subject: How Electric Fireplace Inserts Differ From Built-in Fireplaces [print this page] The effect an electric fireplace will have on one's home can be amazing; however, choosing the perfect one for your home will be dictated by the space that is available and your economic realities. There are many models to choose from, and they range from built-in to electric fireplace inserts.
Transforming A Traditional Fireplace With An Electric Fireplace Insert
Electric inserts fall into two distinct categories. One type of electric fireplace insert is a four-sided box with logs on a grate that exists as a complete unit. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes and are typically included with a mantel or an entertainment center package. This item is a plug-in unit and, because it functions as a piece of furniture, the insert slides in and it can be placed anywhere in a room where there is an electrical outlet.
The second type of electric fireplace insert is the electric log insert set. It is placed into an existing masonry firebox or wood burning stove and can transform its new home into a beautiful, inexpensive, hassle and mess-free place of warmth and character. The electric log insert requires access to an electric outlet. The unit is factory pre-wired, so installation is simple. All one needs to do is place it into a fireplace or wood burning stove, and plug the unit in. There are no gas fittings, no masonry work, no holes in exterior walls, and no roofing contractor necessary, because this unit does not require ventilation.
Choosing A Built-In Fireplace As An Inexpensive Alternative To Installing A Traditional Fireplace
A built-in fireplace is a permanent installation to a home or office and can be placed anywhere; on an inside or outside wall, above or below ground, and even in corners. It is constructed of good quality, sturdy materials and is quickly and inexpensively installed. Typically, these built-in units are dual voltage and can be wired out of the box for 110 volts, which is the normal household voltage, or 220 volts, which is the voltage used by a washer or dryer. A 220 volt installation will roughly double the potential heat output of the unit. They are safe to use, which eliminates the anxiety that can come with a burning flame. While the actual flame does not exist, the realistic flame effect is incredibly lifelike and, as an added bonus, can be used with the heat turned on or off, allowing for its use 365 days a year.
As an alternative to installing a costly traditional masonry fireplace, a built-in unit is perfect for renovation or construction projects because it comes in a variety of designs and widths ranging from 33 inches to 45 inches. These designs include details such as glass doors, trim kits, remote controls, wall thermostats, and plug-in kits. Heating elements can range from 4,692 to 9,200 BTUs and provide warmth to almost any size room when required. However, keep in mind that the unit can be operated without the heating element being turned on, so one can enjoy the coziness of a fire even in the warmest months of the year.
Selecting The Perfect Fit for your Application
An electric fireplace insert is generally ready for operation and can simply be plugged in. If the buyer already has a traditional masonry surround and hearth, they might want to convert it into an electric fireplace by utilizing the electric log insert set. If one does not already have a traditional unit and does not want to incur the expense of installing one, they can consider an electric insert that is part of a mantel or an entertainment center package. This unit includes shelves for TV and media players and places for CD and DVD storage. Electrical fireplace models are tested to make sure they meet UL standards and are specifically designed with automatic shut off features to avoid overheating issues. Not only do they include these safety features, but they are also very inexpensive to operate. On average, an electric insert costs two cents per hour when using the flame only and 14 cents per hour when the heating element is turned on. Models also include a thermostat that can be set to individual comfort levels. If you are already planning on a home renovation or construction project, a built-in fireplace may be a practical alternative to a traditional one. Because they have no ventilation requirements, they are far less expensive to install and do not require maintenance of a chimney or flue. They can be placed anywhere in a room and only require standard household power supply.
Oftentimes, circumstances dictate what is possible, practical and what is not. Electric fireplaces, as an electric fireplace insert or as a built-in one, provide a range of options that allow individuals to take their application and preferences into account and purchase the perfect fit for their homes at substantial savings.
