Otis Singleton
Converting a wood fireplace to an electric fireplace is a great way to enjoy the warmth and ambiance of a fireplace without the safety concerns, hassles, and inconveniences associated with a traditional wood-burning fireplace. Electric fireplaces are safer, more energy-efficient, and easier to maintain than their wood-burning counterparts. The conversion process is relatively simple and can be done by following a few steps, including measuring the existing fireplace opening, choosing the right type of electric fireplace, and ensuring a power supply to the opening.
Characteristics and Values
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Safety | Electric fireplaces are a safe alternative to wood-burning fireplaces, which come with safety concerns and risks |
| Convenience | Electric fireplaces are convenient and do not require the hassle of chopping and storing wood |
| Maintenance | Electric fireplaces are easy to clean and maintain, unlike wood-burning fireplaces |
| Installation | Plug-in fireboxes and log inserts are two types of electric fireplaces that can be installed into existing wood-burning fireplace openings |
| Appearance | Electric fireplaces have realistic flame effects and hand-painted logs to replicate the look of a wood-burning fireplace |
| Energy Efficiency | Electric fireplaces are energy-efficient and do not require gas fittings or holes in exterior walls |
| Variety | Various sizes and shapes of electric fireplaces are available to fit most wood-burning fireplace openings |
| Functionality | Electric fireplaces provide warmth and ambiance without the associated risks and inconveniences of wood-burning fireplaces |
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What You'll Learn
- Electric fireplaces are safe, clean, and easy to set up
- They come in various sizes and shapes, with realistic flame effects
- Electric log sets are the easiest to set up in an existing wood-burning fireplace opening
- Touchstone has a variety of fireplace sizes to fit most wood-burning fireplace openings
- Converting a wood fireplace to an electric one is a relatively simple process
Electric fireplaces are safe, clean, and easy to set up
Electric fireplaces are an excellent alternative to traditional wood-burning fireplaces. They offer a range of benefits, including enhanced safety, cleanliness, and ease of setup and use.
Safety is a key advantage of electric fireplaces. Unlike wood-burning fireplaces, electric fireplaces do not use real flames, significantly reducing the risk of accidental fires. Additionally, electric fireplaces do not produce fumes or ashes, eliminating the need for venting and creating a cleaner and more environmentally friendly option. The absence of real flames and fumes also means there is no risk of exposing your family to harmful gases or unpleasant odours.
Electric fireplaces are also designed with safety features to provide added peace of mind. Many models include an auto-off or shutoff feature that automatically turns the unit off when it reaches a certain temperature or begins to overheat. This not only reduces the risk of fires but also helps prevent short circuits. Some electric fireplaces even have timers, allowing you to set them to turn off automatically after a specified period. This feature is especially useful if you tend to nod off in front of the fireplace or want to create a romantic ambiance without worrying about turning it off.
In terms of setup and installation, electric fireplaces are incredibly convenient. They are available in various sizes and shapes to fit most wood-burning fireplace openings. The installation process is relatively simple and typically involves inserting the electric fireplace into the existing masonry fireplace. This can be done by cleaning the existing fireplace box, sliding in the electric insert, and plugging it into a standard outlet. Some models may require a plug-kit, while others can be hardwired by a professional if desired.
Overall, electric fireplaces offer a safe, clean, and easy-to-install alternative to traditional wood-burning fireplaces. They provide the warmth and ambiance of a fireplace without the associated hassles, risks, and inconveniences. With their realistic flame effects and energy efficiency, electric fireplaces are an excellent choice for any home.
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They come in various sizes and shapes, with realistic flame effects
Electric fireplaces come in a variety of sizes and shapes, with realistic flame effects, making them a great option for converting your wood fireplace. The first step in the process is to measure the depth of your existing fireplace, which can range from 7 to 12 inches. This measurement is crucial as it determines the size of the electric insert you will need.
The Touchstone® electric fireplace insert, for example, offers a range of sizes to fit most wood-burning fireplace openings, including the Sideline 36, 45, and 50. For Wi-Fi-enabled options, the Sideline Elite 42 and 50 are available. If you have a taller fireplace opening, the Forte collection is ideal. The non-reflective Sideline Steel collection offers a screen front for a traditional look.
Electric log inserts are another option, composed of composite logs and an electrical cord, with some models featuring a grate. These logs are designed to be lifelike, producing a realistic flame image without the fumes or smells associated with gas or wood fireplaces. They are safe, clean, and convenient, with many models offering remote control functionality.
The variety of sizes and shapes available for electric fireplaces, along with their realistic flame effects, provide a seamless and aesthetically pleasing conversion option for your wood fireplace.
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Electric log sets are the easiest to set up in an existing wood-burning fireplace opening
Electric log sets are the most straightforward option for converting an existing wood-burning fireplace to electric. They are safe, clean, and easy to operate, and they don't require any structural changes to your fireplace. Electric log sets are designed to fit into your existing fireplace opening, providing a seamless and hassle-free conversion.
Electric log sets typically consist of composite logs, an electrical cord, and sometimes a grate for the logs to sit on. The logs are crafted to look like real wood, and they produce a realistic flame image, creating a cosy atmosphere without the hassle of a traditional fire. The size of the electric log set is an important consideration. They range from 18 to 40 inches in width, so you'll need to measure your fireplace opening to ensure you select the right size for a snug fit.
The installation process for electric log sets is relatively simple. You won't need to worry about gas fittings, masonry work, or creating holes in exterior walls. In most cases, all you'll need to do is clean your existing fireplace box, slide in the electric log set, and plug it into a standard electrical outlet. Some models may require a plug kit, but overall, the installation is straightforward and can be completed without significant modifications to your fireplace.
Before installing an electric log set, it's important to consult a professional to ensure your fireplace is properly sealed and the gas line, if present, is disabled. Additionally, you may want to consider the power source for your electric log set. While plugging into an existing outlet is convenient, you might prefer to have a dedicated electrical line installed directly into the bottom or back of the fireplace opening for a more permanent solution.
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Touchstone has a variety of fireplace sizes to fit most wood-burning fireplace openings
Converting a wood fireplace to an electric fireplace is a great way to enjoy the warmth and comfort of a fireplace without the safety concerns, hassles, and inconveniences associated with a traditional wood-burning or gas fireplace. Electric fireplaces are a viable and energy-efficient alternative, offering realistic flame effects without the risks and maintenance of their traditional counterparts.
Touchstone, a renowned brand in the electric fireplace space, offers a wide range of fireplace sizes to fit most wood-burning fireplace openings. The variety of sizes ensures that you can find the perfect fit for your existing fireplace, making the conversion process seamless.
The Touchstone Sideline Electric Fireplace collection is a popular choice for those looking to convert their wood-burning fireplaces. This collection offers a range of widths, including the Sideline 36, Sideline 45, and Sideline 50, ensuring a suitable option for various fireplace openings. The Sideline Electric Fireplace is designed to fit flush in the wall, providing a sleek and modern look.
For those seeking a Wi-Fi-enabled fireplace, Touchstone offers the Sideline Elite 42 and Sideline Elite 50 Smart Electric Fireplaces. These models provide the added convenience of remote control and smart home integration. Additionally, for taller fireplace openings, the Forte Electric Fireplace collection from Touchstone is an ideal choice, offering an electric fireplace with an ideal height.
The installation process for a Touchstone electric fireplace is relatively straightforward. It involves building a frame for the fireplace, ensuring a snug fit, and creating an opening for the electrical cord and plug. The fireplace can then be plugged into a standard 120v outlet, or for a more permanent solution, it can be hardwired by a professional.
When converting a wood-burning fireplace to electric, it is important to consult professionals, including a contractor, gas company, and chimney sweep, to ensure the safe disablement of the gas line and proper sealing of the fireplace. With Touchstone's variety of fireplace sizes and styles, you can easily find a suitable option to transform your old wood-burning fireplace into a modern, efficient, and safe electric fireplace.
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Converting a wood fireplace to an electric one is a relatively simple process
There are two types of electric fireplaces that can be used for the conversion: plug-in fireboxes and log inserts. Log inserts are composed of composite logs and an electrical cord, with some models including a grate for the logs to sit on. The logs are designed to be lifelike and produce a realistic flame image without the fumes or smells of a wood or gas fire. They are safe, clean, and easy to operate, with many models being remote-controlled. Plug-in fireboxes can also be used in conjunction with log inserts.
To install an electric fireplace, you will need to first measure the existing fireplace opening to ensure that the electric insert fits seamlessly. The depth of electric inserts typically ranges from 7 to 12 inches. It is important to determine the type of existing fireplace, whether it is a zero-clearance or factory-built fireplace, or a full masonry fireplace. Zero-clearance fireplaces are often made to look like masonry but are actually a brick façade with a metal insert. Full masonry fireplaces have firebricks inside the opening, which gets narrower towards the back and may include a mesh screen or glass doors.
Once you have measured the opening and identified the type of existing fireplace, you can proceed with the installation. For plug-in fireboxes, you will need to clean up the existing fireplace box, slide in the insert, and plug it into a standard outlet. Most electric inserts come pre-wired, but some may require the addition of a plug kit. There is no need for gas fittings, masonry work, or holes in exterior walls, making the installation process relatively simple.
Converting a wood fireplace to an electric one offers a convenient and safe alternative to a traditional wood-burning fire. By following the steps outlined above, you can easily upgrade your fireplace and enjoy the warmth and ambiance of a fire without the associated hassles.
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Frequently asked questions
Electric fireplaces are a safe, hassle-free, and energy-efficient alternative to wood-burning fireplaces. They don't require safety barriers, heatproof materials, or annual safety checks, and are easy to clean.
There are two main types: plug-in fireboxes and log inserts. Plug-in fireboxes can be plugged into a standard outlet or hardwired by a professional. Log inserts are composed of composite logs and an electrical cord, and often come with a grate for the logs to sit on.
Electric inserts range in depth from 7 to 12 inches. Measure the width of your existing fireplace opening 12 inches from the front bricks to ensure you choose an insert that fits properly.
First, clean up the existing fireplace box. Then, slide the electric insert into the opening and plug it into a standard outlet. You may need to add a plug kit. If there is an existing gas insert, consult a professional to ensure the gas line is disabled.
Touchstone and Napoleon offer a range of electric fireplace options, including Wi-Fi-enabled and Alexa-built-in models, as well as different sizes to fit most wood-burning fireplace openings.
