Often a property's value can be increased through the addition of a unique feature or selling point. While few property owners consider fireplaces to be an added benefit, traditional or even gas burning fireplaces are fairly common and rarely increase a property’s overall value.
Electric models stand apart from other types of fireplaces because they are very cost-effective, cleaner and safer than traditional fireplaces. With a push of a button, you can enjoy the warmth of a fire with an electric fireplace insert.
Cost-Effective
Traditional wood fireplaces can be extremely expensive. This is due in large part to varying rates on select cut wood as well as the required annual cleanings and inspections of the flue and chimney. Gas fireplaces, meanwhile, depend heavily upon the gas prices in the area in addition to maintenance costs. Electric fireplaces do not require wood, nor do they require gas. Most electric fireplaces and heaters will produce warmth or a charming flame effect with a standard electric outlet. It’s really that easy.
With electric models, the biggest expense is the initial investment. All electric fireplaces we offer come complete with a warranty. Because most models are very energy-efficient, the electric bill will not increase by much either, especially if you begin practicing zone heating. With zone heating only a portion of your home is heated at a time. This technique enables you to heat rooms only when necessary so you won’t waste time or money heating unused rooms or spaces. In the case of wood and gas fireplaces, at least 80 percent of the heat escapes through a chimney. In the long run, electric versions are a great investment and the most cost-effective method of enjoying a warm, cozy fire.
A Clean Alternative
Wood burning fireplaces can become so messy with wood remnants, soot and ashes that many people decide to only use their fireplace less than four times a year. Many times the collected soot can be easily blown out of the fireplace and into the living area, requiring the owner to clean more often than they may want to.
Electric fireplaces do not require special cleaning nor leave behind any sort of mess. As an added bonus, an electric fireplace insert allows you to enjoy the atmosphere and ambiance of a fire even when it's warm outside.
Safety of Electric Fireplaces
With gas fireplaces carrying potential dangers for gas leaks and wood fireplaces including risks like carpets catching on fire or clogged chimneys causing smoke damage, electric fireplaces allow your home to stand apart in today’s housing market.
The standing pilot light in a gas fireplace can prove to be a slight danger when not lit properly. Vented gas logs also produce large amounts of carbon monoxide, a deadly toxic gas. When the chimney is extremely cold and a gas log set is ignited, water vapor might condense and run back down your chimney and since vent free logs do not vent to the outside additional problems can occur when moisture is trapped inside the home.
Unlike other fireplaces, the glass covering of an electric heater will always stay cool to the touch, a safety feature that's especially important to have around small children or pets. Additionally, they will not produce any mold or mildew that could produce potential health problems later.
An electric fireplace or heater provides a safer, healthier alternative and contributes to green living. With high savings and equally great health benefits, an electric fireplace is more than just a way to live an environmentally friendly lifestyle; it’s also the best way to ensure your home stands apart in the housing market.
