When installing an electric fireplace, understanding the electric breaker requirements is essential for safe operation. Choosing the right circuit breaker ensures your fireplace functions efficiently and prevents electrical hazards. Let’s break down everything you need to know about selecting the proper breaker for your electric fireplace.
What are the Electric Fireplace Power Needs
Electric fireplaces typically require between 1,500 to 2,000 watts of power, which translates to approximately 12.5 to 16.7 amps when connected to a standard 120-volt circuit. To find the exact amperage, you can use Ohm’s Law, which states:
Amps=Watts /Volts, for instance, a 1,500-watt electric fireplace would draw about 12.5 amps on a 120-volt circuit.
To prevent overloading your circuit, it’s essential to add a safety margin of 25% to your calculated amperage. This is in line with the National Electrical Code (NEC) guidelines.
What Type of Breaker do I Need for My Electric Fireplace?
Most 120V electric fireplaces require a 15-amp breaker. However, if your fireplace has a higher wattage or you’re using a 240V unit, you may need a 20-amp breaker. Always add a 25% safety margin to your calculations to ensure your breaker can handle the load safely.
When in doubt, consult a licensed electrician to ensure your setup meets local electrical codes and provides reliable performance.
Electric Fireplace Breaker Requirements
How to Calculate the Breaker Size for Your Electric Fireplace? The first step in finding the right breaker is to calculate the electrical load. You’ll need to know your fireplace’s wattage and voltage.
Use this formula to calculate the amp draw: Amps=Watts/ Volts
For example, if your electric fireplace uses 1500 watts and runs on 120 volts, the calculation will look like this:1500 watts÷120 volts=12.5 amps.
Add a Safety Margin to Prevent Overloads
To avoid overloading the circuit, it’s essential to add a safety margin of 25%, as recommended by the National Electrical Code (NEC). This accounts for any power fluctuations or additional loads.
Here’s how to calculate the safety margin:
- Calculated amps: 12.5 amps
- Add 25% safety margin: 12.5×1.25=15.63 amps.
In this case, a 15-amp breaker would be the minimum requirement. However, if your electric fireplace draws more power or if you plan to use other devices on the same circuit, a 20-amp breaker might be a better choice.
Recommended Breaker Sizes for Common Electric Fireplaces
| Electric Fireplace Wattage | Voltage | Breaker Size |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 1500 watts | 120 volts | 15-amp breaker |
| Over 1500 watts | 240 volts | 20-amp breaker |
Correct Wire Gauge
Using the correct wire gauge is equally important when installing an electric fireplace. For most residential applications:
- Use 14-gauge wire for circuits rated at 15 amps.
- Upgrade to 10-gauge wire for circuits rated at 20 amps or more.
This ensures that the wiring can safely handle the current without overheating.
GFCI Protection
For added safety, especially in areas prone to moisture (like bathrooms or kitchens), it’s advisable to install GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlets. These outlets help protect against electrical shocks by cutting off power if they detect an imbalance in electrical current.
Additional Safety Tips
- Use the correct wire gauge for your circuit. For a 15-amp breaker, you’ll need 14-gauge wire, and for a 20-amp breaker, use 12-gauge wire.
- Make sure your electric fireplace is connected to a dedicated circuit to prevent overloading.
Proper Breaker Sizes for Popular Electric Fireplace Models
| Electric Fireplace Model | Typical Wattage | Amperage | Recommended Breaker Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimplex IgniteXL 74 | 7,400 watts | 30.8 amps | 40 amps |
| Modern Flames Orion Slim 60 | 5,000 watts | 20.8 amps | 30 amps |
| Simplifire Scion 55 | 4,800 watts | 20 amps | 25 amps |
| Remii Extra Tall 72 | 6,000 watts | 25 amps | 30 amps |
| Duraflame 3D Infrared Electric Stove | 5,200 watts | 21.7 amps | 30 amps |
| Amantii Tru-View Series | Up to 5,000 watts | 20.8 amps | 30 amps |
| Real Flame Silverton Electric Fireplace | 1,500 watts | 12.5 amps | 15 amps |
| Turbro Suburbs TS17 Compact Stove | 1,500 watts | 12.5 amps | 15 amps |
| PuraFlame Western Electric Insert | 1,500 watts | 12.5 amps | 15 amps |
Breaker Types for Electric Fireplaces
There are different types of breakers that you can use based on your electric fireplace’s specifications:
- Standard Breaker: Ideal for most electric fireplaces.
- GFCI Breaker: Recommended for outdoor or bathroom installations to protect against ground faults.
- AFCI Breaker: Prevents arc faults, reducing the risk of electrical fires.
Why Do You Need a Dedicated Circuit?
It is highly recommended to connect your electric fireplace to a dedicated circuit.
- A dedicated circuit ensures that your electric fireplace operates without interruptions, providing consistent heat and ambiance
- Electric fireplaces consume a significant amount of power. Sharing a circuit with other appliances can lead to overloads and tripped breakers.
- A dedicated circuit ensures you meet electrical codes and standards, which reduces the risk of electrical fires.
FAQs
Can I Plug an Electric Fireplace into a Regular Outlet?
Yes, most 120V electric fireplaces can be plugged into a standard outlet. However, it’s recommended to use a dedicated outlet to prevent overloading.
Can I Use a 30-Amp Breaker for an Electric Fireplace?
No, a 30-amp breaker is unnecessary for standard electric fireplaces. A 15-amp or 20-amp breaker is typically sufficient based on the fireplace’s wattage.
What Happens if the Breaker is Too Small?
If the breaker is too small, it will trip frequently, cutting off power to your electric fireplace. This can be frustrating and may also damage your fireplace over time.
Do Electric Fireplaces Require Hardwiring?
Some high-powered fireplaces (240V models) require hardwiring into the electrical system. These models often need a dedicated 20-amp breaker.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right electric breaker for your electric fireplace is crucial for safety, efficiency, and compliance. Whether you need a 15-amp or 20-amp breaker, make sure it’s connected to a dedicated circuit. When in doubt, consult a licensed electrician to ensure your setup meets local codes and manufacturer guidelines.
By following these guidelines, you can enjoy the warmth and ambiance of your electric fireplace safely and without interruptions.
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Hello!! I am Jamal Khan. I often fix my home electric heaters and gas stove problems and research the common issues in the heating units to improve my knowledge and expertise. The aim of establishing fireplaceadviser.com is to share my expertise and knowledge with my audience.
