If you are going to install an electric fireplace and have a few objections about its safety, then you may stop worrying. An electric fireplace is not only extremely easy to use, but also ecologically friendly and efficient, due to a number of built-in safety measures such as overheating protection and automatic power-off that reduce the risks greatly.
Of course, proper use is equally important. After that, we are going to explain why electric fireplaces are safe in detail and introduce some things to keep in mind when using them daily.
How Safe is an Electric Fireplace?
As a kind of smart and green heating device, an electric fireplace is safer than a common household appliance and a traditional fireplace for the following reasons:
No Real Flames
Electric fireplaces give you the sensation of flame through subtle light effects and reflective technology. Because it is a virtual flame and has the exact appearance of a real one, no actual combustion occurs; hence, there isn't any need to worry about accidental sparks or possible dangers of an unstable flame.
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No Gases, Smoke or Hazardous Substances
Because electric fireplaces don't burn anything at all, none of the harmful fumes or gases are created, and neither dust nor particulate buildups do occur. Hence, indoor air quality will not be compromised, and you'll have little to worry about in terms of cleaning and maintenance.
Safety Features
Among the various safety features in electric fireplaces are:
- Overheat protection: automatically cutting the power when the unit gets hot to avoid surprises.
- Adjustable temperature control: allows the right temperature setting according to one's needs.
- A direct wiring function: ensures a more stable and safer power connection.
- Remote control function: makes operation easy remotely with more convenience.
- Timer Function: You are allowed to set the electric fireplace running and let it auto-shutoff after a certain amount of time.
Safety of Children and Pets
The surface of an electric fireplace is usually made with low-temperature safe materials; plus, several models are installed with "Safe-Touch" glass which keeps the surface cold even after hours of running. If kids or pets play around the fireplace, they will not harm themselves upon unplanned touches.
Are Electric Fireplaces Safer than Space Heaters?
Yes, electric fireplaces are safer in most ways compared to space heaters, including:
More Stability
Electric fireplaces are engineered to be more stable. Many models can be mounted directly to a wall or secured to the floor, making them a much safer product for customers and less likely to tip over than traditional heaters. In contrast, many of the space heaters-especially those that are portable-can easily be knocked over and result in a fire.
Built-in Safety Features
Most electric fireplaces are equipped with overheating guard and temperature control. In other words, it can turn itself off in case temperatures higher than a safe degree are reached or when the unit has been operating for too long, while space heaters, most of them require you to monitor and not be complacent.
Lower Exterior Temperatures
An electric fireplace's outer casing remains cool even after a long time of running. Hence, it cannot burn people or pets. In contrast, a space heater's outer casing surface, to be more specific, the portion of its surface close to the heating element, is usually hot enough to burn upon contact easily.
Safety during Long Operation
Unlike most of their competitors, electric fireplaces can work in energy-saving modes for long periods of time without much attention and safety. By contrast, space heaters will have limitations in thermal design that often cause them to overheat when on for too long. When this happens, it certainly increases the risk of malfunction or fire.
Are TV Stands with Electric Fireplaces Safe?
Well, TV stands with electric fireplaces are very safe. Electric fireplaces have been designed with overheating protection, automatic power-off systems, and temperature control systems to avoid overheating of fireplaces.
The heat from the electric fireplace usually radiates from the front or the side and will not affect your TV or any other piece of equipment. While the new designs of the modern TV stands have also considered the problem of ventilation and heat dissipation to guarantee that a TV and all electronic devices can work in safe and stable conditions.
Can I Leave an Electric Fireplace All Night?
Yes, electric fireplaces are safe, but you really shouldn't leave them on at night. First, turning off your electric fireplace before going to bed is a much safer way to avoid any accidents for safety reasons. Second, leaving an electric fireplace running all night increases the bill and is not wallet-friendly.
If you want to keep it on at night, then consider an electric fireplace with an automatic overheating shutoff and timer for every model. Yes, electric fireplaces create a warmth and ambiance at night.
However, for your safety's sake, it is highly recommended that you should set a timer or turn off the heating capability before you go to bed and leave the flame effect on for your warmth feeling. That way, you'll not only have a nice ambiance around you, you will also be able to sleep tight knowing nothing is wrong.
Electric Fireplace Safety Tips
Even though electric fireplaces are one of the safest heating tools when it comes to modern homes, there are some basic tips which will make your life easier and give your mind rest at times of use.
Regularly Check Power Cords and Plugs
Like any other appliance, the power cord and plug of an electric fireplace can eventually fray and even get damaged. Eventually, this leads to electrical malfunctions, but regularly making sure that if there is something unusual, you stop using it immediately and have it repaired.
Avoid Extension Cords
It is safer for you to plug your electric fireplace directly into a wall outlet. Extension cords tend to overheat; this increases the fire risk. If you must use an extension cord, be sure to choose a heavy-duty one with a grounding feature, but it is still better to avoid this practice as much as possible.
Maintain Good Ventilation
Keep the air vents of your electrical fireplace free, and avoid placing them close to highly flammable items like bedding or any form of clothes. Provide a free path for hot air to radiate out, eliminating any risks of overheating.
Give a Good Distance
Place furniture, curtains, and other combustible materials at least 3 to 5 feet away from the electric fireplace to prevent fire hazards. This will give an added measure of safety for your home.
Unplugged When Not in Operation
Turn off your electric fireplace if it is not in use for an extremely long time or when not needed; that saves electricity and also minimizes the risk. Opt for Products That Have Certifications of
Choose Products That Are Certified for Safety
When buying an electric fireplace, try your best to pick those that have attained some safety certification such as UL. The products have passed strict tests and are secure to use, offering you extra peace of mind.
Stay away from Humid Environments
Do not place your electric fireplace in a humid area, such as in a bathroom or laundry room. Water exposure to electrical appliances is dangerous for you and should be avoided as much as possible.
Pay Extra Attention to Children and Pets
The surface temperature of an electric fireplace usually remains low; still, you have to pay extra heed towards children and pets during its use to avoid any accidents.
Do Not Make Modifications
Changes to an electric fireplace can be dangerous. If you experience a malfunctioning problem with the unit, have it repaired or adjusted by a professional qualified to do so to assure safe use.
Add an Electric Fireplace to Your Home Today!
Now that you know an electric fireplace is safe, beautiful, and eco-friendly, it's about time to stop by the Belleze online store and choose your favorite model. Our electric fireplaces turn out to be very functional for being an auxiliary source of heat, and not only are they efficient when compared to traditional methods of heating, but also safe for homes with small children and pets.
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Do Electric Fireplaces Use a Lot of Electricity?
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