What's An Artificial Fireplace And Why Should I Buy One?
Artificial fireplaces, often referred to as ventless fireplaces, are a development that's starting to gain tons of popularity. Utilizing a compound known as gel fuel, which is in general an isopropyl alcohol based fuel, artificial fireplaces are still able to deliver not simply the aesthetic value of a standard fireplace, but can also contain the fire itself.
How is that possible, since artificial fireplaces do not use a vent? That's where the isopropyl alcohol comes in handy. Because of the molecular structure of the isopropyl alcohol molecule, when combusted, it doesn't produce any damaging or hazardous smoke. It burns purely, not giving off any smells or damaging chemicals.
Cans of gel fuel are placed within the artificial fireplace's housing, and then lit. Each of the can burns for about 3 hours and brings both the beauty and warmth that comes through a fire. Though not as warm as a conventional fireplace that uses either wood or natural gas, gel fuel is still able to put out a fairly high amount of BTUs.
For folks who want the beauty and aesthetic value of an inside fire, but don't have a conventional fireplace an artificial fireplace can be an excellent path to take. They are pretty inexpensive to buy and don't require any installation generally, unless you purchase the in-wall model. Most slide nicely and seamlessly up against the wall and bring a home the beauty of a traditional fireplace, and the power to house real fire without having to fool around with installing a vent.
The only potential downside that I can see to an artificial fireplace is that gel fuel is more expensive than wood or natural gas. So if you are counting on using your artificial fireplace regularly you'll want to take that factor into account. But aside from that, artificial fireplaces are an awesome invention, cost-effectively and easily bringing the beauty of a pleasant fire inside.
How is that possible, since artificial fireplaces do not use a vent? That's where the isopropyl alcohol comes in handy. Because of the molecular structure of the isopropyl alcohol molecule, when combusted, it doesn't produce any damaging or hazardous smoke. It burns purely, not giving off any smells or damaging chemicals.
Cans of gel fuel are placed within the artificial fireplace's housing, and then lit. Each of the can burns for about 3 hours and brings both the beauty and warmth that comes through a fire. Though not as warm as a conventional fireplace that uses either wood or natural gas, gel fuel is still able to put out a fairly high amount of BTUs.
For folks who want the beauty and aesthetic value of an inside fire, but don't have a conventional fireplace an artificial fireplace can be an excellent path to take. They are pretty inexpensive to buy and don't require any installation generally, unless you purchase the in-wall model. Most slide nicely and seamlessly up against the wall and bring a home the beauty of a traditional fireplace, and the power to house real fire without having to fool around with installing a vent.
The only potential downside that I can see to an artificial fireplace is that gel fuel is more expensive than wood or natural gas. So if you are counting on using your artificial fireplace regularly you'll want to take that factor into account. But aside from that, artificial fireplaces are an awesome invention, cost-effectively and easily bringing the beauty of a pleasant fire inside.
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If you aren't yet convinced, check out a few of these attractive ventless fireplace examples. For cheap gel fuel, check out how to make gel fuel.