How Do Electric Fireplace Inserts Work?

Traditional wood-burning fireplaces’ welcoming and romantic ambiance is almost impossible to match. However, they might not be the most practical or safest type of fireplace for many homeowners.

If you are considering switching from wood-burning to a more environmentally friendly model, electric fireplace inserts might be the best choice. However, you might be wondering how they work.

What Is an Electric Fireplace Insert?

Fireplace inserts are installed in existing fireplace openings. They are usually used to update an old fireplace or switch from one fuel type to another without making significant structural changes to your home.

Additionally, an electric fireplace insert uses electricity instead of wood, pellets, or gas.

How Do Electric Fireplace Inserts Work?

An electric fireplace insert works in the same way as a modern electric fireplace. The only difference is the installation process because inserts are installed directly into existing fireplace openings. They don’t need venting, so the installation is pretty straightforward.

Electric fireplace inserts use electricity to power their inner coils, creating heat that will warm up your home. This heat is transferred into the room through powerful fans that recycle cool air and distribute hot air.

Additionally, electric fireplace inserts include realistic flames that mimic the fire created by a traditional fireplace. The display uses lighting effects and even noises to imitate real, flickering flames, providing a romantic and magical ambiance.

Can You Put an Electric Fireplace Insert In an Existing Fireplace?

Electric fireplace inserts are designed to be installed in existing fireplace openings. The only significant change you’ll need to make when installing one of these devices into your existing fireplace opening is checking whether you have a power outlet nearby.

Electric fireplace inserts require electricity to operate. Therefore, if you don’t have a nearby power outlet, you will have to contact an electrician for the installation process.

Are Electric Fireplace Inserts Regulated?

Although it’s a matter of every local government, electric fireplace inserts don’t have the same regulations as traditional wood fireplaces. There’s no fire or CO2 involved in the process, which means you can even have one of these inserts installed in your apartment.

Benefits of Electric Fireplace Inserts

Installing a fireplace insert can be an excellent choice for many homeowners, and an electric model brings many benefits. From superior energy efficiency and safety to a more modern design and extra features, adding an electric fireplace is the way to go.

Here are the advantages of electric fireplace inserts:

Better Energy Efficiency

The main reason electric fireplace inserts are so popular among homeowners is that they have higher energy efficiency compared to traditional wood-burning models. Since these fireplaces don’t use real fire, they don’t require a venting system, meaning you don’t lose any energy during the venting process.

Reduced Carbon Footprint

Another reason electric fireplace inserts are so popular is that they have a lower carbon footprint. Since they don’t burn fossil fuels or wood, there’s no CO2 released into the atmosphere, which is also better for your health.

Increased Safety for Your Family

Electric fireplace inserts don’t use real fire, meaning they are safer to use, especially for families with kids and pets. Some models even include a safety feature that automatically turns off the device if it overheats during use.

Improved Functionality and Versatility

Unlike traditional wood-burning fireplaces, electric fireplaces inserts can be used in multiple ways. You can turn the flame display off while the device provides heat to the room. Alternatively, you might choose to display the flame without heating. You can even use both if you’re looking for the ultimate experience!

Additionally, electric fireplace inserts are easier to use than traditional models. There’s no need to ignite anything, so the process is straightforward. They even include control panels to change temperature, intensity, flame display colors, and more.

Included Extra Features

Some manufacturers include additional features to make the experience more enjoyable for users. For instance, an electric fireplace insert might provide Bluetooth connectivity or remote control to allow total access to its features without getting close to the device. Similarly, there are other features like automatic switch-offs, color options, and more.

Find the Perfect Fireplace Insert with CAPO Building Specialties

For the best electric fireplace inserts, you can count on CAPO Building Specialties. We have the most stylish and high-quality models from the industry’s most trusted and popular brands, from DIMPLEX to Modern Flames. Check out our complete Electric Fireplace Insert Collection and find the right one for your needs!