How To Build A Frame For An Electric Fireplace Insert

How would you like to enjoy the warmth of an electric fireplace without having to pay for electricity? If you want to install an electric fireplace insert, you'll need to choose a good-quality unit that will last for years.

An electric fireplace insert is a steel box that is measured to slide right inside your existing wood-burning fireplace, with a surrounding trim that covers up any gaps.

Electric fireplaces are becoming increasingly popular because they offer a warm and cozy ambiance at home with very little effort. They also save energy and money. However, choosing the right electric fireplace insert can be tricky.

How To Build A Frame For Electric Fireplace Inserts

Electric fireplace inserts are becoming increasingly popular because they are environmentally friendly and easy to maintain. However, before you buy one, make sure you know how to construct a frame for it as badly built frames can lead to issues and be potential fire risks.

Below we look at the basic steps and considerations when building a frame for an electric fireplace insert.

Size

The first step in constructing a frame for an electric fireplace is selecting the right size. Measure the space in your existing fireplace that you are hoping to fill.

The measurements you use should be slightly smaller to allow space to install wires and wiggle room for installing the insert itself. The frame you build will cover any void space.

Material

Next, you must select the type of material you would like to use. For example, if you are using brick, concrete block, or stone, you will need to cut these materials to fit the dimensions of the space.

Fitting

For the fitting and installation of an electric fireplace insert, you may need the help of a professional, particularly if you need to work with wires to rig up the insert.

Building the frame is possible to do as a DIY job but when electricity and wiring are involved it is always worthwhile getting professional help to avoid any accidents.

Some people may decide to build around the initial fireplace that they have to give a new look to a space purely by creating a wooden frame for the insert to be fitted into.

Electric fireplace inserts are a fantastic way of changing the aesthetic of a space without having to redesign the entire room or replace furniture. 

The Benefits Of Electric Fireplace Inserts

There are a lot of benefits associated with electric fireplace inserts. Below we take a look at some of the biggest benefits people find.

Save Time And Money

One of the biggest reasons why people choose electric fireplace inserts over traditional fireplaces is because they don't require any kind of fuel.

Costs of fuel such as firewood and coal continue to rise, making it costly for homeowners that depend on a fireplace to heat certain spaces in their home. Instead, all you need to do is plug it in and turn it on. 

Many experts believe that electric fireplace inserts will also help you to save energy over time which will help to reduce your household bills. If you choose one wisely, you'll probably find yourself saving a lot of money in the long run.

If you plan to keep your electric fireplace inserted for more than 10 years, it may cost less than replacing your old fireplace altogether.

No Smells Or Dust

Another reason why people opt for electric fireplace inserts is that they eliminate the unpleasant odor associated with burning wood.

Often smoke from coal can be dusty which can affect light-colored pieces of furniture, carpet, and flooring as well as make people with allergies suffer from sneezing fits and coughing.

Easy To Maintain And Use

Because there's no combustion involved, electric fireplace inserts are easier to clean than conventional ones. Unlike wood-burning fireplaces, which require regular maintenance such as cleaning chimneys, electric fireplace inserts only require occasional cleaning.

Because these units use electricity instead of combustible fuels, they are convenient. All you have to do is plug them in and turn them on. Electric fireplace inserts usually operate very simply. They may have a few buttons or knobs, but they usually don't require much attention.

Easy To Install

Most electric fireplace inserts come equipped with pre-installed wiring. You just have to connect it to an electrical outlet and then install it where you want.

If the insert you purchase does not have pre-installed wiring you should hire a professional to ensure your installation is completed without any issues or errors which could cause serious problems down the line.

Safer

Since electric fireplace inserts use electricity rather than fossil fuels, they are considered environmentally friendly. Renewable energy continues to evolve, helping to also make electricity more environmentally friendly as well.

As mentioned earlier, electric fireplace inserts don't produce carbon monoxide fumes. This means that you won't be exposed to any health risks when using them, helping to reduce the risk of Carbon Monoxide poisoning in your home. 

Pets love the scent of burning logs, but they can get hurt if they try to play around while you're trying to light a fire. With electric fireplace inserts, however, pets are safe from harm.

If you have young children in your home electric fireplace inserts are also safer as you can get a specific type of glass that does not heat up on the outside and so if a child touches it they are less likely to get burned. 

Final Thoughts

Electric fireplace inserts are great options for those who don't like the smell of burning wood. They also save time and money since you no longer need to light up a log every night.

But before buying one, make sure that you know exactly what you're getting into. That way, you will avoid unnecessary headaches later on.

Electric fireplace inserts can help you enjoy a cozy winter evening without having to deal with the hassle of lighting a fire. They are easy to install and operate, making them perfect for anyone looking to improve their home’s ambiance.