An Alternative Solution to Wood and Gas

Electric fireplaces are versatile heating systems designed to offer homeowners a convenient and environmentally friendly way to heat a living space. Using a technique known as zone heating, electric heaters can lower energy costs. Additionally, they come with standard safety features that make them safer than gas or wood alternatives.

Electric fireplace inserts are extremely easy to install and come in a wide variety of designs to fit in with any decorating style. Best of all, the ambiance of a fireplace can be enjoyed year round, even during the summer months, with the optional heat settings.

Design Features of an Electric Fireplace

Electric fireplaces come in many different types and styles. Standard wood or gas burning fireplaces can be replaced with electric log inserts at any time.

For homeowners who do not have a preexisting masonry fireplace within their home, an electric fireplace can be easily installed with or without a mantel package.

Other electric units take the form of freestanding stoves, complete mantel packages, entertainment centers that accommodate today's televisions and electric components or wall mount electric fireplaces.

Installation is easy and can be as straightforward as plugging the unit into a household electrical outlet.

Safety Features of an Electric Fireplace

Electric fireplaces are equipped with several design features to ensure they are safe for everyone in the family. For starters, most electric fireplaces and heaters propel heat using a fan which blows across an electric coil located within the unit.

While standard gas or wood burning heaters cannot be touched for fear of a burn, electric heaters remain cool to the touch, even while the heating element is in use.

Many electric fireplaces and heaters have unique on/off and self-timer settings. For homeowners looking for a way to enjoy the flame effect without the heat option, customers can easily choose "flame only", allowing for a comfortable atmosphere year round.

All electric fireplaces and heaters produce a realistic flame effect, not an actual flame. Because no flame is produced, electric fireplaces do not require venting, as wood or gas burning fireplaces do.

While wood or gas burning fireplace owners need to maintain constant upkeep with their fireplaces (cleaning and maintaining the units), electric fireplace owners are able to easily use their units without the worry of upkeep or safety hazards.

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