Ever thought about adding a fireplace to your space? When decorating a new space, we usually think about color, patterns, room functionality, textures and lighting. Sometimes we think about bringing natural elements into our homes such as leafy house plants, natural branches and flowers. But there is another natural element that we should consider, especially during the cooler months of in fall and winter: fire. 

Fireplaces are not only a decorative focal point, but they bring instant warmth and coziness richness to any space in your home. 

What is an Electric Fireplace?

An electric fireplace is very much like a wood or gas fireplace. Electric fireplaces use electricity from a standard wall outlet as their “fuel” to produce heat. There are several types of electric fireplaces, including built-in electric fireplaces. A built-in electric fireplace may have to be directly wired in, which can be more limiting than a “plug and go” electric fireplace. 

Do Electric Fireplaces Use a lot of Electricity?

Electric fireplaces use around the same amount of electricity as the average space heater. Most electric fireplaces operate on a standard household outlet, using 120 volts to power themselves.

What Makes the Flames in an Electric Fireplace?

The flames on an electric fireplace are produced either through LED lights or from a combination of light sources and rotating mirrors to generate the effect of flickering flames.

Do Electric Fireplaces Need to be Ventilated?

Electric fireplaces do not need to be vented. Electric fireplaces, unlike gas and wood fireplaces, do not create any emissions and therefore do not need to be vented through a chimney, direct vent, or other source.

Types of electric fireplaces include:

• Electric fireplace inserts
• Wall-mounted or recessed electric fireplaces
• Electric fireplace TV stands
• Electric fireplace mantels
• Electric fireplace stoves
• Electric fireplace log sets
• Built-in electric fireplaces

Benefits of Electric Fireplaces

In addition to using a more accessible fuel source, there are several other benefits of an electric fireplace compared to wood and gas. 

• Low cost
• Easy & quick installation – Most electric fireplaces can be used straight from the box
• Easy & safe-to-use
• No mess – Electric fireplaces are very low maintenance; no need to worry about cleaning out ash or wood debris. 
• Doubles as a design element – There are is a wide variety of electric fireplace types and styles to pick from to complement any themed room. 

Multipurpose Electric Fireplaces

There are a variety of electric fireplaces available on the market, but the key is to find one that is multipurpose. An electric fireplace TV stand not only provides a surface to place a TV (or other decorative items), but it can also serve as storage and shelving for books, a decorative focal point and a source of heat. It’s always a good idea to buy multifunctional pieces, as they save you space and money. 

What Rooms Can You Add a Fireplace to?

From the cozy living room to the luxe bathroom, electric fireplaces can be incorporated into just about any room in your home with a standard electric outlet. It’s always a good idea to check for any electric fireplace codes in your area. As a rule of thumb, electric fireplaces require at least three feet of clearance from combustible materials such as furniture, pillows, bedding, papers, clothes and curtains.

Great Rooms for an Electric Fireplace:

• Living room
• Dining room
• Bedroom
• Study/office
• Kitchen
• Bathroom
• Sunroom
• Guestroom
• Game room

Add a Fireplace for Winter Gatherings

When the weather outside gets chilly, most get-togethers and family gatherings move indoors. There’s not much that can match the ambiance of a fireplace with its warm glow and flickering flames. Fireplaces anchor the room, creating a space for loved ones to gather around. 

It’s easy to style an electric fireplace in your space. If you’re short on floor space, a wall-mounted electric fireplace adds a statement while eliminating clutter. If you like the idea of a more traditional fireplace, consider swapping out your current TV stand for a multifunctional electric fireplace TV stand that blends into your space effortlessly. 

When decorating your spaces this winter season, keep family and friend gatherings in mind. El Dorado Furniture has all the furniture, décor and accessories you’ll need to renovate and redesign your living spaces just in time for the holidays.