Do Electric Fireplaces Need Their Own Circuit?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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Do electric fireplaces need their own circuit? Most electric fireplaces can be plugged into a standard 120 Volt outlet, and no dedicated circuit is required .

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Can a TV and electric fireplace be plugged into the same outlet?

A TV can be placed above an electric fireplace on the same wall as long as the TV doesn’t block the outlet to the heater on the electric fireplace, or be in the way of the heat .

Do electric fireplaces need to be hardwired?

Types of Electric Fireplaces

Although fireplaces mounted on the wall are easier to install, some people prefer the look of a fireplace built into the wall. But built-in fireplaces do need to be hardwired to a new circuit breaker .

Are electric fireplaces hardwired or plug in?

How many amps does an electric fireplace use?

Electric fireplaces use approximately the same amount of electricity as the average space heater. Since most fireplaces operate on a standard household outlet, they use 120 volts to power the internal heater and draw about 1,500 watts at 12.5 amps .

Can I use an extension cord for my electric fireplace?

From time to time, we are asked if an extension cord can be used with electric fireplaces. We don’t recommend it because the extension cord can overheat and cause risk of fire . However, if you have to use an extension cord, the cord must be Number 14 AWG minimum size and rated no less than 1875 Watts.

Can I run an electric fireplace into a surge protector?

While some electrical devices can sometimes safely be plugged into a power strip or surge protector, like a coffee maker, toaster, or microwave oven, you should never plug electric fireplaces into one of these .

How do you wire an electric fireplace?

How do you hook up an electric fireplace?

  1. Put a Cover Plate on Your Chimney. It is recommended to put a cover plate on your chimney before installing an electric insert to prevent water from coming in. ...
  2. Close and Seal the Damper. ...
  3. Install a Power Outlet. ...
  4. Insert the Firebox into Your Fireplace. ...
  5. Attach The Trim or The Frame.

What do I need to know about buying an electric fireplace?

So, typically when shopping for an electric fireplace, you’ll want to look for lower wattage and a higher BTU rating . Because of their relatively low wattage, most electric fireplaces can run off of a standard 120 volt plug (about 1500 watts), making electric fireplaces much more efficient than wood burning fireplaces.

Can you install an electric fireplace anywhere?

Electric fireplaces require much less hassle than traditional wood-burning or gas fireplace inserts. Because they need no gas lines, chimney or other infrastructure, you can install an electric fireplace anywhere you have a power outlet , and in homes where fireplaces aren’t an option.

Do electric fireplaces need 220v?

Most traditional plug-in electric fireplace mantels are not capable of hard wiring into a 220 volt circuit due to firebox design limitations. However, with a “built in” electric fireplace, you have the option of plugging it into a standard 110 volt outlet or hard wiring it into a 220 volt circuit .

Are electric fireplaces easy to install?

Luckily, most electric fireplaces are easy to install , especially because they don’t require any exterior venting or gas lines.

Are electric fireplaces hard on electricity?

The flames on electric fireplaces are created with LED’s, which we all know by now are extremely efficient and cost-effective. So, when the flames are on without the heater being turned on, an electric fireplace is using less than $0.01 per hour of electricity .

Why does my electric fireplace trip breaker?

The most likely reason is that the heater is drawing too much current and overheating that circuit . This can be dangerous, so the breaker shuts off to protect you. A second reason is that you might have too many other appliances on the circuit.

How many amps does a 5000 BTU electric fireplace use?

How Many Amps an Electrical Fireplace Use? In terms of power usage, the average electric fireplace produces around 5000 BTUs, which is sufficient to heat almost 400 square feet of space. That is equivalent to almost 12-15 amps to get a typical electric fireplace.

How do you hide electric fire wires?

  1. Run the fireplace electric wires under the carpet edge between the back of the fireplace and the wall outlet. ...
  2. Use cord raceways to hide the fireplace wires. ...
  3. Surround the electric fireplace with large pieces of furniture such as bookshelves.

Where do I plug in my electric fireplace insert?

To plug in an electric fireplace insert before being installed, take the power cable out the back of the electric insert and plug it into the electrical outlet located either inside or outside of the existing fireplace firebox . Ensure that the outlet is turned on before installing the insert.

How much power does an electric fireplace draw?

Can you use an extension cord with an electric heater?

Plug space heaters directly into a wall outlet. Do not use an extension cord or power strip, which could overheat and result in a fire .

Can you plug an electric heater into a power strip?

Space heaters must be plugged directly into a wall outlet, which can handle a higher wattage, and should be the only item plugged into that wall outlet. The Electrical Safety Foundation International says space heaters can overheat a power strip, as well as an extension cord, and potentially cause a fire .

Are electric fireplaces 120 or 240?

All electric fireplaces operate on 120 volts, and some will also operate on 240 volts . On 120 volts, an electric fireplace will heat up to 400 square feet.

How much does it cost to install electric fireplace in wall?

Item Unit Cost Line cost Wall-mounted electric fireplace $500-$1,500 each $500-$1,500 Labor Cost $65 per hour $130-$325 Total Cost $630-$2,525 $630-$2,525

Can I install a fireplace insert myself?

So, yes, you can install your dream fireplace or wood-burning stove yourself, provided you have the expertise . However, it’s highly recommended that you hire a contractor with experience specific to fireplace installations.

Is it worth getting an electric fireplace?

Electric fireplaces can also heat a room faster and more efficiently than wood-burning fireplaces, and they’re safe to use . These cost-effective heaters are also one of the most efficient ways to heat a room, which reduces energy costs. To find the best electric fireplace for your home, find a dealer near you.

Which is the most realistic electric fireplace?

As of today, water vapor fireplaces are the most realistic electric fireplaces on the market. They produce 3-Dimensional flame effect and look like real fire, but without any of the mess or danger. Water vapor fireplaces create their realistic fake flames by using water mist and LED lights.

What is a good electric fireplace brand?

However, without a doubt, Dimplex and Touchstone are the two most reputable electric fireplace manufacturers. The 2 big names: Dimplex for classic electric fireplaces, and Touchstone for modern wall-mounted electric fireplaces.

How much value does an electric fireplace add to your home?

Will a fireplace add value to your home? According to The National Association of Realtors, adding a fireplace can raise your home value by as much as $12,000 .

Can electric fireplaces catch fire?

Can I leave my electric fireplace on all night?

Does the light on an electric fire use a lot of electricity?

LED lights are much lower in energy consumption and have a much higher life than standard bulbs and for that reason increase efficiency yet again. 3. Most homeowners are scared into falsely believing that electric fires are much more expensive to run than gas alternatives.

Are electric fireplaces better than space heaters?

How close can a TV be to an electric fireplace?

Recommended Space Between the TV and Electric Fireplace

In general, for most fireplace models, we advise 8 inches from the top of the fireplace to the mantel, TV or ceiling and 6 inches from the bottom of the fireplace to the floor .

Can you place a TV over an electric fireplace?

Most electric fires are suitable to be placed under a TV as they are 100% energy efficient and the heat comes from the front or the bottom of the fire so your TV will be safe. Choose an electric fireplace that isn’t too small or too big for the TV, they shouldn’t compete for attention.

How do I run my electric TV over the fireplace?

How much power does an electric fireplace draw?

Most electric fireplaces draw about 1,500 watts and can heat spaces up to 400 square feet. There are larger models available that consume more energy and heat larger spaces, but since electric fireplaces are only for zone heating, the standard 1,500-watt models work for most homeowners.

David Martineau
Author
David Martineau
David is an interior designer and home improvement expert. With a degree in architecture, David has worked on various renovation projects and has written for several home and garden publications. David's expertise in decorating, renovation, and repair will help you create your dream home.