HVAC Contributor
It’s winter, and you’re sitting at home, wondering what you can do to keep your living space as warm as your furnace. Then it occurs to you that you could purchase an electric fireplace. When installing an electric fireplace, the number of amps required must first be determined.
A 1500-watt electric fireplace is the most common. They use 13 amps and can be plugged into a 15 amp/120 volt outlet.
Electric fireplaces are becoming more versatile with the features they now include as they improve over time. This article will explain how this electric fireplace works.
We will also look at the various types of electric fireplaces, their advantages and disadvantages, and how to care for them.
What Is The Function Of An Electric Fireplace?
Electric fireplaces are regarded as one of the most convenient ways to heat a room. Electric fireplaces operate on two distinct principles: convection and radiant heating, which is also known as infrared. Convection works in the same way as a traditional wood stove, but it is powered by electricity.
The heater blows air into the room through tiny apertures in front of it. When this happens, hot air is blasted out of the top vents on each side of the electric unit, heating up nearby objects or people in its path. Rather than warming things by blowing warm air over them, radiant heating uses electromagnetic waves that penetrate whatever they come into contact with.
This technology enables users to be comfortable at lower temperatures, making it an excellent choice for people who do not want to spend a lot of money on heating.
Electric Fireplaces Of Various Types
Because of the convenience and simplicity they provide, electric fireplaces have grown in popularity. They are easy to install and do not present the same installation difficulties as wood or gas units.
There are several types of electric fireplaces to choose from. Here are a few examples:
Electric Fireplace That Is Mounted On The Wall
Because they do not require permanent installation and are portable, wall-mounted electric fireplaces are ideal for apartments.
These, like a painting or a flat-screen television, can be wall-mounted. Mounting brackets and all necessary hardware are included with the fireplace. If the fireplace is large, all that is needed is a level, a screwdriver, and a second pair of hands.
Installation requires no special skills; simply follow the instructions in the booklet, hang your fireplace, plug it into a standard outlet, and you’re done.
Electric Fireplace That Is Built-In
Because they do not protrude from the wall, built-in electric fireplaces provide a more complete appearance. There are several frameless linear options available; this is a popular style. Linear electric fireplaces that do not have frames are a beautiful alternative to linear gas fireplaces.
Installing a built-in fireplace is more difficult than installing a wall-mounted fireplace. You’ll need to carve out a space for your fireplace unit. You’ll need carpentry skills if you want to do it yourself.
We always recommend hiring a professional to help you install a built-in fireplace, especially if it will be hardwired.
Inserts For Electric Fireplaces
Electric fireplace inserts convert your existing wood or gas fireplace into an electric fireplace. Many homes have antique stone fireplaces that haven’t been used in years due to the mess involved.
Electric inserts are classified into two types:
- Firebox Insert
Firebox inserts are designed to look like a built-in fireplace. All you have to do is choose the appropriate size, install the firebox in your existing fireplace, plug it in, and sit back and relax. - Electric Log Insert
Electric log inserts look like log grates and have built-in lights that create a flame-like effect on the walls of your existing fireplace. A built-in heater and a remote control are also included in log inserts, allowing you to control the flame height, intensity, heat, and even the ember bed illumination.
Electric Fireplace That Stands Alone
Electric fireplaces that stand alone are available as media cabinets or as standalone devices.
Media cabinets are primarily TV stands with built-in electric fireplaces. They’re great for apartments because they’re portable and serve two functions: they save space while also providing extra heat.
Stand-alone electric fireplaces have the same features as wall-mounted electric fireplaces, but instead of being hung on the wall, they are placed on a pedestal.
Now that we’ve covered the various types of electric fireplaces, keep reading to the end to learn about the product’s advantages and disadvantages, as well as how to keep it in good working order.
The Advantages And Disadvantages Of An Electric Fireplace
Electric fireplaces are popular due to their lower purchase and installation costs, as well as their ease of use, realistic flames, and heat production.
Electric fireplaces, on the other hand, have a number of disadvantages when compared to other types of fireplaces because they are powered by electricity.
The Advantages Of Electric Fireplaces
The following are some advantages of using an electric fireplace:
- No Smoking
Traditional fireplaces and most other methods of heating used before the invention of electricity posed a risk of smoke and fire. An electric fireplace requires no ventilation or cleanup. You can even sleep with the electric fireplace on because there is no danger of fire or suffocation. - Efficient Use Of Energy
An electric fireplace uses very little energy. It is far more efficient than a space heater or an Amish heater when it comes to heating a single room or a large space. It costs a penny per hour at its most expensive setting. - Easy To Maintain
Traditional fireplaces require the cleaning of flues and chimneys, as well as the monitoring and maintenance of a fire. Electric fireplaces, on the other hand, are simple to maintain and operate. Turn it on and relax in the warmth. - Installation Is Simple
The ease of installation is one of the best aspects of electric fireplace heaters. It only takes a single step. All you have to do is plug in the fireplace, turn it on, and relax. To keep a traditional fireplace going, you’d have to buy wood, gas, oil, and so on, as well as poke the fire and constantly monitor it.
The Disadvantages Of Electric Fireplaces
The following are some disadvantages of using an electric fireplace:
The electric fireplace:
- Concern For Safety
One of the most obvious electric fireplace concerns is that it can consume an excessive amount of electricity, especially when combined with central heating. When used in conjunction with other appliances, it can overload the power cord and explode. As a result, you should ensure that the wires leading to the electric fireplace are wired separately for safety reasons. - Heating Without Electricity
There is no denying that an electric fireplace is a very effective heating source, but there is also no denying that an electric fireplace cannot function without energy.
Keep Your Electric Fireplace Safe And Functional
A traditional fireplace never has this problem. As a result, if the power goes out, you won’t be able to deal with the cold in your home. All you can do is wait it out and hope you don’t get too cold at night.
An electric fireplace uses little energy and is one of the most efficient ways to heat a single room. As a result, it’s an excellent investment.
Electric fireplaces require far less maintenance than other types of fireplaces. However, there are several things you can do to ensure that your fireplace safely and effectively heats your home during the winter.
Here are some basic electric fireplace maintenance instructions to keep your fireplace running smoothly for many years.
First and foremost, before performing any maintenance or cleaning on your fireplace, unplug it.
Lighting Replacement
Allow your fireplace to cool down after you’ve recently used it before replacing the light bulbs. Wait 15 to 20 minutes after turning off the fireplace.
See the owner’s manual to locate the light bulbs and determine which type of replacement bulbs to use. If you don’t have a hard copy of the handbook, you can get it online by entering your fireplace’s model number.
The lights are typically located near the back of the fireplace and are accessible via the back panel. You may need to use a screwdriver to remove any screws before removing the panel.
Before touching the old light bulbs, put on gloves or cover your hands with a towel. These will help keep your hand oils from coating the new light bulbs.
Ensure That The Fan Is Clean
When the fans on electric fireplaces accumulate dust, they lose their ability to properly disperse heat. Keep an eye on your fireplace fan, which is located behind the front grill. If you notice the fan is filthy or not spinning smoothly, it’s time to clean it.
After disconnecting your fireplace, remove the front grille and clean the fan blades with a small brush. Clean up any remaining dust and debris with a vacuum with an attachable wand nozzle. Clean dust from all accessible inside locations to keep your fireplace safe.
Clear The Outside
To keep your fireplace looking beautiful, clean the dust and smudges from the glass on a regular basis. Use warm, soapy water instead of combustible cleaning chemicals.
To avoid water stains, dampen a cloth or lint-free towel and buff the entire exterior, including the glass, until completely dry. In between cleanings, use a dry cloth to gently dust the outside.
Conclusion
Electric fireplaces offer homeowners a novel and simple heating solution. An electric fireplace, which comes in a variety of styles, sizes, and looks, can be used in almost any installation depending on your needs. Understanding how many amps are built into the electric fireplace can help you estimate how much energy it will need during the colder months.
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