Making a built-in electric fireplace involves a few steps. First, you need to choose a spot for the fireplace and ensure that it meets local codes and regulations. Then you will need to build the mantle and wall surround for the fireplace.
You will also need to make sure that any electrical wires and cables are installed properly. You will also need to select a power source, typically either 120/240 volts or direct current. Once all of this is complete, you will be ready to install the actual electric fireplace.
Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and take safety precautions. You may also wish to hire a professional if you are unsure. Once the electric fireplace is installed, you may need to conduct a test run to ensure the fan and heating element work properly.
How much does it cost to make a fireplace electric?
The cost of installing an electric fireplace can vary greatly depending on a number of factors, including the size and style of the fireplace, the complexity of the installation, and the quality of the fireplace itself.
Generally speaking, a basic electric fireplace insert unit will generally range from around $500 to $1,000, while a high-end electric fireplace with more features and a more intricate design can cost up to $3,000 or more.
Installation fees will also vary, but in general can range from around $100 to $200, depending on the complexity of the job. Additionally, some electric fireplaces require special wiring and/or other materials, which can add to the cost.
How thick does a wall need to be for an electric fireplace?
The minimum recommended wall thickness for an electric fireplace is 5.5″ thick. This is to ensure that the heat generated by the fireplace can safely pass through the wall and not cause any type of fire hazard.
Those walls should also be constructed with non-combustible materials such as concrete blocks or bricks, and they should be inspected and reinforced if necessary. Additionally, any openings in the wall should be properly sealed to prevent air leakage.
It’s important to note that these wall thickness requirements may vary depending on the specific fireplace model and the fire safety codes in your region. It’s always best to consult a structural expert or your local fire safety office for more detailed advice.
Do electric fireplaces need venting?
Yes, electric fireplaces typically require some form of venting in order to ensure that the heated air is exhausted properly and doesn’t linger in the room. This venting can involve either direct-vent or vent-free systems, depending on the model and the manufacturer’s instructions.
A direct-vent system requires a vent that exhausts to the outside, usually through the roof or a wall. A vent-free system will use air from the room to both warm the air and flush it out. A blower is usually included in both types of systems to help circulate the air.
Depending on style, electric fireplaces may also need to be vented if they are recessed into a wall or surround. It’s important to pay attention to the instruction manual for any electric fireplace system for specific requirements for installing a vent to ensure safe operation.
Do you need a hole in the wall for electric fireplace?
Yes, you will need a hole in the wall for an electric fireplace. Depending on the type, size, and style you choose, you may either need a hole in the wall to vent heat generated by the fireplace, or you may need one if you are recessing the fireplace into the wall.
Make sure to get the right size and depth of the hole you need to ensure that your fireplace fits properly and securely. Additionally, review the manufacturer’s instructions and follow local building codes when making the hole.
It’s also recommended that you hire an electrician or qualified contractor to do the work for you if you do not feel comfortable doing it yourself.
Can you put drywall around electric fireplace?
Yes, you can put drywall around an electric fireplace. The important thing to remember when doing this is that because electric fireplaces produce heat, you should use fire-resistant drywall, such as Type X drywall, which is specially designed for use in high fire-risk areas like around an electric fireplace.
You should also avoid attaching drywall to the fireplace itself, as this could interfere with air flow and cause the fireplace to overheat, creating a potential fire hazard. When installing the drywall around an electric fireplace, make sure all seams are properly sealed and any gaps, such as those between the drywall and the pyroceram glass in front of the fireplace, are blocked off to prevent heat from escaping.
Additionally, you should use fire-resistant caulking, such as a siliconized latex caulking, around the edges of the drywall to provide an extra layer of heat protection. Finally, you’ll also want to make sure there is sufficient air flow around the fireplace to prevent overheating.
How much will an electric fireplace increase my electric bill?
The amount that an electric fireplace will increase your electric bill will depend on several factors. The size of your fireplace as well as the temperature settings you choose and how often you use it will all play substantial roles in determining how much it will cost to run.
For example, a smaller wattage electric fireplace used infrequently may only add a few dollars to your monthly bill, whereas a larger wattage electric fireplace used more frequently may add substantially more.
The type of electric fireplace you purchase may also affect your monthly energy costs. Fireplaces with energy-saving features such as adjustable thermostats, variable flame settings and heating timers are more efficient and cost-effective than traditional options.
Additionally, electric fireplaces typically use less energy than gas models, making them more cost-effective. To get the most accurate estimation of your electric bill increase due to an electric fireplace, it is best to talk to your local energy provider.
What are the pros and cons of electric fireplaces?
The pros of electric fireplaces are that they are easier to install than traditional wood-burning fireplaces, and they are also more efficient and economical heat sources compared to wood-burning fireplaces.
Electric fireplaces also do not require a chimney lining and are typically more environment friendly than wood-burning fireplaces. In addition, they provide the same comforting atmosphere as traditional wood-burning fireplaces, but without the hassle.
The cons of electric fireplaces are that they do not produce the same level of heat as wood-burning fireplaces, and they are more expensive to purchase than traditional fireplaces. Electric fireplaces also require a continual power source, and require regular maintenance to ensure it works properly and safely.
In addition, electric fireplaces cannot provide the same atmosphere and warmth of a traditional wood-burning fire.
How much does an electric fire cost to run per hour?
The cost of running an electric fire per hour can vary depending on the type of electric fire you are using, the size and wattage of the fire, the cost of your electricity per kWh, and the average amount of time you run your fire.
Generally, electric fireplaces cost between $0.07 and $0.14 per hour when using an average of 1,500 Watts. To get a more accurate estimate of how much your electric fireplace will cost you to run each hour, you can use an energy calculator.
This calculator takes into account the type of heating system you have (radiants or convection), the size of your fireplace, the wattage of the fire, and the cost of your electricity to give you an estimation of how much your fire will cost you each hour.
Are electric fires economical?
Yes, electric fires can be an economical option for heating your home, depending on your individual circumstances. Many electric fires are designed to help you save money on your heating bills, as they are able to accurately control the amount of heat being distributed throughout the room, meaning you don’t have to worry about wasting energy.
Electric fires can also be cheaper to run than conventional gas fires and can heat up quickly, giving you instant heat when it’s needed. Finally, electric fires are also often cheaper to buy and install compared with other types of fires, so if you’re looking for a cost-effective heating solution, an electric fire may be the best option.
Does an electric fireplace add value to a home?
Yes, an electric fireplace can add value to a home. Fireplaces have been a popular feature for centuries and have an emotional value for buyers. In more recent years, electric fireplaces have become increasingly popular because of their enhanced safety, affordability, and convenience.
Electric fireplaces are significantly easier and cheaper to install compared to traditional fireplaces, and they require minimal maintenance. They also provide reliable heating and the added benefit of ambiance, making them a desirable feature for potential homebuyers.
Furthermore, electric fireplaces are safer than traditional fireplaces because they don’t require a chimney, making them less likely to cause a fire hazard or to leak dangerous gases. Additionally, electric fireplaces are extremely energy-efficient and can help to reduce energy costs.
For all these reasons, an electric fireplace can increase the perceived value of a home, making it more attractive to potential buyers.