Electric fireplaces have gained popularity over the years, offering homeowners an alternative to traditional fireplaces that require a chimney and regular maintenance. However, many questions come to mind about whether electric fireplaces give off heat to make them worth the investment.
Today we will talk about whether electric fireplaces are worth the investment and if they give off heat. If you need to know what an electric fireplace is, they are basically like a mini-fireplace which you plug into an outlet in your house. They're great because there's no need for any chimney or anything like that, and they generally look more excellent than the average fireplace. So, let's get started with the things to consider first.
How do Electric Fireplaces Work?
Electric fireplaces are powered by electricity and are frequently found in homes. Homeowners can purchase electric fireplaces for three reasons: to warm up a cold room, enjoy the flames without the mess associated with wood-burning fireplaces, or help heat their homes.
Electric fireplaces are trendy for their low cost in comparison to traditional fireplaces. Electric fireplaces are also very easy to install since they do not require a chimney and venting system. You can use them almost anywhere in the home, including outside. While electric fireplaces offer benefits such as easy installation and low cost, they often need to be more powerful to heat a large area or home. To address this issue, many companies have created electric fireplace inserts which can be added to existing fireplaces. Many companies offer electric fireplace inserts that can be used in your home or commercial spaces. Electric fireplace inserts allow homeowners to enjoy the classic look of a fireplace but with the added benefit of heat since they come with their heating system.
How Much Heat Should You Expect from Your Electric Fireplace?
One of the most significant factors determining how much heat your electric fireplace will give off is the BTU output of your unit. BTU stands for British Thermal Unit and measures how much heat a surface gives off. By measuring a BTU output, you can determine how efficient your unit will be at warming up your room. For example, some electric fireplaces are only around 1500 BTU, insufficient to warm up even a tiny space. Before deciding if an electric fireplace is right for you, there are a few factors which you should consider. These factors include your utility bill, the size of your home, and the number of people living there.
Types of Electric Fireplaces
Electric fireplaces come in various styles, including freestanding, wall-mounted, fireplace inserts, and electric stoves. Each type of fireplace comes with its pros and cons. The freestanding electric fireplace is great for those with limited space or where you cannot install a traditional gas or wood-burning fireplace. Here is our top electric fireplace collection.
This electric fireplace is a wall-mounted unit, so there is no need for a chimney or vent. When you purchase this unit, you get a decorative drop-down door, LED night light, and remote control. This model is 38 inches wide with a 4-inch depth and requires a cost of 120 volts with a BTU output of 24,000. The firebox is made from aluminium, which will be durable in high-traffic areas. The flame effect comes from two LEDs on each side of the firebox, meaning you can place it just about anywhere in your home without worrying about adding extra heat to your room because these lights provide low heat.
The Dimplex IgniteXL Bold 88-inch wall-mount electric fireplace is a beautiful design that can be installed anywhere in your home. This model features a realistic flame effect, remote control, and a thermostat. The firebox is made from ceramic with an alabaster glass surround and remote control. This electric fireplace is an inch wider than the previous model at 40 inches wide, comes with a depth of 6.5 inches and is, costs 120 volts, and only uses 24,000 BTUs. The flame effect on this unit comes from LEDs on each side which provide low heat and light up the room instead of just giving heat.
This electric fireplace is a recessed model, so it does not protrude from the wall. This fireplace is easy to install and comes with a remote control, LED nightlight, and an aluminium firebox with an alabaster glass surround. The Dimplex Allusion measures 84 inches wide with a 16-inch depth and requires 120 volts at 20,000 BTUs. This unit also uses LEDs on each side of the firebox, which provides low heat but still lights up your room better than other electric fireplaces that only deliver heat.
This Napoleon Trivista Primis electric fireplace is a wall-mounted unit that can be installed anywhere in your home. This model features a remote control, LED nightlight, and thermostat. The firebox is made from heavy-cast aluminium, making it durable in high-traffic areas. The flame effect comes from LEDs on the firebox's top and bottom, providing low heat but still lighting up your room.
The Modern Flames Challenger is a recessed fireplace with an alabaster glass surround and an LED nightlight. This fireplace can be installed almost anywhere in your home and requires 120 power for the flame effect. The firebox is made from aluminium, durable in high-traffic areas. The flame effect on this unit comes from LEDs on both sides, providing low heat and lighting up the room instead of just giving heat.
Factors to Consider Before Purchasing an Electric Fireplace
Before purchasing an electric fireplace, there are several factors that you should consider, including the size of the room, the heat output, the style of the fireplace, the cost, and the safety features. With so many electric fireplaces on the market, it is essential to do your research and consider your options before making a choice.
Size of the room
The room size where you intend to install your electric fireplace can be an essential consideration. While some smaller models are perfect for smaller spaces, it is vital to consider where you plan to install your electric fireplace before choosing. Also, it is essential to put small flames out and check for any problems. For example, suppose you are installing an electric fireplace in a living room, and there is scratching on the floor from the heater. In that case, you should inspect it to see if there is anything wrong with it and keep this in mind while considering whether or not you should purchase an electric fireplace.
Heat output
Choosing an electric fireplace for your living room will involve considering the heat output. The heat output will depend on the type of electric fireplace you choose, but it is essential to consider this while purchasing an electric fireplace. It will help you choose the right kind of fire and determine the best size to buy in terms of electricity consumption.
Style
The firing style can be considered when purchasing an electric fireplace as several other factors, such as the cost and safety features. For this reason, it is essential to keep in mind these considerations before making a final decision on which electric fireplace unit you should purchase.
Cost
Price is another important consideration when purchasing an electric fireplace because of the many factors that can affect the price. It is essential to research and finds affordable electric fireplaces that provide everything you need to ensure you are getting the most value for your money.
FAQs
Are electric fireplaces safe to use?
Yes, electric fireplaces are generally safe to use. However, following installation and usage precautions is essential, including keeping flammable objects away from the fireplace and not using extension cords.
How much heat do electric fireplaces produce?
The heat output of electric fireplaces varies depending on the model, but on average, they produce between 4,000 and 5,000 BTUs, which is enough to heat up a small to medium-sized room.
Are electric fireplaces cost-effective?
Yes, electric fireplaces are generally more cost-effective than traditional fireplaces, as they do not require the same maintenance and are more energy-efficient.
Do electric fireplaces have an environmental impact?
Electric fireplaces are generally more environmentally friendly than traditional fireplaces, as they do not release harmful pollutants into the environment and do not require the same amount of resources.
Conclusion
Electric fireplaces offer homeowners an alternative to traditional ones requiring regular maintenance and a chimney. While electric fireplaces may not have the same ambience as traditional ones, they are generally more cost-effective, energy-efficient, and environmentally friendly. When purchasing an electric fireplace, it's essential to consider factors such as the size of the room, the heat output, the style of the fireplace, the cost, and the safety features to make an informed decision.