How to Choose an Electric Fireplace

There is nothing quite like cozying up in front of a crackling fireplace on a cold winter's night. But have you ever priced out getting one installed? Luckily, homeowners can get all of the ambiance associated with a fireplace for a fraction of the cost, and none of the mess, with a modern electric fireplace. Here is how to choose an electric fireplace that will perfectly compliment your home.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Electric fireplaces come in a wide variety of styles. From full-sized fireplaces complete with real wood mantles to classic free-standing stoves, the selection is impressive. Your first step will be to determine what kind of look you want for your room.

2. Next, you will have to determine where in the room you are going to want to place the electric fireplace. The focal point of the room is usually the ideal location as that is where everyone's eyes are normally drawn. If your ideal spot is a corner, no worries, there are electric fireplaces made specifically for corners.

3. Before you begin your search for the perfect electric fireplace, you'll want to first make sure that your room has the electric available to handle the extra load. Example: A 1350 Watt/4600 BTU unit will draw around 8 amps. Ideally, the electric fireplace should have a dedicated circuit, but an electrician can determine if the circuit on hand will be sufficient for the addition.

4. Once you have the circuit approved for the increase in amperage, it is time to go shopping. Your neighborhood hardware super stores, like Lowes and Home Depot usually have a nice selection of electric fireplaces, or if you prefer, you can find great choices online.

5. After your purchase, all you have to do now is assemble the electric fireplace. Once finished, simply plug it in, sit back and relax to the dancing flames and soothing warmth.

Tips & Warnings

• If you already have a real fireplace, try buying just the electric logs to place in it rather than an entire electric fireplace.
• If you love the look of the flames but you do not need the heat, just turn off the heater and you will still benefit from the ambiance of a fireplace.
• One of the best things about an electric fireplace is that if you do not like the way it looks in the room, simply move it to another area.
• Electric fireplaces do cause an increase in your electric bill.
• In the event of a power loss, your electric fireplace will not work, so don't count on it as an alternative source of heat.
• Electric fireplaces are not as effective for creating heat as some other heating equipment because most of them have a lower BTU rating.
• Avoid plugging your electric fireplace into an extension cord. It should always be plugged directly into the outlet.

[Becca]

on 1/16/2008 I love my electric fireplace. I have one that looks like a woodburning stove in my bedroom. The fire has real movements and sounds and the heat can be adusted to 750 or 1500. It's great!

[Kotoka]

on 1/16/2008 I think that the electric fireplaces most convenient and safe. Of course this is not the sense of this but I can not face for the children who play near