The Advantages of an Electric Fireplace
An electric fireplace is an excellent alternative for those who want the look of a fireplace without the cost and hassle of a wood fire. The heat is released through the heating coil, which combines with fans to blow warm air into the room.
Many models can be wall-mounted by homeowners without the need of a professional. Some are built into TV stand or bookshelves, as well as entertainment centers.
It is easy to install
If you're looking to create an inviting ambience to your home an electric fireplace could be a great option. These units generate heat using electricity, which makes them much easier to install than the traditional gas-powered models. They also don't require venting, which makes them an alternative that is safer than wood-burning fireplaces. They are also an excellent alternative for homes that don't have traditional Wooden fireplaces, such as mobile homes or apartments.
To install an electric fireplace, first locate a suitable spot in your room. You can either measure the opening of your fireplace, or refer to the installation guide from the manufacturer to determine what size insert you will need. Next, find the right size mounting brackets. Make use of a spirit-level gauge to ensure that they're exactly on the wall. Once you have the brackets set connect the insert to them and connect the wiring. You are now ready to enjoy your new fireplace!
Electricity is used to warm an electric fireplace, whether it's an electric heating plate or coil. The heat is then emitted into the air by the fan, which results in an additional source of warmth for your room. Some electric fireplaces employ infrared technology, which focuses heat to the objects in the room. They're a great alternative to central heating and they have the look of real flames but without the mess or smoke.
You can put an electric fire that is recessed in any wall of your home, giving it a subtle yet noticeable improvement in appearance. It can also be incorporated into TV stands, bookshelves and other furniture. It is important to keep in mind that a recessed electric fireplace requires an electrical outlet. It might not be accessible in all areas of the home.
Many manufacturers offer a wide range of options that will fit your style and budget. Some include a mantel, which can enhance the look of your space. You can also choose from different designs and finishes to match your decor. Some models are even designed to look like natural log or brick refractory and you can pick the look that best suits your home.
It is secure
Electric fireplaces are safe to use at night, unlike gas or wood fireplaces which emit carbon monoxide fumes. You can sleep peacefully knowing that your family is protected from harmful fumes and gases. There is also no danger of creosote or escaping fuel which are common in traditional fire accidents.
The security of an electric fireplace depends on the way it is used and on the user's adherence to the recommended guidelines. In general, you should keep the area around the fireplace free of flammable items such as clothes, furniture drapes, bedding, and curtains. Do not use extension cords close to your fireplace. They can cause overloading and power fluctuations, which may result in the possibility of a fire. It is also a good idea to disconnect the fireplace whenever it is not in use, as this will reduce energy consumption and prevent overheating.
Most electric fireplaces are designed to imitate the appearance of flames but they do not create live flames. Instead, they make use of mist, LED lights, video images or videos to create the illusion that flames are burning. Some models even include water vapor to simulate the look of smoke. They are more realistic than traditional fire places, and require no maintenance.
In contrast to fireplaces that are real, electric units do not heat the wall fires or mantel ledges over them. However, the unit can get warm and pose the risk of igniting flammable materials such as carpets, wall coverings, and TVs. The unit can also cause a fire risk if it's placed too close to flammable materials like wood or TVs.
Although electric fireplaces are safe to use, follow the manufacturer's guidelines and never exceed the recommended wattage. It is important to buy a model that has an overheat protection mechanism and select a reputable manufacturer. It is also a good idea to purchase an extra remote control, that will allow you to keep track of the power and temperature of your ethanol fireplace. Keep your fireplace insert dry from fuel, paints and moisture.
It is energy efficient
Electric fireplaces are more efficient than gas or wood fireplaces. It utilizes only a fraction of the heat generated by traditional fireplaces and doesn't require a chimney or ongoing maintenance. This could save you a significant amount of money on your energy bills as well as the expense of chimney cleaning.
Electric fireplaces are available in many models, including those that can heat large spaces. Magik Flame's Trinity model, for instance, can efficiently heat up to 1,000 square feet. Other units, like the Dimplex Upton have a lower heating output and are more designed for small spaces.
The cost of operating an electric fireplace varies based on the size, wattage, as well as how long it is used every day. For the best results, use an appliance with a high BTU rating and low voltage draw. For maximum efficiency, use an adjustable thermostat and set the temperature to match your requirements.
You can also cut down on energy consumption by using an electric fireplace primarily for decoration, without any heating. Most of the time the heater is shut off, which reduces the energy consumption by a significant percentage. This can help avoid accidental burns caused by children or pets who try to reach the flames.
Aside from reducing your home's energy costs, an electric fireplace suite can also provide you with an unique design that is both functional and attractive. It can be put up on the wall fires or constructed into a media center to add a touch of warmth and ambiance your living space. Many designs include louvers and trims to decorate the drywall opening, and some can even cover a stone or brick fireplace.
Some electric fireplaces include a fire pit insert that is filled with a gel made of butane. It can be replaced after 3-4 hours. These fireplaces can be connected to any outlet that is standard and are therefore easy to install. They are also safer than real fires, and do not emit smoke or ash. It is still recommended to have an electrical safety test conducted by a licensed home inspector prior to installing any electrical appliances.
It is easy to clean
If you have an electric fireplace, it is essential to keep it clean. This is especially important in the event that you frequently use your electric fireplace. This will ensure it looks fresh and will help keep dust from building up. Before you begin cleaning, switch off the fireplace and ensure that it's cool. This will prevent any electrical shocks. Wearing safety glasses or goggles will shield your eyes from any fine particles that could be smashed during the cleaning procedure.
Clean the surfaces of the electric fireplace prior to cleaning it. This should be done using an easy lint-free cloth. You can also use a vacuum cleaner equipped with a brush to clean any dust from crevices and corners. Prepare a solution consisting of dishwashing soap and water. You can mix soap and vinegar however, be careful not to do so. Mixing vinegar and soap can cause dangerous chemical reactions.
Once you've finished dusting, wipe the surfaces down with a soft cloth and then wash and dry them thoroughly. Be sure to get in the nooks and crevices especially the heating inlet and outlet vents. For stubborn spots and stains, you can use white distillation vinegar. However, it is acidic and can cause damage to your fireplace's plastic components.
Modern electric fireplaces feature flame effects that appear real and realistic. They are able to fool even skeptical individuals, as most people will look at the flame twice before recognizing that the fireplace isn't a live flame. The technology behind the flame effects varies between models, but most incorporate LED lights and mirrors. Certain models feature water vapor systems that simulate smoke to make the effect more realistic.
Electric fireplaces are also great because they don't need to be opened like wood-burning fireplaces. However, that doesn't mean they don't require regular cleaning. To keep the appearance and function of your electric fireplace it is recommended to clean it at least once a year.