Prerequisites for installation
Some models of fireplaces with a flame effect are easy enough to install and connect to the electrical network. In other situations, some preparatory work is necessary. In any case, no special permission is required to install the equipment.
The layout of the fireplace in the room
What all devices have in common is that there is no need to build a separate foundation and chimney, in contrast to brick options. The main thing in the preparatory stage is the control of the conformity of the wiring and the fireplace, the power of which is indicated in the technical passport.
Sometimes, in the presence of extremely powerful heating elements in the equipment, it is necessary to lay a new cable and replace the power supply device. If there is no outlet on the nearest wall, it is advisable to lead the wiring to the back of the fireplace - this will avoid confusion with the heap of extension cords.
What are the fireplaces with a fire effect?
There are many types of equipment that create the illusion of a living flame. They differ in:
- technology of work;
- installation method;
- the type of fuel to be simulated;
- design options.
Fire simulation classification
Equipment with video image - in this case, the flame recording is displayed on a special monitor. Structures are usually wall-mounted. Such an electric fireplace with the effect of fire has a significant disadvantage - an insufficient viewing angle. When looking at the device from the side, there is no effect to be achieved.
Devices with a full illusion of flame act as described above by illuminating the streams of steam.
A fireplace with a video image of fire is best hung on the wall
Design characteristics
Depending on individual needs, interior features and planned operating conditions, you can opt for one of the following options:
Assembling the electric fireplace
- wall construction - the best option for compact rooms, which, after hanging, is simply connected to the network;
- insert equipment can be a stand-alone device in a housing or be mounted in an existing traditional room oven;
- a corner fireplace allows you to rationally organize a small space and can serve as a harmonious addition to furniture;
- The LED device displays a 3D image of the fire on the display and does not require a ventilation device;
- an electric fireplace built into pieces of furniture can act as a TV stand;
- free-standing equipment is placed in the center of the room and transferred to another room if necessary.
Design options
Choosing a model is required in accordance with the style of the interior, then the electric fireplace with the effect of fire will harmoniously fit into the space and become its "highlight":
- For classics, wood or stone cladding in pastel colors is suitable, natural or artificial materials are used.
- Shelby chic style is an imitation of aged finishes, green copper, floral patterns on plastic and plasterboard surfaces.
- Hi-tech - metal or plastic, extremely laconic or, conversely, very unusual shapes, spot lighting, built-in safes.
- The rustic and country style is characterized by portals made of natural materials and brickwork, imitation of old stoves.
- In the interiors of the Provence direction, wall-mounted false fireplaces made of marble or light plastic are preferred.
- In the Japanese style, the design of the wall hearth for a plasma panel of significant dimensions prevails.
Shabby chic living room with electric fireplace
Separation by the type of simulated fuel:
- a model of burning logs, which can create the illusion of the beginning of burning or an already decayed stage;
- simulated embers are made of real material, illuminated by halogen lamps, which creates a hot effect.
Features of electric fireplaces
Nowadays, there are many ways to simulate fire, which by their appearance are difficult to distinguish from a burning fire. Burning simulation is a very interesting function, because it is a realistic copy of a real fire, while being safer and more convenient. An electric fireplace is one of the best options for making a fake fire.
It consists of elements such as:
-
An element that simulates fire. It can be represented as steam illuminated by halogen lamps or by a cloth vibrating under the influence of a fan and illuminated by the same lamps;
- Orange halogen lamps. Designed to create the illusion of a real flame;
- Fan or steam generator. The fan lifts the fabric to a vertical position and creates the illusion that it is moving. Steam generator, generates steam, which is both fire and smoke.
In addition to safety and convenience, the electric fireplace has a number of features:
- The ability to use only electricity and water, without any fuel;
- Built-in function to work with and without heating. Heating can be turned on and off at any time;
- Easy installation and removal. Due to the fact that the electric fireplace works from an outlet and weighs very little, it does not require special installation requirements;
- Humidification of the room. Some models are equipped with a humidifier, which will not be superfluous, given that during a simulated flame, the air becomes dry.
Considering all of the above, we can conclude that an electric fireplace is in no way inferior to a natural stove, and in some cases even surpasses it.
Methods for installing an electric fireplace with a live fire effect
On the wall, in the corner or on the floor, such a device can be placed wherever necessary.
At the same time, builders focus on an important fact. Before starting the installation process, you need to weigh the pros and cons
For example, for a built-in fireplace you need to build a portal, otherwise the whole structure looks like a birch tree in the desert.
You can install an electric fireplace yourself, the main thing is to get acquainted in detail with the nuances of this process
There is only one way to make the installation of built-in models less laborious - to carry out preparatory work at the stage of repair work.
In addition, there are a number of other ways to install electric fireplaces with simulated flames:
- Wall-mounted - according to their design, they are divided into built-in and hinged ones. If the mounted version can be connected in a couple of minutes, then it will not be possible to cope with the built-in one so quickly. It is highly recommended to leave enough free space during installation. It will be needed to dismantle individual mechanisms for maintenance.
- Wall-mounted - suitable for rooms with limited space. On the one hand, inexpensive fireplaces of this kind have an insignificant thickness of the body, which makes it possible not to "paint" the already scarce square meters in the room. On the other hand, this does not prevent them from creating the illusion of living fire.
- Corner - their installation is carried out at the stage of renovation or within the existing interior. Most of their free-standing devices are located in the center of the room, becoming the visual accent of the room.
- Apart from the aesthetic one, there is also a purely practical reason for placing it in the center. This allows the heat to spread evenly. In office premises, corner fireplaces are placed against the wall.
Wall, recessed, corner - an electric fireplace can be placed in various ways. The main thing is to think over all the nuances in advance.The easiest way to cope with the installation, if one is carried out at the stage of repair.
Common myths, rumors and speculations about electric fireplaces.
These devices are not suitable for all premises
The variety of models of electric fireplaces is so great that the selection of a firebox and cladding for it does not present any problem. Don't have enough space at home? No problem, order the desktop or portable version. Do you have a room the size of half a tennis court? Also not a question, order a large floor fireplace. The style of the room also does not matter much, since modern methods and technologies allow you to create a decorative portal for almost any style of room. The only significant obstacles are room humidity and the weight of the fireplace itself.
It is foolish to spend such a huge amount of money only on an element of decor
First, it has always been a costly endeavor to create a well-thought-out room design. A properly designed space will not only be aesthetically pleasing to your guests, but can also enhance your prestige as an owner. Secondly, if you follow the exclusively pragmatic side of the issue, then there are models of fireplaces that can work as good sources of heat, which can be especially useful in the off-season.
Electric fireplaces are very difficult to install
Devices of this type are much easier to install than a classic fireplace, and even an unprepared person can handle the basic installation. The only point that can cause confusion is the conclusion of a separate outlet. Moreover, when ordering a marble fireplace, we will take care of all the installation difficulties.
Such appliances consume too much electricity
An electric fireplace consumes no more electricity than a standard heater of the same power. You can also turn off the heating completely, leaving only cold fire and sound running (if you have such a function), which will significantly reduce power consumption.
Simulation of fire is not reliable enough
If we take modern furnaces of recent years as an example, then the illusion of burning logs in them is literally indistinguishable from a real analogue. Questions about the quality of imitation may appear only if you have seen very old or low-quality electric heaters in operation before.
Advantages and disadvantages of electric fireplaces with a live flame effect. Pros and cons.
There are a number of factors that speak in favor of purchasing electric fireplaces:
· No additional preliminary arrangements for the installation.
To install this device, you do not need to draw up any project, carry out a chimney, comply with the norms of thermal insulation and waterproofing works, think about how to distribute the already not small weight of the fireplace, as well as other complex and time-consuming things.
· No restrictions on the premises in which the installation is supposed to be.
There are almost no rooms in which it would be impossible to install an electric fireplace. The only critical factor can be high humidity, but, obviously, installing such a device in a pool or, for example, in a sauna would still not be a very smart idea.
· No need to procure fuel and consumables.
Every year, the owners of wood-burning fireplaces and stoves have to either order or prepare firewood themselves. In one case, you spend a significant part of your income every year, and in the other, not only your strength, but also invaluable time. This certainly does not mean that electricity is a free resource.In addition, you may want to have several bottles of distilled water at home as the best option for your fireplace, which will also cost something. But all of these things in the kit will not outweigh the costs of maintaining a classic fireplace. By the way, you can also use filtered and softened water without any problems, although not all cities can boast of high-quality water supply.
· Relatively light weight (depending on the cladding)
Electric stoves can be relatively small in size and weight, so that you will not have to somehow reinforce the floor and fill the foundation, thereby creating a space near the fireplace that is not exposed to fire. Of course, if you want to do brick fireplace or natural stone, or even order ready-made cast iron, then you can forget about installing such fireplaces in apartments, because according to regulations, the maximum permissible load on floors in apartments should not exceed 150 kg per m2.
· Lack of combustion products
You can forget about creosote, soot, soot and in general any dirt that can get into your home during the combustion of wood. Plus, the lack of the smell of burning wood can also be a big plus for some people.
· Almost complete fire safety
The only heating element in electric furnaces is a spiral, and, due to specific design features, it hardly heats up the body of the electric furnace. The only way to start a fire with an electric fireplace is to purposefully damage the installation and completely violate all operating rules. In addition, such devices usually involve several levels, and the flame is absolutely safe. In general, this device is no more dangerous than an iron or a coffee grinder.
· Ease of operation
The appliance is relatively easy to maintain, and if you follow the manufacturer's instructions regularly, your electric fireplace will be able to serve you for many years.
As for the shortcomings, there are practically none, except for the fact that the electric fireplace, for all its manufacturability, is unlikely to be able to exactly repeat all the sensations that the classic gives. At a minimum, this concerns the smell of wood and the process of its ignition. In other cases, everything depends on your requests and capabilities, as well as aesthetic preferences, which can be fully embodied in your own project, with which our designers can help you. At the same time, some people have a number of prejudices about electric fireplaces, which will be discussed below.
The device and principle of operation of the electric fireplace
An electric fireplace consists of two main parts:
- hearth - directly the heart of the fireplace, which is an electronic device that translates the combustion process;
- portal - a frame for the hearth.
A fireplace can be not only a decorative element, but also a heater in the winter cold.
The hearth performs several functions at once. This is an imitation of fire burning and heat transfer. Each manufacturer brings its own technological solutions, which, by the way, directly affect the cost of the final result. Some of them can be used in a home-made electric fireplace:
- Red matter acts as fire. At the bottom of the portal is a fan that lifts strips of tissue attached to one side. As a rule, silk is used for this purpose.
-
Using a reflector. It is installed under the so-called firewood. The essence of the work of such a fireplace is as follows: the reflector slowly rotates, which is why the glare is alternately projected onto the imitation of firewood. These glare create the effect of the flame.Another reflective screen can be placed on top, and then tongues of flame will appear from above.
-
The use of water vapor, on the cloud of which glare is projected, and the brightness of the fire is ensured with the help of LED bulbs.
- Since an electric fireplace is not always used exclusively for decorative purposes, heating elements and other heating elements can be used. They are usually located at the bottom of the firebox. Heat enters the room as a result of the fan. It also serves to prevent overheating of the portal.
Any of these types of electric fireplaces can be made with your own hands. Its advantages are obvious:
- no noise;
- does not require the installation of a chimney, since there is no smoke;
- consumes a minimum of electricity;
- the heating of the room is gradual, which means that the heat is distributed evenly;
- the efficiency is always 100%.
Electric fireplace. A bit of history
The electric fireplace is not innovative. It was learned to artificially heat premises more than a hundred years ago thanks to numerous inventions related to electricity. Such heating devices became especially popular in the 1950s, thereby displacing paraffin and gas heaters. But before the electric fireplace became a frequent guest in residential buildings as a source of heat, it was used in theater stages as an element of props. In those days, artificial flame was actively used to give realism to the action taking place on stage, but even in this form, such a fire was not suitable for use at home, because it still looked too fake up close and people subconsciously felt "deception".
The technology that would reproduce a high-quality imitation of fire appeared in February 1981 and was patented by Harold J. Weber. The basic idea was for a controller that would alternately turn on and off the light source in a specific order, thereby creating the illusion of fire. But the major breakthrough came in 1988 when Dimplex introduced Optiflame, a unique method of creating realistic simulations of fire using a light source, a grooved drum, and a mirrored hearth surface. The downside of this technology was that it still did not allow to add volume to the dancing tongues of fire, leaving them flat.
Later, in 2008, the same company released and patented the effect for Opti-myst electric fireplaces. This technology made it possible to create an even more spectacular imitation of fire due to the illumination of steam injected by an ultrasonic steam generator, due to which it was possible to recreate not only the flame, but also the smoke flowing upward. The final touch was the Opti-V technology, presented by Dimplex to the general public in 2013, due to which it was possible to recreate the effect of a sheaf of sparks with the transfer of the full volume of burning fire and the corresponding soundtrack. This was done by means of an improved LED lighting of the fireplace, a specially illuminated dummy of burning logs and a video recording reproduced on the back wall of the electric furnace.
Recommendations for choosing an electric fireplace
The large number of offers of various types of electric fireplaces complicates the choice. All of them have many advantages and additional functions. Where to start choosing the right fireplace for your apartment?
The age of modern technology allows you to have a preliminary acquaintance with existing models without leaving your home. To do this, just look at the photos of electric fireplaces, and also get acquainted with the reviews about working on the Internet.
After that, it is necessary to create a project for the future hearth. This will allow you to determine what size the fireplace should be, what design is suitable for a particular room, as well as what technical characteristics the device should have, etc.
The electric fireplace can be decorated with a special drywall frame, which will allow for maximum realism
Now you can safely go to buy a suitable electric fireplace
In this case, you should pay attention to the following points:
- the size. In a small room, it is better to buy a corner electric fireplace. This will save space. For a large house or summer cottage, an electric fireplace with a portico is best;
- registration. It is not worth buying a high-tech electric fireplace in a classic-style room. Conversely, a model made of glass and plastic will not look against the Empire style. Such style combinations are not permissible with proper interior design;
- power of the device. If a decision is made to purchase a powerful electric fireplace, then you must first check the wiring. If it cannot withstand the high voltage, then the purchase of a model with a high power will have to be abandoned.
Another factor that influences the choice of a fireplace is its cost. In this matter, the future owner has the last word.
Note! The high cost and popular brand are not always the main ones when choosing this type of hearth in the house. So, the price of wall-mounted electric fireplaces may be lower than that of other models, but it is much more important - the technical characteristics of the device and its compliance with the requirements of the future owner .. Many manufacturers offer a wide selection of filling the electric fireplace - it can be natural or artificial stones, burnt logs or coals
Many manufacturers offer a wide selection of filling the electric fireplace - it can be natural or artificial stones, burnt logs or coals.
How to choose a high-quality model of an electric fireplace
Don't buy the first model you like. Appearance is, of course, very important, but one should not forget about the guarantee of quality and safety.
Electric fireplaces are environmentally friendly and do not emit toxic fumes that are harmful to the health of the body.
Criteria for choosing a high-quality model of an electric fireplace:
First you need to create a project: determine the location of the hearth and its dimensions
Choose a design in accordance with the design of the style of the room;
Determine the technical characteristics and the necessary set of operating modes for the device;
Try to choose models from well-known manufacturers;
It is important to pay attention to the type of device:
- steam - require adding water;
- mechanized - repairs may be necessary after long-term operation;
- fireplace screen - requires minimal maintenance, you will need to periodically wipe the dust;
Choose a fireplace design based on the size of the room and the design of the style of the room;
In a small room, corner, mobile or mounted models will be appropriate;
For the living room, it is better to choose a large model: the larger the room, the more powerful the device is selected. The latest models allow you to maintain a constant temperature in the room;
Each fireplace is designed for its place in an apartment or house
The mobile island hearth is considered the most interesting
If necessary, it can be moved around the apartment;
Pay attention to the variety and number of functions;
Electric fireplaces with a steam generator perfectly humidify the air in the room;
Low price distinguishes models made according to the old technology, consuming maximum electricity and not differing in safe operation;
It is very important to remember that even the safest and most beautiful electric fireplace cannot be placed in a children's room.
Features of installing a fireplace with simulated flame
Most models of modern electric fireplaces do not require special installation skills, and some are compact and mobile allow you to transfer them from one room to another. However, there are also quite massive built-in ones that require installation by specialists.
These fireplaces are very easy to maintain, which will delight most housewives.
When self-installing, you must follow a certain sequence and adhere to some safety rules:
- When deciding on the choice of a place for installation, it is worth considering the presence of an outlet. It is better to place it behind the device.
- If the model is built-in, be sure to think over a niche for installation, from which, if necessary, you can easily pull out the fireplace, without the need to disassemble the walls. For simpler models, when installing a hearth, a wooden board or thick board is quite suitable.
- Corner designs can also be different. Portals for their installation are designed similarly to built-in conventional models.
- The easiest installation of wall-mounted electric fireplaces - the main thing is that the wall is not plasterboard. The kit includes special hangers that are attached to the wall and securely hold the fireplace on the wall. If it is not strong enough, additional reinforcement should be considered.
- The portal for installing the fireplace must be plaster and painted, and the wooden parts must be stained.
To visually support the fire, you should only replace burned out lamps from time to time.
How to arrange - making decorative firewood
The cardboard is rolled into tubes
Self-creation of a dummy firewood is not a difficult task.
Elements are connected to each other
They can be made from materials that everyone has at hand. As an example, we will consider firewood, which is made from cardboard, glue, tape, and paint.
Simulated logs need to be painted
Of course, decorative pallets can also be purchased ready-made. Only they are not cheap.
First, cut out a piece of cardboard for the firewood. Then glue this blank so that it resembles a log. Color the resulting wood and place it in the hearth.
Decorative cardboard logs laid in an imitated hearth - cheap and cheerful
Safety tips for working with an electric fireplace. Precautionary measures.
As we briefly mentioned earlier, an electric fireplace is really safe if you follow the instructions for use. Speaking of safety, it's worth looking at some general tips for owners of these wonderful home appliances. Yes, we know we said that it is safe to own an electric fireplace, and it really is, but mostly these tips are more of a simple common sense that people sometimes forget about.
- The heating element of an electric fireplace, while it is switched on, has a high temperature sufficient to cause a burn. Be careful not to touch it when it is on and for a while after that. Also, do not leave small children or pets alone near the fireplace.
- Try to remember to unplug the fireplace when not in use.
- Never plug the device into a damaged or defective outlet.
- Do not install an electric fireplace in bathrooms, saunas, or even garages and sheds. The electric heater should not be wet, so that the wiring does not short-circuit.
- Do not run the cord under furniture or other appliances. Try to find a place in your home to put the fireplace next to an outlet and you are not tempted to run the cord through high traffic areas or use an extension cord, which is also not recommended due to the high power of the appliance.
- Never throw objects of any kind into the device while it is plugged in, as this may result in electric shock, fire, or damage to the device.
- Never make any changes to the device. Not only will it void your warranty, but it can also be dangerous.
Proper maintenance of your electric fireplace. Operating rules.
An electric fireplace is indeed easier to maintain than a classic one, but that doesn't mean maintenance is not required at all.
· Replacing a light bulb.
The most difficult thing your electric fireplace may require is replacing the light bulb, which nevertheless must be monitored. Before replacing, double check if the device is unplugged and cold to the touch. If you have just used the appliance, let it cool for at least 20 minutes before trying to replace it to avoid scalding. Light bulbs are usually located at the back of the fireplace and can be accessed by opening the back of the fireplace. The panels are usually fastened with screws and you only need a screwdriver to access them. Before such manipulations, we recommend that you read the instructions provided by the manufacturer of the firebox, since its design may differ, especially in the case of wall-mounted versions.
If your fireplace uses LED lamps that are designed to last a very long time, then you may never need to change the bulb at all. But even in this case, you still need to know how to make a replacement, for overall development. By the way, LED lamps are another way to save your expenses on a fireplace.
· Maintenance of the facing of the fireplace portal and the outer part of the firebox.
If you get the idea that working with the inside of the firebox is an easy task, then you will be pleased to hear that it will be even easier to care for the outside of an electric fireplace. You just need to wipe the dust and use special stone care products if you have marble cladding, for example. A damp cloth and glass cleaner will be more than enough to clean the fireplace glass. Be sure to wipe the glass with a dry cloth to prevent water marks from forming on the glass.
Note. Do not use chemical cleaning agents inside electric currents, be it glass cleaner or polish, because they are highly flammable due to their constituent substances.
· Cleaning the fan.
Most electric fireplace motors and fans are pre-lubricated before assembly and do not require your attention. At the same time, it is necessary to periodically check the fan if you do not want to be left without additional heating in the middle of winter. You can remove dust from the fan using a vacuum cleaner with a nozzle, and simply wipe inaccessible places with a small brush.
Popular models
It is not so difficult to buy electric fireplaces with the effect of a live flame - they are sold in specialized stores, in furniture stores, in Internet hypermarkets, in building supermarkets. Finding the right model is much more difficult. In this regard, we advise you to focus on the following indicators:
- Flame type - projected, water vapor, video picture;
- By the method of installation - fireplaces are divided into freestanding, portable and built-in;
- Availability of additional options - special effects, brightness and intensity control, musical accompaniment;
- The presence of heating - if you want to combine effect and heating.
Let's try to review some of the popular models.
Wall-mounted electric fireplace Andromeda Real-Flame
Before us is a typical fireplace with a projection. He does not need water, he does without it. The electric fireplace is wall-mounted, it can be hung in any room. The unit was created not only to create a visible effect of living fire, but also to heat the premises - there are two thermal modes that differ in power level. If necessary, users will be able to adjust the brightness of the burning. There are no sound effects on board, the model works absolutely silently.
Fireplace Tango Premium Style
A very interesting model made in a classic design. In order to achieve the maximum effect of a traditional fireplace, there is a compartment for storing firewood - you can fill it with logs.Inside the "firebox" we see an imitation of folded half-burnt wood and coal. The effect of living fire is achieved by the evaporation of water. The diagonal of the hearth portal is 34 inches. Also, users will be pleased with the imitation of crackling firewood. This electric fireplace with a live flame effect will be a worthy decoration for any country house.
Fireplace Dimplex Viotta
This is not quite an electric fireplace - it is a hearth with the effect of a living fire, in addition to which you need to purchase a portal (you can choose any model of your choice, in accordance with the design of the room and your own preferences). An interesting feature of this device is the built-in air filter. That is, it not only creates an imitation, but also purifies the air, making it healthier. A remote control is provided to control flame and sound effects.
This manufacturer is famous for a large number of successful models of electric fireplaces and hearths - be sure to pay attention to it if you plan to purchase an electric fireplace.
Electric fireplace Electrolux EFP / W-1150URLS
An interesting pendant model from one of the most famous brands. It has an imitation of the effect of living fire, and a built-in heater acts as a good addition. The flame turns out to be very realistic, special LED lamps are used to create it. That is, there will be no 3D effect here - this is a kind of projection. The power of the heaters is 900 and 1800 W - two-stage adjustment is provided. If necessary, the unit can only work in simulation mode, without heating. Also on board there is a system for adjusting the brightness of the fire.
There are a lot of electric fireplaces with the effect of live fire on sale. You just have to choose the most suitable option. We recommend sticking with models with steam, as they create a full-fledged imitation, and do not project light. However, it all depends on your preferences and the amount of free space in the room.
disadvantages
There are few disadvantages of an electric fireplace, because it was developed using modern technologies. But regardless of this, there are still disadvantages:
- Low realism of fire. If you compare the fire in a natural stove and an electric fireplace, you can see the difference, despite the efforts of engineers to make it as realistic as possible;
- Electricity consumption. Despite the fact that electricity is a relatively inexpensive resource, you will have to spend money on providing them with a fireplace, especially if you use all of its capabilities at once (heating, humidifier, simulated flame, etc.).
The main function of the device in question is comfort in the room due to its appearance. The rest of the functions only complement the first, so if the main selection criterion is not appearance, then it is better to refuse to purchase.
If you compare a fire in a natural stove and an electric fireplace, you can see the difference, despite the efforts of engineers to make it as realistic as possible.