Yes, you can have a real fireplace in an apartment. However, you need to check with your landlord to verify that it is OK and if any specific instructions or requirements must be met. Additionally, you should be aware of any building or fire codes and regulations in your area that may apply to having a real fireplace in your apartment.
Depending on the type of unit you live in and the rules or regulations associated with it, you may need to seek permission or sign a waiver before having a real fireplace installed. When having a fireplace installed in an apartment, you may only be able to use a safe, vented, enclosed heating device such as a gas fireplace.
However, if you are able to have an open fireplace, you must install the proper safety features and replace any non-combustible material with appropriate refractory material to prevent a fire hazard.
Furthermore, you will want to make sure that you are aware of the risk of smoke lingering in the apartment and potentially causing damage to the walls, floors, and furniture. It is highly recommended that you speak with a professional installer to make sure that you are in compliance with all local regulations and requirements.
Does adding a fireplace increase home value?
Yes, adding a fireplace to a home can increase its value. The National Association of Realtors reports that the majority of buyers consider fireplace installations to be a strong selling point. Not only can it increase the overall value of the home, but it can also add to the marketability of the property.
Fireplaces have been known to add an average of $12,000 to the appraised value of a home. Furthermore, they can also increase curb appeal and provide an aesthetic value to the exterior of the property.
Additionally, adding a fireplace can also provide financial benefits to the homeowner. It can serve as both a source of heat and a decorating amenity that can help reduce energy costs in the winter.
Are wall mounted fireplaces safe?
Yes, wall mounted fireplaces are generally safe when used according to the manufacturer’s instructions. A wall mounted fireplace is usually a built-in heater that consists of an electric appliance usually mounted to the wall, with a control and a flame pattern.
Fireplace manufacturers design the units to meet safety standards, and most units have safety shut-off valves that get activated if the temperature gets too high. It is important to read and follow the instructions provided in the owner’s manual when installing and using a wall mounted fireplace.
It is also important to inspect the fireplace regularly to ensure the safety features are working properly. In addition, proper ventilation should be provided in the room for safety and for optimal efficiency.
Always supervise children and pets when using a wall mounted fireplace, and keep combustible materials away from the flames.
What do you do with space on either side of a fireplace?
One of the most popular uses for space on either side of a fireplace is to place a bookshelf or armoire. If you choose to add these items, you can use them to house essential books, magazines, and other decorative items.
You can also add plants, sculptures, or accents to the shelves to further enhance the look of the fireplace.
If you don’t want to add a bookshelf or armoire, you can use the space on either side of the fireplace to display photographs and artwork. Strategically placed images can add some warmth, color, and personality to the room.
Other options for the sides of a fireplace include adding a bench or ottoman to each side. You can also use the area for added seating by placing chairs for guests.
Finally, the sides of a fireplace can be used to store items like firewood and kindling. Firewood storage containers or log holders can be placed on either side of the fireplace for easy access when you need it.
This is especially helpful if the fireplace is used often and you’d like to keep the wood organized and out of the way.
How much does it cost to build an electric fireplace?
The cost of building an electric fireplace depends on several factors such as the size and shape of the fireplace, the type of electric fireplace you choose, the materials you use and the complexity of the installation.
The price range of an electric fireplace can range anywhere from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. The cost of the electric insert, including the installation, could range between $500 and $3,000 without any additional features.
Alternatively, if you’re looking for more intricate features, such as blowers, glass doors etc. , you can expect to pay between $2,000 and $4,000. It’s important to factor in installation costs when making your budget for a new electric fireplace.
Installation costs depend on how complex the job is, the materials of the fireplace and the fireplace itself, and whether you are doing it yourself or getting help from a professional. A professional installer with the needed tools and expertise would likely charge somewhere between $700 to $1,500.
It is advisable to get a professional to install the electric fireplace to ensure it is done properly and safely.
How do you install an electric fireplace on the wall?
Installing an electric fireplace on the wall requires some basic handyman skills, as well as electrical wiring knowledge. The steps involved are as follows:
1. Determine the wall where the fireplace will be installed and mark the area where the mounting brackets will be attached.
2. Using a drill and appropriate fasteners, attach the mounting brackets to the wall.
3. Carefully lift the fireplace onto the wall and secure it to the mounting brackets.
4. Connect the electric supply of the fireplace to an outlet that is covered by an electrical fuse. Make sure the circuit breaker is turned off before making this connection.
5. If applicable, press the switch or plug in the electric fireplace to ensure that it is turned on.
6. Adjust the settings and temperature to your desired level.
7. Test and inspect the fireplace for proper operation, and then let it run for a few minutes to ensure that everything operates correctly.
Once you have completed these steps, you have successfully installed an electric fireplace on the wall.
How much electricity does a portable fireplace use?
The amount of electricity that a portable fireplace uses depends on various factors, such as size, fuel type, and the model of the fireplace. Generally speaking, a small to medium sized electric fireplace will use about 1500 Watts of power.
For comparison, a hair dryer or vacuum typically utilizes about 1500 Watts as well. Larger portable fireplaces may require more power and could use up to two to three times the amount of electricity.
The fuel type of portable fireplaces can also have a large effect on their energy consumption. While electric fireplaces use electricity, there are also models that are powered by oil, propane, ethanol, and other fuels.
Many of these fuel-powered fireplaces, such as ethanol, consume substantially less energy than electric fireplaces. Additionally, some models of fireplace may employ additional features that could increase their energy usage.
For example, some fireplaces offer a blower or fan, which may require additional power in order to operate.
When selecting a portable fireplace, it is important to consider how much electricity it will use. For reference, many portable fireplaces come with their own energy consumption guidelines that provide an estimate of their energy usage.
Additionally, certain models may also come with Energy Star ratings that tell you how efficient the fireplace is. Checking these guidelines and ratings can be a great way to make sure the portable fireplace you are selecting consumes the amount of electricity that is right for you.
Are small electric fireplaces energy efficient?
Yes, small electric fireplaces are very energy efficient. They are much more efficient than larger wood-burning or gas fireplaces, for a variety of reasons. Unlike wood-burning fireplaces, electric units produce no emissions, making them an environmentally friendly choice.
Additionally, because they are self-contained, they don’t draw air from the room they are in, as wood-burning fireplaces do, and they don’t require a chimney or vent to expel smoke. This further reduces their energy use.
Additionally, electric fireplaces produce a very localized, controllable heat, which lowers your utility bills. Most electric fireplaces are operated through a wall switch and/or a remote control, allowing you to turn them on and off at will, and to adjust the level of heat they generate in order to regulate your energy use.
Finally, electric fireplaces are smaller than traditional fireplaces, so they only heat the necessary area, which also reduces their total energy use.
Do the electric fireplaces really heat a room?
Yes, electric fireplaces can be used to effectively heat a room. Most infrared electric fireplaces generate around 5,000 British Thermal Units (BTUs), which is enough to heat a room of up to 400 square feet in size.
Electric fireplaces are typically equipped with multiple settings which allow you to control the speed and temperature of the heat emitted, which allows you to heat a room to a comfortable temperature.
Many electric fireplaces also come with thermal protection, which ensures that the fan and motor will not overheat even when they are running continuously. Additionally, electric fireplaces are usually low maintenance and do not require a chimney or venting, making them ideal for a variety of homes.
What is cheaper to run gas or electric fireplace?
Generally speaking, electric fireplaces are cheaper to run than gas fireplaces. This is because electric fireplaces do not require a flue or chimney and have no exhaust requirements, meaning there’s no risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
In addition, electric fireplaces are much more efficient and require no venting, making them a much cheaper option to run. Electric fireplaces also generate less heat, meaning they use less energy, making them even more cost-efficient.
Furthermore, electric fireplaces generate no emissions, so no additional maintenance is required, making them an even more economical choice. All in all, based on their lack of exhaust requirements, higher efficiency, and little need for additional maintenance, electric fireplaces are certainly the cheaper option to run.
Are electric fireplaces more efficient than baseboard heaters?
Electric fireplaces are generally more efficient than baseboard heaters when it comes to cost efficiency. Electric fireplaces do not require venting, so they do not have the same installation costs associated with baseboard heaters.
Additionally, electric fireplaces do not require combustible fuels, such as wood, propane, or natural gas, to operate, making them more efficient from an energy use perspective. Electric fireplaces typically operate with the same efficiency no matter the temperature outside, meaning energy used for heating the home is more controlled.
Additionally, electric fireplaces can be used for both heating and creating ambiance in a room. Baseboard heaters, on the other hand, require more energy for heating a home, and must be installed into the base of a wall.
This can be a more costly and disruptive installation process due to the wiring and venting required. As a result, electric fireplaces are generally the more cost-efficient and flexible option.
Can I leave my electric fireplace on all night?
No, it’s not a good idea to leave an electric fireplace on all night. Electric fireplaces do get very hot and have the potential to create a fire hazard if left unattended. Electric fireplaces also use a lot of electricity, so leaving one running for a long period of time can result in a large energy bill.
To be safe, it’s best to only use your electric fireplace for short periods of time and turn it off when not in use. Additionally, you may want to invest in a fire safety device, such as an electric fire safety switch, to automatically disconnect the power when the temperature becomes too high.
Do electric fires use a lot of electricity?
Electric fires do use a lot of electricity. Depending on the type of electric fire you have, they can consume anywhere from 1 to 3 kilowatts of electricity. Additionally, electric fires can be set to run constantly, so you will be paying for the electricity cost throughout the day.
Another contributing factor to the high electricity consumption is the fan motors and heating elements used in electric fires. These can use a lot of electricity, especially if the fire is set to a higher setting.
Because of this, electric fires are more expensive to operate compared to other heating options such as wood burning or gas fires.
What kind of heater is cheapest to run?
The cheapest heater to run will depend on a few different factors, such as the size of the space that needs to be heated and the climate. Generally speaking, an electric heater will be the most affordable to run as electricity tends to be more cost efficient than other heating options, such as natural gas or propane.
Additionally, a space heater will be the most affordable compared to central heating systems due to its more localized heating.
Many electric space heaters are designed to be more energy efficient than other types of heating. For instance, ceramic heaters are typically more efficient than other types of electric space heaters, as the material helps retain heat.
Infrared space heaters are also a good option, as they don’t work off of wasted heat, meaning you’ll get more out of the energy that is used.
Additionally, energy efficient models, such as those that are Energy Star-rated, will help ensure a more cost-effective heating solution. Look for a space heater that is properly insulated, as this will help reduce the amount of energy needed to keep heated air in the room.
Additionally, you may want to consider a timer or thermostat to help regulate the heater’s temperature. This can help avoid using too much energy by keeping the room at a more consistent temperature.
Overall, the cheapest heater to run is going to depend on your space and the climate you live in. Electric space heaters with energy efficient features such as insulation and timer capabilities can help ensure the most cost effective heating solution.
Do fireplace entertainment centers give off heat?
Yes, fireplace entertainment centers can give off heat. Fireplace entertainment centers typically feature a mantel and an electric or gas insert with a fan that helps distribute heat throughout the room.
The amount of heat generated will depend on the size and model of the entertainment center. Some models offer realistic-looking flames and glowing embers that radiate heat, while others are more decorative in design but still offer the option to turn on heat.
Some fireplace entertainment centers even have adjustable thermostats that allow you to control the temperature and determine exactly how much heat will be released.
How do I protect my TV from electric fireplace heat?
To protect your TV from the heat of an electric fireplace, there are a few steps you can take. Firstly, make sure that your TV is at least 3 feet away from the source of the heat. This distance will ensure that the temperature of the air around the TV does not exceed 85 degrees Fahrenheit, the maximum temperature TVs should be exposed to.
You could also install a heat shield to block the heat away from the TV. If possible, try to insulate the wall behind the fireplace and the wall on which the TV is mounted to reduce the amount of heat transfer between them.
Lastly, you should avoid mounting the TV above the fireplace, as that would be more likely to expose the TV to direct heat.
How safe are electric fireplace inserts?
Electric fireplace inserts are typically quite safe as long as they are installed, used, and maintained properly. They do not require venting, so there is no risk of carbon monoxide exposure. They also provide efficient heating as long as they are energy-efficient.
Electric fireplace inserts are also easy to operate and turn on and off, so you don’t have to worry about forgetting to turn off the fire. Additionally, electric fireplace inserts use minimal energy and require virtually no maintenance, making them not only safe but cost-effective.
However, it is important to remember to keep combustible materials away from the insert and to follow all safety instructions on the product’s manual to avoid any potential hazards.
