The Advantages of an Electric Fireplace
An electric fireplace is an excellent option for those who want the look of a fireplace without the cost and hassle of a wood fire. The heat is emitted by a heating unit that works in conjunction with fans to blow warm humid air into the room.
Many models can be hung on the wall and can be installed by the homeowner, without the need of an expert. Some are built into TV stands or bookshelves. Others are built into entertainment centers, bookcases or TV stands.
Easy to install
Electric fireplaces are a great option to create a warm space within your home. These units use electricity to generate heat, making them less difficult to install than traditional gas fireplaces. They don't require venting and are a safer alternative than wood-burning fireplaces. They are also an excellent alternative for homes that do not have traditional fireplaces like mobile homes or apartments.
Installing an electric fireplace requires that you first find the right spot in your home. You can either measure the opening of your existing fireplace, or refer to the installation guide from the manufacturer to determine the size insert you will need. Then, find the right mounting brackets. Use a spirit level gauge to make sure that they're straight on the wall. Once the brackets are set then you can connect the insert to the brackets and connect the wire. You are now ready to enjoy your new fireplace!
The heat of an electric fireplace is created by electricity aided by either a heating coil or a ceramic plate. The heat is then disbursed through the air by fans, resulting in supplemental warmth for your room. Certain electric fireplaces also utilize infrared technology, which disperses heat directly to objects in the room. They are an affordable alternative to central heating, and give the appearance of real flames but without the mess or smoke.
You can install an electric fire that is recessed in any wall in your home that gives it a subtle but noticeable aesthetic upgrade. It can be integrated into furniture like bookshelves, TV stands, and other furniture pieces. It is important to remember that a recessed electric fireplace needs access to an electrical outlet, which might not be accessible in certain rooms of the house.
Many manufacturers offer a wide range of options that will fit your preferences and budget. Some even include a mantel that enhances the aesthetics of your living space. You can choose from a range of styles and finishes that will complement your decor. Some models are even designed to resemble a brick refractory or natural logs, so you can choose the style that is most appropriate for your home.
It is safe
Contrary to wood and gas fireplaces, which release carbon monoxide fumes when burned the electric fireplace is safe to leave on overnight. You can rest peacefully knowing that your family is protected from harmful fumes and smoke. Furthermore there is no danger of creosote accumulating or escaping fuel, which are common in traditional chimney fires.
Electric fireplaces are safe when they are properly used and if the user adheres to all guidelines and instructions. In general, it is recommended to keep the area around the fireplace clear of flammable items such as furniture, clothes drapes, bedding, and other items. Do not use extension cords close to your fireplace. This can cause overheating and power fluctuations that could cause a fire. Unplugging the fireplace when not in use can also help reduce the energy usage and stop the overheating.
Electric fireplaces are not intended to create real flames but to simulate the appearance. Instead, they utilize LED lights, video images or mist to create the illusion of flames. Some models even offer water vapor to simulate the look of smoke. This makes them more realistic than traditional fireplaces, and they don't require maintenance or cleaning.
Unlike real fireplaces, electric units do not warm the walls or mantel ledges above them. However, they can get warm and pose danger to flammable objects like rug covers, wall coverings and TVs. In addition, the unit can cause an explosion when it is placed too close to wood or other flammable items.
Although electric fireplaces are safe to use, you should adhere to the instructions of the manufacturer and never exceed the recommended wattage. It is crucial to choose one with an overheat protection system and choose a reputable manufacturer. You should also think about purchasing an extra remote control to check the temperature of your fireplace as well as its power consumption. It is also important to keep the fireplace away from paints, moisture and gasoline.
It is energy efficient
Electric fireplaces are more energy-efficient than gas or wood fireplaces. It generates a less heat than traditional fireplaces, and does not require a chimney. This could save you a substantial amount of money on your energy bills as well as the expense of chimney cleaning.
Electric fireplaces are available in many models which include those that heat 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 for smaller spaces.
The cost of running an electric fireplace is contingent on the size, wattage, and the length of time it is used each day. Use a unit with a high BTU rating, and low voltage draw to achieve the most efficient results. For the best efficiency, you should choose a programmable thermostat and adjust the temperature to meet your requirements.
You can also lower the power consumption by using an electric fireplace mostly to decorate the room, but without heating. The heater is turned off most of the time, to lower the power consumption. This can help keep children safe from burns or pets that may touch the flames.
Electric fireplaces aren't only an excellent way to save on energy costs, they also look stunning. It can be put up on the wall or constructed into a media center to add a touch of warmth and ambiance your living space. A lot of designs have louvers and trim to dress up the drywall hole, while others can cover an existing brick fireplace or stone fireplace.
Some electric fireplaces include an insert for the fire pit that is filled with a gel made of butane, which can be replaced after 3-4 hours. These fireplaces are easy to install because they can be plugged into any outlet that is standard. They are also safer than real fires, and emit no odors or ash. However, you should have a certified home inspector conduct an electrical safety check prior to installing any electrical appliances.
It is easy to clean
It is crucial to clean your electric fireplace often. This is particularly important in the event that you frequently use it. This will keep it looking brand new and stop dust accumulation. Before you begin cleaning, shut off the fireplace and make sure it's cool. This will help prevent electrical shocks. It is also a good idea to wear safety glasses or goggles to protect your eyes from any particles that may break off during the cleaning process.
Clean the surfaces of the electric fireplace before cleaning it. This should be done with a soft lint free cloth. You can also use a vacuum with a brush attachment to remove dust from corners and crevices. Make a solution of dishwashing soap and water. You can also mix vinegar with soap, but be sure not to mix the two. If you mix vinegar with soap it could cause dangerous chemical reactions.
After you have sprayed all surfaces with dust then use a soft cloth to wipe them down. Rinse and dry the surfaces thoroughly. Make sure you get into every crevice and nook including the heating inlet vents as well as outlet vents. You can also use white distilled vinegar to get rid of staining and spots that are difficult to remove, but remember that it's acidic and could harm the plastic components of your fireplace.
Modern electric fireplaces come with flame effects that look very real and authentic. Even skeptical people can be fooled by these electric fireplaces as they'll often do an unintentional double-take before realizing that the fire is not a real flame. The technology used to create the flame effects varies from model to model however, they all utilize LED lights and reflectors. Some models may even have a water vapor system that mimics smoke, making the effect more realistic.
Another great feature of electric fireplaces is that they don't need to be opened as a traditional wood-burning fireplace. But that doesn't make them inaccessible to regular cleaning. To keep the appearance and function of your electric fireplace, you should keep it clean every year.