This is in part because using electric fireplaces as supplemental heating is both cost- and energy-efficient, “since other parts of the home might be left cooler while the room(s) with electric fireplaces are the only places being warmed up a little bit,” explains Kolo. “Electric fireplaces are a smart way to supplement heat in individual rooms,” says Kolo. Electric of Central Iowa, a Neighborly company, as well as Kasee Smith, lead designer at Havenly. For expert insight, we consulted Ben Kolo, owner of Mr. To find the best electric fireplaces, we tested 23 popular models in our Lab and evaluated each on its setup, heating performance, design, safety, and value. Plus, they make a safe, cost-effective, and low-maintenance alternative to traditional wood-burning fireplaces, which require constant attention and upkeep. Our trained and knowledgeable home heating experts will help you select the best fireplace, insert, or stove for homes in Montgomery County, MD, Washington, DC, and Northeast Virginia communities.Unlike unsightly space heaters, electric fireplaces can add both warmth and a cozy ambiance to any home. Fireplace Sales and Installationīethesda Chimney has one of Washington, DC's largest selections of top-performing radiant and convection heating appliances for indoor and outdoor living spaces for every lifestyle and budget. Other features, including remote operation, adjustable thermostat, and propane or natural gas fuel options, make it an affordable and energy-efficient primary home heating alternative to central heating. A fan blower circulates the warm air around the room. A convection heater retains the heat in a closed combustion system, distributing up to 85% of the energy it produces as heat. Although it loses up to 85% of the energy it generates through the chimney, the ambiance of wood-burning fire is an acceptable tradeoff for traditionalists who prefer the sights, sounds, and fresh scent of natural wood.įor larger homes and indoor living spaces, a more energy-efficient solution is a convection heater like a wood-burning or gas fireplace insert. Radiant heating, like a wood-burning or gas fireplace, is a more effective solution for warming a patio or for use as supplemental or zone heating for indoor rooms. A direct vent gas fireplace is an example of a convection heater. An internal heating element warms the air, and a fan circulates the heat throughout the living space. Convection HeatersĬonvection or indirect heater draws in the cooler air. So, the closer you are to a direct or radiant heater, the warmer you are. When the wood or coals get hot, the energy transfer produces the warmth you feel. The wood or coals are warmed objects to generate heat directly. A wood-burning fireplace or campfire is an example of a radiant or direct heater. Radiant heating or thermal radiation produces heat by using a warm object or surface to exchange the heat (around the space and back. Understanding the difference between radiant and convection heating will help you select the right heating solution for your indoor and outdoor living spaces. There are two methods for creating heat radiant and convection. If it is challenging to keep your Rockville, MD, or Washington, DC, area home warm and comfortable during the winter, the solution may be as simple as changing the heater.

Convection heat vs radiant heat