Do Electric Fireplaces Give Off Heat? (Facts You Need to Know)
Many people who want to buy an electric fireplace, really want to verify whether they give off heat.
The short answer is yes, they do! In this article, I will explain all about how they give off heat, how the heat produced by electric fireplaces compares to gas and wood fireplaces, and more.
So, without further ado, let’s jump in!
Do Electric Fireplaces Give Off Heat?
Yes! Electric fireplaces indeed emit heat. In addition to providing heat, electric fireplaces are designed to provide aesthetic appeal. When activated, they generate warmth through built-in heating elements. Typically, electric fireplaces emit heat from the front or top.
In most electric fireplaces, you can control the temperature output by adjusting the heat settings. The heat level in a room can often be adjusted depending on your preference and the amount of warmth you desire.
Unlike a traditional fireplace, electric fireplaces generate heat primarily through electricity, so no combustion or fuel is needed. They produce no real flames or harmful fumes, so they are a convenient and safe way to add heat and ambiance to a room.
How Heat is Produced in Electric Fireplaces?
Today, nearly all electric fireplace models have a heating element that you can turn on to generate heat.
In a fireplace, this heating element is located separately from the flame. As the fireplace heater is turned on, the fans will activate, pulling cool air from the room into the fireplace and pushing hot air out throughout.
Simply plug your fireplace into a nearby electric socket in your home to provide power to the appliance. Like other forms of fan heaters, many electric fireplaces allow the heat settings to be adjusted to suit your preference.
It’s also becoming more common to find electric fireplaces that come with remote controls, allowing you to adjust the heat output from the comfort of your seat! Electric fireplaces do not have a real flame. An electric fireplace works by using a small fan to blow air over a heating element.
This heated air is then blown out of the fireplace and into the room. You can also set an automatic thermostat on some fireplaces so you don’t have to worry about it! As long as you set the thermostat to the temperature you want, the unit will stay at that temperature. Even leaving your model on overnight is safe due to its various features.
Do Electric Fireplaces get Hot from Outside?
Electric fireplaces don’t have real flames, so their glass won’t get hot. As a result, it is a lot safer and more pet-friendly than traditional fireplaces. Nevertheless, the heating element will get very hot, just like an electric heater.
In order to maintain proper ventilation, you should be careful as to where you place your electric fireplace. Ensure that it is placed in an open area, away from curtains, which may block the vents and cause a fire hazard. Electrical fires can still occur even if the fire isn’t real.
The electric fireplace insert is designed to fit straight into your existing fireplace, so there should be no concern about its positioning. Nevertheless, we recommend that you do not touch the unit while it is being used to prevent accidents.
How does the Heat of an Electric Fireplace Compare to Gas and Wood Fireplaces?
While electric fireplaces are practical for heating a small area, their Btu ratings are usually the lowest. It is common for gas fireplaces to produce anywhere from 8,000 Btu to 60,000 Btu. The energy produced by wood-burning fireplaces ranges between 20,000 and 80,000 Btu, but only 15 to 30 percent of that heat is converted into useful heat for the home. Nevertheless, you can get high-efficiency wood-burning fireplaces with 75 percent or more efficiency, which can provide better heat to your room.
Often referred to as “energy-efficient fireplaces,” electric fireplaces convert electricity directly into heat without losing much energy. In conventional power plants, electricity represents a 66 percent energy loss when it leaves the plant and reaches your house. Electric heating appliances are arguably no more energy efficient than 34 percent, which is much lower than a gas fireplace or even many wood-burning fireplaces.
Because gas fireplaces have the highest Btu and are relatively energy efficient, they typically heat a larger room. It is possible to provide enough heat for a 500-square-foot room with a gas fireplace on the small end. Large models of gas fireplaces can provide heat for rooms up to 2,200 square feet or more. To avoid overheating, it is especially important to size a gas fireplace properly.
Is Heat Optional in Electric Fireplaces?
Yes, definitely! You can decide whether or not to turn on the heat on an electric fireplace by flipping a switch. When you’re warm enough, you can also keep the flames visible but turn off the heating element.
Using them is so easy and convenient, isn’t it? You can use this feature during warmer months or when you want the ambiance of a fireplace without adding additional heat. Remote controls are also available on some units for improved user convenience.
Electric fireplaces are versatile and flexible, catering to varying tastes and seasons thanks to their ability to operate without heat.
Final Thoughts
Before you leave, remember that…
Heat is generated by electric fireplaces by their heating elements and adjustable controls. While they do not get hot from the outside, it is not advised to touch them when operating.
Compared to traditional fireplaces, electric fireplaces convert electricity to heat most efficiently, but they fall behind when it comes to BTU output and range.
Lastly, you can enjoy your electric fireplace with or without heat as well.