Are Electric Fireplaces Safe?

Are you thinking about installing an electric fireplace, but worry about potential safety risks? There is no need to worry! While improper use and other safety issues can arise with any electric appliance, electric fireplaces are actually very safe. In fact, many people choose an electric fireplace over traditional gas and wood-burning options for that exact reason.  

Are electric fireplaces safer than real fireplaces?  

When compared to gas and wood-burning fireplaces, electric fireplaces are often the safest option and eliminate many potential safety worries. For example, homeowners with traditional fireplaces must take a great deal of care to ensure their fireplace is regularly inspected and cleaned. Failure to do so can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning and house fires, both serious safety hazards that can result in illness, injury and even death.  

With an electric fireplace, however, there is virtually no maintenance required, and no venting or inspections are necessary. No dangerous smoke or fumes are produced, making them an ideal solution not only for the safety conscious, but also for anyone dealing with allergies or breathing sensitivities. And if troubleshooting is required, there’s still no need to climb on the roof or call a chimney sweep to resolve any issues.  

Are electric fireplace flames dangerous? 

Another benefit to electric fireplaces is that there is no real fire. While electric fireplaces create the look of flames, these flames are merely an illusion of light and can’t harm you. This can provide some peace of mind to homeowners, especially individuals with children or pets in the home. The unit itself is cool to the touch (except for the vent), so if someone were to reach out and touch the flames or brush up against the fireplace, there is no risk of burns. Electric fireplaces are meant to provide comfort and warmth and to help your house feel like a safe haven, so every effort is taken to reduce potential safety risks.  

Artificial flames are also safer in terms of tending the fire. In order to keep a wood-burning fireplace going, you have to continuously insert wood logs or kindling, which can be dangerous if you get too close. As the fire consumes the wood, sometimes burning logs can tumble off the pile and fall out on the hearth. This is not something you have to worry about with electric fireplaces, since all you’ll need to do to control the flames is simply press a button. 

Can I leave my electric fireplace on overnight? 

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. You can set the fireplace to shut off after a certain amount of time, from 30 minutes to 9 hours, allowing you to plan ahead. In addition, most units automatically shut off if they start to overheat.  

Plus, adjustable temperature controls give you the power to make your environment the perfect temperature for you. And you can use the flame effects with or without heat, so you can enjoy the ambiance of dancing flames any time of year, or even as you drift off to sleep. One of the best things about having a faux fire is that you can turn it on and off as needed. That’s not the case with wood-burning fireplaces, where you have to spend time spreading out wood and embers, covering them with cooler ash, and more to make sure every last ember is out before heading to bed.  

How do I safely install an electric fireplace? 

In most cases, you can put your electric fireplace anywhere in the home you want. Depending on the model you choose, you can mount it to the wall, set it on a TV stand or install it into the wall. It’s safe to use electric fireplaces on most types of flooring, including carpet. As long as you don’t insert objects into the vents, block the vents or keep flammable objects nearby, you can feel confident that your electric fireplace is safe. Because it’s an electric appliance, however, it’s also important to keep it away from liquids, especially while the unit is turned on. 

Upgrade Your Home with an Electric Fireplace Today 

Now that you know just how safe electric fireplaces really are, shop the wide assortment of ClassicFlame® electric fireplaces online and visit a store near you to find a model you’ll love.  If you have any questions about safety risks or precautions, contact us for additional information.