Ten Fireplaces That Really Make Your Life Better
The Advantages of an Electric Fireplace
Electric fireplaces are a great option for those who like the look of a fireplace without the hassle or expense of a wood-burning fireplace. The heat is emitted by a heating coil that is used in conjunction with fans to blow warm, humid air into the room.
Many models can be wall-mounted by home owners without the need for a professional. 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 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 fireplaces. They also don't require venting, which makes them a safer alternative to wood-burning fireplaces. They're also a great alternative for homes that do not have traditional fireplaces, like apartments or mobile homes.
Installing an electric fireplace requires that you first locate an appropriate location within your home. Then, take a measurement of the opening of your existing fireplace or consult the installation instructions from the manufacturer to determine the size insert you require. Next, find the right size mounting brackets. Utilizing a spirit-level gauge, make sure that they are in a straight line on the wall. Once you have the brackets set connect the insert to them and connect the wiring. You are now ready to relax in your new fireplace!
Electricity is used to warm an electric fireplace, either with an electric heating plate or coil. The heat is then dispersed to the air by an air conditioner to provide warmth to your space. Some electric fireplaces also use infrared technology that distributes heat directly to objects in the room. They're a great alternative to central heating and they give the appearance of real flames but without the mess or the smoke.
A electric fireplace that is recessed can be mounted into any wall of your home giving a subtle but noticeable aesthetic upgrade. It can also be incorporated into TV stands, bookshelves and other furniture. It is important to note that an electric fireplace that is recessed requires access to an electrical outlet which may not be readily available in certain rooms of the house.
Many manufacturers have options to meet your budget and style. Some come with a mantel that adds to the aesthetic appeal of your living space. You can also select various designs and finishes to complement your decor. Some models are even designed to resemble a natural log or brick refractory You can pick the design that best fits your home.
It is safe
In contrast to wood and gas fireplaces, which release carbon monoxide fumes when they burn the electric fireplace is completely safe to be left on for the night. It does not generate dangerous gases or harmful smoke so you can sleep soundly without worrying about your family's health. Additionally there is no danger of creosote build-up or escaping fuel, which are common in traditional chimney fires.
electric fire fireplaces are safe when they are properly used and fireplaces if the user abides by all directions and guidelines. In general, it is recommended to keep the space around the fireplace free of flammable items such as furniture, clothing drapes, bedding, and other items. Also, avoid using extension cords near your fireplace. This could cause power fluctuations and overloading, which may result in the possibility of a fire. Unplugging the fireplace when it is not in use can also help reduce energy consumption and help stop the overheating.
The majority of electric fireplaces wood are designed to imitate the appearance of flames, however, they don't create live flames. Instead, they employ mist, LED lights video images or videos to create the illusion that flames are burning. Some models even offer water vapor that mimics the appearance of smoke. This makes them more realistic than traditional fireplaces and they require no maintenance or cleaning.
Unlike real fireplaces electric fireplaces do not heat the wall or mantel ledges over them. The unit can become hot and cause an ignition risk to flammable items like TVs, wall covers and rug. The unit can also cause fire hazards if placed close to flammable objects like wood or TVs.
Although electrical fireplaces are very safe to use, adhere to the instructions of the manufacturer and never exceed the recommended wattage. It is important to buy one that comes with an overheat-protection mechanism and choose a reputable manufacturer. You should also consider purchasing an additional remote control to check the temperature of your fireplace as well as its power consumption. Keep your fireplace dry from moisture, paints and gasoline.
It is energy efficient
Electric fireplaces are more energy-efficient than gas or wood fireplaces. It uses a less than a tenth of the heat produced by traditional fireplaces and does not require a chimney or regular maintenance. This can save you a substantial amount of money on your energy bill as well as the cost of cleaning your chimney.
There are many options for your home when it comes to electric fireplaces, including models that provide heat to large rooms. Magik Flame's Trinity, for example can heat up to 1,000 square. feet. Other models, like the Dimplex Upton, have a lower heating output and are more suited to smaller spaces.
Electric fireplaces are costly to operate. The cost is determined by the size of the fireplace and the wattage it draws as well as the frequency with which it is used. Make sure to choose a model that has a high BTU rating and low voltage draw to get the best results. Choose a thermostat that's adjustable and can be set to the desired temperature.
You can also reduce the power consumption by using an electric fireplace solely to decorate the room, but without heat. Most times the heater will be switched off, reducing the power consumption by a substantial percentage. This will also help keep children from accidental burns or pets that try to reach the flames.
Electric fireplaces shop aren't just an excellent way to save money on energy, they also look gorgeous. It can be hung on the wall or built into a media center to add a bit of warmth and ambiance your living space. There are many designs that include louvers and trims to dress up the drywall opening, and others can even cover a brick or stone fireplace.
Some electric fireplaces come with an insert for a fire pit that is filled with gel that is made of butane. The gel can be replaced after 3-4 hours. These fireplaces - you can try this out - can be plugged in to any outlet that is standard and are therefore easy to install. In addition, they are safer than actual fireplaces and do not emit any smells or ash. However, it is recommended that a certified home inspector conduct an electrical safety check prior to installing any electrical appliances.
It is easy to clean
If you have an electric fireplace, it's important to clean it regularly. This is especially important when you are using it frequently. This will keep it looking new and will prevent the accumulation of dust. Before you begin cleaning, turn off the fireplace and ensure it's cool. This will avoid any accidental electrical shocks. Wearing safety glasses or goggles will protect your eyes against any fine particles that could break off during the cleaning process.
Dust all surfaces of the electric fireplace prior to cleaning it. Use a soft, lint-free fabric to dust the fireplace. You can also make use of an attachment on a vacuum cleaner to remove dust from crevices. Prepare a solution consisting of dishwashing detergent and water. You can also make use of vinegar, but be careful not to mix it with soap. Mixing soap and vinegar could result in dangerous chemical reactions.
After you've finished dusting, wipe all surfaces down with a soft cloth and then clean and dry them thoroughly. Make sure you get into the nooks and crannies particularly the outlet and heating inlet vents. For stubborn spots and stains you can make use of white fireplace distilled vinegar. However, it is acidic so can damage your fireplace's plastic components.
Most modern electric fireplaces have flame effects that are very realistic and lifelike. Even skeptical people can be fooled by these electric fireplaces as they'll often do a double-take before realizing the fire is not an actual flame. The technology used to create the flame effects varies between models, but most incorporate LED lights and mirrors. Certain models feature water vapor systems that simulate smoke to create a more realistic effect.
Another benefit of electric fireplaces is that they don't need to be opened up like traditional wood-burning fireplaces. However, that doesn't mean they are inaccessible to regular cleaning. It is recommended to clean your electric fireplace at least once a year or so to maintain its appearance and functionality.