Do Electric Fireplaces really heat a room? (User’s Guide)

We all know that electric fireplaces don’t produce heat, but do they really keep a room warm? In this blog post we will find out. Electric fireplaces are said to be the best way to create a cozy atmosphere in any living space. But how can you tell if it’s keeping your room at a comfortable temperature? We will answer these questions and more in this article about electric fireplace heating power.

While electric fireplaces are great for adding ambiance to your home, they may not be the best idea if you’re looking for an efficient way to heat your living space. The main reason that electric fireplaces don’t do well at heating rooms is because of their lack of convective heat. Convection occurs when heated air gets near a colder surface and transfers some of its thermal energy by touching it which causes the cold surface to warm up.

This process can happen with or without direct contact between the two surfaces involved in the transfer, but the farther apart they are from each other, the less effective it becomes. As such, if you’re looking to get cozy next time winter rolls around, we recommend using a traditional fireplace instead of an electric one.

What are Electric Fireplaces and how do they work?

Electric fireplaces are a type of heating appliance that uses electricity to create heat. They come in many different shapes and sizes, from small tabletop models to large wall-mounted units. The majority of electric fireplaces use a fan to circulate the heated air, but some have an open flame that mimics the look of a traditional wood-burning fireplace.

Electric fireplaces work by heating a metal coil called an element. The element gets hot and produces heat that is then circulated around the room by a fan. Some electric fireplaces also have an open flame that mimics the look of a traditional wood-burning fireplace.

The heat produced by an electric fireplace is not hot enough to warm a room on its own, however. For this reason, most models come with built-in thermostats and blowers that help distribute the heat around the room more effectively. These features can also be found in some wood-burning fireplaces as well.

Electric fireplaces are also available with an optional heater to help heat the room. This type of electric fireplace is often referred to as a whole-room model or fan-forced unit because it uses both heating and blower components.

Electric fireplaces have limited use compared to other types of home heating appliances, but they can be helpful in certain situations. For example, electric fireplaces can be used as an auxiliary heat source to supplement central heating or in rooms that are difficult to heat with other methods. They can also be a nice addition to a room for aesthetic purposes and come in many different styles to suit any décor.

Electric fireplaces have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their lower cost and environmental benefits.

Do Electric Fireplaces really heat a room like gas Fireplaces do?

No, Electric Fireplaces actually heat rooms the same way that electric heaters do. They put out infrared waves which are not visible to humans but they can be measured with thermometers and other devices. The infrared waves heat the objects they touch and cause them to emit their own electromagnetic energy. The heated object then radiates that electromagnetic energy in all directions, including towards you (the human). Humans absorb this radiation and it warms our skin which makes us feel warm.

Are there any benefits to using an Electric Fireplace over a gas Fireplace for heating purposes?

One benefit of Electric Fireplaces is that they can be used as a supplemental heating system, which means you don’t need to turn on another heater. Also, electricity costs less than gas and there are no emissions or odors from an electric fire place. However, if you are looking for a primary heating source, then an electric fireplace is not the best option. They don’t put out as much heat as gas fireplaces and they can be more expensive to operate in the long run.

Another benefit of Electric Fireplaces is that they come in a variety of styles and sizes, so you can find something that fits the decor of your home.
You can also choose from many different colors of flame, but some electric fireplaces have a limited color selection while others allow you to adjust the brightness and hue.
They are often more expensive than gas Fireplaces, but they cost less over time since there are no ongoing fuel costs or emissions. They provide supplemental heat when used with an existing heating system.
Electric fireplaces can be safe to use, but they are not free from risk. If you have small children or pets in the home keep them away from an open electric fireplace since there is a chance of burns and injury if touched. Also, never leave an electric fireplace on unattended because it may overheat or catch other objects on fire.

How much does it cost to operate an Electric Fireplace compared to a gas Fireplace per month/year/lifetime etc.?

It is less expensive to operate an electric fireplace than a gas fireplace. Electric fireplaces use about $0.12 worth of electricity per hour, while gas fireplaces can use up to $0.24 worth of natural gas per hour. This means that electric fireplaces cost between $28 and $56 per month to operate, depending on the fireplace and the cost of electricity in your area. Electric fireplaces also typically last much longer than gas fireplaces, so you would not need to purchase a new one as often.

Electric Fireplace: $0.12 worth of electricity per hour for an average electric fireplace.
Gas Fireplace: $0.24 worth of natural gas per hour for an average gas fireplace.
$28-56 worth of electricity per month on average to operate electric fireplaces depending on the cost of electricity in your area.
Electric Fireplace: $0.12/hour (average) + Lifetime Cost of Electricity = ~$275-$550 lifetime operating costs compared with a Gas Fireplace of $0.24/hour (average) + Lifetime Cost of Gas = ~$1150-$2200 lifetime operating costs.

What are some things people should consider before purchasing an Electric Fireplace for their home heating needs (space, climate, budget etc)?

Electric fireplaces have become a popular choice for heating homes in recent years. They are available in many different sizes and styles to fit any décor, and some models even include heaters to warm the room.

But do electric fireplaces really work as well as traditional wood-burning or gas fireplaces? And are they worth the higher price tag?

The answer to both questions is yes, but there are a few things people should consider before purchasing an electric fireplace. The most important factor is the size of the room. Electric fireplaces don’t produce as much heat as wood-burning or gas fireplaces, so they may not be suitable for large rooms. They are perfect for small to medium-sized rooms, or as an supplemental heat source in a larger room.

Another thing to consider is the climate. Electric fireplaces work best in colder climates where people need supplementary heating. They are not very effective in warm climates where people rely on air conditioning to cool their homes.

And finally, budget is a consideration. Electric fireplaces are not as economical as other forms of heating, but they do have a longer lifespan and don’t require the same amount of maintenance as wood-burning or gas fireplaces.

People should also consider whether to purchase a wall mount fireplace or an electric hearth insert for their existing fireplace if it is compatible. Wall mount fireplaces are a good option for people who don’t have a traditional fireplace, while electric hearth inserts are a better choice for people who do have a traditional fireplace.

Overall, electric fireplaces are a great option for supplemental heating in colder climates and they come with many different style options to fit any décor.

Environmental Protection

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is a national authority on environmental issues. The EPA has set standards for electric fireplaces to ensure that they produce minimal emissions.

Electric fireplaces must meet the Smoke Emission Standards of the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990. These standards are designed to reduce air pollution and protect public health.

The EPA tests emissions produced by all electric fireplace models. Any model that emits more than 15 grams of smoke per hour or two percent opacity cannot be sold in the U.S.

A few types of wood burning fireplaces, like zero clearance and outdoor units, are not regulated under this act because they burn very cleanly without producing much smoke. However, they do require a trained chimney sweep’s installation and cleaning to ensure the fireplace is working properly.

Electric fireplaces must have labels detailing emissions testing results from an EPA-certified laboratory in order for retailers to sell them legally in the U.S..

In addition, if you want your electric fireplace to be used as your only source of heat, it must be certified by the EPA to produce at least 1500 BTUs.

The bottom line is that electric fireplaces are a much cleaner option than traditional wood burning fireplaces and comply with national environmental protection standards. They are also a great supplemental heat source for small spaces.

If you have any further questions about the environmental impact of electric fireplaces, please contact us!

Safety Tips

When using an electric fireplace, be sure to follow the safety tips below for optimal enjoyment and heating of your room.

Never leave a burning fire unattended.
Be sure the fireplace is placed in an open area, away from furniture and other flammable objects.
Do not use an electric fireplace if you have pets or children.
Do not use when the fireplace is damaged in any way, such as cracks and chips.
Be sure to unplug your electric fireplace before changing bulbs.
Place a piece of metal between your fire and TV screen to avoid damage from heat.
Keep fire glass clean by dusting regularly with a soft brush.
Never use water to extinguish a fire in your electric fireplace – this could cause electrical shock. Use a Class C rated fire extinguisher instead.

FAQs

Can I use an extension cord with my electric fireplace?

You can if your product manual says it’s ok. If not, don’t do it! Fireplace cords are designed to handle a certain amount of current and when they exceed that level there is the potential for fire. Read more about this here: Can I use an extension cord with my electric fireplace?

Can I put my electric fireplace on a timer?

Yes! You can set your fireplace to turn off after a certain amount of time, or to come on and off at specific times. This is a great option if you want the ambiance of a fire without worrying about forgetting to turn it off.

Can I use my electric fireplace in the summer?

Yes! Many people like to use their fireplaces as a supplemental heat source in the winter, but they can also be used during the summer months to keep a room cool.

What is the difference between an insert and a freestanding electric fireplace?

An insert is built into your existing fireplace, whereas a freestanding electric fireplace sits on the floor. Most people prefer inserts because they blend in seamlessly with their fireplaces and there are no cords or vents to worry about. However, if you want an option that can be moved from room to room frequently then a freestanding product is a better fit.

Is my fireplace safe? What type of safety features does it have?

All our fireplaces are ETL listed which means they meet strict electrical and fire safety standards. We also offer UL-listed electric heaters for manufacturers that want to include them in their packages. All products come with a standard GFCI plug to ensure you are protected against electrical fires.

Does the glass need special care?

The tempered-glass ember bed, which is part of your fireplace kit, needs regular cleaning with a soft cloth and warm water. If it gets scratched or starts looking cloudy simply buff out with toothpaste (yes this really works!) using a soft cloth.

Conclusion

Electric fireplaces are a great way to get the look and feel of a traditional fireplace without all the hassle. They can be installed in any room in your home, don’t require any kind of chimney or ventilation, and come in a variety of styles to fit any décor. But do they really heat up a room?

The answer is yes – electric fireplaces can provide a lot of heat, depending on the size and power of the unit. Some models even come with a built-in fan to help circulate the heat throughout the room. So if you’re looking for an easy way to add some extra warmth to your home this winter, an electric fireplace is a great option.

Just make sure to measure the room you want to install it in before you buy, so you know which size fireplace will be best. And remember, always read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully before installing or using your electric fireplace.