Electric Fireplace Inserts Canada: Types, Costs, and How to Choose
Many Canadian homeowners are considering electric fireplace inserts to get through the cold winter months. The inserts offer great visual effects with flames and if you get a heated model, they provide extra heating to the room with no burning.
In this guide, we will look at the different types of inserts, how to install them, how much power they use and what they cost to run. We also cover what happens if there is a power cut in winter. Moreover, you will learn to choose the right inserts as well as a backup power plan for your insert.
What Are Electric Fireplace Inserts and How Do They Work?
Electric fire inserts can be placed into a suitable fireplace or dedicated housing. They create an artificial flame effect using LED or visual effects. Most heated models will also contain an electrical resistance heating element and a fan to circulate warm air.
No wood or gas is needed for an electric fire insert. However, instructions for installation of a fireplace should be followed according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Some will have a standard plug whereas others will require wiring. If wiring is required, use a qualified electrician.
How Does an Electric Fireplace Insert Produce Heat?
The heating element converts electricity into heat. The heater has an internal fan which blows the heat around the room.
Most inserts have two settings. One setting has just the flame effect and the other has the heater on. The flame one uses less electricity than the heater.
What Types of Electric Fireplace Inserts Are Available in Canada?
The main types of electric fireplace inserts are:
Plug-in inserts: These are really easy to install. Just plug the plug into a nearby outlet.
Electric log sets: These are a set of logs with flame effects that go in your current fireplace. They are often the easiest and most compact option.
Built-in electric fireboxes: These are installed into a housing unit or a wall. They will have the most finished look but may require some wiring and framing.
They will vary in appearance, size, installation requirements and heating capabilities, so it is important tocompare them before choosing an electric fireplace insert for your home.
Can You Use an Electric Fireplace Insert During a Power Outage?
Most electric fireplace inserts will need an electric supply. During an outage, the electric heater is going to be of no use, causing the cold winter months to feel unbearable, especially in Canada.
Portable power stations and larger home backup systems can provide electricity to suitable devices. Keep in mind that electric resistance heating is going to consume a heavy amount of battery power. For more information on portable power stations in Canada, please see here.
If you also have a gas furnace blower, please see this guide on using a portable power station for a gas furnace.
When You Need Higher-Capacity Home Backup During Winter Outages
During a prolonged winter power outage, you may need backup power for essential appliances such as your refrigerator, lights, and router. It may be that you would like to run your insert for short periods of time.
The EcoFlow DELTA Pro Ultra Whole-Home Backup Power (UL 9540 Certificated) has an expandable battery system which can provide more power to meet your increased needs.
Calculate your electrical load correctly before connecting any backup solution to your home. Ensure all connections are compatible and professionally installed.
When You Need Temporary Backup Power for a Compatible Electric Fireplace Insert Canada
If you have a power outage for a number of hours caused solely by a winter storm and indoor temperatures may gradually fall. You may want to use a compatible backup power source to operate your electric fireplace.
The EcoFlow DELTA 3000 Gen4 Portable Power Station can offer a portable option for short outages. It provides 3072Wh capacity, which will provide 3600W of AC power for the space. This will be enough for your devices that have a certain rated power requirement.
Bear in mind that a 1500W heating element will drain the battery quickly. You’ll only get approx. 2 hours of power from the 3072Wh at this load, before even considering any conversion losses. The exact time will depend on the usage of the heating element as well as other connections. Keep the power station indoors and keep it in a dry place.
Are Electric Fireplaces Expensive to Run in Canada?
How much do electric fireplaces cost to run? Actually, it depends on the power usage, duration and cost of electricity in the area. Unit prices vary across provinces in Canada. So you can simply check the cost of the unit mentioned on your house bill.
How to Calculate Electric Fireplace Running Costs
Here's a formula to check whether you can afford an electric fireplace.
Running Cost = Power (KW) x Electricity Tariff ($ per KWh) x Hours Used
Let's imagine the electric fireplace runs on 1500W power (1.5 kW) and you use it for 4 hours. At $0.15 per kWh, it would cost 1.5 x 4 x $0.15 = $0.90 for 4 hours of use. For 1 hour, it is simply $0.225, and vice versa.
This will be the cost of the energy, but your bill may also include delivery and other utility costs.
How Much Electricity Does an Electric Fireplace Insert Use?
The cost of electricity depends on the watts consumed by the fireplace. Most electric fireplaces use 1500 W of power for heating. But if you are just using the flames, the cost is going to be less than the heating. So, the cost will mainly depend on the heating element usage more than the flame part.
Can You Save Money Compared to Gas or Wood Fireplaces?
All types have their share of trade-offs.
Wood: Cheap or even free fuel. More maintenance is required and it requires a chimney.
Gas: Can be cheaper to run in certain areas. More complex during installation and ventilation.
Electric: No fuel needed and easy installation. Cost of using depends on your electricity rate.
Depending on your energy prices, appliance efficiency and how much heat you need, the cost to run can vary. An electric fireplace isn’t always the cheapest option.
Conclusion
When choosing the correct electric fireplace insert for your space in Canada, consider how much space you have, how much heat you need and what safety features you require. Also, check the electricity price of the area and calculate accordingly.
Most electric fireplaces rely on electricity, so you will need a backup in case of a power outage. The EcoFlow DELTA 3000 Gen4 can provide some backup power. The EcoFlow DELTA Pro Ultra would be better for larger capacity backup at home. Be sure to look into the portable power stations and home backup options available from EcoFlow Canada.
FAQs
Are electric fireplace inserts a good idea?
Yes, for sure. They are a great addition to homes as they do not need a chimney, fuel or wood to heat up the space. They can act as a secondary heating source and are really easy to use.
What is the downside of an electric fireplace?
They require electricity, so they won’t work during a power cut unless you have backup. They will not have the same effect as wood or gas ones do and will cost more on your electricity bill as well.
What is the best electric fireplace insert in Canada?
This will depend on what you require. Look into the dimensions of the existing fireplace opening, how much heat they produce, flame features, thermostat and safety features. Check if it is plug-and-play or requires wiring.
What are the common problems with electric fireplace inserts?
Common issues can include loud fans, burnt-out lights and tripping breakers on shared circuits. Some may not heat a large room very well. Follow the manufacturer's guidelines to help avoid issues.
What is the lifespan of an electric fireplace?
With proper care, they can last for more than a decade. It mostly depends on the quality and your usage habits. Moreover, check the manufacturer's warranty as well.