The Advantages of an Electric Fireplace
Electric fireplaces are an excellent choice for those who want the look of a fireplace without the hassle or cost of a wood-burning fireplace. The heat is generated by a heating unit that is used in conjunction with fans to release warm humid air into the room.
Many models are wall-hung and can be installed by the homeowner, without the need of an expert. Some can be built into TV stands or bookshelves. Others are built into entertainment centers, bookcases or TV stands.
Easy to install
Electric fireplaces are an excellent option to create a warm space within your home. They make use of electricity to generate heat, making them easier to install than traditional gas models. They also do not require venting, making them an alternative that is safer than wood burning fireplaces. They are also an excellent choice for homes that don't have traditional fireplaces like mobile homes or apartments.
To install an electric fireplace, first find a suitable spot in your home. Then, take a measurement of the opening of your existing fireplace or consult the installation guide from the manufacturer to determine the size insert you'll need. Then, find the correct mounting brackets. Use a spirit-level gauge to ensure that they're in a straight line on the wall. Once the brackets are in place then you can connect the insert to the brackets and connect the wire. Enjoy your new fireplace.
The heat generated by an electric fireplace is created by electricity that is aided by an electric heating coil or a ceramic plate. The heat is then distributed through an air conditioner to provide warmth to your space. Certain electric fireplaces also utilize infrared technology, which distributes heat directly to objects in the room. They're a cost-effective alternative to central heating and give the appearance of real flames, but without the mess and smoke.
A electric fireplace that is recessed can be mounted into any wall of your home, providing a subtle but noticeable aesthetic upgrade. It can also be built 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 available in some areas of the home.
Many manufacturers offer a variety of options to fit your taste and budget. Some come with a mantel that enhances the aesthetics of your space. You can choose from a range of designs and finishes that will fit in with your decor. Certain models are designed to appear like brick refractory or natural logs. You can choose the style that suits your home best.
It is safe
Electric fireplaces are safe to use in the night, unlike gas or wood fireplaces which emit carbon monoxide fumes. You can rest at night knowing that your family is protected from harmful gases and smoke. In addition there is no danger of creosote accumulating or escaping fuel, which are common in traditional chimney fire incidents.
Electric fireplaces are safe when they are operated correctly and if the user adheres to all instructions and recommendations. In general, you should keep the area around the fireplace free of items that could ignite, such as furniture, clothing drapes, bedding, and curtains. Avoid using extension cords near to your fireplace. This can result in power fluctuations and overloading, which may result in an explosion. Unplugging the fireplace when it is not in use will also reduce energy consumption and help stop the overheating.
Most electric fireplaces are designed to replicate the appearance of flames, however, they don't produce live flames. Instead, they employ LED lights, mist, video images or videos to create the illusion of flames burning. Certain models employ water vapor to simulate smoke. They're more realistic than traditional fire places and do not require maintenance.
Unlike real fireplaces Electric fireplaces don't heat the mantel or wall ledges that are above them. However, they can become warm and pose the risk of igniting flammable materials like wall coverings, rugs, and TVs. In addition the unit could create an ignition hazard if it is placed too close to wood or other flammable items.
Although electric fireplaces are safe to use, adhere to the instructions of the manufacturer and never exceed the recommended wattage. It is crucial to choose one that comes with an overheat protection system and choose a reliable manufacturer. It is also an excellent idea to buy an extra remote control, which will let you keep track of the temperature and power usage of your fireplace. Keep the fireplace away fuel, paints and moisture.
It is energy efficient.
An electric fireplace is more efficient than a wood or gas fireplace. It produces a fraction of heat as traditional fireplaces, and does not require a chimney. This can help you save a considerable amount of money on your energy bill and also the cost of chimney cleaning.
Electric fireplaces are available in numerous models, including more info those that can be used to heat large spaces. Magik Flame's Trinity model, for instance, can provide heat to up to 1,000 sq. feet. Other models, such as the Dimplex Upton, have a smaller heating capacity and are more suited to smaller spaces.
The cost of running an electric fireplace varies depending on the size, wattage, as well as how long it is used on a daily basis. Make sure to choose a model with an impressive BTU rating and a low voltage draw to get the most efficient results. For the best efficiency, use a programmable thermostat and adjust the temperature to suit your requirements.
You can also reduce the power consumption by using an electric fireplace solely to decorate the room, but without heat. The majority times the heater is turned off, reducing power consumption by a large percentage. This can help keep children safe from burns or pets who might touch the flames.
In addition to the energy savings for your home An electric fireplace can also provide you with a unique design that is both practical and beautiful. It can be integrated into a media center or mounted on a wall to bring warmth and comfort to your living space. Many designs feature louvers and trims to enhance the look of the drywall opening, while some can even cover a stone or brick fireplace.
Some electric fireplaces include an insert for a fire pit filled with butane gel which can be changed after 3-4 hours. They are simple to install since they can be connected to any standard outlet. They are also much more secure than real fireplaces, and don't emit any smells or ash. You should still have an electrical safety test conducted by a licensed professional in home inspection prior to installing any electrical appliances.
It is easy to clean
It is essential to clean your electric fireplace often. This is especially important if you use it regularly. It will look new and help to stop the build-up of dust. Before you begin cleaning, shut off the fireplace and ensure it is cool. This will avoid electrical shocks. Wearing safety glasses or goggles will protect your eyes against any fine particles that could be smashed during the cleaning procedure.
The first step to clean an electric fireplace is to dust all surfaces. This should be done using the use of a soft, lint-free cloth. You can also use a vacuum with a brush attachment to clean any dust from crevices and corners. Prepare a solution consisting of dishwashing soap and water. You can mix soap with vinegar, but be sure not to do so. Mixing vinegar and soap can cause dangerous chemical reactions.
After you have sprayed all surfaces with dust then use a soft cloth to wipe them down. Rinse and dry the surfaces thoroughly. Make sure you get into all the nooks and crevices particularly the heating inlet vents as well as outlet vents. For spots and stains that are difficult to remove you can make use of white distillation vinegar. However, it's acidic, and could damage the plastic components of your fireplace.
Modern electric fireplaces feature flame effects that appear real and realistic. They can even fool skeptical people because most people do a double take before recognizing that the fireplace isn't actually a live flame. The technology used to create flame effects varies from model-to-model however, they all utilize reflectors and LED lights. Certain models feature water vapor systems that simulate smoke to give the illusion of real.
Another benefit of electric fireplaces is that they don't require to be opened as a traditional wood-burning fireplace. 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.