Fireplace Electric Logs
Electric logs are a great alternative to traditional wood fireplaces, which require expensive construction and messy ash cleaning. They provide ambiance without all the fuss. They're simple to set up and operate with or without heat.
A stack of painted, man-made logs is placed on top of a metal grates. They plug into an outlet as well as a built-in heater and fan circulate warm air through the fireplace.
Realistic Flames
As the market for electric fireplaces has evolved the flame effects have gotten more realistic. Many people are unable discern the difference between an electric fireplace from a real wood or gas fire. There are many different types of flame effects that are available including LED lighting projections and water vapor. Each kind of effect has advantages and disadvantages.
MagikFlame is one of the most realistic flames. Dimplex utilizes this method, which features a rotating cylindrical with mirror-like tabs reflecting colored LED lights. The result is an astonishingly realistic flame silhouette on an unlit background. Other companies use similar technology. It is important to remember that reflective surfaces gather dust and dirt over time, which can decrease its effectiveness.
Chemical flames are a different type of flame effect. This is made using a can of Sterno fuel to create a mesmerizing fire effect. However, the flame is emitted from a single point, and lacks the chaotic appearance of the natural flame. This type of flame also requires a constant supply fuel which can be hazardous and messy.
A third kind of flame is a fogger that produces water vapor. This creates a mesmerizing effect however it can be messy and difficult to maintain. The fogger has tiny holes that are prone to clogging with calcium and minerals from hard water and that's why it is essential to use distilled or filtering water. Foggers are loud and could cause disturbance to your home.
The ember bed, though important for a realistic fire, is also essential. The ember bed reflects flames and can be constructed out of anything, including real logs, coal or futuristic metal pipes. Some manufacturers even offer an array of faux stone options for the ember bed.
Installing an insert into your existing fireplace is one of the most effective ways to create a more natural fireplace. This is more expensive than a standalone set of logs, but will give you a more customized and realistic appearance. The heater in the insert will also help keep you warm without the need for a separate fire log burner.
No Heat
Electric fireplace logs provide the ambience of a fire without the heat. They can be plugged into an existing masonry or wood fireplace opening, and include a remote control to switch between different settings. There are a variety of options for the logs and fire, including a modern option that resembles real wood, but gives the illusion of flickering fires over bark chips. For those who prefer an older-fashioned look There are other options with antique brass accents.
Electric fire logs can be a great alternative to gas fireplaces. Instead of having to have a gas line or venting, they plug into any regular wall outlet. They produce about 5500 BTUs of additional heat which is enough to heat an average-sized room. They are also extremely energy efficient, making them an excellent choice for homes with small space or budget.
The best way to ensure that the electric fireplace log set in good working condition is regular maintenance. This can include cleaning and replacement of parts should it be necessary, aswell adhering to the instructions of the manufacturer for safe operation. Deodorizers can aid in reducing smoke odors.
There are a variety of causes for the absence of heat in an electric fireplace, the most common is related to faulty heating elements. These elements are the ones responsible for creating the illusion of a real fire. However, portable electric fireplace heaters may wear out and fail over time. Inaccuracy in thermostats and other issues that affect temperature control can result in no heat.
Some electric fireplaces come with a misting system which sprays water on the ember bed to create a steamy appearance. This can be particularly beneficial in winter when the air is dry and cold but it can also create a relaxing atmosphere all year round.
The only other modification needed for an electric log set apart from replacing the logs and the ember bed, is to upgrade the power source. You can upgrade the power supply by either replacing the original cord or by replacing it completely. It is essential to choose an excellent replacement that is in line with the original power cord to avoid damaging other fireplace components.
Easy to Install
You can select from a range of electric logs that will fit your fireplace that is already masonry. Plug them in and turn them on to create instant ambience. They aren't expensive and are a great alternative to traditional wood-burning fireplaces that require costly installation. They also don't emit harmful emissions, so your home won't smell like smoke and your furniture will not turn yellow due to smoke staining.
An electric log set is made up of a bundle of painted man-made logs atop the grate of metal that can be placed into your existing hearth. Connected to an electrical outlet, these devices produce the illusion of flames using standard lighting bulbs and technology that reflect the light in a three-dimensional pattern. They can generate 5,000 BTUs which can create heat that can cover up to 400 square feet of space.
Some models come with 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 come with a timer that is set to turn the logs on and off at a set amount of time.
You can choose between a log-only option and one that has a heater unit at the center of the fireplace logs. The heater versions are great for use all year round, since they don't need the user to cut wood or clean up ash. They're usually less expensive than a traditional fireplace and can be put up in less than an hour, even for those who aren't familiar with how to build the fire.
Electric fireplaces do not require special ventilation as do gas or wood fireplaces. They release only warm air, and do not release any harmful fumes that could irritate the nose and throat. It's easy to use. Just turn them on and be awed by the flickering flames, or press a button to engage the heater to create a cozy feeling in your living room. You can even set them to a flame-only mode for summer entertaining when you're looking to add a touch of ambience but not heat.
Style Options
For homeowners who like the look of a fireplace but don't want the problems of burning wood or cleaning up ash, electric logs and inserts are a low-cost maintenance-free alternative. Electric fireplaces don't produce smoke or soot, unlike gas log sets that require venting and gas pipes. Most options are controlled by remote controls, which means you can simply switch on the fireplace and control the flames or embers within any room.
There are a variety of options available, from modern designs with a angular frame to more traditional designs and sizes. Some brands offer a variety of colors, ranging from a cool shade of blue to a vibrant red-orange glow. The appearance of the flames can be altered, with some models projecting onto water vapor in order to create an illusion of 3D, while others offering a lively dance of alternating colors, which mimic smoldering coals.
One of the simplest ways to update an existing masonry fireplace is to install the fireplace log set. These are made up of man-made logs that have been painted and placed on the grate made of metal, which can be put in an existing chimney and plugged into an outlet in the wall. A heater and fan in the unit blow warm air into a room while an LED "flame" is projected onto a back panel to create a realistic appearance.
Electric fireplace inserts are a different option. They are designed to fit in the standard chimney. They typically have an even more realistic appearance than log sets, and they can be connected to the standard wall outlet or wired directly into the electrical system by a qualified electrician. They can be put in recess walls to give it a modern, clean appearance.
Both options are a good alternative to a gas fireplace, which requires venting and a chimney and may be prone to leaks from the chimney as well as inefficient heating. Log sets or inserts could be too big to fit into a smaller opening in an masonry fireplace. You'll need to hire a professional to measure the space and build an individual surround around your existing hearth.