The main advantage of an electric fireplace for an apartment is fire safety. When installing such equipment do not have to worry about the safety of children and pets.
Types of Electric Fireplaces
When choosing an electric fireplace for an apartment or a house, first of all, you must decide where it will be located. This is due to the fact that such techniques are classified by type of installation. The following types of electric fireplaces are available:
- Floor - does not require the installation of a fireplace portal or niche, attracts with mobility. There are attached and freestanding models in this category. The first type involves back-to-back installation, and the second anywhere in the room. Such models are great for small apartments;
- Wall - resembles a thin TV that can be mounted on a wall or built in. Thus, the device performs the functions of a lighting device and heating equipment. It differs in small dimensions, therefore it emits little heat. More suitable for small apartments;
- Recessed - installed in a special niche. The installation portal can be made of stone, ceramic, wood or metal. Due to its larger size, the device is suitable not only for apartments, but also for houses.
Power
Some users worry about the energy consumption of electric fireplaces. There is a stereotype that they consume a lot of resources. In modern models, maintaining artificial fire requires no more than 200 watts. For comparison, the electric kettle consumes so much. At the same time, models having a convector are able to work in two modes: 1 kW and 2 kW. Accordingly, they are used for heating 10 m² and 20 m². If you don’t know how to choose an electric fireplace for a house of more than 25 m², focus on the most powerful models with a built-in thermostat so that you can meter the heating. Also a useful option is the speed controller, with which it is very easy to adjust the heating intensity.
Flame simulation technology
Another important parameter of electric fireplaces is the technology that creates the effect of a flame. The price depends on it. The simplest and cheapest models are those that work on the basis of Optiflame technology. In such devices, a flicker of light is projected onto the back of the equipment. Typically, such devices have a built-in air filter that removes dust and other allergens. If you want to choose an electric fireplace with the effect of a live fire, you should pay attention to the premium models. In them even tongues of flame are imitated. For example, Ignite technology exists for high-tech fireplaces. In this line, you can adjust the color of the backlight. The most advanced technology is Opti-Myst. Electric fireplaces based on such a simulation of flame are not equipped with screens, but there is a flame, and even with smoke. To achieve this effect, a special steam generator is used. Such devices can even humidify a room.
Tips for choosing an electric fireplace
So that you can choose the right electric fireplace, and do not regret the purchase, we decided to present some tips from professionals.
- The most optimal option in terms of installation is a fireplace with a ready-made portal. Such models include a hearth and a built-in pedestal around it. That is, you just have to choose a place for the device;
- As practice shows, models with a built-in humidifier, filtration do not meet the expectations of users. You must understand the main purpose of this technique;
- Among all the various options, a timer or a remote control is really useful.
Finally, I want to add that in recent years electric fireplaces have become less popular, giving way to more modern bio-fireplaces. They are not so economical, but environmentally friendly, produce real flames and attract more stylish design. Therefore, if you have not yet decided on the choice, it may be useful for you to familiarize yourself with the advantages of the new home appliances.