How to start an electric fireplace is a question that pops up when you recently install a new one. An electric fireplace is a preferable alternative to the gas one. It is eco-friendly as it does not release greenhouse gasses into the atmosphere.
It will use readily available electricity options. Therefore the market for electric fireplaces is expected to have 6.1% growth by the next decade. The market is currently worth more than $2 billion. The trend keeps soaring and the time is right for you to switch to electric fireplaces. Moreover, you need to educate yourself on how to operate and maintain them.
Types of Electric Fireplaces
The type of electric fireplace installed at home will determine the operation protocol. You can only learn how to start a fireplace once you know the kind that you have. Following are some of the common types of fireplaces that could be in your homes.
Stove Electric Fireplaces
Stove electric fireplaces are the most common type of fireplaces. These are found across most homes. The modern rendition of the classic electric fireplaces comes with various features. These also involve the controls to operate the fireplace.
These are usually located in the lower region of the body. It is the point of ash collection in gas or coal stove fireplaces. If you remove the lid, you will find the panel to switch on the fireplace. However, in some versions, the panel is hanging below the body. It is usually covered and firmly attached to the fireplace.
Mantel Electric Fireplaces
These are the most aesthetically pleasing fireplaces on the market. The glorious mantel fireplaces can alleviate the ambiance of any room. A mantel fireplace requires a specific frame of either wood or marble.
The fireplace is built inside the structure. The electric fireplaces are n different in this regard. They are installed inside the mantel. Some may have slightly protruding bodies, while others perfectly fit inside.
They require at least 120 volts of electricity or more. These fireplaces also have a control panel. However, the question of how to start an electric fireplace in the mantle usually baffles the users.
Wall Electric Fireplace
These are the most unique and modern types of electric fireplaces. They have flames burning within your wall. People become so mesmerized by them that they instantly install them in their households.
These cozy fireplaces appeal to everyone gathered at your place. Unlike the mantel electric fireplace, these are not installed but mounted. Therefore, most of their body will emerge from the wall. However, brackets are installed to secure these fireplaces.
There is no defined position to fix these electrical fireplaces. However, most people attach them to a much higher spot on the wall. In such cases, they should employ effective strategies for securing these fireplaces.
The wall electric fireplace also relies on several methods for being switched on. These also utilize the usual control panel techniques. However, in most advanced models, there are additional ways. A wall electric fireplace usually has cutting-edge technology. You must learn how to start the electric fireplace before you purchase it.
How to Start an Electric Fireplace: the Different Ways
Following are some of the most through which you can learn: how to start an electric fireplace.
Control Panel
When you find the control panel on your electric fireplace, you need to remove its cover. You will find a set of switches and rotating buttons. There will be a main switch for starting the fireplace. The frames will also appear once you hit this button.
Some electric fireplaces have an additional option for flames. In most electric fireplaces, there are two controls for the heat. One provides high heat, while the other is used to lower the heat. In such fireplaces, you cannot directly select the high heat option.
Your fireplace must achieve a certain set point of temperature before you can activate this option. Therefore, you need to select the low heat option before you switch the button on.
Remote Control
Most electric fireplaces come in with a remote. It has all the options for controlling the fireplace. You simply need to put the remote in front of the electric fireplace.
There will be a power button for turning on the fireplace. There are separate buttons for flames and heating. You can adjust the temperature using the high heat and low heat buttons.
You can also adjust the flame brightness in your fireplace. Some may also have the option of changing the flame colors.
Thermostat Control
The thermostat control is the typical method used to start an electric fireplace. The thermostat is connected to the fireplace through the wiring running in the sockets.
You can start the electric fireplace by switching on the thermostat. It will signal the fireplace to produce the heat for achieving the set temperature.
Once that threshold is completed, it will turn off the heat. The process will be repeated as soon as the temperature drops.
Pros and Cons of Electric Fireplaces
Pros
Cons
1
Easy installation
Limited heat output
2
Energy-efficient
May not provide the same ambiance as a real fire.
3
No need for venting
Reliance on electricity – could be disadvantageous during power outages
4
Safe for children and pets
Limited customization options
5
Convenient and easy to use
Lack of crackling sounds and aroma
6
Low maintenance
FAQs
Can I Start the Electric Fireplace Without the Remote?
Yes, you can start the electric fireplace without the remote. You can turn it on using the control panel on the fireplace. You can also use the thermostat installed in your home.
Why Do the Flames in My Fireplace Not Light Up?
There are several reasons why the flames in your fireplace do not emerge as you start the electric fireplace. Ensure that the fireplace is plugged in properly. If they still do not appear, check the fireplace settings. Switch on the flame option in the remote. In the case of the fireplace having a control panel, turning on the fireplace will ignite the flames.
Do Electric Fireplaces Work on Batteries?
To start an electric fireplace, you do not have to install the battery. You must connect it to the nearby electrical outlet. The socket should provide more than 100 volts of electric potential. Most electric fireplaces work on 120 volts. You might need to install the batteries to start the electric fireplace using the remote.
How Long Do Electric Fireplaces Keep on Working?
You have to set a temperature before you start the electric fireplace. The fireplace continues to produce heat unless the room is to the set temperature. After that temperature, the fireplace stops generating heat. You can also set up an automatic timer for a few minutes or hours. After that, the fireplace will stop producing heat. However, it will maintain the temperature for a few minutes before it lowers.
How Much Will An Electric Fireplace Cost Me?
An electric fireplace consumes more than 1500 watts of power. If you mathematically calculate that, it will cost you more than $0.2 hourly.
Conclusion
Electric fireplaces are better than conventional gas burners. They will not produce toxic gasses and destroy the environment. You can turn your gas fireplaces into electric ones. However, you must learn how to start an electric fireplace before using it.
Hi everyone! My name is Jason, and I am the founder of HeaterWise.com. Having run my own business as a Heating Engineer for 21 years, I have picked up a few things along the way.
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