The Advantages of an Electric Fireplace
Electric fireplaces are a great option for those who prefer the look of a fire without the hassle or cost of a wood-burning fireplace. The heat is generated by an electric heating coil that is paired with fans to blast warm air into the room.
Many models can be hung on the wall and can be installed by the homeowner without having to hire a professional. Some are designed to be integrated into bookshelves, TV stands or entertainment centers.
It is easy to install
Electric fireplaces are a great way to create a cozy atmosphere in your home. These units use electricity to generate heat, making them more convenient to install than traditional gas fireplaces. They also do not require venting, making them more secure than wood-burning fireplaces. They're also a great option for homes with no traditional fireplaces, for example apartments or mobile homes.
Installing an electric fireplace requires you first find a suitable location in your room. Then, measure the opening of your fireplace or refer to the installation guide provided by the manufacturer to determine the size insert you'll need. Then, you must locate the appropriate mounting brackets. Utilizing a spirit-level gauge, ensure that they are positioned exactly on the wall. Once you have the brackets set, plug the insert into them and connect the wire. You are now ready to enjoy your new fireplace!
Electricity is used to warm an electric fireplace, which can be done using the use of a heating plate or a coil. The heat is then disbursed through the air by a fan, resulting in supplemental warmth for your room. Some electric fireplaces also use infrared technology, which disperses heat directly to objects in the room. They're a cost-effective alternative to central heating and provide the appearance of real flames without the mess or smoke.
You can install a recessed electric fire in any wall of your home and give it a subtle but noticeable aesthetic upgrade. It can be built into furniture like bookshelves, TV stands, and other pieces of furniture. It is important to know that an electric fireplace that is recessed requires access to an electrical outlet which might not be accessible in certain areas of the home.
Many manufacturers offer a variety of options to fit your style and budget. Some include a mantel, which can enhance the look of your space. You can also pick different finishes and designs to match your decor. Certain models are designed to look like brick refractory or natural logs. You can pick the style that fits your home best.
It is secure
Contrary to wood and gas marble fireplaces, which emit carbon monoxide emissions when they are burned, an electric fireplace is safe to leave on overnight. It does not produce hazardous fumes or harmful smoke, so you can sleep soundly without worrying about your family's health. There is also no risk of creosote or escaping fuel that are typical in traditional fire incidents.
Electric fireplaces are safe if they are properly used and if the user abides by all instructions and recommendations. In general, you should keep the space around the fireplace free of flammable items such as clothes, furniture, drapes, and bedding. Avoid using extension cords close to your fireplace. This could result in overheating and power fluctuations that could cause a fire. Unplugging the fireplace when it is not in use can also help reduce energy consumption and help prevent overheating.
Most electric ethanol fireplaces are designed to imitate the appearance of flames, however, they don't produce live flames. Instead, they use LED lights, video images or mist to create the illusion of flames. Some models even include water vapor that mimics the appearance of smoke. This makes them more realistic than traditional fireplaces and they do not require maintenance or cleaning.
Unlike real fireplaces electric fireplaces do not heat the mantel or wall ledges above them. The unit could heat up and cause an ignition risk to flammable objects like TVs, wall coverings, and rug. The unit can also cause fire danger if placed close to flammable objects like wood or TVs.
Although electrical fireplaces are very safe to use, it is important to follow the manufacturer's guidelines and not exceed the recommended wattage. It is essential to select an established brand and purchase one with an overheat protection system. It is also a good idea to purchase an extra remote control, which will help you monitor the temperature and power usage of your fireplace. Keep your fireplace dry from moisture, paints and gasoline.
It is energy efficient.
Electric fireplaces are more efficient than wood or gas fireplaces. It consumes a small less than a tenth of the heat produced by traditional fireplaces and doesn't require a chimney or maintenance. This could save you a amount of money on your energy bill and chimney cleaning.
There are many options for your home when it comes to electric fireplaces, including models that heat up large rooms. Magik Flame's Trinity model, for example, can efficiently heat up to 1,000 square feet. Other models, like the Dimplex Upton have a lower heating capacity, and are better suited to small spaces.
Electric fireplaces are expensive to run. The cost depends on the size of the fireplace and the wattage it draws as well as how often it is used. Make sure to choose a model with high BTU rating, and low voltage draw to achieve the most efficient results. Use a thermostat that is programmed and can be set to the desired temperature.
You can also reduce the power consumption by using an electric fireplace mostly for decoration, without any heat. The heater will be turned off most of the time, to lower the power consumption. This can help keep children safe from burns or pets who might touch the flames.
Electric fireplaces aren't only an excellent way to save on energy bills, they also look gorgeous. It can be mounted on the wall or constructed into a media center to add a touch of warmth and ambiance your living space. Many designs feature louvers and trim that dress up the drywall hole, whereas others can cover an existing brick fireplace or stone fireplace.
Some electric fireplaces come with an insert for a fire pit that is filled with a gel made of butane, which can be replaced after 3-4 hours. These fireplaces can be connected to any standard outlet which makes them simple to install. They are also much more secure than real fireplaces and do not emit any odors or ash. You should still get an electrical safety check performed by a qualified home inspection professional before installing any electrical appliances.
It is easy to clean
It is important to clean your electric fireplace regularly. This is especially true in the event that you frequently use it. It will look new and help to keep dust from building up. Before you begin cleaning the fireplace, make sure it's cool. This will prevent any electrical shocks. It is also recommended to wear safety glasses or goggles to shield your eyes from any fine particles that could break off during the cleaning process.
Dust all surfaces of the electric fireplace before cleaning it. This should be done with an easy lint-free cloth. You can also use a vacuum cleaner equipped with a brush to clean any dust from corners and crevices. Then, make an aqueous solution that is made from dishwashing soap and water. You can also use vinegar, but be cautious not to mix it with soap. If you mix soap with vinegar it could trigger dangerous chemical reactions.
After dusting all surfaces then use a soft cloth to wipe them clean. Rinse and dry the surfaces thoroughly. Make sure you get into the corners and crevices especially the outlet and heating inlet vents. For stubborn stains and spots you can apply white fireplace distillation vinegar. However, it's acidic and can cause damage to the plastic components of your fireplace.
Most modern electric fireplaces have flame effects that are realistic and lifelike. Even skeptics can be fooled by these electric fireplaces, as they often make an unintentional double take before realizing that the fire is not a real flame. The technology that creates the flame effects varies between models, however, most models incorporate LED lights and mirrors. Some models might even include a water vapor system which simulates smoke, making the effect more realistic.
Another advantage of electric fireplaces is that they don't require to be opened like traditional wood-burning fireplaces. But that does not mean they don't require regular cleaning. To keep the appearance and function of your electric fireplace, you should keep it clean every year.