Electric fireplaces are always a great addition when you’re looking for an eco-friendly heating source to use in your home. The design, operation, and efficiency make it in demand among consumers who are looking to add a useful feature that boosts the comfort and appeal of their interior setting. If you plan to install a fireplace insert into a cabinet, it’s important to know the ins and outs of installing an electric fireplace into a cabinet.
In this post, you will learn:
- How to Install an Electric Fireplace Insert into a Cabinet
- Choosing the Best Fireplace for Your Setting
- How You Can Benefit from an Electric Fireplace
- Different Types of Fireplaces Available in the Industry
- Tips for Extending the Lifespan of Your Fireplace
- Unique Ways of Enhancing the Look of Your Fireplace
- Are Electric Fireplaces Safe?
How to install an electric fireplace insert into a cabinet
When you have a cabinet in an entertainment center built into your wall, an electric fireplace can be an added feature. It can enhance the room’s look and add to the surroundings’ ambiance. One of the best ways to install an electric fireplace insert into a cabinet is with a wall mount. Most wall mounts can be secured and installed onto a wall with screws or brackets, which will keep the insert in place. You’ll want to find the wall studs to ensure the fireplace is adequately supported, which will prevent it from ripping out because of the weight. Once the product is secured with a wall mount, plug it into an electrical outlet to ensure it’s powered and ready to use.
Not only can you install an electric fireplace insert into a cabinet, but you can also place it in an existing fireplace opening in your home. This can allow you to update and makeover the existing fireplace without tearing out any of the materials.
You don’t need to hire a professional for this easy DIY electric fireplace insert installation into a cabinet. Start by easing the insert into the firebox and using a trim kit for the perfect fit. You can plug it into an outlet that is present in the firebox or on the exterior of the fireplace on the surround. If you prefer the electrical cord to be hidden, hire an electrician to install an outlet inside the fireplace to keep it discrete.
This installation method offers a high level of convenience because it’s easy and straightforward. Compared to installing a gas fireplace, you don’t have to hire a professional to add a gas line. You also don’t need to add a chimney or flue because there are no real flames, as combustible materials aren’t needed. The lack of smoke produced means you don’t need to make any configurations to the building or add venting, which can allow you to spend less to install the electric fireplace insert after your purchase.
The owner’s manual should also include installation instructions depending on the specific model you own. The product may come with specific hardware or tools that are needed to secure it inside the cabinet or firebox.
Choosing the best fireplace for your setting
When you’re ready to purchase a premium electric fireplace, you should start by doing some research to find the right model and style to use for your home. There are a variety of choices available to ensure you have more of a selection and feature options for the type of fireplace you select for your home. First, compare the top brands in the industry to get an idea of what other customers consider to be reputable. Brands that are established in the industry and have excellent ratings are the most trusted.
Most consumers are familiar with brand names like MagikFlame, Dimplex, and PuraFlame because of how successful they’ve been in the industry. Although somewhat newer, MagikFlame has increased in popularity because of the holographic technology used in each electric fireplace. The technology is patented and isn’t offered by other brands, and is an important part of the MagikFlame story because it was invented by the founder.
Although you may find an electric fireplace that is precisely what you’re looking for, it’s also important to research the manufacturing process to determine if the product will hold up well over time. You can access the manufacturer’s website to discover how MagikFlame is built to learn about how the parts are constructed and assembled. The MagikFlame 28” inch electric inserts are manufactured in Nashville by a team of skilled technicians to ensure you can invest in something that is reliable and operates well long-term.
Online reviews are also helpful while searching for the best electric fireplace to install. Hearing from other customers and learning about their own experience using each product is more straightforward than only reading the model’s description and specifications. MagikFlame reviews are posted directly on the company’s website and even include a photo idea gallery with how you can display the product in your home.
Amazon is another site where you can find reviews and even view a video gallery where customers post media about the fireplace in their home or office. Customers share their photos and videos of Dimplex Revillusion fireplaces and Magikflame products to give you an idea of what to expect.
The price of an electric fireplace should also be considered when you are shopping around. Most companies offer payment plans and financing options to ensure you have plenty of options for purchasing their product. Avoid buying the cheapest fireplace in the industry, as this can compromise the quality and longevity of the product. While reading about the cost, you can also look into any warranty that comes with the product, as well as the return policy.
Remember to check out the BTUs of the electric fireplace to ensure it will sufficiently heat the room where you will be placing it. To do this, you will need to obtain the square feet of the space you want to heat and multiply it by 20 to get the exact number of BTUs you need from the electric fireplace.
How you can benefit from an electric fireplace
There are many ways you can feel more comfortable selecting an electric fireplace instead of other types of fireplaces available. Electric fireplaces from Touchstone, MagikFlame, and Dimplex are easier to maintain and won’t require cleaning after you have a fire. Compared to a traditional fireplace, there aren’t any ashes to clean and sweep out, which can cause you to spend time maintaining the product. You also don’t have to spend a lot of time cleaning soot build-up out of the chimney or hiring a costly professional chimney sweep to perform the task.
You don’t have to compromise your warmth when opting for an electric fireplace instead of other options available because it’s an excellent heat source. Although most people think traditional fireplaces work the best for heating the interior of their home, electric fireplaces are known to start heating the room in minutes. They allow you to get warmer quicker than other types of fireplaces. They also offer zone heating, which means you don’t have to heat unused rooms of the home and waste energy where it’s not needed. You also don’t have to worry about making the house’s second story too warm as the heat rises. With an electric fireplace, the heat is contained and is warm enough to supplement your main heating system. This can allow you to adjust the thermostat in your home and save more money during the colder months.
Your health is also protected when you have an electric fireplace operating in the home. When you use a fireplace that burns wood, it means you expose yourself to harmful contaminants and particles as the smoke is produced. This can affect the air quality in the home and even have an effect on those who suffer from allergies or respiratory issues. An electric fireplace is a safer option because it doesn’t have real flames.
As more people opt for green features in their homes, it’s caused electric fireplace sales to soar in recent years. The product is known to be more eco-friendly because it doesn’t contribute to pollution since smoke isn’t released into the air outside. It also doesn’t use natural gas to operate and only relies on a small amount of electricity. The feature’s eco-friendly design can boost your home’s property value when you install it into a wall because it’s in demand among buyers.
Electric fireplaces are also more cost-effective than other types of fireplaces. You don’t have to worry about spending a lot more on your electric bill. In fact, you may even notice a decrease in your electricity consumption when you use it each day. Electric fireplaces only cost an average of three to eight cents per hour to operate. Gas fireplaces are more than double the cost, with an average of 40 cents per hour to run. You have to spend money on wood every time you want to have a fire with wood-burning fireplaces. You also have to invest in accessories like a fireplace screen and fireplace tools with a wood-burning fireplace, but this cost is avoided with electric fireplaces for added savings.
A high level of convenience comes with owning an electric fireplace. You can operate it with remote control, whether you want to adjust the built-in thermostat or you’re ready to turn it off. Many manufacturers even allow you to change the flame color and the flame size to ensure the flame effect has the look you want.
Different types of electric fireplaces available in the industry
There are many types of electric fireplaces to consider purchasing, depending on the type of home you have or the space that you have available. You can review the MagikFlame electric fireplace buying guide on the company’s website to browse the different options available for your home. The product page will allow you to compare each fireplace and narrow down the top choices.
Many people prefer to own a TV console that has a built-in fireplace, which will enable them to own a functional item that has more than one purpose. The media console or TV stand can support your television and let you to have extra storage space with the included cabinets.
An electric fireplace insert can also be installed in a cavity in the wall if you want it to look like it came with the home. This will create a clean and modern look that is upscale. This type of fireplace is a great option if you’re limited on space because it won’t take up any room. It will also boost the value of your home and can enhance the visual appeal of the setting.
An electric fireplace that you mount on the wall is another option. It’s easy to install, you just plug it into an outlet. You don’t have to hardwire any of the electrical wires and can unplug it and take it with you the next time you move.
Freestanding electric fireplaces are also a popular option because they look similar to a real fireplace and often feature a surround and fireplace mantel. You can place them on any wall in the room and even use the mantel for hanging stockings or displaying family photos. This type of fireplace will look like it’s built into the wall.
There are even freestanding electric fireplaces that are designed to fit in the corner of the room if you’re limited with where you can place them. They’re compact, which makes them ideal to use in smaller rooms or spaces if you live in a condo or apartment.
Tips for extending the lifespan of your fireplace
Most electric fireplaces have an average lifespan of 20 years, which makes them worth their investment because you can get plenty of use out of them. Although they’re built to last, they still require general maintenance and care to ensure the parts continue to operate well.
Although electric fireplaces don’t require cleaning up of any ashes, you should still remove dust and grime that accumulates in the electric firebox throughout the year. If the fireplace has recently been used, unplug the feature to allow the parts to cool before you start dusting the parts. Remove the access panel and use a dust cloth to gently wipe down the log set. You can also use a vacuum to reach small crevices around the log set where dirt or dust may be present. The glass door or panel can also be wiped down to remove any streaks or dirt present. Allow the chemical-free glass cleaner to completely dry before securing the access panel back onto the fireplace to prevent any water spots from forming.
Replacing the light bulbs is another step to take once you invest in an electric fireplace. Fortunately, most light bulbs should last an average of two years before they burn out. Turn off the fireplace to ensure the bulbs completely cool down to avoid burning yourself. Use gloves or a soft cloth when handling the bulbs to prevent the oil on your hands from affecting the illumination or lifespan of the bulbs.
Once each year, it’s important to hire an electrician to inspect the components of the realistic fireplace to ensure everything is in good condition and is operating correctly. The professional will be able to spot any areas that need attention to avoid potential problems in the future. They may recommend certain repairs be made, or specific parts be replaced to extend the fireplace’s lifespan.
Unplugging the electric fireplace when it’s not in use will also extend its lifespan and can minimize your energy usage.
Unique ways of enhancing the look of your fireplace
After you learn how to install a realistic electric fireplace insert into a cabinet, you can get started decorating it. There are several ways to dress up your fireplace and make it the focal point in the room to ensure it stands out and creates an attractive setting. Although an electric insert can have a simple design, you can install a mantel above it to create an eye-catching built-in look. Opt for a mantel that is constructed out of reclaimed wood if you want a rustic or farmhouse style.
You can also add a rug or runner at the base of the fireplace for a touch of warmth. Your children or pets can sit on the rug and enjoy the warmth of the fireplace without sitting on the bare floor. A pouf will also offer an extra touch to the feature that can add an extra place to sit.
Building a surround on a zero-clearance electric fireplace insert will also enhance the design and look of the feature to ensure it stands out. If you want to go for a popular look, opt for a shiplap surround that is rustic and adds character to the space. You can even paint the surround navy blue or black to make it look bold and dramatic.
Adding décor to the mantel can create a cozy and inviting setting to enhance the ambiance of your living room. Garland will add a touch of greenery that can be used year-round. Opt for using a garland that features faux eucalyptus or succulents to ensure it works well in different seasons.
A large mirror will also draw more attention to the fireplace and can also create the illusion of more space in the room. If you want to incorporate more color, opt for a large painting or picture that reflects your personal style and taste.
Are electric fireplaces safe?
Electric fireplaces are considered the safest type of fireplace because they don’t use real fire. Most realistic fireplaces use screens, LED lights, or even mist to create the illusion of real flames to ensure you achieve the look of a real wood fireplace. The glass doors also don’t get hot because real fire isn’t used, which means your family members or pets aren’t at risk of getting burned if they get close to the feature.
Because of their plug-in design, they’re easy to operate and don’t require hardwiring. Place the feature within a few feet of an outlet to make it easy to plug into the wall. Avoid using an extension cord, this could cause too much power to surge through the cord, which can make the cord too hot.
Many electric fireplaces also come with safety features like a timer to ensure it automatically shuts off after a period of time. You don’t have to worry about leaving it on for too long to prevent it from overheating. You also don’t have to keep combustible materials several feet away from the fireplace because ambers won’t jump out of the fireplace compared to a wood fireplace.
Knowing how to install an electric fireplace insert into a cabinet can allow you to prepare for the process and avoid common mistakes. By following the right steps, it’s an easy DIY project that doesn’t always require hiring a professional electrician to assist.
