Electric Fireplace Insert
For those people who live in a townhouse, condominium, small home or apartment, the electric fireplace insert is the perfect solution for a quick, easy, and cost effective means of heating the premises. These types of inserts have the ability to heat small rooms, have realistic flames that will have you doing a double-take to make sure they aren't genuine, and are easy to install.
Most of the electric fireplace insert units on the market today can be plugged into a home's standard 120V wall outlet, which makes them perfect for nearly any room, no additional wiring needed. Models that put out a higher number of BTUs (around 9200) may require a 220V for operation - which is the same voltage that most cooking ranges and clothes dryers run on. Some people who elect for the 220V models often hire an electrician to hardwire the electric fireplace into the home's electrical system, or they have a 220V installed specifically for this purpose.
When purchasing your electric fireplace insert, be sure to take accurate measurements of the area where it will be installed and then make a comparison of the model that you are interested in with the space that you have for it. If the space is much larger, you may want to go with an accompanying fireplace surround kit that will help you to seal up any gaps that are visible. If your electric fireplace insert is going to be inserted into an existing opening, you should measure the opening and have that information on hand when shopping. Decide beforehand the budget that you will have for the fireplace insert and look for models in your price range. Shopping online is a great way to find savings on these types of units. Check for customer reviews on various review sites regarding the model of electric fireplace insert that you are looking to purchase. Some of the lower end electric fireplace inserts start around $400, and go all the way up to over $1,000. Remember, however, that purchasing your electric fireplace insert from a quality manufacturer is optimal, especially if the insert has a lifetime or limited lifetime warranty with it.
The electrical fireplace insert is typically easy to install, and very much less complicated than a traditional fireplace. If you are somewhat "handy" around the house, you can install your unit yourself. Others who are a bit less "handy" may need to hire someone to help with or do the entire installation of the electrical fireplace insert.