The realism of today's electric fireplaces is almost impossible to describe. You really must see one for yourself. In Europe, this category of hearth products is exploding, and it is European technology that has revitalized this product in the American marketplace. Some manufacturers provide the illusion of fire with light, spinning drums and unique materials. Others use holograms. But, in addition to flame appearance, a key selling point has to be convenience. There are no gas lines to install, and they can go absolutely anywhere in the home.
Annual inspections are also very important for gas appliances. While these units are typically low maintenance, it is still important to have a certified service technician check your system from time to time. These appliances can still accumulate build up that can lead to a chimney fire, and it is important to check for gas leaks or venting issues. Schedule your yearly inspection with a certified chimney professional to make sure that all components are working correctly. An annual inspection is a small price to pay for the peace of mind and safety that it brings in return.
This actually depends on a number of factors. Most importantly, is the size of your firebox. Your firebox is measured in cubic feet. The larger it is the more fuel you can burn and the more space you will be able to effectively heat. Also, the type of wood you burn, the amount of heat loss your home experiences, the quality of your windows & doors, the amount of sidewall & ceiling insulation, and even how big your rooms are all affect how well your wood burning appliance heats up the air around your house.
