Can an electric fireplace replace a heating system?

Renting an apartment means not being able to enjoy the pleasure of a roaring fire. To make up for this, engineers have developed heating systems that imitate the flames of an open fire to perfection. But are they as effective as conventional electric heaters? Let’s take a closer look at their energy performance.
 

The different types of decorative fireplaces

The principle is simple. It consists of a convector concealed behind an LCD screen powered by LEDs. It reproduces the realistic effect of a fire in an open hearth. It also copies the visual effect of an incandescent log or ember. The height, color and speed of the flames can be adjusted from the comfort of your sofa, thanks to a remote control which is almost always available.
What’s particularly interesting about this radiator is that it can be used in lighting or heating mode, independently of each other, or in combination. This is particularly useful when you want to create a cocooning atmosphere around a blazing fireplace on a summer’s evening, without having to suffer the heat.
There is a wide variety of decorative fireplace styles to suit all tastes. From Victorian to contemporary to vintage, you’re bound to find something to suit your taste.
Models on the market include :

• The wall-mounted fireplace
• The corner fireplace
• The insert for an existing fireplace or for a piece of furniture
• The decoy with its mantel in marble, faux tile, stone or wood
• The free-standing fireplace on wheels

Advantages of electric fireplaces

There’s something for every wallet. Prices range from 50 to 5,000 euros for the most luxurious models. What’s more, depending on your needs, the electric fireplace can be moved from one room to another. Whether you live in a studio or a large villa, you can adapt this accessory to the size of your home. It’s very easy to install. Just plug it in. Say goodbye to the chores of storing wood and maintaining flues. Finally, it’s risk-free. You won’t have to put up with the emission of noxious gases, or worry about the safety of children who might be a little too curious. What’s more, most of them come with a timer that automatically switches off the appliance if you forget.
 

Can it replace a conventional heater?

When the electric fireplace is in full operation, it consumes an average of between 1000 and 2000 watts, compared with 4 to 11 watts in lighting mode. Approximately, 1 kWh heats 10 m². So, for a 20 m² living space, you’d need to reckon with a power consumption of 20 kWh. Knowing that 1 kWh of electricity costs €0.11, the total cost per hour heated will be €2.22. What’s more, most fireplaces are equipped with a thermostat to help you control consumption.
All in all, a fireplace can replace electric heating for a single room when it’s at full power. For the rest, it can be used as an auxiliary or supplementary heater. To do this, place it in strategic locations, and the appliance’s blower will take care of the rest.