How Does An Electric Fireplace Work?

Electric fireplaces are becoming more and more popular in homes throughout the country. Offering more flexibility than wood or gas-burning fireplaces, these units are the most energy-efficient models on the market. So, how do electric fireplaces work?

How Do Electric Fireplaces Produce Heat?

Put simply, electric fireplaces make life easy for homeowners looking for extra warmth. These units produce no real fire, smoke or gas byproducts. All a homeowner has to do is plug into a wall outlet, just like any other appliance in the house. Simply press a button to turn the fireplace on and the unit will utilize several different types of heating elements, including infrared technology. This technology converts electricity into heat energy.

Every electric fireplace will operate with slight differences. In general, though, the units take in cool air, warm it up, then disperse it throughout the area. Depending on the model, these fireplaces can heat up a room that is 400 square feet or larger. Electric fireplaces are much more efficient than other units as well, since no heat is lost through the chimney.

Can Electric Fireplaces Have Real Flames?

One of the many reasons why so many homeowners choose electric fireplaces is they do not produce real flames. Dealing with real flames can be a hassle and a hazard at times. Real flames can create carbon monoxide and leave behind a pile of ash. Other drawbacks to real flames include the following:

• Year-round maintenance needs.
• Constant supply of fuel or wood logs.
• Increased safety risk.

With electric fireplace models, flames are eliminated entirely, which also means you won’t have to deal with any messes, maintenance needs or extra costs.

How Do Electric Fireplaces Create Flames?

Electric fireplace flames look very real, but the truth is they are simply an illusion of light. This is created by the internal components of the fireplace. Advanced technology, such as 3D Flame Effect, makes the real look of the flames possible. Some models will even give the flames the ability to change colors and/or dance.

Electric Fireplace Benefits

Here are a few of the benefits of installing an electric fireplace:

Appearance

Electric versions may not produce flames, but they will certainly generate heat. Electric fireplaces will project imagery of burning logs; and this image can be enhanced to your liking depending on which model you choose. LED lighting or even videos can accompany your electric unit. Wall mounting is another popular option when you choose electric over gas for your home.

Energy-Efficient

Costing only about $25 per year to run, electric fireplaces offer another option for homeowners looking for extra warmth during the cooler seasons. A gas fireplace may warm the entire surrounding area more efficiently, but electric models do convert their entire energy into heat. Whether you are looking for energy efficiency or just trying to warm up the home, either of these units will prove invaluable.

Required Maintenance

We know the typical costs of the unit and the expense of installation, but what about general maintenance? Well, the good news is you will likely save money when opting for a gas fireplace over the traditional offerings. Gas fireplaces require considerably less general maintenance for homeowners. Check valves from time to time, just to make sure they are running properly. Electric fireplaces require no regular maintenance at all.