Considerations When Shopping For an Electric Wall Fireplace
Add some ambiance and some heat to any room by installing an electric wall fireplace. These models look like a real fireplace, but do not require ventilation, and are easy to put up.
A lot of models employ LED lights and mirrors to create realistic flames and ember bed effects. They usually come with several color options and remote controls for additional convenience.
Selecting a Fireplace
Electric fireplaces are a popular option for individuals looking to add some modern ambiance to their living spaces. They can also provide supplemental or zone heating when required. When looking for a new electric fireplace, there are a few aspects homeowners must keep in mind to help narrow the selection and select the best fit.
The size of the space is a major factor. Electric fireplaces are available in a variety of sizes, based on the space available. A wall-mounted electric fireplace that is flat could be the best choice for small spaces, while mantel-style units are ideal for larger homes or apartments.
The next crucial aspect is the type of flame effect you prefer. Many electric fireplaces have different colours and flame effects that you can alter to your liking. Some models even incorporate mirrors to create fascinating and unique flame patterns. It is also important to consider whether the fireplace is equipped with a remote control and the highest wattage. The more powerful the wattage of a fireplace, the more heat it produces.
Certain models require a wire connection to your home's electric system, while others can be simply plugged into an outlet. If you decide to go with the alternative, ensure that there is a convenient outlet in the space where you're planning to install the fireplace. It's also a good idea to make sure that the outlet is on a separate circuit, and not shared with other fixtures or appliances.
When it comes to determining the amount of heat that an electric fireplace produces, its BTU rating must be taken into consideration. This is usually shown in the product's description or on a label. BTUs are the measure of the heat generated by a device and a high BTU rating means that the fireplace is able to effectively warm a room.
Another important aspect to consider is where the electric fireplace will be placed in the room. Depending on the model, it could be wall-mounted, mounted to an item of furniture such as TV or media console stand, or incorporated into a custom-built cabinet. The wall's thickness can be a factor, as some thin walls may not be able accommodate a large electric fireplace without being reworked or extended.
Find a Great Location
A wall-mounted electric fireplace is a convenient way to heat your home without the expense and hassle of installing chimneys. They are usually preferred since they don't release harmful gas byproducts, and they can be placed in places where a real fireplace would be difficult to install due to space or safety issues. However, a common problem with these fireplaces is that they 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 connect the fireplace to the wall with an anchor. This will prevent it from moving or shaking around once it's in place. Next, ensure that the fireplace is properly secured. This can be done with the help of heavy-duty wall anchors or self-tapping screw. They are available at many hardware stores and are check here fairly inexpensive to purchase. The fireplace should also be mounted on the wall in an area that is not susceptible to moisture and away from furniture, drapes or high traffic areas.
It's also important to think about the way you intend to use the fireplace before installing it. If you're planning to hang it above your couch, you'll need to ensure that the fireplace is tall enough to fit both the fireplace and the couch. Be aware that the fire produces heat. It is recommended to place the fireplace higher in the room so that the heat can be distributed evenly.
If you enjoy reading or relaxing in front of the fire placing the fireplace in a place where it is easily accessible is a great idea. The fireplace can also provide an intimate atmosphere for gatherings of family and friends.
Electric fireplaces are also ideal for homes with pets or young children because they don't release smoke or ash in the air. It's a great choice for those suffering from allergies or asthma since it doesn't create harmful odors in carpets, rugs or furniture.
Drilling the Holes
Depending on the type of fireplace you pick and your level of comfort with DIY projects, drilling holes for an electric wall heater could be a challenge or not. If you have a fireplace that plugs into an electrical outlet, it will be easy to install, but if you are planning to install a fireplace with a built-in design that requires cutting into drywall and framing directly into the wall you will need to hire an electrician.
If you are installing a recessed wall mounted fire, you will first have to determine the location of your studs using the stud finder, or by drilling an exploratory hole in the wall. Once you have identified the stud locations and marked them on the wall with the help of a pencil. You will also have to ensure that the wall is completely dry. If it's not then you'll need to add insulation.
Some wall mount electric fires will have an outline of where to drill holes, making this process easier than if you were to mount the fire without a template. It is still essential to use a sand-blaster and a pencil when marking the brackets. Make sure you take your time to complete this.
When drilling through stone, brick or concrete block walls, it is crucial to employ a hammer drill using the mortar bit. These drills are specifically designed for these materials and will give you a more precise result than a standard one. You should also wear a dust mask when drilling into these types of walls as they can create a lot of dust which is harmful to breathe.
Once the holes are drilled, you can mount the electric fire on its brackets. You will need to ensure that the fire is away from combustible materials like curtains, bedding and clothing, as these items could get hot and cause fires or ignites. You will also want to ensure that the fireplace is plugged in to a power supply that is close enough that it does not overheat or even burn out.
Mounting the Fireplace
Most electric fireplaces can be mounted on a wall that is flat, however it is crucial to make sure that the wall is free of furniture and other objects that might interfere with the heating of the room. It is also essential to ensure that the drywall and other building materials are not flammable since this can lead to major fires if the fireplace is operating with high temperatures.
If you aren't sure whether a wall can handle an electrical fireplace then it is crucial to contact a professional installer for assistance. They will be able to provide you with advice regarding the type of wall that is suitable for use and what the most suitable kind of installation is. They may also be able advise you on the types of electric fireplace that are available for your specific type of home.
Once you have found the ideal location for your electric fireplace wall, it is now time to mount it to 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 help you in this process as it will allow you to ensure that the wall is straight and level before drilling any holes into it.
Next, drill the holes needed to attach the electric fireplace to the wall. Again, it is important to take your time and ensure that the holes are drilled to the correct size. It is essential to take your time when drilling using the power drill, since it is difficult to return the hole to its original size.
When the holes have been drilled, it is now time to fix the fireplace on the wall. It is a relatively simple job but it is essential to ensure that the fireplace is securely attached to the wall. It is crucial to ensure that the fireplace is at the right height on the wall.