How to put crystals in an electric fireplace

Electric fireplaces use special reflective material and LED lights to create realistic flames. However, some homeowners are also using crystals in their electric fireplaces to bring some glam and sparkle to their living spaces. Thanks to their transformative effect and ability to improve the fireplace’s appearance. After all, crystals are increasingly popular decorative elements in different aspects of interior design. 

But do you even know how to put crystals in an electric fireplace? Or where to put crystals in your electric fireplace? 

Well, those are some of the things we’ll be discussing in this article! 

What are electric fireplace crystals? 

Decorative crystals are synthetic or natural mineral formations with various geometric structures and aesthetic appeal. To be precise, these crystals are glass pieces or faux gems used in electric fireplaces. They are usually lit by LED lights and reflect light to create a more realistic flame effect. In addition, each crystal has unique properties, refracts light, and creates beautiful effects when illuminated. 

It’s also worth mentioning that fireplace crystals are available in different colors, compositions, and sizes to match any home décor. Moreover, they’re designed to withstand severe temperatures to prevent them from cracking or melting when the electric fireplace is in use.

Common types of crystals for electric fireplaces

• Citrine

Citrine is a popular type of crystal that is commonly used in electric fireplaces. It’s known to promote positivity, abundance, prosperity, and happiness due to its yellow effect. For that reason, it’s a great choice for anyone who wants to bring some positive energy into their home and improve their mood.  

• Amethyst

Amethyst is a purple crystal that is believed to have several healing properties while promoting peace and relaxation. Moreover, it’s a great option for electric fireplaces since it’s beautiful and calming.

• Rose Quartz

Rose quartz is a pink crystal that is known to promote compassion and love. At the same time, this beautiful crystal helps to relieve anxiety and stress. These features make it the perfect crystal for electric fireplaces for those who want to create a peaceful and more loving environment in their homes.

• Clear Quartz

Clear quartz is said to have powerful cleansing and energy-clearing properties. In addition, it’s believed to amplify the energy of other electric fireplace crystals. So, if you want a crystal that will create a positive energy flow and help purify your living space, clear quartz is a great choice.

Why put crystals in your electric fireplace?

Putting crystals in an electric fireplace mainly serves as a decorative element that improves the visual appearance of your appearance. In addition, these crystals refract and reflect light from the flame effect to create a glittering and shimmering effect.

However, there are several other benefits of using crystals in an electric fireplace. Some of them include;

• Increased ambiance

The added sparkle of crystals and the flickering flames of the fireplace create a cozy environment and inviting ambiance in any living space. At the same time, crystals create a captivating display that transforms the room’s atmosphere into a tranquil and warm setting. In short, if you want to create a peaceful setting or romantic atmosphere, adding crystals to a fireplace is a great place to start.

• Enhanced aesthetics

Putting crystals in an electric fireplace adds a touch of elegance and enhances the room’s aesthetics. This is because crystals have refractive properties that allow them to create mesmerizing light patterns. In addition, crystals come in various shapes, sizes, and colors, helping you create a unique & beautiful effect in your fireplace.

• Improved energy efficiency

Crystals can also help to radiate and distribute heat throughout the room, thus improving the energy efficiency of your fireplace. At the same time, this will minimize the reliance on the heating element and reduce energy consumption.

Lastly, crystals can help to reduce negative energy in your home. Thanks to their ability to cleanse and purify the air, improving your overall health & well-being.

Step-by-step guide on how to put crystals in an electric fireplace

Although every electric fireplace model is different, the general method of putting crystals in the fireplace is usually the same. However, if the instructions below do not seem to match up to your fireplace model, check the user manual for guidance.

Step 1: Preparation

Before you start putting crystals in your fireplace, turn off the device and unplug it from the wall outlet for safety reasons. Also, if your fireplace has a glass panel, make sure you handle it with care to prevent any breakage or injury.

Step 2: Gather your materials

Like with any other DIY project, you need to gather all the materials you’ll need for this project before you move to the next step. For instance, you’ll need a set of crystals, clear glue, and an electric fireplace insert. In addition, you might need a brush that you will use to apply the clear glue, but that is optional.

Step 3: Choose the right type of electric fireplace crystals

When choosing the right type of crystals for your electric fireplace insert, you should consider the size and color. The ideal size of the crystals depends on the dimensions of your electric fireplace and the intended visual outcome, while color depends on your home’s décor. However, you can try out many color combinations to get the desired result.

In addition to size and color, you need to consider the material and composition of the electric fireplace crystals you intend to use. After all, there are different types of electric fireplace crystals, with some being better than others.

As mentioned earlier, some popular types of electric fireplace crystals include natural and glass crystals like quartz or amethyst. Glass crystals are a common option because of their versatility and affordability, especially seeing that they come in various forms and colors. In addition, quartz crystals are the best type to use in an electric fireplace as they can withstand high temperatures, unlike soft crystals like calcite and selenite which can be damaged by heat.

Step 4: Locate the crystal compartment

This step involves determining where to put crystals in your electric fireplaces. In most cases, electric fireplaces have a compartment that is specifically designed to hold electric fireplace crystals. The compartment is often located at the base of the electric fireplace, below the flames.

Step 5: Remove the existing media

Open the crystal compartment, either by lifting the top of the fireplace or by removing the front panel to access it. Also, this will help you to remove any existing media like fake coal, pebbles, or logs to create space for the crystals.

Step 6: Cleanse the crystals (Optional)

Cleansing the crystals before outing them in your electric fireplace helps to get rid of any negative energy they might have picked up. That said, hold the crystals under running for a few minutes and then waft some incense smoke over them. Next, sprinkle some salt on the crystals and brush them off.

Step 7: Put the crystals in your electric fireplace

After cleansing the crystals, put them on the fireplace compartment floor or use a decorative container/ tray to hold them. Arrange them uniformly across the fireplace using various configurations until you get the desired appearance. Also, you can mix colors and sizes to create a dynamic & captivating display.

Step 8: Apply clear glue to the crystals

Once you’ve arranged the crystals on the compartment, apply a small amount of glue to adhere them to the fireplace. Moreover, this ensures that they’re secure and stable while the unit is in use to prevent them from moving or tumbling out of place. Let the glue dry fully before using the electric fireplace.

Step 9: Close the fireplace compartment

Replace the front panel or lower the top of the fireplace to close the crystal compartment and give the crystals enough time to adjust to their new surroundings. Afterward, you can turn on the device to enjoy its warming effects.

Alternatives for adding crystals to your electric fireplace

•  Decorative rocks/ stones

Like electric fireplace crystals, decorative stones can add visual interest and texture to your fireplace. Moreover, you can either put them on the bottom of the fireplace or around the flames to create a more natural look for your unit. However, you should ensure that the stones or rocks you intend to use are designed for use in an electric fireplace since some types cannot withstand the heat.

• Ceramic logs

Ceramic logs resemble real wood logs and are available in various styles and sizes. More importantly, they’re safe to use in an electric fireplace since they don’t melt or damage the heating element. In addition, they’re an excellent option for those who want their electric fireplace to have a more traditional look.  

• Artificial fire glass

As the name suggests, artificial fire-tempered glass is specifically designed to withstand high temperatures. Moreover, it creates a beautiful, shimmering effect in an electric fireplace to give it a contemporary and stylish look. And like other decorative elements, it’s safe to use in electric fireplaces and comes in various shapes and colors.

Conclusion

 Knowing how to put crystals in an electric fireplace will help you enhance the ambiance and aesthetics of your living space. And as you can see, the process is relatively straightforward, provided you’ve selected suitable crystals and installation techniques.

People Also Ask

•  How often should you clean your electric fireplace crystals?

It’s important to regularly clean your electric fireplace crystals to keep them looking their best and ensure optimal light reflection. In essence, you should clean the crystals at least once a month to maintain their sparkle and visual appeal. However, you can clean them more often if you notice significant dirt buildup.

•  How many crystals do you need for your electric fireplace?

As you would expect, the amount of crystal you need for your project depends on the size of the electric fireplace. Generally, it’s recommended that you use 1 pound of crystal per sq. ft. of fireplace. Therefore, if you have a 2 X 2 ft. electric fireplace, you’ll need 4 pounds of crystal, but that can vary depending on your preference.

• How much do electric fireplace crystals cost?

The actual cost of electric fireplace crystals tends to vary based on the type of crystal you choose. For instance, amethyst is usually costlier than quartz. Nonetheless, you can find crystals for less than $10 per pound.

• Can you use any type of crystal in an electric fireplace?

Although you can use different types of crystals in an electric fireplace, you cannot use crystals that are sensitive to high temperatures or prone to discoloration or melting. Instead, you should only use crystals that can tolerate the heat produced by the fireplace. In most cases, natural and glass crystals like amethyst and quartz are recommended because of their heat-resistant properties.

• Can you mix different types of crystals in an electric fireplace?

Yes, you can mix different types of crystals in your electric fireplace to create a unique aesthetic and add visual interest to your unit. Also, it’s good to try out various sizes, colors, and shapes to create a captivating display. However, the most important thing is to ensure that the crystals you intend to use can withstand the heat generated by your electric fireplace.