Almost everybody loves the cozy warmth and character a fireplace brings to a room. Crackling embers and flickering flames bring a sense of comfort to ordinary days as well as holiday occasions. However, while fireplaces are beautiful additions to any home, the labor and cost required to maintain a traditional fireplace can quickly become a headache.
As an economical option that doesn’t sacrifice design or character, electric fireplaces are rapidly becoming popular alternatives. Available in traditional mantel styles, which include corner placement options and TV media stands, wall-mount, and fireplace log set insert designs, electric fireplaces offer a variety of installation and décor options–all while keeping your maintenance and energy costs in check.
Types of Electric Fireplaces
Electric fireplaces are convenient, virtually hassle-free alternatives to the traditional fireplace. These vent-free room heaters are available in three basic types:
Electric fireplace mantels typically feature two main components: a vent-free firebox with a realistic flame effect that plugs into any standard 120-volt wall outlet and a separate mantel that houses the firebox. Fireplace mantels are available in a variety of colors and finishes, and some are convertible to fit into almost any room.
Some models, including the Southern Enterprises Dilvon Electric Fireplace TV Stand, can hold a flat-screen TV and feature side bookcases or cabinets with shelves for extra storage and styling.
Wall-mount electric fireplaces are available in hanging models and models that install directly into drywall. Hanging electric fireplaces usually include all mounting hardware required for installation, along with easy-to-follow instructions in the owner’s manual.
Electric fireplaces designed to be installed in drywall or other materials may require professional installation to ensure that the heater is installed in accordance with building code.
Electric fireplace logs and inserts are designed to fit inside existing fireplaces, including almost any size brick- or steel-lined hearth. The inserts, such as the Napoleon Woodland Electric Fireplace Log Set, often feature LED inner glow logs of various sizes, with pulsating embers to give you a surprisingly realistic flame effect without the upkeep. Setup is simple too.
Simply plug the fireplace insert into a standard 120-volt outlet and center it inside your fireplace. You can also operate many fireplace inserts with or without heat, which makes them great year-round additions to your décor.
Low Maintenance and Operating Costs
Another reason that electric fireplaces are great alternatives to traditional wood-burning or gas fireplaces is that they require virtually no upkeep. That means no mess caused by hauling firewood inside or cleaning the chimney. Most electric fireplaces only require occasional dusting and cleaning of the glass on the firebox. Some fireplaces do require replacement light bulbs to illuminate the realistic ember bed.
Electric fireplaces are also efficient, costing just pennies a day and using about the same energy as a standard coffee maker.
Eco-Friendly and Safe
Unlike wood-burning or gas fireplaces that produce hazardous by-products, electric fireplaces are an incredibly environmentally-friendly way to enjoy the warmth and ambiance of a fireplace. Without harmful emissions or consumption of wood or fossil fuels, they help to protect the environment. Fireboxes equipped with glass typically remain cool to the touch, and an overheat protection switch available on many models, makes them safe to use.
For many consumers, electric fireplaces are becoming go-to replacements for expensive traditional fireplaces. They offer rustic appeal, safety, low maintenance, and eco-friendly operation at a surprisingly low cost. In addition, extra features including remote controls, multiple heat settings (including no-heat options), easy-to-use control panels, and air filters are helping these revolutionary room heaters become popular choices for homeowners and apartment-dwellers alike.
Still Have Questions?
For more information on a specific electric fireplace or any of our other products that help improve your indoor air and comfort, review our extensive online catalog and visit our Knowledge Center. Not sure what’s best for you? We can take the guesswork out of decision-making. Contact one of our air treatment specialists toll-free at 1-800-934-9194.
