How to select the latest electric fireplace for your Home
Where to start planning your fireplace
Installing a fireplace can seem like a daunting task. With so many different options on the market, it can be difficult to decide which one is right for your home or business. We've put together this helpful guide to highlight some of the top considerations you should consider before buying.
What to consider before starting to build your fireplace
There is no one-size-fits-all solution to installing the best electric fireplace. The type of fireplace you decide on, the situation in your home, and price considerations are going to be important factors choose which model offers the right fit for your installation. Before starting your project, make sure you understand all the technical specifications for your fireplace, as well as any applicable local codes. Above all, read the manual for your product. These are some of the most important factors to consider when building your fireplace:
Types of fireplace fuel
There are three main types of fuels to choose from when starting a fireplace project. Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages.
BENEFITS OF ELECTRICAL FIREPLACES
Electric fireplaces are a newer market than wood or gas fireplaces. Of the three main options, electric fireplaces offer the most "plug-and-play" experience. In the case of wall mount units, installation is almost as easy as hanging a television.
Although built-in electric fireplaces and fireplace inserts will require adequate framing and clearances, in most cases no special ventilation is required. This installation flexibility makes electric fireplaces a popular choice for those looking to add a fireplace to their home with the least amount of hassle. Although some of the heating capabilities and realism are sacrificed compared to wood and gas fireplaces, these issues can be mitigated by selecting a high-end unit with a built-in heater and realistic flame presentation.
Electric fireplace best parts
- The easiest fireplace option to install; Many units offer a "plug-and-play" design
- No special ventilation is required, allowing for more flexible installation options
- Lower heat output and less realistic flame appearance compared to wood or gas
BENEFITS OF WOOD FIREPLACES
Wood burning fireplaces and stoves have been around for centuries for good reason. additionally to an unmatched flame presentation, these units offer exceptional heat output. These heating capabilities make wood-burning appliances an excellent choice for homes in areas that experience colder temperatures throughout the year.
Wood-burning fireplaces require special ventilation to ensure safety and performance. These units must be vented uprightly. Wood-burning fireplaces and stoves have specific ventilation requirements depending on the manufacturer of the fireplace and the model of the wood-burning unit. Ventilation components are NOT universal. Even if there are chimney or vent components in place, a new wood-burning fireplace may require different chimney piping components. Always check the product manual before purchasing vent components to ensure compatibility.
Wood Burning Fireplace Best Parts
- Exceptional heat output makes these instruments a viable heating option
- Unmatched Flame instrument- Real logs burn like real logs
- Requires more maintenance due to ash and soot; Special ventilation is required
BENEFITS OF GAS FIREPLACES
Gas instruments offer another alternative to wood-burning and electric fireplaces. These units still offer a stunning flame appearance without the mess associated with wood. Plus, these fireplaces can still produce an impressive amount of heat, making them another viable option for heating. Gas fireplaces can be classified as vented or vented / non-vented units.
Non-vented fireplaces
As the name implies, ventless fireplaces do not require special ventilation due to the relatively clean-burning nature of their design. While this might appear to be a beautiful option for those looking to feature a gas fireplace in their home without extensive remodeling, there are several important facts to think about when choosing a non-vented fireplace.
One disadvantage of an unvented fireplace is that it can produce a gas smell when the burner is in use. Additionally, unvented gas fireplaces naturally deplete oxygen in a room, which is why these units include oxygen sensors to avoid reducing the oxygen level below a dangerous threshold. However, by reducing ambient oxygen, unvented fireplaces can make the room feel dry. It's also worth noting that non-vented gas appliances are not allowed in all areas, so be sure to check local codes and regulations.
Vented fireplaces
Vented fireplaces offer a much more realistic appearance than their non-vented counterparts. These fireplaces also work without the downsides of non-vented systems like moisture, odor, and oxygen depletion.
In the past, naturally ventilated or "B-Vent" fireplaces were popular. Today, however, most fireplaces are known as direct ventilation systems. These direct ventilation systems can be vented outdoors horizontally through an exterior wall or vertically through a ceiling depending on the specific installation. These fireplaces work by drawing outside air into the combustion chamber, using it to aid combustion, and then venting the exhaust to the outside. These units are completely sealed to achieve this and are therefore extremely energy efficient, a great way to save money on utility costs. Like wood-burning fireplaces, vent components for vented gas fireplaces are NOT universal. To determine the ventilation requirements for your fireplace, consult your owner's manual before installing.
Best parts Gas fireplace
- Efficient heat output and realistic flame performance
- Available in vented and non-vented styles for more installation options
- Ventilated units must use the proper venting components specified in the product manual.
Common styles of fireplaces and stoves
Electric, gas, and wood-burning appliances are available in different construction styles to suit specific installation scenarios. While each unit offers its own pros and cons, there is no "best" option - each installation will determine the needs of the space.
Freestanding Fireplace and stove
One of the greatest benefits of a freestanding fireplace or stove is the flexibility of its installation options. Due to the way these units are ventilated, they can be placed in almost any area as long as adequate ventilation is available. Unlike inserts and recessed units that require adequate wall space for framing, these units can be placed anywhere if clearances from combustible materials are met.
Electric Fireplace Insert
Electric Fireplace inserts differ from recessed fireplaces in that they must be installed in an existing working fireplace, such as a masonry fireplace. These fireplaces require a chimney system inserted inside an existing chimney. For more specific requirements, refer to the appropriate fireplace insert product manuals.
Built-in Fireplace
Built-in fireplaces offer a complete fabricated unit that can be installed in a framed enclosure, a mantel unit, or a wall space. For ventilation purposes, a built-in fireplace requires a dedicated chimney or vent system for several inches of combustible materials to ensure safe operation. This vent can be run through an exterior wall or into an existing fireplace with the appropriate compatible components.
Electric fireplaces can also be built into a wall or mantel. The main difference between electric and built-in fireplaces is the lack of ventilation requirements for electric fireplace units. All of the ventilation for an electric fireplace will be within the unit itself and there will be no need to purchase special ventilation components.
Wall Mounted Electric fireplace
These fireplaces can be hung on a wall like a television, making them a great option for hassle-free installation. Many wall mount fireplaces can also be fully or partially recessed into the wall for a lower profile look, but this will vary by model. Consult your owner's manual for more specific information on mounting your fireplace.
You can find more specific warranty information for each product in its respective owner's manual. You can also contact us for more information.
