Most houses no longer have real fireplaces; instead houses are starting to come with a fake fireplace built-in, complete with fake logs and electric fires. Some even have special effects where they can resemble real fireplaces.
There are electric fireplaces where a simple switch can turn on the flame or turn it off. There is no need to wait for the logs to catch fire and burn. One switch will have the faux fireplace going in no time whatsoever.
Then there are the propane and natural gas fireplaces which use gas (natural or propane) for fuel. These usually have to be installed by a professional. There needs to be some fuel for the fire to burn, but once the switch is turned on, the fire just burns naturally and uses whatever is placed in the fireplace. It should be noted that real wood logs can be used for these types of fireplaces.
Advantages for a Fake Fireplace:
- There is no need for real logs that need to be chopped and placed in the fireplace
- There is no need to be an expert in making a fire, the switch does it all
- There is minimal to no smoke
- There’s enough heat to warm a room or the whole house depending on the fireplace location
- There is no need to hire a crew to create a fireplace and chimney. It’s ventless, just put it up against a brick or stone wall or insert it in a fake fireplace nook and switch it on
- Places like apartments not equipped with fireplaces can be designed and transformed, made to look comfortable and home-like
- The cost of maintenance is much lower
- There’s no unwanted tinder flying around getting on furniture and carpets
Disadvantages:
- Fake is fake, no matter what, the fireplace is artificial
- If it is electric, the energy costs can skyrocket in winter seasons
- The comfort of the smell of wood smoke is not there so those who are fanatical about real fireplaces will always criticize
- Most of the effects of fake fireplaces are simply for aesthetics, not for function
There may be criticisms for fake fireplaces but in reality the warmth from these ‘gadgets’ can successfully warm the home. Even if the home were a one room apartment, the comfy feel of a fireplace can still be successfully achieved and that is what counts the most.
