The Advantages of an Electric Fireplace
An electric fireplace is a great alternative for those who want the look of a fireplace without the hassle and expense of a wood fireplace. The heat is generated 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 put up by a homeowner without needing a professional. Some are built into TV stand or bookshelves, as well as entertainment centers.
Easy to install
If you want to add an inviting atmosphere to your home an electric fireplace could be a great choice. They generate heat using electricity, making them simpler for you to install than traditional gas fireplaces. They also don't require venting, making them a safer alternative to wood burning fireplaces. They're also a great option for homes that don't have traditional fireplaces such as mobile homes or apartments.
To install an electric fireplace, first locate a suitable spot in your living space. Then, determine the opening of your existing fireplace or consult the installation guide from the manufacturer to determine the size insert you require. Next, you must locate the correct size mounting brackets. Use a spirit-level gauge to ensure that they're straight on the wall. Once the brackets are in place and the fireplace is installed, plug the insert into the brackets and connect the wire. You can then 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 into the air by fans, resulting in additional warmth for your home. Certain electric fireplaces also utilize infrared technology that distributes heat directly to objects in the room. They're a cost-effective alternative to central heating and offer the look of real flames but without the smoke or mess.
A recessed electric fireplace can be installed on any wall of your home, providing a subtle but noticeable aesthetic upgrade. It can also be integrated into TV stands, bookshelves, and other furniture. It is important to remember that a recessed electrical fireplace requires an electrical outlet. It may not be accessible at all times in certain areas of your home.
Many manufacturers offer a variety of options to suit your style and budget. Some even have the mantel, which can enhance the look of your space. You can pick from a variety of styles and finishes that will complement your decor. Some models are designed to resemble a natural log or brick refractory, so you can choose the design that best fits your home.
It is secure
Contrary to wood and gas fireplaces, which release carbon monoxide fumes when burned, an electric fireplace is completely safe to be left on for the night. It doesn't produce dangerous fumes or harmful smoke, so you can sleep soundly without worrying about your family's health. Additionally, there is no risk of creosote accumulation or escape fuel, which are a common occurrence in traditional chimney fires.
Electric fireplaces are safe if they are operated correctly and if the user abides by all directions and guidelines. In general, it is recommended to keep the area around the fireplace clear of any flammable objects like furniture, clothes, drapes, and bedding. You should also avoid using extension cords near your fireplace. This could result in overloading and power fluctuations, which may result in the possibility of a fire. It is also a good idea to unplug the fireplace when it is not being used to reduce energy consumption and prevent overheating.
Most electric fireplaces are designed to replicate the appearance of flames, however, they don't create live flames. 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 appearance of smoke. They are more realistic than traditional fire places, and require no maintenance.
Electric units, unlike fireplaces, don't heat the wall or mantel above them. However, the unit could get warm and pose a risk to flammable materials such as 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 electrical fireplaces are very safe to use, follow the manufacturer's guidelines and not exceed the recommended wattage. It is essential to select an established brand and purchase one that has an overheat safety mechanism. It is also an excellent idea to buy an additional remote control which will let you keep track of the power and temperature of your fireplace. Keep your fireplace free of moisture, paints and gasoline.
It is energy efficient
An electric fireplace is more energy efficient than a gas or wood fireplace. It uses a only a fraction of the heat produced by traditional fireplaces, and does not require a chimney or maintenance. This can save a amount of money on your energy bills and chimney cleaning.
Electric fireplaces are available in a variety of models, including those that can provide heat to large spaces. Magik Flame's Trinity is a good example, and can heat up to 1,000 square. ft. Other models, like the Dimplex Upton, have a smaller heating output and are more suited to small areas.
Electric fireplaces are costly to operate. The price is based on the size of the unit and its wattage as well as how often it is used. To get the best results, fireplacesandstove use an appliance with a high BTU rating and draw at a low voltage. For maximum efficiency, you should use an adjustable thermostat that you can program and adjust the temperature to meet your needs.
Another way to lower the power consumption of an electric fireplace is to use it primarily as a decorative element, with no heat. The majority of the time the heater is switched off, reducing the power consumption by a substantial percentage. This can help avoid accidental burns caused by children or pets who try to reach the flames.
Electric fireplaces are not only an excellent way to save on energy, but they also look beautiful. It can be hung on the wall or turned into a media center to add a touch of warmth and ambiance to your living space. There are many designs that include louvers and trims to enhance the look of the drywall opening, and some can even cover a stone or brick fireplace.
Some electric fireplaces come with an insert for the fire pit that is filled with butane gel, 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. In addition, they are also much safer than actual fireplaces and don't release any smoke or ash. However, you must have an experienced home inspector conduct an electrical safety inspection before installing any electrical appliance.
It is easy to clean
It is crucial to clean your electric fireplace regularly. This is especially important in the event that you frequently use it. This will keep it looking new and stop the build-up of dust. Before you begin cleaning, turn off the fireplace and ensure it is cool. This will avoid electrical shocks. It is also an excellent idea to wear safety glasses or goggles to shield your eyes from any fine particles that may break off during the cleaning process.
Clean the surfaces of the electric fireplace before cleaning it. This should be done using a soft lint free cloth. You can also use an attachment for the vacuum cleaner to eliminate dust from crevices. Then, prepare a solution of dishwashing soap and water. You can also mix vinegar with soap however, be careful not to mix soap and vinegar. Mixing soap and vinegar can cause dangerous chemical reactions.
Once you've finished dusting, wipe the surfaces clean with a soft, clean cloth and then rinse and dry them thoroughly. Make sure you get into all crevices and nooks particularly the heating inlet vents as well as vents for outlet. For stubborn spots and stains, you can use white distillation vinegar. However, it is acidic so can damage the fireplace's plastic parts.
Modern electric fireplaces feature flame effects that are very real and realistic. Even skeptics are easily fooled by electric fireplaces as they often make an unintentional double-take before realizing that the fire isn't actually an actual flame. The technology used to create the flame effects varies from model to model however, most models incorporate mirrors and LED lights. Some models may even have a water vapor system that mimics smoke, making the effect more realistic.
Another benefit of electric fireplaces is that they don't require to be opened as a traditional wood-burning fireplace. However, that doesn't mean that they don't require regular maintenance. To maintain the appearance and functionality of your electric fireplace you must keep it clean every year.