There are two main types of electric candles. Actual electric candles or candelabras are United Laboratories (UL) tested, plug into an electrical outlet, and resemble a candle with the bulb representing the flame. The second type of electric candles are not actually candles, but rather electric warmers that house real wax candles.

Actual electric candles are very popular, especially during the holidays, when they can be seen illuminating many windows in homes and shops. Some are powered by electricity, and others are battery powered. The most popular electric candles have built-in sensors that turn the light on in the dark and off during the day, saving power. Some electric candles use standard night-light bulbs, and others use specialty bulbs that resemble the flickering of flame from a distance.

Though traditional electric candles have been used for years, miniature versions have more recently appeared in Holiday décor retail. Some people traditionally place candles on their fir tree at Christmas, but the practice has been the cause of numerous house fires. Many stores now carry small strands of electric candles that create the look of candles on a Christmas tree without the hazard of open flame.

Electric candle warmers are not actually electric candles, but many consider them to be so. They are simply decorative containers for wax tarts or candles that are powered by electricity to melt the wax and release the aroma of scented candles. Electric candles and electric candle warmers are very safe alternatives to traditional flame-bearing candles.

Though electric candles are safer alternatives than open flame, they are not without risks. Always check the packaging for UL testing before purchasing electric candles, or any other electric device. Also, periodically check the wires of your electric candles for damage and throw out any with questionable cords. For safety reasons, keep electric candles away from small children, because the bulbs can easily shatter.