The Advantages of an Electric Fireplace
Electric fireplaces are a great choice for those who like the look of a fire without the hassle or cost of a wood-burning fireplace. The heat is released through an electric heating coil that is paired with fans to blast warm air into the room.
Many models are wall-hung and can be put up by the homeowner without having to hire the assistance of a professional. Others can be built into bookshelves, TV stands, or entertainment centers.
Easy to install
Electric fireplaces are an excellent option to create a warm atmosphere in your home. These units generate heat using electricity, making them simpler to install as opposed to traditional gas-powered models. They also require no venting, making them an alternative that is safer than wood burning fireplaces wood. They're also a good option for homes with no traditional fireplaces, like apartments or mobile homes.
Installing an electric fireplace requires you first locate the right spot in your room. Then, take a measurement of the opening of your existing fireplace or refer to the installation guide provided by the manufacturer to determine the dimensions of the insert you require. Next, find the right size brackets for mounting. Use a spirit level gauge to ensure that they're straight on the wall. Once you have the brackets in place connect the insert to them and connect the wire. Then, you can enjoy your new fireplace!
Electricity is used to heat an electric fireplace, either with 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 space. Some electric fireplaces employ infrared technology that directs heat to specific 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 the smoke.
You can put a recessed electric fire in any wall in your home that gives it a subtle yet noticeable aesthetic upgrade. It can also be built into bookshelves, TV stands and other furniture. It is crucial to remember that a recessed electrical fireplace requires an electrical outlet. This may not be available at all times in certain areas of the home.
Many manufacturers offer a range of options to fit your taste and budget. Some come with a mantel that improves the aesthetics of your living space. You can choose from a variety of designs and finishes that match your decor. Some models are designed to look like brick refractory or natural logs. You can choose the style that matches your home best.
It is safe
Electric fireplaces are completely safe to use overnight, unlike gas or wood fireplaces which emit carbon monoxide fumes. It does not generate dangerous gases or harmful smoke, so you can rest peacefully without worrying about your family's health. In addition there is no chance of creosote accumulation or escape fuel, which are common in chimney fires that are typical.
The security of an electric fireplace will depend on how it is used and the user's compliance with the recommendations and guidelines. In general, it is best to keep the space around the fireplace free of flammable items such as furniture, clothes, drapes, and bedding. You should also avoid using extension cords close to your fireplace. This could lead to overheating and power fluctuations, which could result in a fireplace. It is also an excellent idea to disconnect the fireplace when it is not being used, as this will reduce energy consumption and prevent overheating.
Most electric fireplaces are designed to replicate the appearance of flames however, they don't produce live flames. Instead, they utilize LED lights, video images, or mist to create the illusion of flames. Some models use water vapor to simulate smoke. They are more realistic than traditional fire places, and do not require maintenance.
Electric units, unlike fireplaces, do not heat the mantel or wall that is above them. The unit can become hot and cause an ignition risk to flammable objects such as TVs, wall covers and rug. The unit can also cause a fire risk if it's placed too close to flammable items such as TVs or wood.
Although electrical fireplaces are very safe to use, you should follow the manufacturer's guidelines and never exceed the recommended wattage. It is crucial to choose a trusted brand and one with an overheat protection mechanism. You should also think about purchasing an extra remote control to keep track of the temperature of your fireplace and its power consumption. You should also keep the fireplace away from paints, water, and gasoline.
It is energy efficient
An electric fireplace is more energy efficient than a wood or gas fireplace. It utilizes only a only a fraction of the heat produced by traditional fireplaces and doesn't require a chimney or ongoing maintenance. This can save a lot of money in your energy bill as well as chimney cleaning.
Electric fireplaces are available in many models including those that provide heat to large rooms. Magik Flame's Trinity model, for instance, can provide heat to up to 1,000 sq. feet. Other models, like the Dimplex Upton, have a lower heating output and are more suited to small areas.
The cost of running an electric fireplace varies based on the size, wattage, and how long it is used on a daily basis. For the best results, use an appliance with an extremely high BTU rating and draw at a low voltage. For the best efficiency, you should use an adjustable thermostat and set the temperature to match your needs.
You can also cut down on power consumption by using an electric fireplace solely to decorate the room, but without heating. The majority times, the heater will be switched off, reducing the power consumption by a large percentage. This can keep children safe from burns or pets who may reach the flames.
Apart from cutting down on your home's energy bills, an electric fireplace can provide an exclusive design that is both functional and attractive. 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 include louvers and trims to dress up the drywall opening, while others can even cover an existing stone or brick fireplace.
Certain electric fireplaces have an insert for a fire pit filled with butane gel, which can be replaced after 3-4 hours. These fireplaces can be plugged in to any outlet that is standard which makes them simple to install. They are also safer than real fires, and do not emit odors or ash. It is still recommended to have an electrical safety check performed by a qualified professional in home inspection prior to installing any electrical appliances.
It is easy to clean
If you have an electric fireplace, it's essential to keep it clean. This is especially important if you frequently use your electric fireplace. This will keep it looking new and help to stop the build-up of dust. Before you begin cleaning, switch off the fireplace and make sure it's cool. This will prevent any electrical shocks that might occur accidentally. It is also an excellent idea to wear safety glasses or goggles to shield your eyes from any particles that could break off during the cleaning process.
Clean the surfaces of the electric fireplace prior to cleaning it. This should be done with an easy lint-free cloth. You can also make use of an attachment on vacuum cleaners to clean dust from crevices. Prepare an aqueous solution that is made from water and dishwashing soap. You can also mix vinegar with soap, but be sure not to mix the two. If you mix soap with vinegar, it can cause dangerous chemical reactions.
Once you've finished dusting, wipe the surfaces clean using a soft cloth, then clean and dry them thoroughly. Be sure to get in the nooks and crevices especially the heating outlet and heating inlet vents. You can also use white distilled vinegar to remove staining and spots that are difficult to remove However, be aware that it's acidic and could damage the plastic components of your fireplace.
Modern electric fireplaces feature flame effects that look very real and authentic. Even skeptics are easily fooled by electric fireplaces, since they'll often do a double-take before realizing the fire isn't actually a real flame. The technology used to create flame effects varies between models, but they all use LED lights and reflectors. Certain models have water vapor systems that replicate smoke to give the illusion of real.
Electric fireplaces are also excellent since they don't have to be opened as wood-burning fireplaces. However, this doesn't mean that they are inaccessible to regular cleaning. You should clean your fireplace with an electric appliance every year or so to keep its appearance and functionality.