How to Arrange Pebbles on an Electric Fire Suite

An electric fire suite is a simple way to add warmth and color to a room.

An electric fire suite replicates the glow and heat of a traditional fireplace without the need for ventilation or fuel. One popular method for enhancing the appearance of a fire suite is using dense marble "fire pebbles" to help break up and redirect the glow of the fire effect, creating the appearance of a bed of smoldering coals.

Instructions

1. Cover the bottom of the fireplace with fire pebbles. Use just enough pebbles to cover the bottom of the fireplace without the risk of spilling over.

2. Rake the pebbles together to create a slightly raised heap in the center, sloping gently down toward the edges.

3. Turn on the light effect without activating the heating element. Break up any tightly-packed clusters of rocks that completely block large patches of light.

Tips & Warnings

• While fire pebbles provide a certain amount of reflection and refraction, they can block the light completely when packed together tightly. Ideally, lines of radiance should be visible around each pebble. Keep them loosely packed to maximize this effect.

• Only use pebbles sold as fire pebbles for electric fireplaces, or small stones you know to be highly heat-resistant. Many pebbles will fracture or spall when exposed to the heat of an electric fire suite, possibly damaging the system or injuring nearby people.

References

• "Creative Homeowner Design Ideas for Fireplaces"; Karen Stickles and Jessie Walker; 2007