How to Install an Electric Wall Fireplace
Electric fireplaces are a great option to add ambiance and heat to any room. They're super easy to install and don't require gas lines or venting.
More about the author can be mounted on the wall or recessing into the wall. Recessed lighting requires basic framing, and an electrician may be required to hook up the electrical.
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 a wood or gas fireplace. This type of fireplace installation is much more simple than installing a built in or freestanding unit. It's usually done on a weekend.
A few tools that are common to the home are typically all you need, including a level, drill and stud finder. The fireplace will come with mounting kits (including brackets, hardware and instructions) as well as a thorough installation guide. Wall fireplaces with electric are not wired to the electrical system of your home, and do not require venting. They can be connected into any standard electrical outlet.
You should carefully read the instructions before starting the installation. This will ensure that you're using the correct power outlet for your fireplace and ensure that you've not plugged it in to an unsafe outlet. It's also an ideal idea to plug the fireplace into an outlet with a regular voltage prior to starting the installation process so that you can make sure it works correctly.
After reviewing the fireplace installation instructions, you should measure and mark your wall where you want it installed. This will allow you to determine the size of the fireplace's frame and you can make any adjustments to achieve the desired appearance. You should also be aware of the direction in which the heat will be directed, and make sure there is enough space for any flammable items to be present like wall decor flooring, flooring, or the fireplace's electrical cord.
The next step is to put the drywall inside the fireplace opening. This process is much easier if you choose drywall that matches your room. If you don't have drywall that matches the room's decor, you will need to remove it and then install new drywall, then tape and sand any wood framing. Then, you can complete the new drywall within the fireplace opening.
Once your drywall is up then you can put up the fireplace and install the trim that is decorative. You'll then be able to enjoy the warm glow of your brand new fireplace.
Safety
As wall mounted electric fireplaces become popular for their effectiveness and aesthetics, it's crucial to concentrate on security measures. This will help avoid any mishaps, and ensure that the home owner and family members are secure.
To ensure that your electric fireplace is safe, it is crucial to follow the instructions of the manufacturer. This will inform you about the ideal operating conditions for your fireplace and the maintenance that is required. It's also a good idea to register the product with the manufacturer so that you can receive notifications about any recalls or safety concerns.
The position of the heater is an additional factor that impacts the safety. It is crucial to position the heater where it can easily release hot air without being blocked. It is also advisable to select a location that is free of flammable objects. It's also recommended to keep children and pets away from the heating source, since they might be interested about its operation and cause physical harm.
Avoid using extension cords to power your fireplace, as they might not be able to handle the power needs of the appliance. Also, avoid placing the fireplace on a wooden floor because the heat could harm it. If you experience an fire, you should not touch it or splash water on it unless it's fully removed and safe to do this.
The most important safety precaution is to never leave a fireplace unattended. This is particularly true when there are pets or children in your home. It's important not to plug it into an outlet with a frayed or damaged cord, and to keep it from items that are water-resistant like bedding and curtains. Installing carbon monoxide alarms within your home is an excellent idea if you plan to use an electric fireplace. This will alert you to dangerous levels of carbon monoxide which could cause death if inhaled. Follow these simple safety tips to enjoy your electric fireplace without worry.
Style
While traditional gas or wood fireplaces require venting, chimneys and smoke screens, electric wall fireplaces can be mounted in a flush position against a wall and plug into a standard outlet. Electric fireplace mantels come in a variety of styles, from traditional to contemporary. Some even come with a custom look. They can be used in conjunction with media stands or built into the hearth opening using a surround kit to create a customized recessed installation.
A long linear electric firebox can be incorporated into a stone fireplace to create a modern and sleek style. Frame TVs are flat screens that can be customized by adding decorative landscapes or black wall art to create a contrasty look like the living room of Leclair Decor. Or, balance a high window and low ceiling in a TV room for basement by putting in a large electric fireplace and contrasting white built-ins the opposite side, like this room from Gray Space Interiors did. Display a collection of woody logs on the top shelf to trick your mind into believing that you're using real wood.
There are many ways to personalize your wall-mount electric fireplace, including the option of flame colors and brightness settings. A lot of models let you turn off the heater and just take in the glow of the flames for all-year-round ambience. Certain models, like the Ignis Royal collection of CE Certified electric wall-mount fireplaces, offer additional customization choices, like DigitalSpark flame technology as well as multiple fire backgrounds.
An electric fireplace insert is another alternative. It transforms your wood or gas fireplace into an electric hearth in green. This is a great way to make use of your fireplace while keeping your home heating budget under control.
If you don't have the funds to build an entirely custom fireplace, there are wall mounts that can be powered by electricity with mantels that double as a television stand for easy setup and cleaning up. Some even include an under-the-counter media cabinet to cover up electronics and remove the necessity of an additional piece of furniture. There are also freestanding units that come with a basic log set and mantel, or without a mantel, for a more modern, sleek appearance.
Heat
Unlike wood-burning fireplaces, which are costly to operate and generate toxic fumes that are harmful for the environment, an electric wall fireplace provides a powerful heating source. The fireplace can be turned on by pressing a button and the thermostat will be monitoring the temperature. This lets you set your thermostat to a lower temperature, saving money on your heating bills.
The electric fireplace wall unit you choose can be fully or partially recessing into the walls, according to the model. This creates a more discreet look that can be more suitable for certain living spaces than a wooden mantel. If you decide to go with a fully recessed fireplace the firebox's electrical component will be inserted to the wall drywall of your living area and is only removed by taking the drywall off and cutting into the studs. This kind of wall fire requires professional installation.
The flames of electric fireplaces are designed to be as realistic as is possible with the help of advanced technology such as Spectrafire 3D flame effects. These flames can be programmed to move and dance around the fireplace while changing hue to create a captivating effect. Certain models also come with an remote that allows you to adjust the flame and heat settings to match your mood.
Allergy sufferers will appreciate the fact that electric fireplaces don't produce fumes or combustible materials. There's no danger of exposure to carbon monoxide and the air stays cleaner than it would with a wood or gas hearth.
There are a variety of unique designs available, whether seeking a complete fireplace solution or an electric wall mount. Certain models allow you to customize the dimensions, frame and media package to suit your living space perfectly. The skilled designers at Organized Interiors will be happy to demonstrate the numerous options available to help you decide which one is best for your home. Contact us to schedule an in-home consultation and start your new home improvement project today!