How to Install an Electric Wall Fireplace
Electric fireplaces are a great option to add warmth and ambiance to any room. It's simple to set up, and there are no venting or gas lines to be installed.
They can be mounted on the wall or recessed to the wall. Recessing requires some basic framing and could require an electrician to complete the electrical hookup.
Installation
If you're looking for a method to add warmth and ambience to your home, without the expense and hassle of putting in a gas or wood fireplace, an electric wall-mounted fireplace could be just the thing you're looking for. This type of fireplace installation is much simpler than installing a built-in or freestanding one. It can usually be done on a weekend.
A few tools that are common to the home are usually all you need which includes a drill, level and stud finder. The fireplace comes with an installation kit (including brackets, hardware and instructions) and a comprehensive installation guide. Electric fireplaces on walls are not hardwired to the electrical system in your home and do not require venting. They can be connected into any common electrical outlet.
Be sure to go through the directions before beginning the installation. This will help ensure that you're using the correct outlet for your fireplace, and also ensure that you've not plugged it in to an unsafe outlet. It's also recommended to connect the fireplace to an outlet with a regular voltage prior to starting the installation process, so you can ensure that it functions properly.
After reading the fireplace installation instructions you should take a note of the wall where the fireplace will be erected. This will help you determine the size of your fireplace's frame and you can make any adjustments necessary to achieve the desired appearance. It is also important to note the direction in which the heat will flow and leave enough space for the flammable materials within the room, such as wall decor, flooring or even the fireplace's electrical cord.
Next, you'll need to put drywall in the opening for the fireplace. This is easier if you choose drywall that is in line with the decor of your room. In the event that you don't, you'll have to remove the old drywall, install new drywall in the space then tape and mud the exposed wood framing, and finally finish the new drywall inside the fireplace opening.
After you have drywall up, you can mount the fireplace and add the trim that is decorative. Then, you can take pleasure in the warm glow of your new fireplace.
Safety
As wall mounted electric fireplaces gain popularity for their effectiveness and aesthetics it is important to consider security measures. This will avoid any mishaps and create a safe and secure environment for the homeowner as well as their loved ones.
It is essential to read the instructions given by the manufacturer to ensure that your fireplace is safe. This will provide you with the ideal operating conditions for the device and the required maintenance. Registering the device with the producer will allow you to receive notification of any safety concerns or recalls.
The location of the heater is another aspect that affects the safety. It is important to place the heater in a place where it can easily release hot air without being blocked. It is essential to choose the location free of flammable items. It's also a good idea not to let children or pets near the heater. They might be curious and cause harm.
Do not use extension cords to power your fireplace, as they might not be able manage the power requirements of the appliance. Additionally, you should not put the fireplace on a wooden floor because the heat can cause damage to it. If you experience an incident of fire, do not touch it or use water on it unless it's completely extinguished and it is safe to do it.
The most important safety measure is to never leave a fire unattended. This is especially important when you have pets or children in your home. It's recommended not to connect it to an outlet with damaged or frayed cords and to keep it away from water-resistant items like curtains and bedding. Installing carbon monoxide alarms within your home is a great idea if you're planning to utilize an electric fireplace. This will alert you if there is a danger of a buildup of carbon monoxide, which could be fatal if inhaled. By adhering to these simple safety tips you can enjoy the benefits of your electric fireplace with no worries.
Style
Electric wall fireplaces are an excellent alternative to traditional wood or gas fire places. They can be positioned on the wall in a flush position and plug into a standard outlet. Electric fireplace mantels come in a variety of styles, from traditional to contemporary. Some even have an individual look. They can be used in conjunction with media stands or built into a hearth opening by using an enclosure kit to make a custom installation that is recessed.
A long electric firebox can be incorporated in a stone fireplace wall to create a sleek, modern style. The Frame TV above offers a flat screen for your favorite shows. It can be adorned with a decorative nature scene or framed by black wall art for an edgy look as seen in this living space from Leclair Decor. Install an electric fire place that is wide and contrast white built-ins to either side to balance a low ceiling and a large window in a basement TV room, as Gray Space Interiors did. Display a stack of decorative logs at the top of the shelf to fool yourself into thinking you're burning a real fire.
There are many ways to personalize your wall-mounted electric fireplace, such as the choice of the color of the flame and the brightness setting. Some models let you turn off the heater and enjoy the glow of the flames for all-year-round ambience. Some models, such as the Ignis Royal collection of CE Certified electric wall-mounted fireplaces, offer additional customization choices including DigitalSpark flame technology as well as multiple fire backgrounds.
An electric fireplace insert is a different option. It converts your existing wood or gas fireplace into an electric hearth that is green. This is a great way to reuse an existing fireplace while keeping your home's heating expenses in control.
If you don't want to construct a custom fireplace wall, there are wall mounts made of electric with mantels that can also be used as a TV stand, allowing for easy setup and clean up. Some models come with concealed cabinets to hide electronics and eliminate the requirement for a separate piece of furniture. If you prefer an uncluttered look there are freestanding units with a simple mantel and log set, or ones with no mantel for an elegant, modern look.
Heat
Unlike wood-burning fireplaces, which can be costly to operate and generate toxic fumes that are harmful for the environment, an electric wall fireplace provides a powerful heating source. With just best wall hung electric fires of a button, the fireplace will start to warm up your living space, and the thermostat control will be monitoring the room temperature. This allows you to leave your thermostat at a lower temperature which will save you money on your heating bills.
Depending on the model you choose the electric fireplace wall unit is able to be fully or partially recessing into the wall. This gives it an appearance that is more discrete and could be more appropriate for certain living spaces than a wood mantel. If you opt for a fireplace that is fully recessed it will be set in the drywall. It can only be removed after removing the wallboard and cutting the studs. This kind of wall fire requires professional installation.
The flames of an electric fireplace are designed to appear as realistic as they can be using advanced technology, such as Spectrafire 3D flame effects. These flames are able to dance and move around the fireplace, changing hues to create a captivating atmosphere. Some models come with a remote control that permits you to adjust the flame and heat settings based on your mood.
Allergy sufferers will appreciate fact that electric fireplaces do not produce combustible fumes or materials. Carbon monoxide is not produced and the air is cleaner than a gas or wood fireplace.
Whether you're looking for an electric wall-mounted fireplace or a full-scale mantel option, there are plenty of options of unique designs available. Some models will even let you customize the dimensions, frame, and media package to suit your living space perfectly. Organized Interiors' expert designers will be happy to show you all options so that you can choose what best suits your needs. Contact us today to arrange an in-home consultation to get started on your new home improvement project today!