An electric fireplace is a great way to heat your home without adding too much strain to your budget. In fact, adding a fireplace to your home can increase your home’s value by up to 12%.
But not every electric fireplace insert is equal, and you have several options from which to choose. When considering adding a new fireplace to your existing home, you must consider the room’s style. You will want to add one that will complement the room rather than compete.
So if you’re thinking of adding an electric fireplace to your home, keep reading because we’re guiding you in choosing the right electric fireplace insert for your room.
What Is an Electric Fireplace Insert?
A fireplace insert is a unit that is fitted inside an existing fireplace. This insert is what contains the primary heating element and can have log sets for a traditional look or ember beds for a more contemporary look. The entire fireplace insert is encased in glass for a seamless look.
Electric fireplace inserts can be either connected directly to your electric system or can come as a plug-in which you can use with a standard wall socket. If you prefer not to use electricity, you can opt for gas.
These days, the technology used in these fireplace inserts is so advanced that the flames can be highly realistic. Some units even have settings that change the flame color, speed, intensity, etc. With so many designs to choose from, you can find an electric fireplace insert to match the style of your room.
Types of Fireplace Inserts
As we touched on briefly, there are several types of fireplace inserts you can choose from. For example, you can get the following types of fireplace inserts:
Built-In Inserts
Built-in inserts are a great option if you’re looking for a more permanent fireplace installation. With a built-in insert, you can install it into an existing fireplace or recess it into the wall. Typically, this type of insert can heat up to 1000 square feet, but this will depend on the model.
Plug-In Inserts
Plug-in inserts are specifically designed to be installed in an existing fireplace and get their power from an electrical outlet vs. being hardwired into your electrical system. Like their built-in counterparts, they can also heat a 1000-square-foot space.
Log Set Inserts
If you already have a built-in fireplace, you can purchase a log set insert to change the look of your fireplace. These half-inserts only consist of solely the log set and do not include any housing. When choosing a log set insert, you have a variety of styles to choose from, such as full logs, birch logs, fresh-cut logs, etc.
In-Wall Inserts
An in-wall insert differs slightly from its built-in counterpart in that they are typically recessed into your wall, with no mantel or surround. In addition, these in-wall inserts include log options such as ember beds, glass pebbles, or logs.
Multi-Sided and Transparent Inserts
Not every fireplace is built into the wall. In more modern houses, contractors can install a fireplace in the center of the room. This is where multi-sided and transparent inserts are ideal. These inserts have more than one viewing side and work well as room dividers.
How to Choose the Right Fireplace Insert
When you want to purchase an insert, with so many options available, how do you choose one that fits your aesthetic? First, let’s review some of the main factors affecting your choice of an electric fireplace insert besides your fireplace model.
Heating Capacity
When choosing an electric fireplace insert, you need to decide whether you want it for aesthetic or practical reasons for heating your living space. If you want the fireplace insert for heating purposes, you will have two more options: infrared and fan-forced heat.
If you need your fireplace insert to provide heat, the price will be higher than their display counterparts because of the extra fan that needs to be installed. Fan-forced heat doesn’t generate as much heat as the infrared option and can heat an area of up to 400 sq ft.
Conversely, the infrared option can heat an area of up to 1000 sq ft and is the better option for larger rooms.
Select Your Style
Next, when you buy a fireplace insert, you’ll want to decide whether you want a modern or traditional look for your fireplace insert. For example, a contemporary living room may benefit from a modern electric fireplace insert rather than a traditional-looking fireplace that may fit more in a bedroom or study.
Size and Trims
The next thing to consider is how large or small you want your insert to be. If you have an existing fireplace, you will need to measure the space to know what size insert to buy.
You’ll also have a variety of trims to choose from, which can have you enjoying a traditional-looking fireplace or a modern fireplace with sleek metal flashing.
Optional Features
Most basic electric fireplace inserts will cost much the same price; however, if you choose one with several optional features, the cost can get higher. Some optional features include:
- Flame Effects: Realistic flame options to produce lifelike flames
- Remote Control: A remote control that can set the temperature, change the flame effects, turn the fireplace on/off, etc.
- Glass Doors: Some electric fireplace inserts come with glass doors for ease of access
- Digital Display: Some inserts come fitted with an electrical, digital display
Fit The Best Electric Fireplace Insert For Your Living Space Today
Changing your fireplace insert can be a great way to give your room a fresh look, but choosing the best fireplace insert is essential.
Before you lay out any money, take time to decide on the function, the style that best matches your decor, the type of electric fireplace insert, the size, and any optional features you want. Once you’ve decided on these factors, you can narrow your selection to find your perfect insert.
If you’re looking for fireplace installation, then contact us today. We pride ourselves on the high-quality fireplace solutions that we can offer customers in Pennsylvania. We look forward to helping you create a welcoming, warm ambiance.
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