Get matched with top fireplace pros in Midpines, CA

To reset an electric fireplace, first shut the unit off using the control panel or remote control. Make sure the unit is entirely shut down, then unplug it from the power outlet. Wait five to 10 minutes, then plug the fireplace back in and turn it on. This process should reset the electric fireplace. After resetting, make sure to set the thermostat, timer, and other programmable settings to suit your preferences.

If you have a gas fireplace with an electric ignition and you’re experiencing a power outage, you will need to light your fireplace’s pilot manually before you can start a fire. The instructions should be in the manufacturer’s manual.

Although no heating appliance can be entirely risk-free, a fireplace insert is considered a safer alternative to a traditional open fireplace, thanks to their enclosed design. With a sealed combustion chamber, a fireplace insert effectively reduces the risk of sparks and embers escaping into the room, minimizing the chance of an accidental fire.

Additionally, an insert comes equipped with various safety features, such as tempered glass doors that create a barrier between the flames and the surrounding space. This enhances both safety and energy efficiency by preventing heat loss. As an added bonus, many inserts are designed to meet strict safety standards that ensure proper ventilation and combustion.

Wood is classified as either hardwood or softwood. For firewood, hardwoods are generally the best choice as they tend to burn longer, hotter, and produce less smoke than softwoods. Recommended hardwoods include oak, hickory, maple, cherry, ash, beech, birch, elm, and walnut. Oak is a particularly good option as it's widely available, slow-burning, and doesn't produce much smoke or sparks. Some woods, like oak, hickory, and cherry, also emit a pleasant scent. It is best to avoid softwoods such as eucalyptus, poplar, and willow, as they create a lot of smoke and have a high moisture content that makes them difficult to light and burn efficiently.