Electric Fireplaces

Why would you want to add one of these charming appliances to an existing room?

Additional Heat.Yes, supplementary heat from an electric fireplace can add comfort during the cooler months. From sunrooms, to living rooms, bedrooms and more; an electric fireplace acts as a space heater. Staying within your budget.These devices are affordable on most budgets. These heaters, complete with beautiful surround can be added to a room for as low as $280. Ease of installation.No longer do home owners have to pay for costly masonry work and installation of venting and chimneys; these simple appliances merely slide in next to the wall of nearly any room. Minimal space requirements.Electric fireplaces can fit up right against a wall, minimizing the space that it occupies. These beautiful pieces are offered in a wide variety of sizes to meet any room size and configuration. Charm and ambiance.Because these beautifully crafted appliances come in a wide variety of styles and finishes, there is one to suit any décor. The warmth of these pieces reaches far beyond their actual heating capabilities as the glow and flicker of flames is one the resonates with the sense of "home" in all of us.Safety and ComfortAn electric fireplace poses no significant fire risk, sparks to burn carpeting, rugs, and so forth, and no smoke either. You get added warmth with far fewer risks.

Choosing an electric fireplace is relatively simple. Although looking at them in person at the store is wise before making a choice, returning to shop online can offer the best deals.

Here are some things to consider:

Heating ability.Determine the square footage of the room in which the fireplace will be located. When shopping, each unit will have an indication of it's BTU's and the size space it can generally heat. Obviously, if you have 220 square feet of space to heat, you want the device to be able to accommodate that.Size.Measure the height and width of the area where you hope to locate the fireplace. This will guide the size you purchase to assure it will fit in the space you have and avoid overwhelming the room.ControlsAdjustable heat and flame height are available. Controls to operate the fireplace with flame only (no heat) are also available on many models. Many people also want a remote control. A timer, or automoatic shut off can also be convenient.Realistic "Feel" and AppearanceIf you shop in a store be sure look and listen while the unit is in operation to assure your satisfaction. Some offer "flames" that are more realistic, and have a quieter operation. (the fan forced heater is used to distribute air throughout the room)Style and FinishElectric fireplaces may have a stained wood, painted wood, stone, metal, or other finish. They may have a colonial, early american, rustic, modern, transitional, or other design. Wood finishes can resemble oak, cherry, mahogany, or some other type of wood grain and color. Some small models may be a cabinet design, while others resemble a traditional fireplace with mantle and hearth. Some will fit on a flat wall while others are fashioned to fit in the corner of a room. Personal taste and room décor will dictate the best choice for any individual.Other Design ConsiderationsWith limited space, many consumers choose designs which incorporate bookcases or storage for equipment such as their DVR and television.

Note: Be sure you know what is included when you buy. Most of these appliances come with the mantel and surround as wells as the insert with logs, but on occasion, especially with larger models the two parts are sold separately.

What style electric fireplaces are available?Flush models are probably the most popular; they sit on the floor flush with the wall. Wall mount models are another option. These tend to be smaller. A corner design can be a good choice in rooms that don't have a lot of extra wall space. There are also compact electric heaters and stoves which can offer a very rustic look. Of course there are also electric fireplace inserts that can be used with an existing fireplace.Do these appliances need to sit away from the wall by several inches to allow for proper ventilation?No, they can sit flush with the wallDo electric fireplaces need to be installed by an electrician?No. You will simply assemble the mantel/surround, insert the preassembled heater and logs, and then plug it in.Will I need a special outlet?No, nearly all of these appliances can use a standard household outlet.How are electric fireplaces assembled?Most people can handle any necessary assembly. Obviously each brand and model differs as to the exact process, but we have included an example below to assist you. Generally speaking, it is similar to assembling any ready made furniture such as an entertainment center or desk.