Ten Fireplace Myths That Aren t Always True
The Advantages of an Electric Fireplace
Electric fireplaces are a great choice for those who prefer the look of a fireplace without the hassle or expense of a wood-burning fireplace. The heat is generated through a heating coil which is used in conjunction with fans to blow warm, humid air into the room.
Many models are wall hanging and can be installed by a homeowner without needing an expert. Some are built into TV stand or bookshelves. Others are built into entertainment centers, bookcases or TV stands.
Easy to install
Electric fireplaces are a great method to create a cozy space within your home. These units use electricity to generate heat, which makes them less difficult to install than traditional gas models. They also don't require venting, which makes them an alternative that is safer than wood-burning fireplaces. They are also an excellent choice for homes that do not have traditional fireplaces like mobile homes or apartments.
Installing an electric fireplace requires that you first locate the right spot in your home. You can either measure the opening in your existing fireplace, or consult the installation guide from the manufacturer to determine what size insert you require. Then, you need to find the right mounting brackets. Use a spirit level gauge to make sure that they are level with the wall. Once the brackets are set then you can connect the fireplace to the brackets and connect the wire. You can then relax in your new fireplace!
The heat generated by an electric fireplace is created by electricity aided by either a heating coil or a ceramic plate. The heat is then dispersed into the air via the fan to create additional warmth for your room. Some electric fireplaces also use infrared technology, which distributes warmth directly 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 recessed electric fireplace can be installed on any wall in your home, providing a subtle but noticeable aesthetic upgrade. It can be built into furniture like bookshelves, TV stands, and other furniture pieces. It is crucial to remember that a recessed electrical fireplace requires an electrical outlet. It may not be available in all areas of the home.
Many manufacturers offer a range of options that will fit your preferences and budget. Some include a mantel that enhances the aesthetics of your living space. You can also pick various designs and finishes to complement your decor. Some models are designed to look like brick refractory or natural logs. You can pick the style that suits your home the best.
It is safe
Electric fireplaces are safe to use overnight, unlike gas or wood fireplaces which emit carbon monoxide fumes. You can sleep peacefully knowing that your family is safe from harmful fumes and gases. There is also no risk of creosote escaping or fuel escaping which are common in traditional fire accidents.
Electric fireplaces wood are safe if they are used properly and if the user adheres to all instructions and recommendations. In general, it is recommended to keep the area around the fireplace free of any flammable objects like clothes, furniture drapes, bedding, and other items. Avoid using extension cords near to your fireplace. This can result in power fluctuations and overloading which could lead to an explosion. It is also an excellent idea to disconnect the fireplace when it is not being used to reduce energy consumption and prevent overheating.
The majority of electric fireplaces are designed to mimic the appearance of flames however, they don't create live flames. Instead, they employ LED lights, mist videos, video images to create the illusion that flames are burning. Some models even offer water vapor to simulate the appearance of smoke. They are more realistic than traditional fire places and require no maintenance.
As opposed to real fireplaces electric fireplaces wood do not heat the mantel or wall ledges that are above them. However, the unit can become warm and pose the risk of igniting flammable materials like carpets, wall coverings, and TVs. The unit could also create fire danger if placed too close to flammable items such as TVs or wood.
Although electric fireplaces are safe to use, you should always follow the manufacturer's instructions and not exceed the recommended wattage. It is crucial to choose one with an overheat protection mechanism and select a reliable manufacturer. You should also think about purchasing an additional remote control to monitor the temperature of your fireplace and its power consumption. Keep your fireplace dry from moisture, paints and gasoline.
It is energy efficient
Electric fireplaces are more efficient 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 regular maintenance. This can help you save a considerable amount of money on your energy bill and also the cost of cleaning your chimney.
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 is a good example, and can provide heat to up to 1,000 square. feet. Other models, like the Dimplex Upton have a lower heating capacity and are better for smaller spaces.
Electric fireplaces can be costly to operate. The cost depends on the size of the unit and its wattage as well as how often it is used. Make sure to choose a model with an impressive BTU rating and a low voltage draw for the most efficient results. To maximize efficiency, use an adjustable thermostat that you can program and adjust the temperature to meet your needs.
You can also reduce the energy consumption by using an electric fireplace mostly to decorate the room, but without heat. The heater will be turned off most of the time to cut down on the power consumption. This will prevent burns to children or pets who may reach the flames.
Electric fireplaces aren't only a great way to save money on energy bills, they also look stunning. It can be incorporated into a media center or placed on a wall to add warmth and ambience to your living area. There are many designs that feature louvers and trim that cover the hole in the wall, while others cover an existing brick fireplace or stone fireplace.
Some electric fireplaces come with an insert for the fire pit that is filled with a gel made of butane, which can be replaced after 3-4 hours. These fireplaces can be plugged in to any outlet that is standard which makes them simple to install. In addition, they are safer than actual fireplaces and do not emit any smells or ash. However, you should have a certified home inspector conduct an electrical safety inspection before installing any electrical appliance.
It is easy to clean
It is crucial to keep your fireplace clean regularly. This is especially important when you use your fireplace frequently. This will keep it looking fresh and will help stop the build-up of dust. Before you begin cleaning, switch off the fireplace and make sure it's cool. This will prevent any electrical shocks. Wearing safety glasses or goggles will shield your eyes from any fine particles that might be smashed during the cleaning process.
Clean the surfaces of the electric fireplace prior to cleaning it. This should be done with an easy lint-free cloth. You can also use a vacuum with a brush attachment to remove dust from crevices and corners. Prepare a solution made of dishwashing soap and water. You can also use vinegar, but be careful not to mix it with soap. If you mix soap with vinegar it could cause dangerous chemical reactions.
After dusting all surfaces using a soft cloth to wipe them down. Rinse and dry the surfaces thoroughly. Be sure to get in the nooks and crannies particularly the outlet and heating inlet vents. For stubborn stains and spots you can make use of white distillation vinegar. However, it's acidic, and could damage the plastic components of your fireplace.
Most modern fireplace electric fireplaces have flame effects that look real and realistic. Even skeptical people can be fooled by these electric fireplaces, as they often make an unintentional double take before realizing that the fire is not a real flame. The technology behind the flame effects differs between models, but the majority of them use LED lights and mirrors. Some models have water vapor systems that mimic smoke to give the illusion of real.
Another great feature of electric fireplaces is that they don't have to be opened as traditional wood-burning fireplaces. But that doesn't make them unclean. It is recommended to clean your electric fireplace every year or so to maintain its appearance and functionality.