For a long time, traditional fireplaces were the go-to fireplace. That is because cozying up to the warmth of a conventional fireplace while listening to the crackling sound of fire creates a magical experience. In addition, the visual appeal of traditional fireplaces further adds to their strengths.
Do not get me wrong, well-designed traditional fireplaces are still a sight to behold, but electric fireplaces have revolutionized the fireplace game. They offer similar, if not better, services than traditional fireplaces, but without the maintenance work required or the guilt of increasing one’s carbon footprint. With the world going green, many people are ditching conventional fireplaces for electric ones.
Knowing that acquiring an electric fireplace is a costly investment, you will likely have some questions before getting an electric fireplace. This article has compiled and answered the most common questions people have asked us over the years. We have provided all information on the fundamentals of electric fireplaces.
Why opt for an electric fireplace?
If you live in an urban area, electric fireplaces are a suitable alternative to wood-burning and gas fireplaces. Our list of reasons you should opt for an electric fireplace instead of any other one is endless. However, if we were to narrow it down to the main ones, they would be the convenience and how easy electric fireplaces are to install. Electric fireplaces offer similar, if not better, services than traditional fireplaces. In addition, electric fireplaces are by far easier to install. You only need to identify a suitable location to mount your unit and plug it into a power outlet, and it is ready for use, unlike wood burning and gas fireplaces, which require you to build a mantel and install gas lines.
How do electric fireplaces operate?
Electric fireplaces work without real fire. Instead, electric fireplaces operate using an internal heater to generate heat. The heater in an electric fireplace is similar to a space heater since it includes a heating coil and a blower fan to force the warm air into the room to raise the temperature. Alternatively, other models have an infrared heater that works through radiation. For the flame effect, electric fireplaces use an LED screen display. Older electric fireplace models create the illusion of flames by reflecting light on rotating mirrors onto the back screen.
What to look for when buying an electric fireplace unit?
Most people get electric fireplaces to improve the ambiance and warm their space. That said, when out shopping for electric fireplaces, we advise you to look for a unit with lower wattage and a higher BTU
Can you use an electric fireplace unit outdoors?
Yes, you can use electric fireplaces outdoors. However, you can only use an electric fireplace outdoors if it is an outdoor-rated unit. That is because outdoor-rated electric fireplaces are weatherproof to withstand outdoor elements such as rain and exposure to sunlight. If you use an ordinary indoor electric fireplace outdoors, you risk damaging the unit or causing rust build-up.
What room size can an electric fireplace heat?
On average, electric fireplaces generate approximately 5000 BTUs, which can heat a room of up to 400 square feet. Nonetheless, there are electric fireplaces models that can generate 8900 BTUs, which can effectively heat a space of up to 1000 square feet. Since the heating capability in electric fireplaces differs, checking a unit’s specs when shopping is essential to ensure you pick one that will heat up your space effectively.
What is an electric fireplace insert?
An electric fireplace insert is a unit that provides similar heat and ambiance as a standalone electric fireplace, but it is installed in a TV stand or in the fireplace hearth in a traditional fireplace. You can use an electric fireplace insert to convert a conventional fireplace to an electric one.
How long does an electric fireplace take to heat a room?
Electric fireplaces are very convenient to use. Based on their design, you will immediately feel the heat once you switch on the heating element on an electric fireplace using a remote control. You will not need to take time to build a fire first, like in traditional fireplaces.
Are electric fireplace units tacky?
Yes, and No. That depends on the specific electric fireplace you buy. There are units that look cheap and fake. However, other electric fireplace units look realistic. Electric fireplaces with LED flames and lighting embers are very impressive and realistic-looking.
Are electric fireplace units energy efficient?
Electric fireplaces are the most energy efficient compared to wood-burning and gas fireplaces. Electric fireplaces are considered 100% energy-efficient. That is because all of the electricity they consume is converted to heat. In addition, unlike wood burning and gas fireplaces, no heat from an electric fireplace is lost through venting since they do not operate with one. Furthermore, some electric fireplaces have a thermostat, ensuring the temperature remains constant and prevents overheating. That feature further ensures no energy goes to waste. Since electric fireplaces are used for zonal heating, it allows you to switch off heating in other rooms you are not occupying hence saving more energy.
Are electric fireplaces expensive?
No. the general cost incurred to install, maintain and run an electric fireplace is cheaper than that of wood-burning and gas fireplaces. During the installation phase of electric fireplaces, you only need to mount the unit and plug it into a power outlet. As for a gas fireplace, you will need to pay for the installation of gas lines and venting, while with a wood-burning fireplace, you will need to build a mantel and chimney.
Electric fireplaces allow you to control the heating and flame elements independently. That means you can switch off the heating element when it is not required, reducing operational costs. You will not incur any maintenance costs with an electric fireplace. To maintain an electric fireplace, you only wipe the unit’s surface with a damp cloth and use a blower to eliminate the dust on the electric fireplace vents.
How long can electric fireplaces last?
Electric fireplaces generally last up to 20 years, but the number of years varies depending on a specific electric fireplace model. Parts of an electric fireplace, such as the bulb, may require regular replacement. To know how long an electric fireplace is likely to last, check the length of its warranty. A more extended warranty often suggests a longer lifespan for an electric fireplace unit and vice versa.
What impressive features do electric fireplaces have?
Independent control of both heating and flame elements
Since electric fireplaces do not operate with a real flame and instead use a combination of LED lights and an internal heater. You can independently control both features. That means you can have the fire displayed on your unit without heat. Alternatively, you can have the heat on without the fire on display.
Multi-color flame options
Electric fireplaces come with a variety of flame options. You can have realistic flames displayed on your unit. Alternatively, you can select a color flame to match your mood and setting.
Added safety features
Remote control operation
Every electric fireplace comes with control buttons on the unit. However, recent models have a remote control that allows you to turn the electric fireplace unit on or off and adjust the heat and flame settings. New technology will enable you to control an electric fireplace through an app on your smartphone.
Do electric fireplaces require venting?
Electric fireplaces do not need venting as wood-burning and gas fireplaces do. That is because electric fireplaces operate without combustion and therefore have zero emissions. That makes them ideal for your bedroom, living room, or office space.
Can you install a TV with an electric fireplace?
Yes, electric fireplaces and TVs go well together. Some electric fireplaces are designed to hold a TV. Nonetheless, when installing a TV and an electric fireplace together, you should ensure that the TV is not in the way of the heat. Otherwise, the heat from the electric fireplace will damage your TV.
Can you have an electric fireplace on all night?
Conclusion
After going through this article, we are confident you have gained insight into the fundamentals of electric fireplaces. If you have more questions on the bits, we have discussed here, feel free to check out our different articles, where we have a detailed breakdown and outlay of every aspect of this article.
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