The Advantages of an Electric Fireplace
Electric fireplaces are a great option for those who like the look of a fire without the hassle or cost of a wood-burning fireplace. The heat is released through a heating coil which works in conjunction with fans to release warm, humid air into the room.
Many models can be wall-mounted by homeowners without the need for an expert. Some are built into TV stand, bookshelves or entertainment centers.
It is simple to install
If you're looking to add an inviting atmosphere to your home, an electric fireplace can be a great option. They use electricity to generate heat, which makes them more convenient to install than traditional gas models. They also require no venting, making them more secure than wood burning fireplaces. They're also a great choice for homes that do not have traditional fireplaces, such as mobile homes or apartments.
To install an electric fireplace, first locate a suitable spot in your room. You can either measure the opening in your fireplace or consult the installation manual from the manufacturer to determine which size of insert you need. Then, you must find the right mounting brackets. Utilizing a spirit-level gauge, ensure that they are positioned in a straight line on the wall. Once you have the brackets in place, plug the insert into them and connect the wire. Enjoy your new fireplace.
Electricity is used to warm an electric fireplace, whether it's an electric heating plate or coil. The heat is then dispersed to the air by the fan to create additional warmth to your home. Some electric fireplaces also use infrared technology, which disperses warmth directly to the objects in the room. They are an affordable alternative to central heating and they give the appearance of real flames but without the mess or the smoke.
You can install an electric Ethonal Fire recessed into any room in your home and give it a subtle but noticeable aesthetic improvement. It can be built into furniture like bookshelves, TV stands, and other furniture items. It is important to know that a recessed electric fireplace needs access to an electrical outlet which might not be accessible in some areas of the house.
Many manufacturers have options to fit your style and budget. Some of them include a mantel which adds to the aesthetic appeal of your living space. You can also select different finishes and designs to match your decor. Some models are even designed to resemble natural log or brick refractory and you can pick the design that best fits your home.
It is safe
Electric fireplaces are safe to use overnight, unlike gas or wood fireplaces which emit carbon monoxide fumes. You can rest peacefully knowing that your family is protected from harmful fumes and gases. There is also no danger of escaping fuel or creosote which are common in traditional fire incidents.
The safety of an electric fireplace depends on how it is used and the user's adherence to the recommended guidelines. You should generally keep the area around the fireplace free of flammable objects such as clothing, furniture drapes, bedding and drapes. Avoid using extension cords close to your fireplace. This can result in power fluctuations and overloading which could lead to the possibility of a fire. Disconnecting the fireplace when not in use will also reduce energy consumption and help keep the fireplace from overheating.
Electric fireplaces are not designed to produce real flames, but to replicate the look. Instead, they use LED lights, video images or mist to create the illusion of flames. Some models even include water vapor that mimics the appearance of smoke. They are more realistic than traditional fire places, and do not require maintenance.
Electric units, unlike real fireplaces do not heat the wall or mantel above them. However, they can become warm and pose the risk of igniting flammable materials such as wall coverings, rugs, and TVs. It could also pose a fire risk if it's placed too close to flammable items such as TVs or wood.
While electric fireplaces are safe to use, it is important to always follow the manufacturer's instructions and never exceed the recommended wattage. It is important to buy one that comes with an overheat protection system and choose a reliable manufacturer. It is also a good idea to purchase an extra remote control, which will let you monitor the temperature and power usage of your fireplace. It is also important to protect your fireplace from moisture, paints and gasoline.
It is energy efficient
Electric fireplaces are less energy-intensive than wood or gas fireplaces. It consumes a small less than a tenth of the heat produced by traditional fireplaces, and does not require a chimney or ongoing maintenance. This can save a amount of money on your energy bills and chimney cleaning.
Electric fireplaces are available in numerous models including those that provide heat to large spaces. Magik Flame's Trinity model, for example can efficiently heat up to 1,000 square feet. Other models, such as the Dimplex Upton, have a smaller heating capacity and are better suited to smaller areas.
The cost of running an electric fireplace varies depending on the size, wattage, and the length of time it is used every day. Use a unit that has a high BTU rating, and low voltage draw to get the most efficient results. For maximum efficiency, you should use an adjustable thermostat and adjust the temperature to meet your requirements.
Another way to cut down on the energy consumption of an electric fireplace is to use it as a decorative feature without any heat. The majority times, the heater will be switched off, reducing the energy consumption by a significant percentage. This can help avoid burns to children or pets who may reach the flames.
Apart from cutting down on your home's energy bills An electric fireplace can also provide you with an unique design that is both practical and beautiful. It can be mounted on the wall or built into a media center to add a bit of warmth and ambiance your living space. Many designs feature louvers and trim that dress up the drywall hole, while others cover an existing brick or stone fireplace.
Some electric fireplaces come with a fire pit insert filled with butane gel, which can be changed 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 more secure than real fires, and don't emit smoke or ash. However, you should have a qualified home inspector perform an electrical safety test prior to installing any electrical appliance.
It is easy to clean
If you have an electric fireplace, it's important to clean it regularly. This is especially true when you use your fireplace frequently. This will ensure it looks fresh and will help prevent dust build up. Before you begin cleaning the fireplace, be sure it's cool. This will help prevent any accidental electrical shocks. Wearing safety goggles or glasses will shield your eyes from any fine particles that might break off during the cleaning process.
The first step in cleaning an electric fireplace is to dust all the surfaces. Use a soft, lint-free cloth to dust the fireplace. You can also use a vacuum cleaner equipped with a brush to remove any dust from corners and crevices. Then, make a solution of water and dishwashing soap. You can mix soap with vinegar however, be careful not to do so. Mixing soap and vinegar can cause dangerous chemical reactions.
After dusting all surfaces, use a soft cloth to wipe them down. Rinse and dry the surfaces thoroughly. Make sure to clean the nooks and crannies, particularly the heating outlet and heating inlet vents. You can also use white distilled vinegar for staining and spots that are difficult to remove However, be aware that it's acidic and may damage the plastic components of your fireplace.
The majority of modern electric fireplaces have flame effects that look real and realistic. Even skeptics can be fooled by these electric fireplaces as they'll often do an unintentional double-take before realizing that the fire isn't a real flame. The technology used to create the flame effects can vary from model to model however, they all utilize reflectors and LED lights. Some models could even feature an evaporation system that mimics smoke, making the effect more realistic.
Another great feature of electric fireplaces is that they don't require to be opened like traditional wood-burning fireplaces. However, this doesn't mean that they are unclean. To keep the appearance and function of your electric fireplace you must keep it clean every year.