|
When the glow of the hearth is missing from a fireplace that’s been retired due to structural problems or the desire to do away with hauling wood into the home, electric fireplace inserts can restore a fireplace to life. By simply plugging into an available electrical outlet, electric fireplace inserts restore the warmth and glow of a flaming hearth without all the mess and bother of burning wood or the expense of running gas lines.
Electric fireplace inserts are self-contained units, designed to slip into an existing fireplace opening or mantle surround. They can be trimmed with marble, metal, brick or faux stone to hide the size transition between the electric fireplace box and the existing hearth. Generally available with multi-stage heating output settings, most use about the same amount of electricity as a common hand-held hairdryer.
Perfect for zone heating, electric fireplace inserts succeed in keeping heated room air from escaping out a leaky chimney while offering a cheery, life-like flame glow. Popular units are fit with thermostats, and most use fans to distribute heated air. More expensive units also offer crackling sounds and optional flame brightness and speed adjustments.
|