it possible for you to enjoy the ambiance, minus the heat or with the temperature – the choice is yours.
Moda flame electric fireplace heats a 400 square feet room comfortably, and within a short time – you don’t have to wait for too long to bask in the warmth. The four-level brightness feature the machine comes with is entirely something.
The fireplace comes with all the hardware and easy-to-follow instructions for installation.
You will need a clearance of more than 36 inches if you are mounting it under a television. And unlike most other competitors, the fireplace does not come with a thermostat. The LED bulbs can quickly burn out, and there is no way of replacing them.
#12. Best Choice Products Adjustable Electric Wall Mount & Free Standing Fireplace Heater
Searching for an Elegant and modern electric fireplace ? If so, you might be interested in this Best Choice Products Large 1500W Heat Adjustable Electric Wall Mount & Free Standing Fireplace Heater.
What catches your eye first is the attractive exterior it carries, (especially the elegant glass front). The fireplace use a 3D flame effect technology that create a realistic looking of a traditional fireplace. It fits well with the majority of décor you may have – preferably darker.
In addition to its aesthetic appeal, It comes with two heat settings, digital controls, making it genuinely user-friendly. The remote control makes it convenient to adjust the heat and flame effect. You don’t have to move a muscle if you need to turn up the heat, to kick out the rising chill.
The main selling point of this unit is that, it’s a 2-in-1 electric fireplace, that means it can be mounted to the wall, or you can use it as a free standing fireplace, choice is yours!
N.B: This unit also comes with a stand and a wall mounting bracket.
The fireplace is not only stylish, but also gives off plenty of heat to warm your room during the cold weather. Affordable price with easy installation process.
1.The fireplace has only two heat setting.
2.The glass front may become hot during use.( Keep away from kids and pets)
3.The unit is little bit noisy.
What an Electric Fireplace is and the Benefits of having one
The best electric fireplace heaters are devices that mimic the traditional fireplaces regarding design, and which give off sufficient heat to keep you cozy in your living room. The evenings can sometimes be chilly, and having the ability to turn up the heat can make life a little bit easier, and enjoyable.
There are various advantages of having the ideal electric fireplace, and it includes the appeal the equipment adds. The blue flames in the darkness as you listen to some music create a memorable moment. And the best thing about these products is that you can get to choose the one that matches your house’s décor.
These fireplaces are zero emission, and they don’t produce any harmful gases. They don’t need any fuel, and there is no hassle of storing the fuel safely.
The products are also safer and there no chances of hot embers jumping off and causing injury. You will not need to worry about touching hot surfaces that cause burns to your skin. – Most of them come with safety mechanisms.
As you will soon realize, electric fireplaces are easy to clean and maintain. All they need is a bit of dusting, and you are good to continue enjoying the appeal and warmth.
Many of them don’t need any installation, they come ready to hit the ground running, and you will not need to call a professional – for the majority of the fireplaces. All you may need to do is plug them in and turn the switch on, and the heat starts flowing smoothly into your leaving room.
For most of the electric fireplaces, the heat usually is optional. You can turn it off and leave the attractive visual fire to do its magic in the dark – it creates a beautiful and hospitable environment that you will be looking forward to after spending the day working your wits off.
Factors to Consider when Choosing the Best Electric Fireplace Heater for your Living Room
Choosing the right electric fireplace is critical if you want to enjoy the warmth and feel of sophistication that the best brings along. But how do you know the best?
Well, below are some of the factors that will guide you to the right equipment for your luxury home, which you and your guests will appreciate.
1. The Design: Free- standing, Wall Mounted or Insert ?
You will find three main designs on the market, and your choice may be a matter of preference. The wall-mounted varieties project about 10 inches into a room, and despite the name, you do not hang them on the wall. The product merely embeds to a bracket, and installing it is wha
t you would refer to as child’s play – they are quite simple.
Another conventional design you will come across is fireplace insert. Unlike, the wall-mounted fireplaces, these can prove a little challenging to install – but it all depends on the application. Ideally, you should have a professional install it for you – it will save time and chances of damaging the equipment.
Typically, you put the insert fireplaces in the recessed inside of a wall, and the units are available in a variety of sizes and shapes. Some people integrate the design into pieces of furniture, such as TV stands, adding to the overall appeal.
The free-standing design is the last available design you will find on the market. Just as the name indicates, the free-standers stand on their own, without the need to attach them anywhere. It can be on the table top or the floor.
2. Size of the Fireplace:
Before you can buy that electric fireplace you like, it is a good idea to determine the space you have available for installation. It would be embarrassing to pick one variety only to find that it is too big.
But the good thing about electric fireplaces is that they are available in a variety of sizes and designs. You only need to pick the one that will fit in the space you have in the living room – some of our rooms are choking with furniture and fixtures that specific sizes will not fit.
3. Electricity Requirements:
It is essential to know the electricity requirements of a particular fireplace before you purchase. Determine if you can comfortably fulfill these requirements and make the necessary adjustments.
It would be a pity to buy a high-end fireplace only to relegate it to a corner, where it accumulates dust and serves no purpose, just because the associated power bills were too high for comfort or it blows up several fuses. But in the majority of cases, compatibility is never an issue.
4. Sturdy Construction:
As it is with the other products you purchase, make sure the quality of the fireplace is excellent. The construction must be of the best quality materials to ensure a long-term service.
No one wants to spend cash on equipment that disintegrates after a period of use. The fireplace must, therefore, have quality parts – no compromise!
5. Style: Realistic looking, Color of the flame?
Modern electric fireplaces come in a variety of designs and styles, and you can choose whichever you feel is the most fitting for your living room. But don’t you think the most appropriate manner is the one that matches with your internal décor?
Most fireplaces incorporate a variety of optical techniques that mimic the real fire – it is appropriate to choose the one that closely resembles the actual fire. And depending on preference, you can select between faux logs and pebbles. But there are also products that offer both, and you can interchange whenever you need to.
The color of the flame is another thing that you need to determine. Some units feature adjustable colors that add to the sophistication – you will love the beautiful glow, especially during the night.
In the majority of cases, the fireplace will be the natural focal point in your living room, and it would be a sad affair if you choose something that doesn’t quite complement the decor.
6. The Heat Output :
The primary reason for purchasing an electric fireplace is the warmth they provide. You will need to know how much heat the device gives off, and how much control you have over the heat. Typically, good quality fireplac
es offer more than enough heat and have a high-level power that you can never dream of on the good old fireplaces.
7. Warranty :
It is important to purchase only the devices that have favorable warranty terms – you know how these electrical devices are, one time they are working and the next, they are not. Determine the type of warranty on offer, and what it covers.
Good quality products often come with a warranty that covers the buyer against any defects the product may come with, and which are not your fault. The more extended the warranty period and coverage, the more the confidence, manufacturers have on their products.
Installing the Electric fireplace:
Installing the fireplace is not rocket science. The devices come ready to work on the go, and so you may not need to assemble anything. But make sure there is some space around the device. Ideally, a 6ft clearance should be more than enough, to ensure no equipment may accidentally catch fire – we can’t be too careful, you know.
The easiest to install are the freestanding varieties.
Nevertheless, make sure there is sufficient space for installation. The fireplace must fit the space you have. Take the measurements and clear anything on the way to make space for the fireplace.
Make sure there are electrical sockets around to connect the device. Typically, avoid using an extension lead for convenience and appeal’s sake. If there is no plug at the location you need the fireplace, get an electrician to create one for you.
You can then get the fireplace running and enjoying the warmth.
Installing the best wall mount electric fireplace is a little different. For starters, you will need to locate the actual spot you need the fireplace to go, and then use a drill to make holes. The mounting bracket will go into these holes, and secure the fireplace like you would a flat panel television – it should not be a strenuous exercise.
But you can always get someone to do it for you, don’t struggle with something you are not proficient at to avoid unnecessary accidents.
Concluding Remarks:
The best electric fireplace is nothing but joy to have in our houses. It provides the necessary heat and ambiance to create an unforgettable moment. The above review will provide you with the required information to make the right decision.
Well, the first five products are some of the best, and which you will not go wrong choosing them. They are quality fireplaces with realistic-looking frames, ambiance, and heat to make you feel as if you are enjoying a real log and embers warmth from one of those traditional fireplaces.