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Built-In Fireplaces Vs. Electric Fireplace Inserts: How They Differ

A built-in fireplace or an electric fireplace insert is a great addition to any home or office. However, there are differences between the two, and choosing the right one for your home or business will be dictated by which one fits your lifestyle best.

A Dimplex electric fireplace is one of the top quality built-in fireplaces on the market. It is literally built into a wall and is a permanent addition to a home or office. An electric fireplace insert is not a permanent addition to a home or office and comes in two types. One is a four-sided box that comprises the entire fireplace unit and comes in many shapes and sizes. The second insert is an electric log set that is placed into an existing gas or wood-burning fireplace.

What Is An Electric Fireplace?

Built-in fireplaces and electric inserts are practical alternatives to traditional fireplaces. . An electric fireplace is an eye-catching addition to any home or office that provides a beautiful glowing bed of embers and realistic looking flame effect. Each unit is designed to operate with flame and heat or flame effect. Many built in units are constructed with heaters that can produce as much as 9,600 BTUs (British thermal units). Not only are they versatile and practical, but one does not need to worry about fumes, smoke or the mess associated with traditional fireplaces, because the unit is electric, which means that nothing is burning.

An Electric Fireplace Insert Provides An Inexpensive Alternative To A Traditional Fireplace

An electric insert comes in two unique designs. The first design is a four-sided box that exists as an entire unit. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes and would typically slide into a freestanding mantel or become part of a cabinet or an entertainment center. When the unit is housed inside a freestanding mantel or cabinet it could be relocated within the home, only needing placement near an electrical outlet.

The second design for an electric fireplace insert is the basic log set. This electric log insert is placed into an existing traditional masonry lined fireplace that transforms it into a less expensive, hassle and mess-free fireplace. The electric log set is a plug-in unit, which means the only thing needed to use them is a nearby electric outlet. It comes factory pre-wired, which makes installation a breeze. . There are no gas fittings, no masonry work, no holes in exterior walls, and no roofing contractor necessary, because these units do not require ventilation.

Dissecting A Dimplex Electric Fireplace

A Dimplex electric fireplace is an excellent example of a built-in fireplace. It is a permanent installation to a home or business and can be placed anywhere: on an inside or outside wall, above or below ground, or even in corners. It can be installed quickly and inexpensively and is well built. All that is required is standard power supply. These built-in units are typically dual voltage, which means they 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. It is safe to use, which eliminates the concerns that come with traditional wood burning and gas burning fireplaces, and the realistic flame effect of a Dimplex electric fireplace can be used with or without the heater, so the look and feel of a wood fire can be enjoyed throughout the year.

These built-in fireplaces come with in a variety of widths that include 33 inches, 39 inches, and 45 inches. The heating output ranges from 4,692 to 9600 BTUs depending upon the voltage chosen during installation. Another pleasant option provided by Dimplex is the variety of accessories offered. These options include glass doors, trim kits, remote controls, wall thermostats, and plug-in kits.

Both the built-in Dimplex electric fireplace and log inserts are powered by electricity; however, there are differences between the two, and the choice depends on whether the customer has an existing masonry fireplace or is able to construct an appropriate space within a wall. The Dimplex electric fireplace is available in styles that can be built into a wall, units placed inside a freestanding mantel or entertainment center and lastly the electric fireplace insert is placed into an existing fireplace. Whatever unit is selected for the application, one is receiving a great alternative to wood or gas burning fireplaces.

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