Fake fireplaces are fundamentally different from traditional fireplaces. For one, though they contain fire or heat, they don't use chimneys. Another difference lies in the fire itself. The fire generated by traditional fireplaces is fueled by wood, which burns dirty and causes ash and smoke, which in turn contaminates the environment. Fake fireplaces, however, may be fueled by electricity, gas, or specially designed alcohol-based fuels. The latter two examples yield real flames. Electricity, however, does not; it can only create heat.

One of the attractions of fake fireplaces is that they are more available to the average homeowner than real fireplaces. With real fireplaces, you have to make a fundamental change to the structure of your home, installing a chimney and the fireplace itself. This is very expensive, and in the case of dwellings such as condominiums, mobile homes, apartments and rental properties, impossible as well.

Fireplaces for Today's Times

The fact is that real fireplaces, while certainly rustic, authentic and beautiful, are out of step with the reality of today's living situation. Fireplaces are a throwback to the preindustrial age, before the advent of electricity. Two centuries ago, fireplaces were indeed the best available option at the time. Today, however, burning wood inside a modern home is just not practical. Besides, with all we've learned about the effects of air pollution and carbon dioxide on human health, neither is it safe.

In just about every aspect, fake fireplaces represent convenience, practicality, and safety. They can be used in any type of dwelling, whether owned or rental, house or apartment. Many models require no installation, as they are designed as freestanding pieces of furniture. Finally, they are clean burning, leaving no harmful carbon dioxide poisons either inside or outside your home.