Water Vapor Fireplace Guide: How Dimplex Optimyst Works and Which Model to Buy

A water vapor fireplace creates its flame and smoke effect from ultra-fine water vapor and LED light instead of burning fuel, so it needs no chimney, no vent and no gas line. The line we carry is Dimplex Optimyst water vapor fireplaces, which runs from an 18-inch plug-in stove to an 86-inch linear built-in. Below is how the technology works, how much heat to expect, what the install requires and which model fits which room.

How Does a Water Vapor Fireplace Work?

A water vapor fireplace turns water into a flame-and-smoke illusion lit by LEDs. Dimplex describes its patented Optimyst technology as producing true 3D flames and smoke with no fuel, no venting and no combustion. The Optimyst cassette uses ultrasonic water vapor, and the RGB versions pair that vapor with RGB LED lighting so you can change flame color.

On the linear models, the Dimplex Opti-Myst Linear 66-inch lets you adjust flame brightness and smoke intensity by remote or app. According to the Dimplex OLF66-AM specification sheet, the firebox adds crackling wood-fire sound effects, a built-in timer from 30 minutes to 8 hours, and a fully sealed front glass.

Where Does the Water Come From?

Built-in linear models are designed to connect to your main water line; the portable stove uses a refill tank. The same Dimplex specification sheet says the linear is designed for continuous operation from the main water line, and the optional Opti-Myst plumb kit (CDFIPLUMB-KIT) is the accessory for that connection. The plumb kit carries a 1-year warranty.

The Optimyst Mapleton stove skips plumbing altogether. Dimplex states that its refill tank provides up to six hours of continuous flame effect before you remove the tank, fill it with tap water and set it back in place.

Does a Water Vapor Fireplace Produce Heat?

The flame effect itself makes no heat; warmth comes from an optional built-in heater you can switch off. The 66-inch linear uses a concealed ceramic heater rated at 1,480 W on 120 V, 2,180 W on 240 V and 760 W with the heat off, and Dimplex lists it as supplemental heat for up to 1,000 sq. ft. For reference, 1,480 W works out to roughly 5,050 BTU per hour by standard conversion.

Smaller units scale down. Dimplex says the Mapleton's optional heater can warm up to 400 square feet or run with no heat for ambiance only, and the Optimyst Aura 30-inch lists a 4,350 BTU heater on a 120 V circuit. The Pro Box models are also offered with optional heat.

Do You Need Venting, a Chimney or a Gas Line?

No. A water vapor fireplace is electric and needs no venting, chimney or gas line. Dimplex lists the 66-inch linear as a zero-clearance firebox with no fuel source, which is why it can go on a feature wall where a gas or wood fireplace could not.

It still has install requirements you should plan before you frame the wall. For the 66-inch linear, Dimplex specifies:

Framing opening: at least 68 inches wide by 31-3/4 inches high by 12 inches deep. Fresh air inlet: 120 square inches is required, and the sheet warns that leaving it out causes poor flame performance and damage. Mounting height: bottom of the unit 5 to 50 inches off the floor. Bathrooms: a GFCI circuit is required, and the unit is not watertight, so keep it away from showers and tubs. Power: 120 V (3-wire) or 240 V (4-wire).

Have your electrician and installer confirm the rough-in dimensions in the installation manual for the exact model you choose before you build the opening.

Water Vapor Fireplace Models Compared

Choose by room and install type first: plug-in stove, cassette, built-in box or linear. Prices below are live on our site as of publishing.

Which Water Vapor Fireplace Should You Buy?

Match the model to how you plan to install it. My recommendations:

No framing, no plumbing: the Mapleton is the only plug-in, freestanding option in the line, so it is the one to look at if you cannot open a wall. A focal wall in a living room or primary bedroom: a linear is the cleanest fit. Pick the width by the wall, remembering that the 66-inch unit needs a 68-inch framing opening. A compact built-in: the 30-inch Aura or the 20-inch RGB cassette fit narrower spaces. Heat matters: check the heater rating on the exact model, because the flame effect alone adds none.

If you are still deciding between electric types, our electric fireplace buying guide covers sizing and install types, and electric fireplace vs gas fireplace covers when gas is worth the venting. For linear sizing in the same wall space, see our wall mount linear electric fireplace comparison.

Shop Dimplex Optimyst Water Vapor Fireplaces

Browse the full Dimplex Optimyst water vapor fireplace collection for fireboxes, stoves and accessories such as log sets, rock and driftwood media kits, glass panels and the plumb kit. To compare other electric types, see all electric fireplaces, our built-in and insert electric fireplaces, the Dimplex linear electric fireplaces, or everything from the Dimplex brand collection.

About the author: Jacky Chan is the founder of Urban Supply Inc, an online retailer of home appliances, fireplaces, power equipment and outdoor living products.

Related reading: Electric Fireplace Buying Guide · Electric Fireplace vs Gas Fireplace · Wall Mount Linear Electric Fireplace · Fireplace Insert Buying Guide