Fireplace Electric Logs
Electric logs are an excellent alternative to traditional wood fireplaces, which need expensive construction and dirty cleaning ash. They create ambiance without the hassle. They are easy to set up, and they can be used with or without heat.
An electric log set consists of a swathe of man-made, painted logs set on a metal grate. Connect them to an outlet and the heater built-in will blow warm air into your fireplace.
Realistic Flames
As the industry of electric fireplaces has developed the flame effects have become more life-like. A lot of people are unable to discern the difference between an electric fireplace from a real wood or gas fire. There are many different kinds of flame effects available on market which include reflective glass surfaces and LED lighting projections and water vapor. Each kind of effect has its advantages and disadvantages.
One of the most realistic kinds of flames was created by MagikFlame. This system is utilized by Dimplex and features the rotating cylinder, which has mirror-like tabs that reflect colored LED lights. The result is a realistic flame silhouette against an unlit background. Other companies use similar technology. It is important to remember that the reflective surface will collect dirt and dust with time, which can decrease its effectiveness.
A chemical flame is another kind of flame effect. This uses a can of Sterno fuel and creates an amazing fire effect. The flame is singular and does not display the chaotic appearance that a natural fire has. This kind of flame requires a continuous supply of fuel, which can be messy.
A third kind of flame is a fogger, which produces water vapor. This creates a captivating effect however, it can also be messy and difficult to maintain. It is important to use distilled or filtered water since the tiny holes of the fogger can easily become clogged with calcium and minerals from hard water. Foggers can be noisy and disturb the peace of your home.
While realistic flames are important but the ember bed is essential for a natural-looking fire. The ember bed is the element that reflects the flames in the fire. It can be made from anything from real logs to coal to futuristic metal pipes. Certain manufacturers provide faux stone options as an ember bed.
One of the most effective ways to have a more natural-looking fireplace is to add an insert in your existing fireplace. This option is more costly than a standalone set of logs, but can provide a more customizable and realistic appearance. The heater built into the insert can help keep your warm without the necessity of a separate log burner.
No Heat
Electric fireplace logs give you the ambience of a fire without the heat. They can be connected to an existing masonry or wood fireplace opening, and include a remote control that allows you to switch between various settings. There are electric log burning stove for the fire and logs, including a modern option that looks just like real wood but has the illusion of flickering flames over bark chips. There are also options with antique brass accents for homeowners who prefer a more traditional look.
In contrast to gas-powered fireplaces that require venting and a gas line, electric fire logs plug into an outlet on the wall. They generate around 5500 BTUs of additional heat sufficient to heat an average-sized room. They also consume minimal electricity which makes them an ideal option for homes with small space and/or budget.
The best way to keep an electric fireplace set in good working condition is to perform regular maintenance. This could include cleaning and replacement of parts when necessary, as well adhering to the instructions of the manufacturer to ensure safe operation. Deodorizers can aid in reducing smoke odors.
While there are several issues that can lead to a lack of heating in an electric fireplace, the most common is related to faulty heating elements. These components are responsible for creating the illusion of real fire. However, they may fail and become unusable over time. Inaccurate thermostats and other issues with temperature control can also lead to no heating.
Some electric fireplaces come with a misting system that sprays water into the ember bed to create an appearance of steam. This is especially useful during winter, when it's dry and cold. It can also provide a relaxing ambience all year round.
The only other change required for an electric log set, aside from replacing the logs as well as the ember bed, is to upgrade its power supply. This can be done by replacing the existing cord with a more long, higher-powered one, or replacing it completely. It is essential to choose an excellent replacement that is in line with the original power cable in order to avoid damaging other fireplace components.
Easy to Install
You can pick from a range of electric logs that can be incorporated into your fireplace. They can be plugged in and turned on for instant ambiance. These units are usually not expensive, and they provide a low-cost alternative to traditional fireplaces that requires costly installation. They also don't create dangerous emissions, which means you won't have to worry about your home smelling like smoke or your furniture yellowing due to smoke stains.
Electric log sets consist of a bundle painted man-made wood logs stacked on top of metal grates that can be placed in your existing fireplace. Connected to an electrical outlet, these sets give the appearance of flames using standard light bulbs and technology that reflects light in the form of a three-dimensional pattern. They produce 5,000 BTUs which is enough to warm up to 400 square feet of space.
Some models include the option of a remote control that allows you to adjust the heat, intensity and flame height as well as the color of the embers. Some models also have an automatic timer that can be set to automatically switch off the logs and on for a predetermined duration of time.
You can pick between a log-only model or one with an electric heater in the center of the fireplace logs. The heater versions can be used all year round to create a comfortable, cozy space without the hassle of cutting wood or cleaning up ash. They are often cheaper than a traditional wood-burning fireplace and can be put up in less than an hour, even by those who don't know how build the fire.
Electric fireplaces don't require special ventilation like wood or gas fireplaces. They release only warm air and do not release any dangerous fumes which can irritate the nose and throat. It's simple to use. Simply turn them on, and take in the glow of flickering flames or press a button and activate the heater for an extra-cozy feel in your living room. You can also set the flames to only be lit to enjoy summertime parties if simply want to enjoy a bit of ambiance without the heat.
Style Options
For homeowners who enjoy the look of a fireplace but do not want to tackle the hassles of burning wood or cleaning up ash, electric fireplaces and inserts are a low-cost and low-maintenance option. Electric fireplaces do not produce smoke or soot unlike gas log sets that require venting and gas pipes. The majority of them are controlled via remote control, so you can simply turn on the fireplace and manage the flames or embers in any room.
A variety of styles are available, ranging from a contemporary design with a sharp frame to more traditional designs in a variety of sizes. Some brands also offer a choice of colors for the flames and embers, from cool blue to a vibrant red-orange glow. The appearance of the flames can also be adjusted, with some models projecting onto water vapor to attempt a 3D effect and others featuring a more lively dance of alternating colors that mimic smoldering coals.
One of the simplest ways to upgrade an existing fireplace made of masonry is to install the fireplace log set. These consist of bundles of painted man-made logs atop the grate made of metal, which can be put in an existing chimney, and then plug into an outlet in the wall. An in-unit heater and fan create warm air in the room, and an LED light "flame" projecting onto a rear panel for a realistic effect.
Electric fireplace inserts are another option. They are designed to fit into the standard chimney. They typically have an even more realistic appearance than log sets and can be connected to the standard wall outlet or wired into the electrical system by a licensed electrician. They can be put in recess walls to give it a contemporary, clean look.
Both are excellent alternatives to a gas fire which could require a chimney or venting system and be vulnerable to leaks from the chimney or inefficient heating. However an insert or log set may be too large to fit in an opening in a masonry fireplace that is smaller, so you might need to get a professional measurement and construct a custom surround around your existing hearth.