9 tips for choosing an electric fireplace

The fireplace in the interior of a modern dwelling has become almost its integral part. The charm of this element is that, depending on its execution, there is the opportunity to choose the perfect option for any style of room. Of course, the lucky owners of their own homes were more fortunate in this regard - they have the opportunity to equip a real fireplace in the room, and, if desired, not in one, and enjoy the pleasant crack of logs and the dance of this flame.

The contemplation of a living fire really captivates, pacifies and allows you to quietly pass the time. Needless to say, how much more cozy and comfortable it becomes in a room lit only by the light from the fire ... But what should residents of ordinary apartment buildings who also want to fill their house with the heat of a real fireplace do? The answer is very simple - do not give up your desires and go to buy an electric fireplace. It remains only to figure out how choose an electric fireplace, and what is important to pay attention to.

1. Design of electric fireplaces

The huge popularity of electric fireplaces is due not only to their mobility, but also to the possibility of safe operation within an ordinary apartment. To get the opportunity to enjoy a fairly realistic flame, you do not have to build complex and rather heavy stone portals, think through the ventilation system and chimney. You should not even think about it, since the arrangement real fireplace in an apartment is simply not possible due to many prohibitions. An exception may be the extreme floors, the owners of which, with due persistence and the availability of considerable funds, can still obtain permission to carry out all the required work.

But why complicate everything so if you can buy a finished product? In fact, the electric fireplace is nothing more than a climatic technique, which is designed not only to decorate and diversify the interior, but also warm the room. It is also important to understand that there are models that include only a decorative function and require minimal energy consumption. All these nuances depend on the design of the device, which we recommend that you carefully study.

Among the variety of models, you can find two structural elements:

• Himself fireplace area which consists of a firebox and a protective screen. A similar element can be installed anywhere, but most often such structures are built into pre-equipped niches in the wall;
• Or closer to the real fireplace in appearance - fireplace set. This design is more complex, overall. When assembled, it is a stationary object, which consists of a fireplace, framed by a decorative portal. In fact, you get an already finished product, which remains only to be connected to a power source.

Heat generation during operation, of course, is possible due to the presence of an electric heater.It includes directly a heating element, a temperature regulator and a reflector. Some models are additionally equipped with a fan, due to which the heating occurs by convection. Heating element can be made in the form of:

• Nickel or nichrome wire wound around a ceramic frame;
• Spiral from the same materials, on the same basis.

To ensure heat resistance, high thermal conductivity and protect the heater from accidental mechanical stress or the ingress of foreign objects, it is enclosed in a special quartz tube. In the latest models of electric fireplaces, the heating element is located on the board and is made by spraying a special material.

The method of regulating the intensity of heating also underwent significant changes. In older models, it was possible to select the number of simultaneously working spirals using the on-off switch. It was also necessary to constantly change the mode to achieve a comfortable microclimate in the room, which was not entirely convenient. Most modern fireplaces are equipped with thermostat.

• The mechanical regulator is a small handle, the rotation of which increases or decreases the intensity of heating. Inside the handle is the most common rheostat;
• If there is a small LCD screen on the fireplace portal or a remote control is attached to it, it means that an electronic temperature controller is installed in this model.

In order to be able to maintain a constant temperature in the room, together with a thermostat, the design of the electric fireplace includes thermostat. It is this element that responds to temperature changes and transmits a signal to the electronic temperature controller that it is necessary to reduce or increase the intensity of heating. For the system to work, it is necessary to provide feedback between these two elements. Please note that mechanical thermostats will always provide the same heating temperature for the heating element, and electric ones can maintain it at the required level.

2. Methods of simulating a flame

The visualization system is another independent element of the design of the electric fireplace. It is she who is responsible for the realism and believability of the artificial flame. The simpler this system, the lower the cost of the product. It cannot be said that some system is worse, and some is better, because everyone has different preferences. They differ only in the degree of similarity with real fire. Consider all the possible options.

Mask rotation system

This version of imitation is one of the first, most primitive and, accordingly, the most affordable. In the fireplace insert on the rotary device, a so-called mask with many holes is installed. At the base of the mask is a backlight. When you turn on the fireplace, the mask begins to rotate around its axis, and the light, penetrating through the holes, is refracted and projected onto the screen. Thanks to this dynamism, a kind of pulsation of a real bonfire arises.

However, to call such an imitation believable is perhaps difficult. The backlight can have different shades. The firebox itself, for realism, can be supplemented with logs cut out of transparent plastic and painted in the likeness of real ones. The model of firewood can also have its own backlight that simulates smoldering. The firebox may be covered by glass with a slight darkening at the edges, which gives a smoke effect.

Tape application system

More modern is considered a system that simulates open fire with the help of small strips of silk fabric. They have different lengths and come to life thanks to the built-in fan, which is located in the lower plane of the furnace. There is also a backlight.When the fireplace turns on, the air flow from the fan picks up light strips of fabric and pushes them up. At the same time, they tremble like real tongues of flame. Naturalness gives the color of the fabric a suitable shade.

In this case, the fan also provides convection. The furnace, as in the previous case, can be decorated with a dummy of logs or coals. Such a system is already more realistic, but in order not to spoil the effect, it is recommended to contemplate such a “flame” at a certain distance. Because nearby, all elements become very visible.

Movie playback system

A simple, but quite plausible system, implies the installation of a small liquid crystal screen in the furnace, on which the video is played. Naturally, the video shows the burning process of a real fire. Advantage Such a method is its sufficient realism, which in more expensive models can be supplemented with sounds. For example, crackling or hissing real firewood.
TO disadvantages can include the repeatability of the picture. That is, the video has a certain duration, after which the recording is played again. Such a continuous repeat, after a few weeks, may cause the user to involuntarily remember. At the same time, the positive effect of such combustion can quickly disappear. But do not immediately discard this option if this fact does not upset you.

Steam system

The basis of this method is the use of an ultrasonic generator built into the design of the fireplace. It evaporates water, converting it into steam, which enters the insulated cavity of the furnace. At the same time, there is a backlight system in the form of rays from below. After the furnace is completely filled with water vapor, the rays are refracted and effectively simulate real fire. In addition to the flame, steam creates the effect of presence and smoke in the fireplace. The main advantage explaining the high cost of such fireplaces, is the three-dimensionality of the "fire", which is equally beautiful and realistic both close and from different sides.

Devices based on such a reproduction system are often called “living flame effect” fireplaces; they are referred to the most popular models. Find such fireplaces is easy, especially in online stores. For example, on the website of MirCli, a company that has been successfully selling specialized climate technology for 13 years, more than 900 models of fireplaces with the effect of a living flame are presented. You can find both compact and inexpensive fireplaces, and dimensional chic models, depending on your needs and preferences. The advantage of this company is the availability of certificates confirming official dealer rights, which excludes the possibility of acquiring fakes.

3. Advantages and disadvantages

Like any other technique, electric fireplaces have both obvious advantages and some disadvantages. Start with positive of the parties:

• First of all, it is the safety of operation. The fireplace portal does not heat up during operation, which eliminates the possibility of getting a burn if you accidentally touch it. This is especially important for families with small children;
• Simplicity of operation. To ensure the operability of stationary models, it is enough to provide power outlet for their nutrition;
• An opportunity not only to decorate the room, but also to warm it for a short period of time;
• In comparison with some other climatic devices, for example with the same water heater, we can conclude that the fireplace does not have the highest energy consumption. Moreover, if it does not work in heating mode;
• The artificial origin of the fire completely eliminates the need for fuel, regular cleaning of the furnace and chimney, and other procedures that real fireplaces require without fail.That is why, even those who live in a private house and have the opportunity to equip a real hearth, increasingly prefer an electrical analogue;
• The ability to install a fireplace does not depend on the area of ​​the room. Indeed, thanks to the great variety, you can choose both a compact angular model and a small device that can even be put on coffee table;
• If you choose a model that is not built-in, then if you wish, you can easily rearrange the fireplace in another place or in another room;
• No restrictions on the design, color scheme and style of design of the portal. A variety of models allows you to choose the most optimal fireplace model for your interior. And especially selective users can purchase a separate fireplace and build a portal independently, taking into account all your wishes;
• Since the combustion process in the electric fireplace is artificially created, the possibility of releasing harmful carbon monoxide is completely excluded.

As you can see, the merits are more than enough. Now about disadvantages:

• Additional energy costs. However, this is a rather controversial issue, since any technique works from the network. Unless you can complain about the high consumption of electricity by high-power models, which are purchased specifically for heating. But in this case, when compared with a conventional oil convector, the difference will not be so significant;
• Opportunity to purchase a fake. Due to the huge increase in popularity, cases of identifying cheaper fakes on the market have become more frequent. The characteristics indicate, for example, the country of origin of the United Kingdom, whose fireplaces are of high quality and durability, but in fact for a lot of money you will get a Chinese counterpart. Of course, Chinese products are of high quality, but only if it is factory production. Therefore, buy climate equipment only from trusted dealers and in large stores;
• Unrealistic image transmission of some models. However, again, this depends on the cost of the product.

4. Types of fireplaces depending on the installation method

All electric fireplaces can be divided into several groups, depending on how they are installed.

• Floor - One of the most common, one might say, classic models. Outwardly, they are as close as possible to real designs, since they also have a portal around the firebox. For greater realism, some fireplaces come with a cast-iron grate. Such an element goes well with a forged woodcutter. A fireplace decorated in this way will not leave doubts about its authenticity and will undoubtedly become a key element of the interior.
• Wall mounted (mounted) - more compact models that have more modest dimensions and require less space for their placement. Wall mounted fireplaces are mounted on a special bracket and have a lower weight compared to floor structures. Such an element will look equally advantageous both in lounges and in spacious living rooms and even in workrooms. Most often, wall fireplaces have a flat, narrow rectangular or square shape and are made of tempered glass;
• Corner Fireplaces are a compact and very interesting way to decorate an empty corner in a room. Thanks to the angular design, they do not conceal the usable area, which is especially true in small rooms. In addition to its distinctive shape, it is otherwise similar to traditional floor structures;
• Recessed models - mean installation in a pre-equipped niche in the wall. At the same time, they can touch the floor with the lower plane, or they can be located in the middle of the wall. Also, some embedded models have transparent side faces. Which implies their installation in the side of the wall. With this arrangement, the fireplace is supposedly an integral part of the partition and looks very impressive.Such installation is very complicated and time-consuming, because it is necessary to provide for many nuances - both the supply of electricity, and the strength of the foundation, etc., therefore it is better to entrust such work to specialists;
• Fireplace stoves - in their appearance they are vaguely reminiscent of potbelly stoves made of durable metal. Also distinguished by compact size and high mobility. A fireplace stove will be an excellent option for heating small rooms;
• Fireplace baskets - the most compact type of fireplace. It imitates a real basket filled with smoldering coals or small, barely burning logs.
  It is worth noting that models that require the least effort to install are in high demand. Otherwise, you should be guided only by your preferences.

5. What power to choose an electric fireplace?

An important role is played by the power of the heating element installed in the fireplace. The minimum possible value is 500 watts, and the maximum indicator rarely exceeds 2 kW. Obviously, the more powerful the heating coil, the more electricity the device will consume during operation. The choice of this parameter should be based on the following factors:

• First of all, you should determine the function of the electric fireplace in your room. Either it will be just decoration of the interior, or with its help you plan to heat the room. This is especially true in the autumn and spring. When the central heating system is still or is not working. In the first case, the power consumption will be minimal, and in standby mode it may not exceed 100 W;
• Also, do not forget that many modern models have the ability to use both functions both simultaneously and separately. Therefore, if the means allow, it is better not to immediately refuse to buy a fireplace with a heating function;
• Select power should be based on the area of ​​the room in which the device will be installed. Accordingly, the larger the room, the more powerful the heater is needed. The maximum indicator of 2 kW is designed for heating 20-25 square meters. When calculating power, rely on the recommendations of specialized literature, which states that it takes 1 kW of energy to heat 10 square meters;
• And most importantly - do not forget about your own safety. If you decide to purchase the most powerful model, make sure that your wiring able to withstand such a load. Ideally, a separate cable of appropriate cross-section, connected to the meter through an automatic machine, will be allocated for the fireplace.

6. What size should the fireplace be?

By and large, there are no strict restrictions on this issue. However, in order for the fireplace to fit harmoniously into the interior and look appropriate, it’s worth stick to one single regulations - the size of the fireplace should be commensurate with the size of the room. It is clear that if in a spacious living room, you install a modest size corner model of the fireplace, it simply “gets lost” from sight. But a bulky fireplace within a small room will look simply enormous and once again emphasize the lack of a room.

Whatever fireplace model you choose, try to width did not exceed 1/3 of the width of the wall in which it will be installed. Also worth paying attention to depth device. If there is practically no space left for free movement around the room, you should not occupy the last centimeters with an overall fireplace. In this case, it is better to do with a flatter, wall-mounted model. Remember that it is customary to consider the distance from a piece of furniture to a wall or to another item to be at least 70 cm. Keep in mind that the larger the electric fireplace, the higher its cost.

7. Where is the best place to install an electric fireplace?

Based on the fact that a fireplace is not only a source of additional heat, but also, first of all, a decor item, it is necessary to install it in the most visible place. Most often, fireplaces are located under one of the walls. Correct will be the arrangement of the remaining pieces of furniture, in the direction from it. Just imagine that a fireplace is focal point layout, not the other way around. Thus, a sofa or bed should be opposite. So that during the rest you can enjoy your hearth.

If you plan to mount it over the fireplace to Wall TV, then do not forget that this is still a source of heat. Therefore, do not have video equipment in close proximity. The distance from the mantelpiece should be at least 50 cm. Also, if we are talking about a suspended model, then to emphasize this feature and protect the device from overheating, the distance from the floor should be at least 10 cm.

To make the interior of a room with a fireplace look not only aesthetically pleasing, but also neat, you should consider location of the outlet. If this element is not foreseen in advance, an additional extension cord may be required. The type of wires leading through the room to the nearest outlet, to put it mildly, is not very attractive. The wire going from the fireplace to the outlet, which is located on the same wall, but at some distance, will look exactly the same.

Therefore, immediately think whether to be a fireplace in your house or not. If yes - equip the outlet as low as possible, according to the permitted standards, to the floor and use special outdoor skirting boards inside which there is a special groove for laying the wire. With the help of such simple actions, you will have the opportunity to hide communications as much as possible.

8. Tips for choosing a style and design

Of course, the selection of the fireplace will be correct in accordance with the style of the room in which it will be installed.

• If this classicthen fireplaces with a wooden portal and a wrought-iron grate are ideal for you;
• Contemporary styles such as high tech, minimalism or loft, fireplaces made of red-hot glass or those whose portal is decorated with natural or artificial stone are more suitable. But in this case, a similar finish should be present on other surfaces;
• Different ethnic styles require careful selection of the color of the product in accordance with the general theme.

It is better to purchase fireplaces whose portals are made from natural materialssuch as wood, MDF, stone, marble, gypsum, ceramics. Portals made of polyurethane will look no less impressive. Try to completely exclude plastic components. A natural product will not only look more attractive, but will also be safe for health. After all, poor-quality plastic can give off when heated harmful and toxic substances into the environment.

9. Overview of advanced features

More expensive models of electric fireplaces can be equipped with a number of additional and very useful functions that will make its use even more pleasant. For instance:

• Management ability fireplace using the remote control. This function makes the use of the device as convenient as possible. After all, we can talk not only about the possibility of temperature control, but also about switching between different modes, changing the color of the backlight, the intensity of the flame, its size and brightness, etc. such detailed add-ons allow you to adapt the operating mode to your needs as much as possible;
• Sound accompaniment. Some models have a built-in sound range, which includes various standard sounds. For example, the burning process may be accompanied by the sound of logs crackling, rustling leaves of trees, birdsong or the murmur of a small stream. It turns out pretty atmospheric. Such a situation allows you to achieve maximum relaxation;
• Air scent. Quite an interesting feature that allows you to choose any smell from the fireplace provided by the model. Whether it is really necessary or not, it is difficult to answer unequivocally, but its availability will certainly affect the cost of the product;
• Built in humidifier. Old models of electric fireplaces, where open-type heaters were used, very dry the surrounding air, which was felt by many users. Therefore, at the moment, almost everywhere they install closed heating elements. And models that use steam generators to create a “live” fire are able to additionally humidify the air. Moreover, the steam comes not in hot, but in a cold state, which makes the microclimate in the room as comfortable as possible;
• Infrared heating. Scientists have proved that this method is more preferable than convection. Indeed, in this case, heat transfer does not occur due to the heating of the surrounding air and, as a consequence, its drying out, but by the method of heating the surfaces. Infrared radiation is perceived by the human body as heat from sunlight, therefore, it is perceived much more efficiently.

Before choosing fireplace models that include all of the above features, remember that this is a tangible way. may affect his cost.