If you are looking for a way to heat up your cold house, then you might be considering an electric fireplace. While these fireplaces can provide some warmth, they are not as cost-effective as other heating options. So before investing in one of these fireplaces, it is important to consider all the factors. In this blog post, we will discuss whether or not electric fireplaces are worth it and what type of benefits they have over other types of heating systems.
The winter months can be harsh for those who live in colder climates. It can be difficult to keep warm and there are many health risks associated with prolonged exposure to the cold. There is a solution though, electric fireplaces! These devices emit heat and light so you can enjoy your favorite show or read a book without freezing yourself out of the room. But, are electric fireplaces worth it?
Let’s find out by looking at some benefits and disadvantages of owning one:
Benefits:
- They emit heat and light so that you don’t freeze while enjoying things like reading or watching TV
- They allow people who have allergies to stay inside during the winter months
- They provide an ambiance that makes any room
Are Electric Fireplaces Worth It?
Electric fireplaces are a good choice for those who want the ambiance of a fireplace without the hassle and cost associated with them. They also work well in small spaces where other types may not fit as easily or look odd to try and accommodate.
They can be placed on any wall, making it easy to find room for one if you have no specific place in mind already picked out for your new electric fireplace insert or TV stand. If there is an existing built-in niche that would make a nice spot, simply buy a matching unit to put inside instead of putting up drywall! This way you get all kinds of style options from traditional brick designs to more modern stone ones that will fit in with any decor.
The price is an important factor to consider when you are thinking about buying a new fireplace insert or TV stand, but that does not mean it needs to be super expensive for good quality! There are some very nice electric fireplaces out there selling at affordable prices so you can enjoy the warmth and ambiance of one without having your life savings disappear into thin air.
Some of them even have convenient features like timers or thermostats built right in so you don’t accidentally leave them on all night long after dozing off next to their cozy glow while watching tv after working too many late nights this week! Just set it up before bedtime then sleep easy knowing they will turn themselves off automatically if no movement is detected.
Everyone has a different idea of what makes for the perfect electric fireplace, but this article can help you figure out if one is worth getting and guide you in your search to find the best value available right now!
Why Electric Fireplaces Are Worth It
Electric fireplaces are a great way to enhance the look of your home without spending too much money. Compared to traditional types, these fake fireplace inserts usually come with more features at lower costs. There are various ways on how electric fireplaces can be set up in any room you want including the bathroom or kitchen.
Electric Fireplace Costs Electric fireplaces may not offer as many options for flames and heat settings compared to other heating appliances but they still cost less than most gas-powered versions that also require professional installation services. The initial price range starts from $100 all the way until $3000 depending on its size and design features such as built-in speakers and USB ports which makes it ideal for those who wish to keep their homes environmentally friendly yet stylish.
Electric Fireplaces Pros and Cons Electric fireplaces are not only safer than their traditional counterparts but also easier to use in terms of installation, maintenance, and operation. They do not require any venting when installed inside the house, unlike gas-powered versions which means they’re free from carbon monoxide leaks that can pose a risk for your health especially if you have kids at home who might accidentally end up playing with them while you’re away.
On top of that, it makes less noise compared to other heating appliances so there will be no cause for alarm should an emergency arise during power outages or malfunctions due to low voltage issues. However, electric fireplaces may cost more on energy bills since most models run on electricity instead of natural gas or oil.
Why Electric Fireplaces Many Not Be Considered Worth It
- They don’t provide the same warmth as a wood-burning fireplace.
- Electric fireplaces can take hours to heat up, and there is no guarantee that they will be warm enough for you when you want them.
- They are expensive to run and will raise your monthly energy bill.
- Why Electric Fireplaces May Be Worth It
- If you don’t have a fireplace or access to one that is safe for use in your home, an electric version may be worth it if the above disadvantages do not affect you.
- There are many different types of designs available today with modern features like remote controls and timers making them easier than ever to control while feeling like real flames when lit. This makes the experience more realistic than older models which did not offer these features. You can read here about tips on how best to enjoy this kind of heat source.
Are Electric Fireplaces Not Worth It?
- An electric fireplace insert works better at heating up rooms than the actual fireplace itself.
- Some models may not be able to heat up larger rooms and will only work well in smaller spaces.
- Electric fireplaces are more expensive than their natural gas counterparts, which provide an efficient heating source for homes. If you want a cheaper option that is also effective at warming your home, consider installing one of these types instead if possible.
Environmental Protection
- Environmentally friendly because there are no emissions, flues, or chimneys
- No need to purchase wood which saves forests and money
- Increased Efficiency – The long life of a fireplace means that you will spend less money on replacements and electricity.
- Reduced heating bills in the winter because electric fireplaces are not as drafty as wood fires, which helps to retain heat better. This also reduces your energy consumption from other sources such as space heaters or stoves/ovens for houses with multiple rooms since only one room is being heated at any given time by an electric fireplace.
Safety Tips You Should Know
- Never leave your fake fireplace unattended.
- The heat output of an electric fireplace is usually about as hot as a 60 watt light bulb, so you don’t have to worry about the room getting too warm if it’s left on for long periods of time.
- Make sure children are supervised when they are near the unit and that pets do not chew or play with any part of it. Keep anything flammable away from the area around them in case something should come into contact with fire.
- Never place candles, wicker baskets, plants, or other objects directly onto the top surface; instead, keep them at least 18 inches (46 cm) above where they sit to avoid overheating oils used in the paint or finishing.
- Use flameless candles instead of traditional ones to avoid the risk of fire.
- Clean the unit with a soft cloth and warm water, never use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners on it as these could leave behind residue that may be harmful around children and pets.
FAQs
Are Electric Fireplaces Worth It?
If you’re looking for something that will add a cozy feel to your living room while still maintaining the functionality of heating up say, one small room then electric fireplaces are definitely worth it! Just because they don’t produce any actual flames doesn’t mean that these aren't real pieces. They look just like traditional wood-burning options and even require an old-school flue system to expel smoke out of the house.
Do electric fireplaces put out heat?
Yes! Just like traditional wood-burning options, the flames of an electric fireplace will emit warmth and make your home feel more pleasant.
Can I install my own unit or do I need to hire a professional?
While you can technically DIY if that’s your thing (and we don't recommend it), most people prefer to call in some pros for this delicate task. Electric units are heavy and difficult to maneuver so unless you have experience with installation best left up to the professionals who know how to move them safely without damaging walls etc…
How much electricity do they use?
They require less energy than heating systems which is why they really pay off over time.
Do I need to vent the fireplace?
Yes, you’ll need to run a pipe up and out your roof which can be tricky if there isn't already one in place.
Conclusion
Electric fireplaces are taking the place of wood-burning fireplaces, but you might want to think twice before purchasing one. They’re not as environmentally friendly and they don’t work for everyone. You will have more success with an electric fireplace if you use it in a space where the heat is needed most (like your bedroom) than if you try to save on heating costs by using one in lieu of central air conditioning during hot summer months. When used correctly, however, they can be very effective at creating ambiance without spending too much money or energy!