The Advantages of an Electric Fireplace
Electric fireplaces are a great option for those who want the look of a fire without the hassle or cost of a wood-burning fireplace. The heat is released by a heating unit that works in conjunction with fans to blow warm humid air into the room.
Many models are wall-hung and can be installed by the homeowner without having to hire the assistance of a professional. Others are designed to be integrated into bookshelves, TV stands or entertainment centers.
It is simple to install
If you want to add an inviting ambience to your home An electric fireplace can be a good option. They produce heat with electricity, making them simpler to install as opposed to traditional gas models. They don't require venting and are a safer option to fireplaces that burn wood. They're also a good choice for homes without traditional fireplaces, for example apartments or mobile homes.
Installing an electric fireplace requires you first find an appropriate location within your home. You can either measure the opening of your fireplace, or consult the installation guide from the manufacturer to determine what size insert you will need. Next, find the right size brackets for mounting. Use a spirit level gauge to make sure that they are straight on the wall. Once you have the brackets installed, plug the insert into them and connect the wiring. Enjoy your new fireplace.
Electricity is used to warm an electric fireplace, which can be done using an electric heating plate or coil. The heat is then distributed through the air by the fan, fireplacesandstove.com which results in supplemental warmth for your home. Some electric fireplaces also use infrared technology, which disperses warmth directly to the objects in the room. They are a cost-effective alternative to central heating and offer the look of real flames, without the smoke or mess.
It is possible to install an electric fire that is recessed in any wall in your home, giving it a subtle, but noticeable aesthetic upgrade. It can also be built into bookshelves, TV stands and other furniture. It is important to note that a recessed electric fireplace requires access to an electrical outlet which may not be readily available in some rooms of the house.
Many manufacturers offer a wide range of options to fit your preferences and budget. Some come with a mantel that enhances the aesthetics of your space. You can also choose from different finishes and designs to match your decor. Some models are designed to appear like brick refractory or natural logs. You can choose the style that matches your home the best.
It is secure
Unlike gas and wood fireplaces, which emit carbon monoxide emissions when they are burned in an electric fireplace, it is safe to be left on for the night. It does not produce hazardous fumes or harmful smoke, so you can rest peacefully without worrying about your family's health. There is also no danger of creosote or escaping fuel which are common in traditional fires.
The security of an electric fireplace will depend on the way it is used as well as the user's compliance with the recommendations and guidelines. In general, you should keep the area around the fireplace clear of items that could ignite, such as furniture, clothing drapes, bedding, and other items. Also, avoid using extension cords around your fireplace. This could cause power fluctuations and overload that could cause an unintentional fire. Disconnecting the fireplace when not in use can also help reduce energy consumption and help prevent overheating.
Electric fireplaces are not designed to create flames but to simulate the appearance. Instead, they utilize LED lights, video images, or mist to create the illusion of flames. Some models even come with water vapor that mimics the look of smoke. This makes them more realistic than traditional fireplaces and they do not require maintenance or cleaning.
As opposed to real fireplaces electric fireplaces do not warm the walls or mantel ledges above them. The unit may heat up and cause an ignition risk to flammable objects such as TVs, wall coverings, and rugs. In addition the unit can create a fire hazard in the event that it is placed close to wood or other objects that are flammable.
Electric fireplaces are safe for use. However, you should always follow the guidelines of the manufacturer and not exceed the recommended power. It is essential to purchase a model that has an overheat protection system and choose an established manufacturer. It is also recommended to buy an extra remote control, which will let you monitor the temperature and power usage of your fireplace. Keep your fireplace free of moisture, paints and gasoline.
It is energy efficient
Electric fireplaces are more efficient than gas or wood fireplaces. It utilizes only a only a fraction of the heat produced by traditional fireplaces, and does not require a chimney or regular maintenance. This could save you a lot of money in your energy bills and chimney cleaning.
There are a myriad of options for your home when it comes to electric fireplaces, including models that can provide heat to large rooms. Magik Flame's Trinity model, for instance is able to efficiently heat up to 1,000 square feet. Other models, like the Dimplex Upton, have a smaller heating output and are better suited for small spaces.
The cost of running an electric fireplace varies based on the dimensions, wattage, and how long it is used every day. For the best results, use one with a high BTU rating and draw at a low voltage. For maximum efficiency, you should use a programmable thermostat and adjust the temperature to suit your requirements.
Another way to lower the power consumption of an electric fireplace is by using it solely as a decorative feature, without heating. The heater will be turned off most of the time to cut down on the power consumption. This will also help keep children from accidental burns or pets who try to reach the flames.
Electric fireplaces aren't only a great way to save money on energy, but they also look beautiful. It can be incorporated into a media center or hung on a wall to bring warmth and comfort to your living area. Many designs feature louvers and trims to enhance the look of the opening in the drywall, while others could even cover an existing stone or brick fireplace.
Some electric fireplaces include an insert for a fire pit filled with butane gel which can be replaced after 3-4 hours. These fireplaces can be connected to any standard outlet and are therefore easy to install. In addition, they are much safer than real fireplaces and don't release any smoke or ash. You should still have an electrical safety check performed by a licensed professional in home inspection prior to installing any electrical appliance.
It is easy to clean
If you have an electric fireplace, it's important to clean it often. This is particularly important if you use it regularly. This will keep it looking new and will prevent the accumulation of dust. Before you begin cleaning, turn off the fireplace and ensure that it's cool. This will avoid electrical shocks. Wearing safety glasses or goggles will protect your eyes against any fine particles that might break off during the cleaning process.
Clean all 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. Then, make a solution of water and dishwashing soap. You can also make use of vinegar, however, be sure not to mix it with soap. If you mix vinegar with soap, it can cause dangerous chemical reactions.
Once you've finished dusting, wipe the surfaces down using a soft cloth, then wash and dry them thoroughly. Be sure to get in the corners and crevices, particularly the heating outlet and heating inlet vents. You can also try white distilled vinegar to remove staining and spots that are difficult to remove, but remember that it is acidic and could cause damage to the plastic parts of your fireplace.
Modern electric fireplaces come with flame effects that look real and lifelike. Even skeptical homeowners can be fooled by these electric fireplaces, as they will often do a double-take before realizing the fire isn't a real flame. The technology used to create the flame effects varies from model to model but they all employ LED lights and reflectors. Some models may even have an evaporation system which simulates smoke, making the effect more realistic.
Another advantage of electric fireplaces is that they don't need to be opened like a traditional wood-burning fireplace. However, that doesn't mean they don't require regular cleaning. You should clean your fireplace with an electric appliance every year or so to maintain its appearance and function.