Fireplace Installation

Fireplace installation is a snap--if you have the right kind of fireplace, that is. If you are still using a gas- or wood-burning variety, get your phone book--and your checkbook--because it'll cost you to have professionals do it. You'll need permits for building a chimney, gas specialists to lay pipelines, and inspectors to make sure that the fireplace installation followed the proper codes.

Or you can get an electric fireplace; installation of one of these is as easy as plugging a cord into an outlet. In fact, that's all you really have to do. Essentially, you have to make certain the area is dry and free of heavy foot traffic. Picture how you would "install" a reading lamp--an electric fireplace has basically the same requirements.

Easy Fireplace Installation Is Just The First Perk

Switching to electric has all sorts of advantages over traditional fireplaces; the quick set-up is just the first. There's the whole clean issue, too: no ashes to scoop, soot to clean up, or smoke to vent out. Or, if you're switching from gas, you won't have to worry about dangerous gas leaks.

And as far as efficiency, consider this: all of the energy used by an electric fireplace can be used as heat. For combustion-based fireplaces, much of the heat is lost with the toxic fumes and smoke--the heat goes out the chimney instead of inside, where you want it. Finally, you can install an electric fireplace just about anywhere: a basement, dorm room, or even in an existing wood-burning fireplace. Just make sure the vent is closed so it won't get rained on, and plug it in--installation complete.