Can Relaxation Be Bought? My $200 Electric Fireplace Suggests It Can

When I first unpacked the Suburbs TS25 Smart Electric Fireplace by Turbro, I was frustrated to find it didn't include the necessary 6-inch Phillips screwdriver for putting the legs on. After rummaging through my tools, I found a smaller screwdriver and embarked on the task of securing the pieces with 16 screws. Despite the challenge, I successfully installed the gleaming white enamel piece in my living room.

After hitting the power button, I was greeted with an LED display of flames reminiscent of animated cartoons. Sitting on my couch with my laptop out, I soon found myself unexpectedly succumbing to an hour of sleep, only to be awakened by the buzzing of my dryer.

The Soothing Light

I’m not typically someone who naps. Despite juggling life with three kids, I’ve never mastered napping when they rest. My struggle to relax is constant, so I pondered whether the fireplace's mimicry of flames—the lively dance of orange and red hues, the glowing logs, and the gentle crackling sound—was a factor in my rare doze. I often fall for illusions, like a puppet seemingly talking when the ventriloquist’s lips are still. Perhaps this faux fire is the comforting illusion my nerves need.

The Suburbs model isn’t a novelty, yet it was the first to genuinely aid in my relaxation, potentially by reducing blood pressure. Weighing 32 pounds, it’s a portable 2-by-2-foot cube that I can easily relocate around my house. Upon accessing the SmartLife app on my phone—originally downloaded for another gadget—I found the Suburbs already listed.

Features of the Suburbs 25 Wi-Fi Electric Fireplace

The Home Depot purchase came with a user-friendly remote control within the app, outperforming the physical remote in ease of use. It offers three flame brightness settings and features three adjustable levels of crackling sounds. Plus, the fireplace with its classic wood-burning stove facade comes with an infrared heater that can be set to a timer, efficiently warming my 200-square-foot space.

Emulating Nature's Fire

The more I experimented with the Suburbs, the more it became my source of tranquility. Finding ways to lift my mood, alleviate stress, and achieve genuine calmness has grown vital in my life. Could imitating a fireplace actually lower stress levels naturally? Research led by Christopher D. Lynn, an anthropology professor at the University of Alabama, supports this hypothesis. His study indicates that viewing fire can lead to measurable drops in blood pressure, especially with extended exposure.

I reached out to Professor Lynn via email, inquiring whether his findings on real fires applied to electric versions, like those found in TV Yule log displays. He confirmed his experiments funded by Napoleon Fireplaces produced similar outcomes to his initial study, which he hopes to publish soon. Earlier research suggested watching traditional fireplaces could enhance cognitive abilities.

While research may contrast the benefits between natural and artificial flames, there's no denying simulated fireplaces can be beneficial. These electric comforts are a healthier alternative, possibly boosting mental acuity. Writing this article in front of my Suburbs fireplace, I experienced a serene and stress-free environment. At a price point of approximately $200, I'd argue it's a worthwhile investment, possibly even qualifying as a flexible spending account expense.