Did you know that fireplaces rank among the top three features desired by new homebuyers? Most well constructed homes have a traditional wood burning fireplace and chimney. In fact, built-in wood burning fireplaces are so popular that new home developers add them to master bedrooms, kitchens, and dining rooms.
In some respects, this is a cost effective way to keep your living area warm. With a fire log, you can enjoy warmth and the flame effect for nearly three hours, but are traditional fireplaces truly efficient? I will venture to say no. Although beautiful, about 8% of the warmth this heater is producing is escaping up the chimney, not to mention the emissions, chimney maintenance, and cost of wood. Maintaining a wood burning fireplace can be expensive.
With everyone trying to save a buck, it’s more important than ever to get the most out of your heating options. Moreover, nearly one in five people suffer from allergies. The numbers are increasing and the emissions wood burning fireplaces produce don’t help.
A typical wood burning fireplace emits:
- Fine particles like ash and soot
- Nitrogen dioxide
- Carbon monoxide
- Formaldehyde, benzene, and other compounds
- Carbon dioxide
Some fireplace inserts can heat nearly 400 sq. ft. so the coverage is good. Many offer flame control so you can create room ambiance. Some even come with optional heating so you can take in the flame effect all year long. There are absolutely no emissions. Unless you’re using the flame effect only, 100% of energy used is converted to heat so there is no waste, there is never any ash or soot to clean up, and they do not emitThese emissions inflame existing allergy conditions. If you love the fireplace experience but could do without the cost and the emissions, why not convert your existing fireplace heater into an electric one. Electric inserts for fireplaces are a great way to enjoy
the warmth of a fireplace without all the pollutants. They’re inexpensive to operate and even more effective as heaters. What are the benefits?
smoke or odor into the air.
Other benefits include:
- No greenhouse gases
- Efficient: no fossil fuels required
- Large coverage area
- Adjustable heat settings
- Optional heating
- Cool touch glass
- Adjustable flame effect
- Brightness control
Dimplex DFI23TRIMX Electric Fireplace Insert
1. Close up your existing fireplace. There is no need to remove the old fireplace if the insert will fit inside the existing opening. However, you should close off the fireplace chimney damper to prevent drafts and keep the cold air out.Electric fireplace inserts are easy to install. Following a few simple steps, you can enjoy a clean, emission free fireplace experience.
2. Because there are no emissions or combustibles associated with electric fireplace inserts, there is no venting or clearance required. Measure the floor inside the hearth and build a 2 x 4 frame for the insert to set on. Depending on the height desired, you may have to build it up.
3. Use corner blocks to reinforce the inside corners of the frame, then attach the frame to the floor.
4. Measure and cut plywood hearth board to fit securely over the frame. This provides a foundation for the insert.
6. Check to be sure the frame and hearth board are level before securing.
7. Apply construction adhesive along the top of the 2 x 4 hearth frame. Set the top hearth board in place.
8. Drill countersink holes and add 1 1/2” wood screws to hold the board in place while the glue sets.
9. Fill the screw holes with wood putty. Apply molding around the outside edge of the hearth frame as desired.
10. Install the electric fireplace by attaching the mounting hardware as directed by the manufacturer. Test fit the insert in the opening and check for level.
11. Insert require access to an electrical outlet. If there isn’t one present, remove the insert and create an access hole in the existing hearth side for the unit’s electrical plug and cord.
Dimplex DFI23106A 23 Inch Electric Fireplace Insert
12. Use a masonry bit and a cold chisel as needed if you have to break through a tile, stone or concrete surround.
13. Route the electrical wire from the firebox through the hole and extend it to the nearest electrical outlet. Reinstall the firebox and attach it to the hearth.
14. If desirable, measure for the firebox surround frame. The design and construction of a suitable surround and mantel are up to you. Use 2 x 4s to frame the sides and top of the
firebox, and use finished plywood for the facing.
15. Finish the frame and as desired.
If you love your mantel, then utilize it and accent the firebox as desired. You might want to add tile, molding, or other finishing touches to create a flattering look.