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Fireplaces have been objects of both functionality and beauty. Fireplaces provide warmth and atmosphere to a certain place in the house. The evolution of the fireplace has taken great leaps in recent years, as we have seen the rise of the electric fireplace.
In the old days, people only had the option of having a wood-burning fireplace. As time passed, gas fireplaces gained popularity as they were relatively cheaper to maintain. But due to technology and the need for fireplaces that can be quickly installed and easily maintained, the electric fireplace was born. Electric fireplace simulates the flames of traditional fireplaces. Literally nothing is burning and the illusion of burning is achieved through the use of audio and visual effects. Electric fireplaces can be quickly installed where there is access to electricity.
Listed below are some of the advantages and disadvantages of electric fireplaces that should be considered by those who wish to take advantage of these modern fireplaces.
– Easy to install
The electric fireplace is very easy to install compared to traditional fireplaces. There are models today that can be installed in less than an hour. Electric fireplaces don’t really need extra space because many of them are mounted against walls. Some of them can be installed in places where previous fireplaces are located.
Electric fireplace kits come with easy to understand and follow installation kits. Installing an electric fireplace also requires basic tools like screwdrivers, window cleaners, and the like.
-Environment friendly
Compared to traditional wood and gas fireplaces, electric fireplaces are relatively more environmentally friendly. They do not emit fumes or additional carbon dioxide into the air because they use electricity. However, electric fireplaces are not carbon neutral, because the electricity these fireplaces use comes from the grid which also emits greenhouse gases. However, this is arguably more environmentally friendly than burning wood directly in fireplaces.
-Convenience
Don’t you hate the fact that you would have to put out the fire in the fireplace when you are already sleeping? This inconvenience is solved by electric fireplaces since they usually come with a remote control. There are also models that have a built-in temperature reader. They turn off automatically when the desired temperature is reached. Some models of electric fireplaces today have air filtration systems and fans that distribute heat evenly throughout the room. The aesthetic value of the electric fireplace can also be isolated from its heating function. During the summer (when fireplaces aren’t really used), electric fireplace owners can turn off the fireplace’s heating function and turn on the dummy flames in order to give the room a nice glow and ambience.
-Versatility and style
Electric fireplaces can be very versatile. Apart from the fact that one can light the “fire” without having to worry about the heat, the fake fire can also be modified according to the taste of the owner. Modern designs allow homeowners to change the speed and color of the “fire” of electric fireplaces. This is important for people who want to incorporate the look of the fireplace and “fire” into the overall look of the room.
Let’s look at some of the downsides that come with electric fireplaces.
-It’s just a space heater
Let’s face it, electric fireplaces are really high-end space heaters. If one is not too keen on the aesthetic value of having a fireplace, one can settle for space heaters which are definitely less expensive than electric fireplaces.
– The illusion is not good enough
Some people are not satisfied with the appearance of the “fire” of electric fireplaces. However, due to the rapid evolution of technologies that are incorporated with newer models, the illusion of burning has been drastically improved. But then again, no one can argue that the illusion is better than the reality.
These are just some of the different features and drawbacks of electric fireplaces. These models can be really helpful for people who would like the convenience and beauty of having a fireplace but aren’t really interested in installing and maintaining a traditional fireplace. Again, it’s really a matter of personal choice, wants and needs. It’s good that the option is available.