Considerations When Shopping For an Electric Wall Fireplace
Add a touch of warmth and ambiance to any room with an electric wall fireplace. These models look like a real fireplace but do not require ventilation and are simple to set up.
Many models utilize mirrors and LED lighting to create realistic flames and ember beds. They usually have multiple color options and a remote for convenience.
Choosing a Fireplace
Electric fireplaces are a popular choice for individuals looking to add some modern style to their living spaces. They can also provide zone or supplemental heating if needed. When looking for a new electrical fireplace, there are several considerations homeowners should be aware of to help narrow the selection and find the perfect fit.
One of the most important aspects is the size of the room. Depending on the available space there are various types of electric fireplaces to consider. A wall-mounted electric fireplace that is flat may be the best option for small spaces, whereas a mantel-style unit is more suitable for larger homes or apartments.
The kind of flame effect you prefer is also crucial. Many electric fireplaces have different flame and colour settings that you can adjust according to your preferences. Certain models employ mirrors to produce exciting and unique flame movements. You should also think about whether the fireplace comes with an remote control and the maximum power. The more powerful the wattage of a fireplace, the more heat it will produce.
Certain models require a wire connection to the home's electric system, while others can be simply plugged into an outlet. If you decide on the latter option, be sure to ensure whether there is an available outlet in the area where you plan on installing the fireplace. It's important to make sure that the outlet is on a separate circuit that is not shared with other fixtures or appliances.
The BTU rating of an electric fireplace is vital when determining the amount of heat it will generate. This information is usually included in the description of the product or on the label. BTUs are used to determine the amount of heat produced by an appliance. A high BTU rating means the electric fireplace can heat the entire room.
The way the fireplace is installed in the room is an important aspect to consider. Depending on the model, it could be wall-mounted, mounted to an item of furniture such as TV or media console stand, or built into a custom-built cabinet. The wall's thickness could play a role here too as walls that are thin may not be able to accommodate a fireplace that is deep without having to be reworked or extended.
Find a Great Location
Electric wall fireplaces are a convenient and cost-effective method of heating your house without having to install chimneys. These fireplaces are often preferred because they don't emit harmful gas byproducts, and can be put in on areas where a real fireplace is difficult to install due to space or safety concerns. However, the main concern is that these units are easily smashed down accidentally or by pets and children, so it's important to properly secure them to the wall.
This can be accomplished by following a few simple steps. The first step is to secure the fireplace to the wall using a bracket. This will prevent it from moving or shaking after it is in place. The next step is to ensure that the fireplace is properly anchored and this can be done with self-tapping screws or heavy-duty wall anchors. These anchors can be found at a majority of hardware stores and are comparatively inexpensive. The fireplace should be placed on the wall in a spot that isn't prone to moisture and away from high traffic areas, drapes, or furniture.
Before putting in the fireplace, you must think about how you intend to use it. If you're planning to hang it above your couch, you'll need to make sure the unit is tall enough to support both the fireplace and the couch. You should also be aware that the fire will generate heat. It is recommended to place the fireplace higher up in the room so that the heat can be distributed evenly.
If you enjoy sitting in front of the warm flame it's a good idea to mount the fireplace in a spot that is easy to reach when relaxing on the couch or reading a book. The fireplace can also provide an inviting atmosphere for intimate gatherings with your friends.
Electric fireplaces are also ideal for homes with pets or young children, as they do not emit smoke or ash into the air. It's also a great option for those suffering from asthma or allergies, as it won't create harmful odors that can be trapped in carpets, rugs, or furniture.
Drilling the Holes
Based on the type of fireplace you pick and your level of click here comfort with DIY projects, drilling the holes for an electric wall fireplace could be a challenge or not. Installing a fireplace which plugs directly into an electrical outlet will be easy. However should you wish to install a fireplace with a built-in feature that requires cutting into drywall and framing it into the wall, you'll require an electrician.
If you are installing a wall mounted recessed fire, you'll need to determine the position of your studs with a stud finder or drilling a small exploratory hole in the wall. Once you have determined the stud locations, mark them on the wall using the help of a pencil. It is also important to ensure that the wall is dry, and if it's not, you'll require a layer of insulation before proceeding.
Some recessed wall mount electric fires have an outline of where to drill holes, making this stage much easier than if you mount the fire without templates. You will still need to make use of a spirit level as well as a pencil to mark the location you plan to fix the brackets, you should be patient and do this carefully.
When drilling through stone, brick, or concrete block walls, it is crucial to use a hammer drill with the masonry bit. These kinds of drills are made to be used on these kinds of materials, so they will provide a more precise result than conventional drills. Wear a dust mask when drilling into these types walls, as they can create lots of dust.
Once the holes have been made, you will be able to install the brackets to the electric fire. The fire should be kept away from combustible items like curtains, bedding, and clothing. These items could get hot and cause fires. Also, ensure that the fireplace is plugged into a power source that is close enough to keep it safe from overheating or burning out.
Mounting the Fireplace
Most electric fireplaces can be mounted on a flat wall, but it is essential to make sure that the wall is free of furniture and other objects that could hinder the heating of the room. It is also important to ensure that the drywall, as well other materials aren't fire-proof. This could lead to major fires when the fireplace is operating at high temperatures.
It is important to consult a professional installer if you are unsure whether your wall is able to accommodate an electric fireplace. They will be able to give you advice regarding the type of wall that is suitable for use and what the best type of installation would be. They could also guide you on the types of electric fireplaces are suitable for the type of home that you live in.
Once you have found the right location for your electric fireplace it is time to start installing it on the wall. The first step is to remove the bracket from its back and mark the location where the fireplace will be positioned on the wall. It is helpful to have a spirit level gauge to aid you in this process as it will help you ensure that the wall is straight and level before drilling any holes into it.
Then, drill the holes needed to connect the electric fireplace to the wall. It is important to drill holes that are the correct dimension. This is especially important if you are using the power drill because it won't be easy to get the hole back to its original size after it's been dug.
After the holes have been drilled after which it is time to put the fireplace on the wall. This is a simple job but it is important to ensure that the fireplace is anchored securely to the wall and that there are no gaps left. It is also worth ensuring that the fireplace is positioned at the correct height on the wall.