What is a Fireplace Insert?

A fireplace insert is a unit that’s installed into a pre-existing wood or stone fireplace, and serves as the primary heating element. An insert typically includes the interior walls of the fireplace, a grate, and life-like logs that are made of materials such as resin.

The first fireplace inserts were invented in 1896 by Joab R. Donaldson. These early inserts used smokeless coke fuel—a derivative of distilling coal—and used an electric blower to make the insert more efficient.

Early fireplace inserts were adopted and used primarily by low-income coal mining families because the coal could be procured from their own backyards. There are many varieties of inserts and can be categorized by fuel type.

The history of electric fireplaces is more interesting, and perhaps a bit longer than some might think at first. From its belittling introduction to the majestic marble mantle-clad wonders of today, knowing this history will make you unable to look at your electric fireplace the same way again.

Humble Origins Among the Stars

Traversing the ages, fire has been a common theme in man’s journey and advancement, especially in technological improvements. While the electric fireplace sits relatively late in the table of harnessing fire, it can claim to be an important innovation, rightly deserving to be made a part of the modern home. But for the first electric fires in 1912, the play was their restriction.

Electric fires were first used in theatre productions like this one – By Central Litho. & Eng. Co. (signed) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons; available from the United States Library of Congress’s Prints and Photographs division under the digital ID var.1527.; image is a reproduction, also in the public domain.

Staying warm can be done efficiently, affordably, and aesthetically through the use of an electric fireplace. It’s commonly and incorrectly assumed that electric fireplaces can’t produce any heat; however, many models can produce anywhere from 5,000 to 10,000 British Thermal Units (BTU’s) of heat. This may not be enough to warm your entire home, but it is certainly enough heat to warm up a small apartment or an entire home living room.

The best-selling electric linear fireplace just got better with the all new Prism Series. View the all new Dimplex Prism Wall Mount Electric Fireplace with 4,198 BTUs.

What is an Electric Fireplace?

An electric fireplace is a heater that uses electricity to work, rather than a traditional fireplace that burns coal, wood, or natural gas. The electric fireplace is present in many modern homes, as it is better for the environment while also just as effective and aesthetic as the traditional counterpart.
Continue reading →