There are many skeptics out there that don’t believe electric fireplaces compare to real gas or wood-burning fireplaces. They feel that electric fireplaces just don’t look authentic enough ruining the ambiance of the room.
The developments in electric fireplaces, however, have come on leaps and bounds over the last few years, meaning that these faux fire fireplaces are now closer than ever to the real thing.
Why Choose an Electric Fireplace?
There are many reasons that you might choose to have an electric fireplace in your home rather than gas or wood:
Cheaper
Depending on how your gas or electricity bills are set up and paid for, you may find that investing in an electric fireplace saves you money when compared to investing in a gas fire.
Safer
Although electricity can never be 100% safe, it certainly avoids gas leaks or kindling fires, and reduces the risk of burns and fire-related accidents happening.
Design Flexibility
Electric fires can enhance a modern aesthetic, as well as complement a traditional style, depending on what style your home benefits from.
Cleaner
Woodburning fires are an elegant option that enhances a romantic and cosy atmosphere. Of course, once the fire goes out, you’ll likely find yourself with a fair bit of cleaning to do around your fireplace to keep it in tip-top condition.
How to Make an Electric Fireplace Look Real?
Whilst electric fireplaces are made with authenticity in mind, there are many things you can do to enhance the look of an electric fireplace, and keep everyone guessing over whether or not the flames are real.
The Flame
The trick to selecting your most convincing fire is the amount you pay. Cheaper electric fireplaces will use LED lights and a flicker rod to create different fire effects and the better the brand, the more realistic the fire is.
If you go for a top-quality brand, they will likely combine lighting with water misting and even an added fire sound to really convince any visitors. You get what you pay for. Make sure you check out the fire effects before making your purchase.
The Brand
Again, looking for the best brand is key. It’s great to get a perfect fireplace to begin with, but much like real fires, you need them to last. Cheaper and less established brands are more likely to offer lower-quality products which a) don’t look like real fires because of their boxed casing and b) may break more easily. If you buy from a cheaper, unestablished brand, replacement parts may be a struggle to come by.
The Wall Fitting
Don’t just place the fire on the floor or embedded into the wall. Some embedded electric fires look modern and actually give a great effect. However, if your aim is to convince people that your fire is real, it’s not going to work if it’s floating in mid-air.
Consider where a real fire would be – at the focal point of your room – and decorate accordingly, perhaps use a hearth, complete with customary fire pokers to give the impression of a real working fire. People will be more likely to believe that your fire is real if it’s an integral part of your house, and not just a showpiece.
The Installation
To ensure that your guests think that you’ve had a real fire installed, you’ll need to consider how it’s displayed on your wall. It’s no good having the wiring showing or the cord clearly connecting to a socket right next to the fire.
Consider having your new electric fireplace hardwired so that none of the wires protrude beyond the fireplace area. You might also want to cover up the area where the flames will come from with rocks or logs to give the idea of a real fire burning.
Burning Inspirations – Electric Fireplaces
Electric fireplaces offer a range of style options. They can be cheaper and safer to have in your home, and no one need know the flames aren’t real.
If you’re considering investing in an electric fireplace, make sure you chat with our friendly team at Burning Inspirations. We’ll give you the rundown on all styles and designs available to help you choose the option most suited to you and your home.