Considerations When Shopping For an Electric Wall Fireplace
Electric wall fireplace s can add a touch of warmth and ambiance any space. These models look like a real fireplace but do not require ventilation and are easy to install.
Many models utilize LED lighting and mirrors to create realistic flames and ember beds. They typically have several color options and remote controls for additional convenience.
Selecting a Fireplace
Electric fireplaces can be the perfect way to bring a modern touch to your living space. They can also be used to provide zone or supplementary heating when required. When shopping for a new electrical fireplace, there are several considerations homeowners should keep in mind to help narrow the options and select the best fitting.
The size of the room is a major factor. Based on the square footage there are various types of electric fireplaces to consider. A wall-mounted electric fireplace with a flat design could be the best choice for small spaces, whereas a mantel-style unit is more suitable for larger homes or apartments.
The second important aspect is the kind of flame effect you like. Many electric fireplaces feature various colors and flame settings that can be altered to your liking. Some models even incorporate mirrors to create fascinating and unique flame motions. Other aspects to consider include whether the fireplace is equipped with an remote control and what the maximum wattage. The greater the wattage, more heat the fireplace will generate.
Certain models require a hard-wire connection to your home's electrical system, while others can be simply plugged into an outlet. If you decide on the latter option, make sure to check that there's an outlet in the area where you plan on installing the fireplace. It is a good idea to ensure that the outlet isn't connected to any other appliances or fixtures.
When determining the amount of heat electric fireplaces can generate, its BTU rating must be taken into consideration. This is typically stated in the product description or on the label. BTUs are used to determine the amount of heat produced by an appliance. A high BTU rating means that the electric fire can warm the entire space.
How the electric fireplace is placed in the room is another important consideration. Depending on the model, it can be wall-mounted, mounted to a piece of furniture like a TV or media console stand, or built into a custom cabinet. This is also influenced by the wall's thickness. The walls that are thin may not be able to accommodate a large electric fireplace, and might need to be altered.
Finding the Right Location
A wall-mounted electric fireplace is a convenient method of heating your home without the expense and hassle of constructing a chimney. These fireplaces are often preferred because they don't emit harmful gas byproducts and they can be installed on areas where a real fireplace would be difficult to install due to space or safety concerns. These units can easily be tripped over by children and pets or even by accident. Therefore, it is essential to secure them properly to the wall.
Luckily you can accomplish this by following a few easy steps. The first step is to attach the fireplace to the wall with a bracket. This will stop it from moving or shaking after it is in place. Next, ensure that the fireplace is secured. This can be achieved by using heavy-duty wall anchors or self-tapping screws. They are available at most hardware stores and are fairly inexpensive to purchase. Lastly, the fireplace should be fixed to the wall in a location which is not susceptible to moisture and away from areas that are prone to high traffic such as drapes, furniture, or drapes.
It's also important to think about the way you intend to use the fireplace prior to installing it. If you plan on hanging it above your couch, you'll want to make sure the unit is tall enough to accommodate both the fireplace and the couch. Additionally, you must be aware that the fireplace can generate some heat, so it's best to mount it higher in the room to help spread the heat evenly across the space.
For those who enjoy sitting by a warm fire it's an ideal idea to place the fireplace somewhere that is accessible when you're sitting on the couch or reading an ebook. The fireplace can also create a cozy atmosphere for intimate gatherings of family and friends.
Another advantage of having an electric fireplace is that it will not release any smoke or ash into the air, which could be a problem in homes with children or pets. It's a great option for those suffering from asthma or allergies as it doesn't create harmful odors in carpets, rugs or furniture.
Drilling Holes
Depending on the type of fireplace you select and your level of comfort with DIY projects, drilling the holes for an electric wall fire might not be feasible. If you have a fireplace that plugs into an electrical outlet, it should be simple to put in however if you are planning on installing an in-built fireplace that requires cutting through drywall and framing directly into the wall, you'll need to hire an electrician.
It is necessary to locate the studs prior to you can install a wall-mounted fire. This can be done using a wall stud finder, or by drilling a small hole into the wall. Mark the studs of the wall with pencil after you have located them. You will also need to ensure that the wall is dry, and if not, you'll have to apply a layer of insulation before moving on.
Some wall mount electric fires will include an outline of where to drill holes making this stage much easier than if you mount the fire without the template. It is still necessary to use a spirit-level as well as pencil when marking the brackets. Be patient when you 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 types of walls and will provide a more precise outcome than a standard drill. You should also wear a dust mask when drilling into these types of walls as they can create a lot of dust which can be harmful to breathe.
Once the holes have been made, you will be able to put the brackets on the electric fire. The fire should be placed away from items that could ignite, such as curtains bedding, clothing, and bedding. These items can become hot and start to ignite. Also, ensure that the fireplace is wired into a source of power that is close enough to prevent it from burning out or overheating.
Mounting the Fireplace
The majority of electric fireplaces are positioned on a flat wall. However it is crucial that the area be free of furniture or other objects that could interfere with the heating process. It is also essential to make sure that the drywall and other materials are not flammable since this could cause major fires when the fireplace is operating at high levels of heat.
If you aren't sure whether a wall can handle an electrical fireplace then it is important to contact an expert installer for assistance. They can provide you with advice about the type of wall you should use and the best way to install it. They could also provide you with information on the different types of electric fireplaces are appropriate for the home that you have.
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 will be to remove the wall mount bracket from the back of the fireplace and then mark the location where it needs to be mounted to the wall. It is beneficial to have a spirit level gauge to assist you in this process as it will allow you to make sure the wall is straight and flat before drilling any holes into it.
The next step is to drill the holes needed 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 when you are using a power tool to drill, as it may not be simple to get the hole back to its original size after it's been drilled.
After the holes have been drilled, it's time to mount the fireplace on the wall. It is a relatively simple job however it is vital to ensure the fireplace is properly fixed to the wall. It is also worth ensuring that the fireplace is positioned at the correct height to the wall.