The Advantages of an Electric Fireplace
An electric fireplace is an excellent option for those looking to have the look of a fireplace without the cost and hassle of a wood fireplace. The heat is generated by a heating coil that is used in conjunction with fans to push warm, humid air into the room.
Many models can be wall-mounted by homeowners without the need for 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 ambience to your home an electric fireplace could be a great option. They use electricity to generate heat, which makes them less difficult to install than traditional gas models. They also require no venting, which makes them an alternative that is safer than wood burning fireplaces. They are also an excellent choice for homes that don't have traditional fireplaces such as mobile homes or apartments.
To install an electric fireplace, first locate the best location in your home. Then, determine the opening of your fireplace or consult the installation instructions from the manufacturer to determine the size insert you require. Then, you must locate the appropriate mounting brackets. Use a spirit level gauge to ensure that they are level with the wall. Once you have the brackets installed then plug the fireplace into them and connect the wire. You are now ready to enjoy your new fireplace!
The warmth of an electric fireplace is generated by electricity aided by either an electric heating coil or a ceramic plate. The heat is then emitted into the air via a fan, resulting in additional warmth for your space. Certain electric fireplaces utilize infrared technology that directs heat to the objects in the room. They are an affordable alternative to central heating and they have the look of real flames but without the mess and smoke.
A electric fireplace that is recessed can be installed on any wall in your home giving a subtle but noticeable aesthetic improvement. It can also be incorporated into bookshelves, TV stands and other furniture. It is important to know that a recessed electric fireplace requires access to an electrical outlet which may not be readily available in certain areas of the house.
Many manufacturers offer a variety of options to fit your style and budget. Some include a mantel that adds to the visual appeal of your living space. You can also pick different finishes and designs to complement your decor. Some models are even designed to look like brick refractory or natural logs, so you can choose the look that best suits your home.
It is secure
Electric fireplaces are safe to use at night unlike wood or gas fireplaces that release carbon monoxide fumes. You can rest at night knowing that your family is safe from harmful fumes and smoke. There is also no chance of escaping fuel or creosote that are typical in traditional fire incidents.
The security of an electric fireplace depends on how it is used and the user's adherence to the recommended guidelines. It is best to keep the area surrounding the fireplace free of any flammable objects like clothing, furniture drapes, bedding, and drapes. Do not use extension cords close to your fireplace. This could cause overload and power fluctuations that could cause an unintentional fire. Disconnecting the fireplace when not in use can also help reduce the energy usage and stop the overheating.
Most electric fireplaces are designed to mimic the appearance of flames, however, they don't produce live flames. Instead, they employ mist, LED lights, video images or videos to create the illusion that flames are burning. Some models even offer water vapor that mimics the appearance of smoke. They are more realistic than traditional fire pits, and do not require maintenance.
As opposed to real fireplaces, electric units do not heat the mantel or wall ledges that are above them. The unit could get hot and create the risk of fire to flammable objects like TVs, wall coverings and rugs. The unit could also create a fire risk if it's placed close to flammable objects like wood or TVs.
Electric fireplaces are safe to use. However, it is important to always follow the guidelines of the manufacturer and do not exceed the recommended power. It is crucial to choose a trusted brand and one that has an overheat safety mechanism. It is also recommended to buy an additional remote control which will help you keep track of the temperature and power usage of your fireplace. You should also keep the fireplace away from paints, water, and gasoline.
It is energy efficient.
Electric fireplaces are more energy-efficient than wood or gas fireplaces. It generates a less heat than traditional fireplaces, and it doesn't require a chimney. This could save you a significant amount of money on your energy bills and chimney cleaning.
Electric fireplaces are available in many models, including those that can be used to 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 capacity and are more designed for small spaces.
Electric fireplaces are costly to operate. The cost is determined by the size of the unit and the wattage it draws as well as the frequency with which it is used. Use a unit that has a high BTU rating and low voltage draw for the best results. Choose a thermostat that's programmed and can be set to the desired temperature.
Another method to reduce the power consumption of an electric fireplace is by using it solely as a decorative feature, with no heat. Most times the heater is turned off, reducing power consumption by a substantial percentage. This can help prevent accidental burns from children or pets that try to reach the flames.
Aside from the energy savings for your home An electric fireplace can provide a unique design that is both practical and beautiful. It can be hung on the wall or built into a media center to add a bit of warmth and ambiance your living space. Many designs include louvers and trims to dress up the drywall opening, while others could even cover an existing stone or brick fireplace.
Some electric fireplaces come with an insert for a fire pit that is filled with gel made of butane. The gel can be replaced after 3-4 hours. These fireplaces are easy to install since they can be plugged into any standard outlet. They are also more secure than real fires, and emit no smells or ash. You should still get an electrical safety inspection performed by a licensed professional in home inspection prior to installing any electrical appliance.
It is easy to clean
It is important to clean your electric fireplace regularly. This is particularly important if you use it regularly. This will keep it looking new and prevent dust build up. Before you begin cleaning, switch off the fireplace and ensure that it's cool. This will avoid any electrical shocks that might occur accidentally. Wearing safety goggles or glasses will shield your eyes from any fine particles that might break off during the cleaning process.
The first step to clean an electric fireplace is to dust all the surfaces. This should be done with an easy lint-free cloth. You can also use an attachment for a vacuum cleaner to remove dust from crevices. Prepare an aqueous solution that is made from water and dishwashing soap. You can mix soap with vinegar but be careful not to do so. Mixing soap and vinegar could cause dangerous chemical reactions.
After dusting all surfaces, use a soft cloth to wipe them down. Rinse and dry the surfaces thoroughly. Make sure you get into the nooks and crevices particularly the heating inlet and outlet vents. You can also try white distilled vinegar for stubborn stains and spots However, be aware that it is acidic and can cause damage to the plastic parts of your fireplace.
Modern electric fireplaces come with flame effects that look very real and lifelike. They can even fool skeptical people because most people look at the flame twice before realizing that the fire isn't actually a live flame. The technology used to create the flame effects varies between models but they all employ reflectors and LED lights. Some models could even feature water vapor systems which simulates smoke, making the effect more realistic.
Another great feature of electric fireplaces is that they don't require to be opened up like traditional wood-burning fireplaces. But that doesn't make them unclean. You should clean your electric fireplace at least once a year or so to maintain its appearance and functionality.