How to Install an Electric Wall Fireplace
Electric fireplaces are a great way to add ambiance and heat to any room. It's easy to set up, and there are no gas lines or venting required.
They can be hung on the wall or recessed to the wall. Recessing requires basic framing, and could require an electrician for the electrical hookup.
Installation
A wall-mounted electric fireplace is a great option to add warmth and ambiance to your home, without the hassle and expense of putting in gas or wood fireplaces. The installation process for this kind of fireplace is much simpler than that of an recessed, built-in or freestanding fireplace, and it's usually something you can do yourself over the course of a weekend.
A few household tools are typically all you need for a fireplace, such as the drill, level and stud finder. The fireplace will also typically include a wall mounting kit (including brackets and hardware) as well as detailed instructions. Electric on wall fireplaces aren't hardwired to your home's electrical system and do not require venting. They can be connected into any common electrical outlet.
Before beginning the installation, go through the installation instructions thoroughly. This will ensure that you're using the proper power outlet and it's not connected to an unsafe outlet. It's also an ideal idea to connect the fireplace to a regular outlet before beginning the installation process so that you can ensure that it functions correctly.
After reviewing the instructions for installing a fireplace, you should measure and mark your wall where you'd like it to be placed. This will help you determine the dimensions of the fireplace's frame and you can make any adjustments necessary to achieve the desired look. It is also important to note the direction that the heat will flow and leave enough space for the flammable materials in the area, such as flooring, wall decor, or even the fireplace's electrical cord.
The next step is to put the drywall inside the fireplace opening. This is easier if you choose drywall that matches the decor of your room. Otherwise, you'll need to remove the old drywall and install new drywall on the space, tape and mud the exposed wood framing, then complete the new drywall within the fireplace opening.
After you have drywall up then you can put up the fireplace and install its decorative trim. You can then relax in the warm glow of your new fireplace.
Safety
As wall mounted electric fireplaces are becoming popular due to their effectiveness and aesthetics, it's crucial to concentrate on safety measures. This will prevent any mishaps and provide a safe space for the homeowner and their family members.
To keep an electric fireplace safe, it is essential to follow the manufacturer's guidelines. This will inform you about the best operating conditions for the device and the necessary maintenance. It's also recommended to register the device with the manufacturer so that you can be informed of recalls or safety concerns.
The position of the heater is an additional aspect that affects the safety. It is essential to place the heater in a place where it is able to release hot air quickly without being blocked. It is essential to choose an area free of flammable items. It's important not to allow pets or children near the heater. They could be enthralled and cause harm.
Also, you should be wary of using extension cords for your fireplace, since they might not be able to handle the power requirements of the appliance. You should also avoid placing the fireplace on a wood floor since the heat can damage it. In the event of a fire, you should not touch it or use water on it unless it's fully extinguished and safe to do so.
The most important safety precaution is to never leave an electric fireplace unattended. This is especially true when there are children or pets living in your home. It's a good idea to keep the cord clear of items that are water-resistant, such as curtains and bedding, and not connect it to an electrical outlet with a damaged or frayed cord. Also, it's recommended to install carbon monoxide detectors into your home if you intend to use an electric fire. This will warn you about the dangers of carbon monoxide which could be fatal when inhaled. Follow these simple safety tips to enjoy your fireplace with no worries.
Style
Electric wall fireplaces are an excellent alternative to traditional wood or gas fire places. They can be installed flush against the wall and plug into a standard outlet. Electric fireplace mantels are available in a variety of styles, ranging from traditional to contemporary. Some come with a custom look. They can be combined with media stands or built into a hearth opening by using an enclosure kit to create a customized installation with recessed edges.
A long linear electric fireplace can be embedded into a stone wall to create an elegant, modern appearance. Frame TVs are flat screens that can be customized by adding decorative natural scenes or black wall art to create an edgy look, as seen in the living room of Leclair Decor. You can also balance a high ceiling and window in a basement TV space by putting in a large electric fireplace and adding contrasting white built-ins the opposite side, like this room from Gray Space Interiors did. Display a stack of decorative logs on top of the shelf to trick yourself into thinking you're burning the real thing.
There are a variety of ways to customize a wall-mounted electric fireplace, including the option of the color of the flame and the brightness setting. Many models also allow you to shut off the heater and just take in the glow of the flames for year-round ambiance. Certain models, like the Ignis Royal electric wall-mount fire places, come with additional options for customization, such as DigitalSpark flame technology, and various fire backgrounds.
Another alternative is an electric fireplace insert, that converts your wood or gas fireplace into an environmentally friendly electric hearth. This is a great method to reuse your existing fireplace while keeping your home heating budget under control.
If you don't have the funds to build an entirely custom fireplace, there are electric wall mounts with mantels that can also be used as a TV stand for easy setup and cleaning. Some even have a hidden media cabinet to hide electronics and eliminate the requirement for a separate piece of furniture. If you prefer more minimalist design there are freestanding units that have an unassuming mantel and log set, or ones without a mantel to create an elegant, modern look.
Heat
Electric wall fireplaces are a great alternative to fireplaces with wood burning. They can be costly to operate and emit harmful fumes which are bad for the environment. wall recessed electric fireplace can be turned on by pressing a button and the thermostat will monitor the temperature. This allows you to set your thermostat at a lower temperature, saving money on your heating bills.
The electric fireplace wall unit you choose can be fully or partially recessed into the walls, according to the model. This gives it an appearance that is more discrete and can be more suitable for some living spaces than a wooden mantel. If you decide to go with an entirely recessed fireplace the electrical firebox will be mounted to the wall drywall of your living area and is only removed by taking off the drywall and cutting into the studs. This type of wall fire requires professional installation.
Electric fireplaces are designed to appear as authentic as possible with advanced technology such as Spectrafire 3D Flame Effects. These flames can be programmed to move around the fireplace while changing color to create a hypnotizing effect. Some models will also include a remote that will allow you to adjust the flame and heat settings to be able to match your mood.
Allergy sufferers will appreciate fact that electric fireplaces do not emit combustible gases or materials. There's no chance of exposure to carbon monoxide and the air stays cleaner than it would with a gas or wood hearth.
There are a myriad of designs to choose from, whether you're looking for a large-scale fireplace solution or an electric wall mount. Some models allow you to alter the media package, frame and size to perfectly fit your living space. The experts at Organized Interiors will be happy to show you the many options available to make a decision that works best for your home. Contact us today to arrange an in-home consultation to get started on your next home improvement project today!