An in wall fireplace provides an elegant and polished look without the cost of mantles. It is one of the most simple electric fireplaces to set up.
However, there are several factors to consider before purchasing your in wall fireplace. To make the most of your investment, adhere to these tips for a successful purchase:.
Height
It might seem like an easy question but determining the size of your fireplace is one of the most important decisions you'll make. The height of your fireplace will influence everything from how it will fit into a space to its visibility. The fireplace may appear odd when it is too high. It could also take away from its attractiveness. On the other hand having your fireplace too low can make it appear unattractive in the wall space.
Electric fireplaces can be placed at various levels. For instance, a majority of people choose to mount their fireplaces on the eye level from a sitting position. This requires a height between 40 and 42 inches. Others mount their fireplaces underneath their TVs, which can be an attractive option.
The exact height of your fireplace will be determined by a few things, including the size of the room and the length of the wall you want to mount it. The larger the room larger, the more spacious it will be which could mean that you can fit more of a fireplace. The length of the wall is also important because a wall that is longer can accommodate a bigger fireplace.
Another crucial aspect to take into consideration is how you plan to make use of your fireplace. If you are planning to use it only for decorative purposes, then a lower height is best. If you intend to use it to heat your house it is necessary to ensure that the fireplace is sturdy and tall enough to withstand the safety standards.
The right height for your fireplace will help to make sure that it is in line with the decor of the room and is easy to work with when cleaning or filling it. You can always ask a professional fireplace installer to help you if you are unsure of the best height to choose. They'll be able recommend the perfect height for your fireplace in light of their experience and your particular home.Depth
The depth of a fireplace is crucial to know if you want to put it in a recessed place. If you are going to cut into your wall, ensure that you have enough depth to accommodate the inner design of your fireplace (the smoke shelf area above the firebox, the flue that rises through the roof, and the fireplace itself). Also, think about the space you'll need for the surround, and whether or not you would like a mantle.
Many of the more recent electric fireplace models feature an incredibly deep depth that is invisible, creating an "integrated" appearance. The Panorama BI-Deep series is a great illustration of this kind of electric fireplace that is wall-mounted. The model has a 5.8-inch depth that lets the viewer see the flames and the ember bed instead of the frame of the fireplace. It is also equipped with a range of media options, including natural-looking driftwood logs white pebbles, clear glass crystals that reflect the flames and improve the ember bed.
Wall-mounted gas fireplaces are available in deep and shallow models. However, when deciding on the depth of your fireplace it is crucial to remember that these fireplaces function as a heat source that can be used for supplemental purposes and must be properly vented by an experienced professional. When determining the size of a gas fireplace it is important to take into consideration the length of the vent pipe as well as the size of the chimney.
If you decide to go with a surface mount or a recessed installation, it is essential to follow all of the manufacturer's instructions when mounting your fireplace. In most instances, hiring a professional to install your fireplace is recommended. It is also a good idea to have a second person in the house when installing a fireplace.
The addition of an in-wall fireplace place to your home is a great way to add value to it and add ambiance. It can also reduce your heating expenses. Additionally, it's a great option if you cannot install an old-fashioned fireplace into your home due to the space restrictions or the location of an existing chimney.
Surface Mount
If you're unable or prefer not to cut through your wall or construct an area to accommodate an electric fireplace, a surface mount provides a sleek and modern appearance. Some models, like the Allusion line of electric fireplaces, can be positioned partially recessed into a wall without compromising the output of heat.
To start the installation process, determine where you want your fireplace to be placed and mark it with a pencil along the wall where the bracket will be erected. Use a stud-finder for locating the studs, and place the brackets in front of at least one stud to ensure stability. If a stud isn't in reach or doesn't work for your fireplace, you can use drywall anchors to support the mounting bracket.
Once you have determined the position of the mounting brackets on the wall and then use a power drill to screw them in and make sure they are in alignment with the studs. If you can, secure each bracket to a stud for strength and stability, however you can also use plastic anchors when needed. After the mounting brackets are installed, lift your fireplace and place it from the wall bracket. Once it's secure, verify the position of your fireplace to make sure that it's straight and not crooked within the opening.
Before you proceed with the installation, connect your fireplace and check whether all features are operating properly - turn on the fire and light up the flames, play around with embers, heat, bed lights and more. When you are satisfied with the results it is time to put in the floating mantel.
Depending on the type of your fireplace, you'll either have to connect the wire connection to the appliance wire connector in the mantel's bottom or if the fireplace has hooks or slots on the back connect them to the slots on the wall mounting brackets. After you've completed this step you should consult your fireplace's user manual for directions on how to remove the front glass panel from the opening and replace it.
After you've removed the front panel of your fireplace and inserted it into the opening, follow your guideline to complete the install by replacing the glass front and adjusting the height as required. If your fireplace is equipped with ember bed media, place it over the top of the grate to give it a more natural appearance. Then secure it with the screws that come with it.
Plug-In
These electric fireplaces do not require vents or chimneys like traditional wood-burning ones. Plugged into a standard outlet they provide supplemental heating to rooms that are up to 400 square feet. You can also customize the ambience with a variety of flame and heat settings. Some models feature LED lighting effects that accentuate the ember bed and the fire. Some models feature an upper grille that hides the manual controls, however they can easily be opened to reveal pushbuttons.
Plug-in electric fire places can be installed directly on the wall or recessed to give a built-in appearance. They are generally simpler to set up than mantel fireplaces. Some come with pedestal bases to allow you to place the fireplace on a flat surface, such as a dresser or buffet. A remote control, mounting hardware and log set are all included. Depending on the model, electric fireplaces can include heat and flame options that can be switched off for year-round ambiance.
Some models have adjustable privacy glass that you can instantly change from completely transparent to partially. This option makes these models popular for walls that separate common entertainment spaces like dining and living areas. They can even be used in bedrooms where adding the fireplace is a cost-effective way to take the chill off the space without sacrificing privacy.
While plug-in electric fireplaces don't require hardwiring like traditional fireplaces, they must be positioned on the wall that is at a minimum free of studs and able to support the weight of the fireplace. Certain models come with a kit that comes with an already wired cord and specially designed bracket to make the installation process less difficult. This kit is suitable for the installation of drywall or concrete.
When choosing a location for your wall-mounted electric fireplace, ensure it is near an electrical outlet. Electric fire places that plug in can be plugged in to outlets on the same circuit as the electric fireplace, or into a dedicated outlet. It is recommended to choose a different circuit to ensure that all other appliances in your home can operate on the same voltage. This could cause a trip to your circuit breaker.
