Below are the top 11 most asked questions about electric fireplaces. Because electric fireplaces are relatively new products in comparison to gas and wood fireplaces, there is some confusion about what exactly they are and how they operate. The answers below are regarding the Gazco eReflex series of electric fireplaces, however, can be broadly applied to most electric fireplaces currently on the market.
Q - Why buy an electric fireplace?
A - Electric fireplaces are an alternative option in many urban areas where more strict environmental regulations regarding gas and wood fireplaces are being implemented or where customers live within units/apartments that do not allow venting to be installed. Electric fireplaces provide the comfort, ambience, and warmth of a traditional wood or gas-fuelled fireplace; but ventless, and without the need for gas lines.
Q – How do electric fireplaces make flames?
A – They do not actually make flames. Different fireplaces produce the result different a way but mostly it is created by using LED’s. The Gazco eReflex electric fireplace uses Chromalight Technology to create stunning and realistic flame effects.
Q - Are electric fireplaces hot to the touch?
A - Although Gazco eReflex electric fireplaces produce heat, the fireplace itself, and most importantly the glass, will not heat up. Unlike traditional fireplaces where the source of the heat is the flame, the source of heat on the Gazco eReflex is an electric heating unit that produces up to 5,000 BTU’s outside of the display case.
Q - Are electric fireplaces warm?
A - A Gazco eReflex electric fireplace produces heat. It contains a 1-2kW electric heater with a blower to disperse the heat. 1-2 kW equates to approximately 5,000 BTU’s so it has enough power to warm a small area or section of a larger room, however, will not heat your entire home. Gazco eReflex electric fireplaces can also be enjoyed without heat to provide ambience.
Q - Are electric fireplaces expensive to operate?
A - The cost to run an electric fireplace will depend on your region and the price of electricity in the region. All our Gazco eReflex electric fireplaces are Eco-design Compliant and adhere to strict energy consumption regulations.
Q – Are electric fireplaces tacky?
A- Not anymore! When electric fireplaces were first released, they were visibly cheap and had obviously fake flame effects. Modern electric fireplaces such as the Gazco eReflex series are specifically designed to suit any modern home and offer realistic 3-dimensional displays. Gone are the days of cheap TV-style 2-dimensional electric fireplaces.
Q - Which electric fireplace is most realistic?
A - The Gazco eReflex series utilizes a Chromalight triple lighting system to create a realistic and mesmerizing display with endless possibilities. Vivid 3D flame effects are projected to create a realistic glowing fire, while the combination of unique up lighting and downlighting creates a stunning visual display.
Q – Are electric fireplaces efficient?
A – Yes, Electric fireplaces are highly efficient. Since they utilize an electric heater for warmth instead of burning of a fuel source there is little to no wasted energy.
Q - Can electric fireplaces be converted to gas?
A – No, electric fireplaces cannot be converted to gas because electric fireplaces are not made to withstand actual flames; instead, they are a combination of a heater and a fire-like display case to create the illusion of flames. In addition, electric fireplaces are not vented; however, gas fireplaces must be vented.
Q – Can electric fireplaces be built into a wall?
A – Yes. The Gazco eReflex electric fireplaces are built-in electric fireplaces which mean that they are designed to be built into a wall.
Q – Do Electric Fireplaces need venting?
A – No, Electric fireplaces do not create any emissions and therefore do not need to be vented through a chimney, direct vent, or other source like gas and wood fireplaces do.