Considerations When Shopping For an Electric Wall Fireplace
Electric wall fireplaces can add a touch of warmth and ambiance to any space. These units look just like a real fire, but they don't need ventilation and are simple to install.
Many models use LED lights and mirrors to create lifelike flames and the ember bed effect. They typically come with a variety of color options and a remote for convenience.
Choose a Fireplace
Electric fireplaces are an excellent way to add a modern touch to your living space. They also can provide supplemental or zone heating when required. There are a few things homeowners should consider when shopping for an electric fireplace. These will aid them in narrowing their choices and find the right fit.
The size of the space is a major factor. Electric fireplaces come in various sizes, based on the space available. For instance, smaller spaces may be best served by a flat wall-mount unit as well as larger homes or apartment units might be better suited to a mantel-style electric fireplace.
The next important factor is the type of flame effect that you like. Many electric fireplaces have a variety of flame and colour settings that you can adjust to your liking. Some models utilize mirrors to produce exciting and unique flame movements. You should also consider whether the fireplace has a remote control, and the maximum power. The higher the wattage of the fireplace is, the more heat it produces.
Certain models must be wired directly into the electrical system of your home, while others are simply plugged into a wall outlet. If you opt for the alternative, ensure that there is a convenient outlet in the space where you're planning to install the fireplace. It is a good idea to ensure that the outlet is not shared with any other appliances or fixtures.
The BTU rating of an electric fireplace is important when determining how much heat it can produce. This information is usually found 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 the electric fire is able to warm the entire room.
The way the fireplace is set up in the room is an important factor to consider. Depending on the model, it can be wall-mounted, affixed to a piece of furniture like TV or media console stand, or built into a custom cabinet. The wall's thickness can be a factor as walls that are thin might not be able to accommodate a fireplace that is deep without being extended or reworked.
Find a Good Location
An electric wall fireplace is an ideal method of heating your home without the expense and trouble of installing chimneys. They are usually preferred because they don't emit harmful gas byproducts, and can be put in 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 accidentally. It is therefore essential to secure them securely to the wall.
Luckily you can accomplish this by following a couple of simple steps. The first step is to attach the fireplace to the wall using an anchor. This will stop it from moving or shaking around once it's set. Next, ensure that the fireplace is secured. This can be achieved by using wall anchors made of heavy-duty or self-tapping screws. They can be found in many hardware stores and are fairly inexpensive to purchase. The fireplace should also 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 plan on using the fireplace prior to installing it. If you intend to put it above your couch be sure that the unit is tall and wide enough to fit the fireplace as well as the couch. Additionally, you need to be aware that the fireplace will generate some heat, so it's advisable to place it higher in the room in order to spread the heat evenly across the room.
For those who enjoy sitting by a warm fire it's recommended to put official source the fireplace in a spot that is easily accessible while sitting on the sofa or reading the latest book. The fireplace can also provide a cozy atmosphere for intimate gatherings of friends.
Another benefit of an electric fireplace is that it does not release any smoke or ash into the air, which can be a problem in homes with children and pets. It's also a great option for those suffering from allergies or asthma because it doesn't cause harmful odors to be trapped in carpets, rugs, or furniture.
Drilling the Holes
It is contingent on the type and amount of DIY experience you have. You may not be capable of drilling the holes needed to install an electric wall fireplace. If you have a fireplace that simply plugs into an electrical outlet, it should be easy to install, but if you are planning on installing an in-built fireplace that requires cutting the drywall and then framing directly into the wall, you'll need to hire an electrician.
If you are installing a wall mounted recessed fire, you'll first have to determine the location of your studs by using a stud finder or drilling a small exploratory hole in the wall. Once you have determined the stud locations you can mark them on the wall using pencil. You will also need to make sure that the wall is dry, and if it is not, you'll require a layer of insulation before beginning.
Some wall mount electric fires come with templates that indicate the locations to drill holes, making this stage much easier than if you mount the fire without templates. You will still need to use a spirit level and a pencil to determine where you intend to attach the brackets,, so be sure to be patient and do it carefully.
When drilling through brick, stone or concrete block walls, it is important to use a hammer drill with a masonry bit. These kinds of drills are made to be used on these types of materials, and will provide an even more precise result than the standard drill. It is recommended to wear a mask for dust when drilling into these kinds of walls as they can create lots of dust that is harmful to inhale.
Once the holes are dug, you'll be able to install the brackets on the electric fire. The fire should be kept away from items that could ignite, such as curtains or bedding as well as clothing. These items can get hot and ignite. You should also ensure that the fireplace is connected to a power source close enough that it doesn't overheat or even burn out.
Mounting the Fireplace
The majority of electric fireplaces are positioned on a flat wall. However it is crucial that the space is free of furniture or other objects that might interfere with the heating process. It is also important to ensure that the drywall and other materials aren't flammable, as this could lead to massive fires when the fireplace is operating at high levels of heat.
If you are uncertain whether your wall is suitable for an electric fireplace, it is important to contact an expert installer for assistance. They can offer suggestions on the kind of wall to choose and the best way to install it. They may also be able to advise you on the kinds of electric fireplace that are available for your specific type of house.
Once you have determined the ideal location for your electric fireplace wall, it's now time to mount it to the wall. The first step is to remove the wall mount bracket from the back of the fireplace and then mark the location where it needs to be mounted on the wall. You can utilize a spirit-level gauge make sure the wall is level and straight before drilling any holes.
The next step is to drill holes needed for the electric fireplace to be anchored to the wall. Again, it is important to be patient and ensure that the holes are drilled to the right dimension. It is important to take your time when drilling with a power drill because it is difficult to return the hole back to the size it was originally.
Once the holes have been drilled it is time to mount the fireplace to the wall. It's a easy task however it is vital to ensure the fireplace is securely fixed to the wall. It is important to make sure that the fireplace is at the right height on the wall.