Fireplaces are aesthetically pleasing and can create a warm and calm environment. The maintenance of fireplaces could be stressful, costly and unrealistic for many home owners. Gas fire places create a quick ignite and fast flame but gas is costly to run. Wood burning fire places are beautiful and create a nice crackling sound but wood could be an additional expense and these types of fireplaces require the chimney to be routinely maintained and cleaned. Wood burning fireplaces can't be utilized year round in some climates. In areas where it gets chilly in the winter these types of fireplaces do not work. The heavy cold subzero air weights more than the hot air coming from the fire place. This will give rise to a back flow of this fireplace smoke to the house and can take days to full air out. What are other options for people that wish to enjoy a fireplace? Electric fireplaces can carry the same overall look of traditional gas stoves and fireplaces and are much more cost effective. Electric fireplaces have come a very long way in their design and some are as simple as inserts for existing gas or wood burning fireplaces. Other electric fireplaces come within a "shell" that resembles a traditional fireplace. They are basically an extra bit of furniture that gets located on a desired wall and the electric insert is set within the fake fireplace and plugged in. Many are remote controlled and create an instant "fire". Heat is also frequently emitted from those electric fireplaces which gives them a dual function. Homeowners' can enjoy the calming appearance of a traditional fireplace and the warmth that someone would put out as well. Considering this very low maintenance but traditional looking fireplace can earn a great design addition to any living space. See related resource site.