Considerations When Shopping For an Electric Wall Fireplace
Bring a touch of warmth and ambiance any room by installing an electric wall fireplace. These fireplaces look exactly like a real fire however, they don't require ventilation and are simple to install.
Many models use mirrors and LED lighting to create realistic flames and ember beds. They typically come with a variety of color options and a remote for ease of use.
Selecting a Fireplace
Electric fireplaces are a popular option for those looking to add a modern feel to their living spaces. They can also provide zone or additional heating when required. There are several things that homeowners should consider when shopping for an electric fireplace. These will assist them in narrowing down their options and choose the best one.
One key factor is the size of the room. Electric fireplaces come in different dimensions, based on the space available. A wall-mounted electric fireplace with a flat design could be the best choice for small spaces, whereas mantel-style fireplaces are ideal for larger homes or apartments.
The next crucial aspect is the type of flame effect you prefer. Many electric fireplaces come with several flame and color settings that can be altered to your liking. Some models utilize mirrors to create thrilling and unique flame movements. Other features to consider include whether the fireplace is equipped with a remote control, and what the maximum wattage is. The higher the wattage, the more heat the fireplace will generate.
Certain models require connected to the electrical system in your home, while others are simply plugged into an outlet on the wall. If you opt for the latter option, make sure to ensure that there's an outlet in the area in which you're planning to install the fireplace. It's a good idea to ensure that the outlet is not shared with other fixtures or appliances.
When it comes to determining the amount of heat that electric fireplaces can generate the BTU rating must be taken into consideration. It is usually stated in the product description or on a label. BTUs measure the amount of heat produced by a fireplace, and a high BTU rating means that the fireplace can effectively warm rooms.
Another crucial aspect to consider is how the electric fireplace will be installed in the room. Depending on the model, it can be wall-mounted, affixed to furniture pieces such as a media console or TV stand, or integrated into a custom-built cabinet. The wall thickness can play a role here too as walls that are thin might not be able to accommodate a large electric fireplace without being reworked or extended.
Find a Great Location
Electric wall fireplaces are a convenient and cost-effective way of heating your house without having to install a chimney. These fireplaces are typically preferred due to their lack of harmful gas byproducts and can be put in on areas where a real fireplace would be difficult to install due to safety or space restrictions. These units can easily be tripped over by children and pets or by accident. It is therefore essential to secure them securely to the wall.
Luckily you can accomplish this by following a few simple steps. The first step is to secure the fireplace to the wall with a bracket. This will stop it from moving or shaking around once it's set. The next step is to ensure that the fireplace is securely anchored, which can be accomplished by using self-tapping screws, or heavy duty wall anchors. They are available at many hardware stores and are affordable to purchase. The fireplace should be installed on the wall in a location that is not susceptible to moisture, and away from drapes, furniture or areas that are prone to high traffic.
It's also important to consider how you'll use the fireplace before installing it. If you want to hang it above your couch be sure that the fireplace is wide and tall enough to accommodate the fireplace and the couch. Additionally, you need to be aware that the fireplace will generate some heat, so it's best to mount it higher in the room in order to spread the heat evenly across the space.
If you like sitting by the website warm flame it's recommended to put the fireplace in a spot that is accessible when you're sitting on the couch or reading a book. The fireplace can also create a cozy atmosphere for intimate gatherings of friends.
Electric fireplaces are also ideal for homes with pets and young children as they do not release smoke or ash in the air. It's also a great choice for those with allergies or asthma, since it won't cause harmful odors to be trapped in carpets, rugs or furnishings.
Drilling the Holes
Depending on the type of fireplace you choose and your level of experience with DIY projects, drilling holes for an electric wall fire could be a challenge or not. Installing a fireplace that plugs directly into an electrical outlet should be simple. However, if you want to install a built-in fire that requires cutting into the drywall and framing into the wall, you'll require an electrician.
You will need to locate the studs before you can install a wall mounted fire. This can be done with the wall stud finder or by drilling tiny holes in the wall. Once you have determined the studs' locations you can mark them on the wall with a pencil. It is also important to ensure that the wall is dry and if not, you will have to apply an insulation layer prior to proceeding.
The mounting of some wall-mounted electric fires is made easier by the template that outlines where to drill the holes. It is still required to use a spirit-level and pencil when marking the brackets. Be patient when you complete this.
It is crucial to use a hammer drill with a masonry drill when drilling through brick, concrete block or stone walls. These drills are specially designed for these types of materials and give you a more precise result than a standard one. Wear a dust mask while drilling into these types walls, as they can create a large amount of dust.
Once holes are made, you can place the electric fire onto its brackets. You must ensure that the fire is located away from any flammable materials, such as curtains, bedding and clothing, as these things can become hot and cause fires or ignites. It is also important to ensure that the fireplace is plugged in to a power source close enough that it does not overheat or burn out.
Mounting the Fireplace
Most electric fireplaces can be positioned on a wall that is flat, however it is essential to make sure that the wall is free of furniture and other things that could hinder the heating of the room. It is also essential to make sure that the wall and other materials aren't flammable, as this could lead to massive fires when the fireplace is operating with high temperatures.
It is important to consult an expert installer if you are unsure if a wall will be able to support an electric fireplace. They can provide you with guidance on the best type of wall to use and the best method of installation. They may also be able to advise you on the different types of electric fireplace that are suitable for your particular style of home.
Once you have located the perfect spot for your electric wall fireplace it is now time to begin mounting it on the wall. The first step is to remove the bracket from its back and mark the area where the fireplace should be mounted on the wall. It is helpful to have a spirit level gauge to assist you in this process as it will help you make sure the wall is straight and level before drilling holes into it.
The next step is to drill the holes required for the electric fireplace to be fixed to the wall. Again, it is important to take your time and ensure that the holes are drilled to the correct size. This is particularly important if you are using the power drill as it will not be straightforward to bring the hole back to its original form after it has been drilled.
After the holes have been drilled after which it is time to put the fireplace on the wall. It is a relatively simple job, but it is crucial to ensure that the fireplace is securely fixed to the wall. It is essential to make sure that the fireplace is at the correct height to the wall.