Onyx Avita Electric Fire Review | Keep Cool this Summer | Pepper's Showcase
- Pepper's Fireplace Studio
- 3 days ago
- 5 min read
The Onyx Avita's 'cool air'* setting is a welcome addition to the electric fire market, with UK Summers reaching soaring temperatures, the Avita is a fantastic year-round investment for your media wall.
The electric fire market has become increasingly crowded, with homeowners faced with an ever-growing choice of models that can often look and feel remarkably similar. Following the success of the British Fires New Forest range, many manufacturers have taken inspiration from its design in an attempt to compete. Rather than following the crowd, the Onyx Avita takes a different approach, introducing fresh features and practical innovations that help it carve out its own identity in an increasingly competitive market.
As part of our Pepper's Showcase series, we take an honest look at the fires we have on display, sharing what impresses us, where we think improvements could be made, and ultimately whether we'd recommend them to our customers.
What Sets the Onyx Avita Apart?
The headline feature has to be the Cool Fan Mode*.
Unlike almost every other electric fire we've experienced, the Avita can circulate air while
displaying its flame effect. This setting isn't an air-con, but does give some relief fom warm weather when sat in front of the fan. It's a simple idea, but one that genuinely expands how and when you'll use the fire. (The Avita still offers 2.0kW of heat-put when you need it in cooler months though!)
AR Glass Included as Standard
Onyx has also recognised the growing demand for anti-reflective (AR) glass, fitting it as standard. As AR glass becomes increasingly popular in premium electric fires, it's refreshing to see it included without having to add it on as an upgrade. The reduced reflections allow the LED flame picture to take centre stage, especially in bright living spaces.
Easy & Neat Installation Solutions
Installation has also clearly been considered. The Avita features an XL trim, allowing it to be fitted into a completed media wall at a later stage. For installers working to deadlines, or homeowners wanting to finish decorating before fitting the appliance, this is a genuinely practical feature that can save both time and hassle.
Great Effect for a Great Price
Living with the fire day-to-day is equally enjoyable. The LED flame effect is vibrant, the glowing ceramic logs are among the better examples we've seen, while the illuminated fuel bed and overhead downlights create a convincing centrepiece. We also appreciate the LCD display mounted discreetly at the rear of the appliance, providing visual confirmation whenever you adjust settings using the remote control.
Crackling Fire Sound-Effect
The crackling sound effect is another pleasant surprise. While sound effects can often feel artificial, the Avita's is noticeably less tinny than many we've experienced. Admittedly, it's a bit of a marmite feature; some customers love the added realism, while others prefer complete silence, but the ability to adjust the volume or switch it off entirely means everyone can tailor the experience to suit their taste.
Who is the Onyx Avita For?
We think the Onyx Avita is particularly well suited to homeowners building a new media wall who want a big, trustworthy brand on a reasonable budget; the Avita sits £500 - £1,200 cheaper than some of its upgraded counterparts*.
Its competitive pricing makes it an attractive alternative to many similarly sized premium electric fires, especially considering features such as AR glass, the cool fan function and the quality of its flame presentation all come as standard.
It's also an excellent option for anyone working to a tight installation schedule, or those trying their hand at DIY media walls. The XL trim gives installers greater flexibility by allowing the fire to be installed later in the project.
With 3 sizes in the range (120, 160 & 190) the Avita caters to television widths of 48", 50", 55", 60", 65", 70", 75" & 80" covering most popular TV sizes for media wall builds.
If you're looking for an electric fire that offers function throughout the year -not just in winter, the Avita is certainly worth considering.
Pepper's Pros 👍
Innovative cool fan mode for year-round enjoyment.
Excellent value compared with similarly sized competitors.
Anti-reflective (AR) glass fitted as standard.
Optional XL trim makes installation into completed media walls far easier.
5 Year Warranty (when purchased from an approved Onyx Retailer and registered online via the manufacturer)
Attractive LED flame effect with realistic glowing ceramic logs.
Illuminated fuel bed and overhead downlights add depth.
Straightforward remote control.
LCD display provides clear feedback when adjusting settings.
Crackling sound effect is one of the better examples we've heard and can be adjusted or switched off.
Pepper's Cons 👎
Loose ceramic logs require a little time to position during installation.
While very realistic, ceramic logs still won't completely replicate genuine timber.
Some lighting adjustments, including dimming certain flame, log and fuel bed settings, are only available via the free smartphone app rather than directly from the remote.
"Pepper's Perfect" Rating
⭐ 8/10
The Onyx Avita introduces meaningful innovation to the electric fire market without commanding the premium price tag of competing leading brands and is an excellent 'mid-range' electric fire choice. Carving out an identity for itself in an otherwise oversaturated market, by bringing unique selling points to the table, without feeling gimmicky, and at a benefit to the consumer.
The addition of a "cool fan" mode*, AR glass as standard and an installer-friendly XL trim makes it one of the most versatile media wall electric fires currently available. While we'd like to see every lighting control available through the remote, and the loose log arrangement takes a little patience during setup, these are minor criticisms of an otherwise impressive appliance.
If you're planning a media wall and want an electric fire from a trusted brand, with a good flame effect, and offers genuine year-round usability, the Onyx Avita deserves a place on your shortlist.
"Pepper's Perfect" Rating: 8/10
You can receive advice on these fires at our showroom, no appointment required. Want more information? Shop The Onyx Range Here. Sold on it already? Contact us for a price.
Visit Us: 70 Avenue Road, Bexleyheath, Kent, DA7 4EG Talk To Us: 0208 303 7318
*"Cool air'" setting is a fan only mode and is designed to circulate air, and is not an air-con unit,
*Prices accurate as of 15/07/2026, Avita 120RW RRP from £1,955,00 Avita 160RW RRP from £2,395.00, Avita 190RW RRP from £2,895.00 all prces inclusive of VAT, XL Trim Accessory not included and is an additional cost.