Yes. Electric fireplaces are considered safer than space heaters because they produce a flame effect without creating actual, real fire. There is limited exposure or a more negligible probability of danger around furniture, tablecloths, and drapes due to no chance of embers escaping from the fireplace.
For many, the biggest drawback of an electric fireplace is its inability to replicate the authentic experience of a wood-burning fireplace. The distinct sound of crackling wood and the characteristic smell of burning logs are conspicuously absent in electric models.
Electric fireplaces emit no harmful gasses. Since they don't have flames and no combustion is taking place, there are no emissions. An electric fireplace is just as safe and healthy to operate as any electrical appliance in your home.
While electric fireplaces are extremely safe, leaving them on overnight (or any time they will not be attended) is not recommended. But electric fireplaces from ClassicFlame® have a number of built-in safety features to help protect you and your home, no matter the situation. For example, many models come with a timer.
Safer Operation
Ductless mini-split systems are generally safer than space heaters. First, they don't get hot to the touch, reducing the risk of the unit burning anyone. Because it is transferring air or using a heat strip, there is little danger in any way.
This suggests that people are less likely to misuse an electric fireplace and therefore the electric fireplace is safer. But this begs the question; why are electric fireplaces misused less than ordinary space heaters? The answer to this lies in the overall size and design of the electric fireplace.
Sealed combustion heaters are much safer to operate than other types of space heaters, and operate more efficiently because they do not draw in the heated air from the room and exhaust it to the outdoors. They are also less likely to backdraft and adversely affect indoor air quality.
Most manufacturers recommend only leaving the fireplace running if the heating element is turned off. You can still leave the faux flames flickering for as long as you want without worrying about any safety issues.
Do electric fireplaces really heat a room? The answer is yes – not as quickly as the traditional options but it does so in a safer and more efficient manner. With a number of benefits that make it an improvement on both gas and wood-burning fireplaces.
Electric Fireplaces Don't Need to be Vented
The reason that fuel burning fireplaces, such as wood and gas, require vents, is to expel excess heat and dangerous emissions, such as carbon monoxide. Because electric fireplaces do not burn fuel internally or produce any emissions, venting is not required.
Also, when you burn gas or wood, you must be aware of the possibility of carbon monoxide poisoning and breathing ash, smoke, and toxic fumes. Electric fireplaces don't pose these dangers, and as long as you're responsible with electric appliances, you and your family will be safe.
As stated above, gas fireplaces can be up to 86% efficient, and a flueless gas fireplace is 100% efficient. These kinds of fireplaces are a great producer of heat and are one of the more eco-friendly options available. In addition to being more eco-friendly, gas fireplaces also present fewer health risks as well.
If you're recessing an electric fire within an existing fireplace, it makes sense to block your chimney to protect the appliance from rainwater and debris.
The average total cost to operate the flame and heater is approximately 8¢ per hour (when the heater cycles at 50%). These amounts can fluctuate depending on the electricity rates in your specific area. Compared to a gas fireplace, which can only be used with the heat-activated, gas often runs at 17¢ per hour.
Electric fireplaces are extremely safe with no more danger than operating any other electrical appliance.
Although electric fireplaces are more energy-efficient than traditional open fireplaces, they can still lead to additional energy costs. Regular usage of the fireplace could result in increased electricity consumption, affecting your monthly energy bill.
Safety Features to Look For
While the answer to the question “is it safe to sleep with an electric fireplace on?” is yes, you want to observe all safety precautions. It is not recommended to sleep with it on every night, but if you fall asleep, you shouldn't worry.
In fact, most fireplaces use the same amount of energy as the average space heater does. An electric fireplace is safer than a space heater and can often be more efficient. Most electric fireplaces use 120 volts of power and around 1500 watts.
Unfortunately, they can pose significant fire and electric shock hazards if not used properly. Fire and electrical hazards can be caused by space heaters without adequate safety features, space heaters placed near combustibles, or space heaters that are improperly plugged in.
They're much cheaper to install and operate than wood-burning and natural gas fireplaces. Having just the flame running (without heat) on an electric fireplace, which you might want for ambiance, only costs about one or two cents an hour.
Hourly Cost: Electric fireplaces typically cost around $0.18 per hour. Factors Affecting Cost: Fireplace size, wattage, room insulation, and local electricity rates. Cost-Saving Tips: Use timers, choose energy-efficient models, and insulate rooms to retain heat.
Another alternative to using a space heater is using a duct booster fan. Duct booster fans are blower fans designed to increase airflow through the ductwork. They can be a great help for those hard-to-heat rooms.
About 35% of the heat will escape through the walls and through gaps, in and around windows and doors, and about 10% of heat will disappear through the floor. Taking action to make sure your home is energy efficient has many benefits. For your pocket, for your comfort and for the environment.