Ten Fireplaces That Really Improve Your Life
The Advantages of an Electric Fireplace
Electric fireplaces are a great option for those who want the look of a bioethanol fire without the hassle or cost of a wood-burning fireplace. The heat is generated through a heating coil which is used in conjunction with fans to release warm, humid air into the room.
Many models can be wall-mounted by homeowners without the need of an expert. Some are built into TV stands or bookshelves. Others are built into entertainment centers, bookcases or TV stands.
Easy to install
Electric fireplaces are a great way to create a cozy space within your home. They make use of electricity to generate heat, which makes them easier to install than traditional gas fireplaces. They also require no venting, which makes them a safer alternative to wood-burning fireplaces. They are also a good option for homes with no traditional fireplaces, for example apartments or mobile homes.
Installing an electric fireplace requires you first find the right spot in your room. Then, determine the opening of your existing fireplace or consult the installation guide provided by the manufacturer to determine the size insert you require. Then, locate the appropriate size brackets for mounting. Use a spirit-level gauge to make sure that they are exactly on the wall. Once the brackets are in place, you can connect the insert to the brackets and connect the wire. Enjoy your new fireplace.
The warmth of an electric fireplace is produced by electricity aided by either an electric heating coil or a ceramic plate. The heat is then distributed into the air via an air conditioner to provide warmth for your room. Some electric fireplaces also use infrared technology, which distributes heat directly to objects in the room. They're a cost-effective alternative to central heating and they have the look of real flames, but without the mess or smoke.
A electric fireplace that is recessed can be installed on any wall of your home, providing a subtle but noticeable improvement in appearance. It can also be integrated into bookshelves, TV stands and other furniture. It is important to note that an electric fireplace that is recessed requires access to an electrical outlet, which might not be accessible in some areas of the home.
Many manufacturers offer options that will fit your style and budget. Some even include the mantel, which adds to the visual appeal of your living space. You can choose from a range of finishes and designs that will fit in with your decor. Some models are designed to look like brick refractory or natural logs, so you can choose the design that best fits your home.
It is secure
Contrary to wood and gas fireplaces, which release carbon monoxide emissions when they are burned in an electric fireplace, it is safe to be left on for the night. It doesn't produce dangerous fumes or harmful smoke, so you can sleep soundly without worrying about your family's health. Furthermore there is no danger of creosote accumulating or escaping fuel, which are a common occurrence in chimney fires that are typical.
Electric fireplaces are safe if they are operated correctly and if the user adheres to all directions and guidelines. It is recommended to keep the area around the fireplace free of any flammable objects such as clothing, furniture, drapes and bedding. Do not use extension cords close to your fireplace. This can lead to overload and fireplaces power fluctuations that could cause a fireplace. Unplugging the fireplace when not in use can also help reduce the amount of energy consumed and also help to stop the overheating.
Most electric fireplaces are designed to imitate the appearance of flames but they do not create live flames. Instead, they employ mist, LED lights, video images or videos to create the illusion that flames are burning. Some models use water vapor to simulate smoke. This makes them more realistic than traditional fireplaces and they do not require maintenance or cleaning.
Unlike real fireplaces electric fireplaces do not warm the walls or mantel ledges that are above them. However, the unit can become warm and pose a risk to flammable materials like wall coverings, rugs, and TVs. It could also pose fire hazards if placed too close to flammable items like TVs or wood.
Although electrical fireplaces are very safe to use, follow the manufacturer's guidelines and never exceed the recommended wattage. It is important to choose a reputable brand and buy one with an overheat safety mechanism. It is also recommended to buy an additional remote control that will allow you to monitor the temperature and power usage of your fireplace. It is also important to keep the fireplace away from paints, moisture and gasoline.
It is energy efficient.
Electric fireplaces are more energy-efficient than wood or gas fireplaces. It consumes a small only a fraction of the heat produced by traditional fireplaces and doesn't require a chimney or maintenance. This could save you a significant amount of money on your energy bill and chimney cleaning.
There are a variety of options for your home when it comes to electric fireplaces, including models that provide heat to large rooms. Magik Flame's Trinity model, for example is able to efficiently heat up to 1,000 square feet. Other units, such as the Dimplex Upton, have a smaller heating output and are better suited to smaller spaces.
Electric fireplaces can be costly to run. The cost is determined by the size of the freestanding fireplace and its wattage as well as how often it is used. Use a unit that has an impressive BTU rating and low voltage draw to achieve the best results. Use a thermostat that is programmable and set it to the desired temperature.
You can also lower the energy consumption by using an electric fireplace mostly for decoration, with no heating. Most of the time the heater will be shut off, fireplaces which reduces the power consumption by a large percentage. This can avoid burns to children or pets who might touch the flames.
Electric fireplaces aren't just a great way to save money on energy costs, they also look stunning. It can be mounted on the wall or built into a media center to add a touch of warmth and ambiance your living space. Many designs include louvers and trims to enhance the look of the opening in the drywall, while others can even cover a stone or brick fireplace.
Some electric fireplaces come with an insert for the fire pit that is filled with gel that is made of butane. The gel can be replaced after 3-4 hours. These fireplaces can be connected to any outlet that is standard and are therefore easy to install. Additionally, they are much safer than real fireplaces shop and don't release any odors or ash. You should still get an electrical safety test conducted by a qualified professional in home inspection prior to installing any electrical appliance.
It is easy to clean
It is important to clean your electric fireplace often. This is especially true in the event that you use your fireplace frequently. This will ensure it looks new and help to stop the build-up of dust. Before you begin cleaning the fireplace, ensure that it's cool. This will avoid any electrical shocks that might occur accidentally. It is also an excellent idea to wear safety glasses or goggles to shield your eyes from any particles that could break off during the cleaning process.
Dust all 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 equipped with a brush attachment to remove any dust from corners and crevices. Prepare a solution of dishwashing soap and water. You can also mix vinegar with soap but be careful not to mix the two. If you mix vinegar with soap it could cause dangerous chemical reactions.
After you have sprayed all surfaces with dust using a soft cloth to wipe them clean. Rinse and dry the surfaces thoroughly. Be sure to get into all crevices and nooks including the heating inlet vents as well as vents for outlet. For stubborn stains and spots, you can use white distillation vinegar. However, it's acidic, and could damage your fireplace's plastic components.
Most modern electric fireplaces have flame effects that look realistic and lifelike. Even skeptical people can be fooled by these electric fireplaces as they will often do a double-take before realizing the ethanol fire isn't an actual flame. The technology that creates the flame effects varies between models, but the majority of them use LED lights and mirrors. Certain models feature water vapor systems that mimic smoke to make the effect more realistic.
Another benefit of electric fireplaces is that they don't require to be opened like traditional wood-burning fireplaces. However, that 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 function.