An electric insert from Comox Fireplace & Patio is the simplest and most affordable way to transform a dark, empty masonry fireplace back into what it was designed to be: the centerpiece of the room.
However, it is important to note that in terms of heat generated an electric insert is not an effective substitution for wood, gas or pellet. Electric inserts generally produce about 5,000 BTU of heat. To put this into context a gas or pellet insert will produce up to 40,000 BTU, and a wood insert will produce up to 80,000 BTU or more. But if supplemental heat and warm ambience is what you are after, an electric insert might just be what you are looking for.
Although practically all electric inserts generate approximately the same amount of heat, there are vast differences in the purchase cost, reflecting the huge variation in the quality of the product and the realism of the fire effect. The best electric inserts are built to last, and, if there are any problems with them, parts availability will be good. Further, they are amazingly realistic, with flickering flames, logs which glow on and off, and coals that make it seem as though air is washing over them. Or, reflecting the trend toward modern design, electric inserts are increasingly being designed with crystals replacing the traditional log set.
Electric inserts generally plug into a 110 volt power source, and will require a full 15 amp circuit. Often the electrical cord can be hidden by feeding it down the ash cleanout into a basement or crawl space. If this is not possible, the cord will have to run back out of the fireplace opening then along the hearth to the power source.
The experienced staff at Comox Fireplace & Patio will talk you through the wide variety of electric fireplace insert models available from Dimplex and will help you find the perfect electric insert for your home. But it doesn’t stop there, we also offer professional electric fireplace insert installation in Courtenay, Comox, Cumberland, Campbell River, and throughout Northern Vancouver Island.