Home is Where the Hearth Is: Electric Fireplaces for Today’s Home

A fireplace beautifully creates an instant ambiance that’s warm and inviting. But what if you don’t have one or live in an apartment? Today’s market offers a range of alternatives that allows you to enjoy the benefits of a classic wood burning fire without time-consuming and costly maintenance. To create a welcoming atmosphere in your home, one convenient and easy-to-use option is the electric fireplace.

Electric fireplaces are generally easy to install, and depending on the type selected, can be as simple as plugging it in. Unlike other types of fireplaces, they don’t need venting, attachments or hook-ups. Designed to imitate a wood-burning fire, electric fires have flames that flicker and appear to vary in color. And since they use electricity, they don’t emit sparks, smoke or have to have soot and creosote buildup removed.

Electric fireplaces fall into two basic categories: the kind that fits into an existing hearth, usually referred to as an insert, and ones that are stand-alone and include a mantle and screen. If you no longer use an existing fireplace, inserts are an ideal solution. They come in variety of styles and are designed to transform an unused hearth into a place to enjoy a cozy fire. Most models of inserts are easy to install.

Stand-alone electric fireplaces are also designed to resemble wood burning ones, and depending on the style, will usually include a mantle and screen. Esthetically pleasing, they create a focal point in the room, as well as a suitable place to display treasured mementos, artwork and other items that make a room homey.

Since you can virtually set them up anywhere there is a power source, electric fireplaces are portable. This characteristic makes them ideal for apartments and condominiums. Should you decide that you no longer want it in the room you originally put it, you can easily relocate it. Typically, they generate heat and can be a practical secondary heat source in your home. They usually operate much like a space heater and are safer to use. They can feature options and controls that allow you to regulate the flame, brightness and amount of heat emitted.

Electric fireplace are available in many styles, from contemporary to transitional to traditional. They can be detailed to resemble a built-in fireplace, with classic design features like corbels, faux brick surrounds and granite mantel tops. Construction materials are typically wood and metal or a combination of both.

Many models include architectural elements such as bookcases, curio cabinets and even home theaters. When decorating an apartment or condo with an electric fireplace, you can make the most of your space by adding storage and display functions to the unit. An electric fireplace that incorporates a home theater typically features shelves, a place for the television and cabinets for multi-media components.

What kind of effect would you like to achieve? Wall mounted electric fireplaces have the look and feel of a fire, but with the dramatic impact of a work of art. They have the added benefit of appearing to float above the ground.

Want a fireplace but think you won’t have enough space? Consider a corner fireplace. It will add warmth to your room, while utilizing corner floor space that might otherwise be unused. Perfect for creating a cozy nook to sit and relax after a long day.

Just because you live in an apartment or a house that doesn’t have a chimney, it doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the comfort of a fireplace in your home. With all the different kinds to choose from, you’re sure to find an electric fireplace the will perfectly suit your lifestyle.