During winter periods, a fireplace can keep you warm from the cold. The ambiance and benefits of a fireplace are what a home needs when it is snowing out there. There are three options to choose from: a traditional fireplace (wood burning), electric and natural gas.
Each option has its own benefits but in this technological world, the use of electricity for heat makes much sense. It is cost-effective and requires low maintenance. Little wonder electric fireplaces are becoming popular among families. This article will discuss all you need to know about an electric fireplace including what you stand to gain from buying one.
What is an Electric Fireplace?
An electric fireplace is a heater that imitates other fireplaces that use natural gas, wood, and coal. You can plug it in a wall socket to power it on. When it turns on, it looks like the conventional firehouse. There are two types available:
1. Firebox types: These are small and portable. You can fit them anywhere in a home such as in the basement or crawlspace.
2. Linear mountable types: As the name implies, they are mounted on the wall or a part of the wall is cleanly removed to install them.
Reasons for Getting an Electric Fireplace
Here are the benefits of having this in your home:
1. It is Affordable
Wood burning or natural gas stove may seem cheap. But since they are made from materials that you would have to replenish, you will have to continually stock these materials. In the end, the cost spent to keep them running will be more than buying an electrical fireplace.
An electric fireplace is cost-effective and can fit whatever budget you have. Its setup doesn’t require much unlike the others.
2. It is Easy to Install
The technical know-how of wood or natural gas stove is complicated. It will involve:
- Building a chimney
- Getting the fire hearth and pit
- Installing gas lines
- Requesting for building permits
- Having to contend with a disruptive and messy construction
On the other hand, installing an electric type is much easier and has fewer restrictions. For fireboxes, all that is needed is an electrical box outlet to plug into. Simple!
For mounted linear types, you do not need any technical skills like the traditional and natural gas stoves. But you will still need to construct a feature wall to fix it. Check out this video to see how you can construct it.
3. It Does Not Require Much Space
In comparison to wood or natural gas burning stoves, the electric model takes up much smaller space in a room. It would never extend beyond 6 inches or 8. When recessed, it only takes that depth of space. Also, it is easy to decide on where to put it because it is easy to install.
The location of traditional fireplaces is always where the chimney is. But for electrical, there is flexibility in where you can install it.
4. It is Safer
The risks caused by burning firewood are high. It emits carbon monoxide fumes which are bad for the lungs and heart. Also, natural gas could potentially expose you to carbon monoxide and other dangerous gases. It can lead to an explosion too.
However, an electric fireplace is safe, and you control how it operates. There is no need to worry about poisonous gases or fire explosions that could happen in traditional ones. New models have an auto shut-off system when it senses overheating, and the glass is made of heatproof materials. With these safety features, you have nothing to be concerned about.
5. It Comes with Many Customization Options
This fireplace has your best interest at heart. There are many customization options you can use to meet your preference. It has different doors you can choose from. You can also change the appearance of the fire to fit your home’s décor. Other features include:
- Thermostat remote-controlled heater
- LED display (You can see the temperature settings here)
- Remote control
- Ember embed options
- Authentic imitation flames that imitate real fire
- Various color themes
6. It is Versatile
Even in warmer periods where you see no need for a fireplace, it will still serve a purpose. It provides ambiance with no heat produced. You can turn off its heat function, leaving the flames on display. When the heat is off, it won’t cost you money. So you can use this during the summertime and spring seasons.
7. It is Movable
When selling a house, it is almost impossible to take your traditional fire place along with you. But electrical fireplaces are easy to disassemble and install. They are mobile. So, if you are relocating, you can take them with you. You can click on https://www.quora.com/What-are-the-benefits-of-a-fireplace to see more benefits.
Conclusion
Getting an electric fireplace is more convenient, cost-effective, and safer than other options. As technology continues to improve, having one in your home will prove to be a good investment.