5 Qualities People Are Looking For In Every Fireplace
The Advantages of an Electric Fireplace
An electric fireplace is an excellent alternative for those who want the look of a fireplace without the cost and hassle of a wood fire. The heat is released by a heating unit that is in turn paired with fans to push warm, humid air into the room.
Many models can be wall-mounted by home owners without the need for an expert. Some are built into TV stands, bookshelves or entertainment centers.
It is simple to install
If you're looking to create an inviting ambience to your home, an electric fireplace can be a good option. These units generate heat using electricity, making them easier for you to install than traditional gas models. These units do not require venting and are a safer option than wooden fireplaces with wood burning. They are also an excellent option for homes that don't have traditional fireplaces, such as mobile homes or apartments.
Installing an electric fireplace requires you first locate a suitable location in your home. Then, determine the opening of your existing fireplace or refer to the installation guide provided by the manufacturer to determine the size of the insert you need. Next, you must locate the correct size mounting brackets. Use a spirit level gauge to make sure that they are straight on the wall. Once the brackets are in place, you can plug the insert into the brackets and connect the wiring. You are now ready to enjoy your new fireplace!
The warmth of an electric fireplace is generated through electricity, assisted by the heating coil or ceramic plate. The heat is then dispersed to the air by the fan to create additional warmth to your home. Some electric fireplaces use infrared technology, which focuses heat to the objects in the room. They're a cost-effective alternative to central heating and provide the look of real flames but without the smoke or mess.
It is possible to install an electric fire recessed into any wall in your home that gives it a subtle yet noticeable improvement in appearance. It can be integrated into furniture like TV stands, bookshelves and other pieces of furniture. It is crucial to remember that a recessed electrical fireplace requires an electrical outlet. This may not be accessible at all times in certain areas of the home.
Many manufacturers offer options that will meet your budget and style. Some include a mantel that enhances the aesthetics of your space. You can pick from a variety of finishes and designs that will fit in with your decor. Certain models are designed to look like brick refractory or natural logs. You can pick the style that fits your home the best.
It is secure
Electric fireplaces are safe to use overnight unlike wood or gas fireplaces that release carbon monoxide fumes. You can rest peacefully knowing that your family is protected from harmful fumes and smoke. Additionally, there is no risk of creosote build-up or escaping fuel, which are common in chimney fires [check out here] that are typical.
The security of an electric fireplace will depend on the way it is used and on the user's adherence to the recommended guidelines. In general, you should keep the area around the fireplace free of items that could ignite, such as furniture, clothing, drapes, and bedding. It is also recommended to avoid using extension cords close to your fireplace. They can cause overloading and power fluctuations that could cause an explosion. Unplugging the fireplace when it is not in use can also help reduce the amount of energy consumed and also help to keep the fireplace from overheating.
Electric fireplaces are not designed to create flames but to simulate the appearance. Instead, they use LED lights, video images, or mist to create the illusion of flames. Some models use water vapor to create the illusion of smoke. This makes them more realistic than traditional fireplaces, and they don't require maintenance or cleaning.
As opposed to real fireplaces electric fireplaces do not heat the wall or mantel ledges over them. The unit can get hot and create the risk of fire to flammable objects such as TVs, wall coverings and rug. In addition, the unit can cause an explosion if it is placed too close to wood or other flammable items.
Electric fireplaces are safe for use. However, you should always read the instructions from the manufacturer and not exceed the recommended power. It is essential to purchase one with an overheat-protection mechanism and choose a reliable manufacturer. It is also recommended to purchase an additional remote control to keep track of the temperature of your fireplace as well as its power consumption. It is also important to keep the fireplace away from moisture, paints, and gasoline.
It is energy efficient.
An electric fireplace is more efficient than a gas or wood fireplace. It uses a less than a tenth of the heat produced by traditional fireplaces and does not require a chimney or regular maintenance. This could save you a lot of money in your energy bill and chimney cleaning.
There are many options for your home when it comes to electric fireplaces, including models that can heat up large rooms. Magik Flame's Trinity is a good example, and can heat up to 1,000 sq. feet. Other units, like the Dimplex Upton have a lower temperature output, and are better suited to small spaces.
The cost of running an electric fireplace varies based on the size, wattage, and 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 achieve the best results. Make sure that the thermostat is programmed and can be set to the desired temperature.
You can also lower the energy consumption by using an electric fireplace mostly to decorate the room, but without heating. The majority of the time, the heater will be shut off, which reduces the energy consumption by a significant percentage. This can also help to keep children from accidental burns or pets that may try to reach the flames.
Electric fireplaces aren't only an excellent option to save money on energy costs, they also look gorgeous. It can be integrated into a media centre or mounted on walls to add warmth and ambiance to your living space. There are many designs that feature louvers and trim that dress up the hole in the wall, while others can cover an existing brick fireplace or stone fireplace.
Some electric fireplaces include an insert for the fire pit that is 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 more secure than real fires and emit no odors or ash. However, it is recommended that a qualified home inspector perform an electrical safety inspection before installing any electrical appliances.
It is easy to clean
It is crucial to clean your electric fireplace often. This is especially true in the event that you frequently use it. This will keep it looking new and prevent dust accumulation. Before you begin cleaning, switch off the fireplace and ensure that it's cool. This will avoid any accidental electrical shocks. It is also recommended to wear safety glasses or goggles to protect your eyes from any fine particles that may break off during the cleaning process.
The first step in cleaning an electric fireplace is to dust all the surfaces. This should be done with the use of a soft, lint-free cloth. You can also make use of an attachment for the vacuum cleaner to eliminate dust from crevices. Prepare a solution of dishwashing detergent and water. You can mix soap and vinegar, but be sure not to mix the two. If you mix vinegar with soap it could trigger dangerous chemical reactions.
After you have sprayed all surfaces with dust using a soft cloth to wipe them down. Rinse and dry the surfaces thoroughly. Be sure to get into every crevice and nook including the heating inlet vents as well as vents for outlet. For stubborn spots and stains, you can use white fireplace distilled vinegar. However, it's acidic and can cause damage to your fireplace's plastic components.
Modern electric cheap fireplaces feature flame effects that appear real and realistic. Even skeptical homeowners are easily fooled by electric fireplaces, since they will often do an unintentional double-take before realizing that the fire isn't an actual flame. The technology used to create flame effects can differ between models but they all employ reflectors and LED lights. Some models could even feature a water vapor system which simulates smoke, making the effect more realistic.
Another great feature of electric fireplaces is that they don't need to be opened like a traditional wood-burning fireplace. However, this doesn't mean they don't require regular maintenance. It is recommended to clean your electric fireplace at least once a year or so to keep its appearance and functionality.