Fireplace Electric Logs
Contrary to traditional wood fireplaces which require costly construction and messy ash cleaning electric logs provide ambiance without the fuss. They are easy to set up and can be used with or without heating.
A stack of painted, man-made logs is set on top of metal grates. Connect them to an outlet and the heater built-in will circulate warm air through your fireplace.
Realistic Flames
The flame effects have improved as the electric fireplace industry has grown. In fact, many people need to be careful to differentiate them from real gas or wood fireplaces. There are a variety of flame effects available on the market which include reflective glass surfaces and LED lighting projections and water vapor. Each type of flame effect has its own advantages and disadvantages.
One of the most realistic kinds of flames was created by MagikFlame. This system is used by Dimplex and has an elongated cylinder that rotates with mirror-like tabs that reflect colored LED lights. The result is an incredibly realistic flame silhouette against an unlit background. Other companies also use similar technology. It is important to remember that reflective surfaces gather dust and dirt over time, which can make it less effective.
Chemical flames are a different type of flame effect. This uses a can of Sterno fuel and creates a mesmerizing fire effect. However, the flame rises from a single point and does not have the chaotic appearance of natural flames. This type of flame requires a continuous fuel supply, which can be messy.
A third type of fire is a fogger, which produces water vapor. This creates a captivating effect however it can be difficult to clean and difficult to maintain. The fogger has tiny holes that are prone to clogging with calcium and minerals from hard water this is why it is crucial to use filtered or distilled water. Foggers can also produce lots of noise, which could disrupt the peace and quiet of your home.
The ember bed, although important for a realistic fire, is also vital. The ember bed is the element which reflects the flames within a fire, and it can be made from anything from real logs to futuristic metal piping. Some manufacturers offer faux stone options as an ember bed.
Installing an insert into your existing fireplace is one of the most effective ways to create a more natural-looking fireplace. This option is more expensive than a standalone set of logs however it will give you a more realistic and customizable appearance. The heater built into the insert will also help keep you warm without the necessity of a separate log burner.
No Heat
Electric fireplace logs provide the warmth of a fireplace, without the heat. The electric fireplace logs can be directly plugged into an existing fireplace or masonry opening. They have a remote that can switch between different settings. There are a myriad of options for the fire and logs with a modern design that resembles real wood, but gives the illusion of flickering fires on bark chips. There are also options with antique brass accents to suit homeowners who prefer a more traditional appearance.
Unlike gas-powered fireplaces, which require venting and a gas line electric fire logs plug into an outlet on the wall. They can produce 5 000 BTUs, which is enough to provide heat to a room of average size. They also consume minimal electricity, making them an ideal choice for homes with limited space or budget.
Regular maintenance is the best method to ensure a functioning electric fireplace log set. This could include cleaning and parts replacement when necessary, as well adhering to the instructions of the manufacturer for safe operation. Deodorizers can reduce the smoke smell.
There are source website that can cause an electric fireplace to not heat up The most common one is faulty heating elements. These components are the ones responsible for creating the illusion of real fire. However, they can wear down and malfunction over time. Inaccuracy in thermostats and other issues affecting the temperature control can cause no heat.
Some fireplaces with electric features have misting technology that sprays water into the ember bed to give the appearance of steam. This can be especially useful during winter when the air is cold and dry, and it can also provide a relaxing ambience all year long.
The only other thing that is required for an electric log set aside from replacing the logs as well as the ember bed is upgrading the power source. You can upgrade the power supply by replacing the original cord or by replacing it completely. To avoid damaging other components, it is important to use an original replacement cable that matches the quality of the original.
Easy to Install
There are many choices for electric fireplace logs that fit in your existing fireplace. Plug them into the fireplace and turn them on to create instant ambience. They are typically inexpensive, and they provide a low-cost alternative to a traditional wood burning fireplace that requires a costly installation. These units also do not emit harmful gases, so your home will not smell like smoke, and your furniture won't yellow from smoke stains.
An electric log set is made up of a bundle of painted man-made logs atop an iron grate which can be put into your existing hearth. Connected to a standard electrical outlet, these sets give the appearance of flames by using regular light bulbs and a technology that reflect the light in a three-dimensional pattern. They typically produce 5500 BTUs, which can provide supplemental heat for up to 400 square feet of space.
Some models include a remote control that allows you to adjust the intensity, heat and flame height as well as the color of the embers. Some models also have a timer that can be set to automatically shut off the logs and on for a specific amount of time.
You can choose between a log-only option and one with an electric heater located in the middle of the fireplace logs. The heater versions can be used year-round for a cozy, comfortable room without the hassle of cutting wood or cleaning up ash. They are often cheaper than traditional fireplaces and can be put up in less than an hour, even by people who don't know how build an actual fire.
Electric fireplaces do not require special ventilation as do wood or gas fireplaces. They release only warm air and no harmful fumes that can cause irritation to your nose and throat. It's easy to use. Simply turn them on and enjoy the glow of flickering flames or press a button to activate the heater for an extra-cozy feeling in your living room. You can also set them to flame-only mode for summer parties if you just want a little ambience without the heat.
Style Options
For those who love the aesthetics of a fireplace but don't want the hassles of burning wood or cleaning up ash, electric logs and inserts provide an affordable and low-maintenance option. Electric fireplaces do not produce smoke or soot, unlike gas log sets which require venting and gas pipes. Furthermore, the majority of them can be controlled by a remote, making it easy to turn on the fire and control the flames and embers from any space.
There are a myriad of options that range from contemporary designs that feature an angular framework to more traditional designs and sizes. Some brands even offer an array of colors for the embers and flames, from cool blue to a bright red-orange glow. The flames' appearance can be altered. electric wood stove onto water vapor, in an effort to create a 3D effect and others display a lively dance of alternating colors that resemble smoldering sparks.
One of the easiest ways to upgrade an existing fireplace made of masonry is to install a fireplace log set. These consist of bundles of man-made logs that have been painted and placed on the grate made of metal, which can be inserted into an existing chimney, and then plug into a standard wall outlet. A heater and fan in the unit circulate warm air into a room while an LED "flame" is projected onto the back of a panel to create a realistic appearance.
Another alternative is an electric fireplace insert, which is designed to fit in a conventional chimney. These units are more realistic than log sets and can be wired by a qualified electrical contractor. They can even be installed in a wall with a recess to give a modern, clean appearance.
Both options are good alternatives to a gas stove which could require a venting or chimney system and be prone to leaks from the chimney or inefficient heating. Log sets or inserts might be too large to fit into a smaller opening in an masonry fireplace. It is necessary to engage a professional to measure the space and build an individual surround around your existing hearth.