WARMING UP TO ELECTRIC FIREPLACES

Are the plug-in kind worth it?

There’s nothing quite like the charm, warmth, smell, and ambiance of a fireplace on a cold winter night. Problem is, woodburning fireplaces can be dangerous and expensive to install and require replenishment with costly firewood. So how can a hearth-hopeful homeowner achieve the relative look, feel, and performance of a traditional fireplace, without the hassle or risk?

Think electric, say the experts. “Today’s electric fireplaces are generally much lower in cost than traditional built-in gas and wood fireplaces, especially when considering the venting and construction needs of traditional fireplaces,” says John Kuefler, brand director for Simplifire at Hearth & Home Technologies in New York City. “Electric units are easy to install and very simple to operate, usually with a flip of a switch or press of a button.”

While some electric fireplace models are hardwired and require professional hookup by an electrician, many units, such as those made by Simplifire, are simply plugged into a typical 15-amp 120-volt household outlet. These units come in a variety of sizes and can fit in nearly any household space, without having to worry about construction hassles, ventilation, or fuel issues.

By contrast, having a conventional wood-burning or gas-powered fireplace requires a costly vertical buildout from an exterior wall and proper venting through a chimney, which can become clogged with debris and creosote, resulting in fire hazards and risk of deadly carbon monoxide buildup.

“Electric fireplaces are also much safer than real-flame fireplaces, where fronts and glass can get very hot. That’s because elec

tric units use only the illusion of a flame created by a light source or display within the unit. Since they put out less heat than gas or wood fireplaces, you can safely place a television or artwork directly above without risk of damage, too,” adds Kuefler.

Additionally, electric fireplaces don’t need to be cleaned and maintained like other types.

Consider, as well, that the costs to power an electric fireplace are much less overall than the expense of burning firewood, which can be expensive when sold at retail stores, notes Jamie Penney, a Realtor in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.

“Any homeowner is a good candidate for installing and using an electric fireplace. Especially in older homes where a traditional fireplace cannot be installed, adding a new electric fireplace can modernize a space, increasing the home’s value exponentially. Plus, your homeowners insurance premiums shouldn’t go up because there isn’t the risk involved with a traditional fireplace,” Penney says.

Some premium electric fireplaces even recess into a wall, providing a flush, built-in look.

“More people are incorporating them into the wall or an integrated look and as a focal point in a room’s design, rather than appearing like it was placed in the room after the fact,” says Kuefler.

On the downside, an electric unit won’t put out a lot of heat. You may need to keep it operating longer to warm up a space, which can increase your electric bills.

“They won’t heat large spaces effectively and won’t replace the furnace or heat from a wood-burning or gas traditional fireplace,” cautions Kuefler. “And it’s not going to look as authentic for homeowners who desire the appearance of a real flame.”

When shopping for a plug-in electric fire, think about the type of flame you desire. Depending on the model, the appearance may be a more traditional log fire or a more modern, linear design. Features to consider include automatic or timed shutoff; adjustable thermostat; variable colors, effects, and flame brightness; perimeter accent lighting; and adjustable heating capacity.

“Electric fireplaces vary greatly in price, quality, features, size, and overall look. You can find entry-level models at big-box retailers for as little as $250,” Kuefler notes. “A fully-featured, high-quality electric fireplace typically costs $500 to $2,500, not including installation or electrical hookup if needed.”

When shopping for a unit, try to see it in person and when operating in a display within a showroom or store; don’t rely solely on photos or online videos. Opt for a fireplace that offers at least a one-year warranty that allows the retailer or dealer to fix or replace the product if needed.

Electric fireplaces are a safer and less expensive alternative to real-flame fireplaces, and help add character and coziness to any space.

GETTY IMAGES Some electric fireplaces can be recessed into a wall for a built-in look and come with premium features like remote-control options that adjust the “flames.”