Electric Fireplace Inserts

• Electric fireplace inserts constitute electrically powered self-contained units that fit into existing fireplaces. These units work just like electric stoves, generating heat through electric heating elements such as those found in toaster ovens. Electric fireplaces inserts create synthetic flames and, in some cases, simulate the sound of crackling logs to create a sensual experience similar to that of an actual fireplace. Some electric fireplaces contain real or plastic logs to add to this illusion. Electric fireplaces constitute independent units that work just like electric fireplace inserts but with greater mobility – you can put them anywhere near an outlet. Some electric fireplaces look like fireplace inserts but fit into walls rather than existing fireplaces.
  
  

Gas Fireplace Inserts

• Gas fireplace inserts constitute self-contained units that fit into existing fireplaces. These units contain two components, an enclosed chamber and a vent that surrounds this chamber. Within the chamber, a gas valve emits propane or another natural gas to generate flames. Air from the room enters the vent of the unit and warms up when mixing with the hot air radiating from the chamber containing the fire. This air then circulates back into the room, causing the overall air temperature to rise. A glass or plastic window allows for full viewing of the flames within a gas insert.
  
  

Basic Differences

• The most basic difference between electric fireplace inserts and gas fireplace inserts lies in their methods of generating heat. Electric inserts use electricity to generate heat and only warm the air directly surrounding the unit. Because of this, electric fireplaces require a power source. Gas fireplace inserts generate heat with real flames. This heat comes into contact with heat circulating in a room, raising the overall temperature of an environment through its vent. Gas fireplace inserts require no power source, but need a gas hookup.
  
  

Additional Information

• Electric fireplace inserts use radiant heat. According to Corky Binggeli, author of “Building Systems for Interior Designers,” radiant heat is not energy efficient. Furthermore, these units create relatively fake-looking flames and, due to their energy inefficiency, result in high electricity bills. Gas fireplace inserts generate actual flames though may also exhibit energy inefficiency, resulting in high heating costs. Furthermore, according to the authors of “The Homeowners Handbook to Energy Efficiency,” air systems within homes can cause backdraft, or air sucking out of space and into another, in gas fireplace inserts. Backdraft may cause smoke or gas to leak from a fireplace insert into the home.