Making an electric insert fireplace requires some basic knowledge of electrical wiring, construction work, and general maintenance. First, you will need to find a suitable space to install the electric insert.
This space should be an area with ample room to safely install the electric insert and should not be near water sources such as plumbing pipes, hot tubs, or other water sources. You will need to turn off electricity to the area while doing the construction so be sure to hire an electrician to turn off the power before you begin.
Next, you’ll need to build a frame for the insert, which will consist of 2×4’s and Sheetrock. Once the frame is in place, use masonry screws to attach the Sheetrock. Then you can begin to wire the electric insert.
First, you’ll need to wire the power source from the breaker box to the insert itself. Make sure all wiring is done in a safe and secure manner and that the wires are properly labeled.
Once all the wiring is done and the electric insert is securely connected, attach the electric insert to the frame you built using masonry screws. Once securely attached, you’ll need to make sure the insert is properly grounded to the home’s electrical system.
Once the grounding is complete, you can now plug it in and enjoy the warmth of your new electric insert fireplace.
How much does it cost to build an electric fireplace?
The cost of building an electric fireplace can vary greatly depending on the type, size, and features of the fireplace you want. An electric fireplace insert, which simply slides into the existing hole in a masonry or prefabricated fireplace, starts at around $300 and can range up to around $2,500 or more for a larger unit.
Wall-mounted electric fireplaces typically cost anywhere from $500 to $1,500 or more, depending on the size and features of the unit. Stand-alone electric fireplaces, which are typically freestanding and don’t require wall or chimney space, can range in cost from about $500 for a smaller unit to upwards of $2,500 or more for a larger, more realistic one.
Of course, the costs of installation must also be taken into account, which can up to several hundred dollars or more depending on the complexity of the job and the components used.
Can you use drywall for electric fireplace?
No, you should not use drywall for electric fireplaces. Although drywall is a relatively strong material, it can become weakened over time due to the extreme temperatures that electric fireplaces produce.
Furthermore, the fumes from burning fuel can chemically damage drywall and create an unsafe environment for your family. The best material to use for electric fireplaces is non-combustible material such as ceramic tiles, stone, or other fireproof materials.
Additionally, all electric fireplaces are required to conform to safety standards set by Underwriters Laboratories (UL). Make sure to check the UL listing to determine if your electric fireplace is certified safe.
What are the electrical requirements for an electric fireplace?
The electrical requirements for an electric fireplace will depend on the specific make and model of the fireplace. Generally speaking, however, electric fireplaces tend to require either a 120V or 240V connection and anywhere between 4500-6000 Watts.
The electricity draw might also depend on the wattage of the fireplace, as different wattage will draw different amounts of electricity. It is important to consult the manufacturer to determine the exact electrical requirements for an electric fireplace, as some may have different specifications depending on their size and style.
Additionally, if you plan to install the fireplace yourself, you must check with your local electrical codes to ensure that it is compliant with the local regulations.
Does an electric fireplace need its own breaker?
Yes, an electric fireplace typically needs its own circuit breaker. Placing an electric fireplace on its own circuit breaker prevents overload, which can be dangerous and cause damage to the fireplace and the wiring in the wall.
It is important to be very cautious and consult a certified electrician if you are unsure of the capacity of your circuit breaker. When installing an electric fireplace, be sure to use the right type of wiring and external circuit breaker, this is to ensure that your electric fireplace is suitable and safe to use.
A dedicated circuit should be used to prevent any other electrical appliances or lights from draining the power from the electric fireplace, as this could lead to a fire hazard.
Does a 1500 watt electric fireplace need a dedicated circuit?
Yes, a 1500 watt electric fireplace requires a dedicated circuit for optimal function. This means that it needs to be connected to its own circuit to ensure safe operation and to avoid overloading the electrical system.
If you try to plug the electric fireplace into an existing circuit with other appliances and devices, it can draw too much power from the circuit and cause a circuit breaker overload or even an electrical fire.
Even with a dedicated circuit, it’s important to make sure that the voltage is correct for the device and that the circuit is capable of handling the current load of the electric fireplace. Additionally, you should ensure that the surrounding area is free from combustible materials, such as carpets and curtains.
Can a TV and electric fireplace be plugged into the same outlet?
The short answer is “yes. ” It is possible to plug a TV and electric fireplace into the same outlet. The main thing to keep in mind when doing so is to be sure that the wattage of the components being plugged into the outlet does not exceed the wattage rating of the outlet.
Generally, outlets can handle a combined wattage of around 1800 watts. You can look at the wattage ratings of the components and make sure they come in well below that amount. Additionally, it is important to be sure that the outlet is not overloaded with other components.
It never hurts to be extra safe and use an extension cord or surge protector instead.
Will an electric fireplace increase my electric bill?
Yes, an electric fireplace will likely increase your electric bill. Depending on usage and the size and type of electric fireplace you have, you can expect a noticeable increase in your monthly electric bill.
Additionally, if you are running the electric fireplace for a long period of time, you may also experience a spike in your monthly bill if your electric company’s rates are tiered due to high usage. Electric fireplaces come in several varieties, from traditional wood burning styles to more modern, sleek designs.
Each building and electrical system will require different wattage to operate an electric fireplace, so it’s important to consult with a professional installer to determine the wattage and size you need when considering an electric fireplace.
It’s also important to make sure your electricity supply meets or exceeds the requirements to run your electric fireplace.
Is it cheaper to run electric fireplace or heat?
When considering the cost of running an electric fireplace compared to a traditional heating system, it really depends on a variety of factors. Electric fireplaces are more efficient than traditional heating systems such as furnaces, but the cost to run them still depends on the type of electric fireplace you have, your local electricity costs, how often you use it, and how many hours per day you use it for.
Generally, however, electric fireplaces tend to be cheaper to run than traditional heating systems. This is because they are energy-efficient and often don’t require ventilation systems. Electric fireplaces also cost less to install than traditional heating systems, and they often include advanced features such as adjustable heat settings, programmable timers, and even Wi-Fi compatibility.
While electric fireplaces typically require more upfront cost than running a traditional heating system, the ongoing operational costs are usually lower and might end up providing a better financial return in the long run.
Do electric fireplaces give off a lot of heat?
Electric fireplaces can provide supplemental heat in a home, but their primary purpose is to provide the warm glow of a real fireplace. Electric fireplaces use low wattage bulbs to create heat, which cannot compare to the heat output of a traditional wood burning fireplace.
Electric fireplaces can give off some heat, but it can be minimal, limited to a few feet away from the fireplace. The amount of heat is determined by the size of the fireplace and the wattage of the bulbs used, with larger fireplaces and higher wattage bulbs creating more heat.
Electric fireplaces are an efficient choice for areas that require heating, but they should not be relied on as the sole heat source in a home.
How much electricity do electric fireplaces use?
The amount of electricity that an electric fireplace uses can vary depending on the size, wattage, and features of the fireplace. Generally, a small electric fireplace with around 1500 watts of power will use about 1.
5 kWh of electricity per hour, while a larger model with up to 4000 watts of power may use up to 4 kWh of electricity per hour. Electric fireplaces are also very efficient when it comes to energy consumption, with some models offering as much as 99% efficiency.
For those looking to save energy and money, many electric fireplaces come with thermostatic controls that allow you to regulate the heat output of your fireplace and help you maintain an ideal temperature with minimal energy consumption.
How do I get more heat from my electric fireplace?
Getting more heat from an electric fireplace is relatively easy. First, you should make sure the thermostat is set as high as possible. If you have a fan-forced electric fireplace, you should ensure that the fan has been switched on.
Utilizing the fan will cause more warm air to circulate around your room. If your electric fireplace is capable of providing both immediate and zoned heating, it is recommended that you use the zoned heating mode which will provide heat to specific areas of your home, trading energy more efficiently and reducing the cost of energy bills.
Additionally, you should ensure that your fireplace is not blocked by any furniture or large objects, as doing so could reduce the amount of heat output. Finally, regular maintenance and cleaning is essential for keeping your fireplace in good working order and make sure that it runs efficiently and emits more heat.
Can I fake a fireplace?
Yes, you can definitely fake a fireplace. There are a variety of faux fireplace products on the market, including electric fireplaces and gel fireplaces, that look and feel like a real fireplace but don’t actually burn wood.
Electric fireplaces are the easiest to install as they don’t require any venting or gas lines. Gel fireplaces, on the other hand, do require venting and do burn a special type of gel fuel, so they are more complex to install.
Whichever option you choose, either will add a cozy and inviting atmosphere to any room.
How tall should a faux fireplace be?
The height of a faux fireplace should generally be determined based on the size of the room it is in and the overall aesthetic. Generally speaking, if the room is large, the faux fireplace should be taller to make a grand statement.
For example, in a large living room, a tall faux fireplace that stands between 6’ and 7’ from the floor is common. If the room is on the smaller size, a shorter fireplace that stands at around 4’ from the floor can make a more subtle statement.
For example, a faux fireplace in a cozy family room or breakfast nook would be better suited for a shorter model. Additionally, the scale of the mantle should be kept in mind when determining the desired height of the fireplace.
A large mantle may look out of proportion if paired with a shorter fireplace, so keep those two elements in mind when determining the ideal height of your faux fireplace.
How hard is it to add a fireplace to a home?
Adding a fireplace to a home is often a complex and time-consuming project, depending on the type of fireplace you prefer. It typically involves major renovations to your home, including the construction of a chimney or other fire escape, depending on the type of fireplace you choose.
In addition to the construction work that needs to be done, you may also need to have your existing electrical and gas systems inspected and possibly upgraded. Additionally, you will need to purchase materials such as fireproofing, a mantel, and a hearth, and likely have them professionally installed.
All of these steps can add up to a complex, expensive, and time-consuming project. Be sure to do your research and seek professional help and advice if needed, as success will depend on the quality of the finished product.
