Considerations When Shopping For an Electric Wall Fireplace
Electric wall fireplaces can provide a touch of warmth and ambiance to any room. They look like a real fireplace, however, they don't require ventilation and are easy to put in.
Many models utilize LED lights and mirrors to create lifelike flames and the ember bed effect. They typically have several color options and a remote control for added convenience.
Selecting a Fireplace
Electric fireplaces are an excellent option to add a contemporary touch to your living space. They also can provide supplemental or zone heating when required. There are a few things homeowners need to consider when looking for an electrical fireplace to aid them in narrowing their choices and find the right fit.
The most important thing to consider is the size of the room. Electric fireplaces come in various sizes, based on the space available. A flat wall-mount electric fireplace could be the best choice for small spaces, whereas mantel-style fireplaces are ideal for larger homes or apartments.
The type of flame effect you want is also crucial. Many electric fireplaces offer a variety of color and flame settings that you can alter to your liking. Certain models employ mirrors to produce exciting and unique flame movements. You should also consider whether the fireplace comes with a remote control, and the maximum wattage. The higher the wattage of the fireplace, the more heat it will produce.
Some models require a hard-wire connection to your 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 space where you plan on installing the fireplace. It's also a good idea to ensure that the outlet is located on a specific circuit, and not shared with other appliances or fixtures.
The BTU rating of an electric fireplace is vital when determining the amount of heat it produces. This information is usually found in the product description, or on a label. BTUs are used to measure the amount of heat generated by an appliance. A high BTU rating indicates that the electric fire can warm the entire space.
How the electric fireplace is placed in the room is an additional important aspect to consider. Depending on the model, it can 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 thickness can be a factor as walls that are thin may not be able to accommodate a deep electric fireplace without having to be reworked or extended.
Find a Good Location
Electric wall fireplaces can be a convenient and cost-effective way of heating your home without the need to install chimneys. They are usually preferred due to their lack of harmful gas byproducts, and they can be installed in places where a real fireplace would be difficult to install due to safety or space restrictions. However, a common concern is that these units can be easily knocked down accidentally or by pets and children It is therefore essential to properly secure them to the wall.
This can be achieved by following a few simple steps. The first step is to fix the fireplace to the wall with a bracket. This will stop it from swaying or shaking after it is in place. The next step is to make sure the fireplace is properly secured, which can be accomplished by using self-tapping screws, or heavy-duty wall anchors. They are available at a majority of hardware stores and are comparatively inexpensive. In addition, the fireplace must be secured to the wall in a place that is not prone to moisture and is away from high traffic areas, drapes, or furniture.
Before putting in the fireplace, you must consider how you plan to utilize it. If you plan on hanging it above your sofa, you'll need to make sure the unit is tall enough to accommodate both the fireplace and the couch. Be aware that the fire produces heat. It is recommended to place the fireplace higher in the room to ensure that the heat can be distributed evenly.
If you like sitting in front of a warm fire, it's also recommended to put the fireplace in a place that is easily accessible while sitting on the sofa or reading the latest book. The fireplace can also create an inviting atmosphere for intimate gatherings with your friends.
Electric fireplaces are also ideal for homes with pets and young children because they do not release smoke or ash in the air. It's a great choice for people suffering from allergies or asthma since it will not cause odors that are harmful in carpets, rugs or furniture.
Drilling the Holes
Depending on the type of fireplace you select and your level of experience with DIY projects, drilling holes for an electric wall heater may or not be possible. Installing a fireplace which plugs directly into an electrical outlet should be simple. However, if you want to install a built-in fire that requires cutting into drywall and framing it into the wall, you'll require an electrician.
You will need to locate the studs before you are able to install a wall mounted fire. This can be accomplished using a wall stud locater or drilling a small hole into the wall. Mark the studs of the wall with pencil after you have located them. Also, ensure that the wall is completely dry. If it's not then you'll need to add insulation.
The mounting of some wall-mounted electric fires is made simpler by the template that shows where to drill the holes. It is still necessary to use a spirit-level as well as a pencil when marking the brackets. Make sure you take your time to do this.
It is essential to use a hammer drill with a masonry drill when drilling through brick blocks, concrete or stone walls. These drills are designed specifically for these materials and will give you a more precise result than a standard drill. You should also wear a dust mask when drilling into these kinds of walls as they can produce lots of dust that is harmful to breathe.
Once the holes are made, you can place the electric fire on its brackets. It is important to make sure that the fire is away from any flammable materials, such as curtains, bedding, and clothing, as these things could get hot and ignite or burn. You should also make sure that the fireplace is connected to a power source that is close enough that it doesn't overheat or become burnt out.
Mounting the Fireplace
The majority of electric fireplaces are installed on a flat wall. However it is essential that the area be free of furniture and other objects that could interfere with the heating process. It also helps to ensure that the wall and other materials are not flammable as this could cause major fires if the fireplace is operating at high temperatures.
If you aren't sure whether your wall is suitable for an electric fireplace, it is essential to speak with an expert installer for assistance. They can provide you with suggestions on the kind of wall to use and the best installation. They might be able to guide you on the types of electric fireplaces suitable for your particular type of home.
Once you have found the ideal spot for your electric fireplace wall, it is time to put it up to the wall. The first step is to remove the wall mount bracket from the back of the fireplace and then mark the position in which it should be mounted to the wall. You can make use of a spirit-level gauge to ensure that the wall is level and straight prior to drilling holes.
Next, drill the holes that will attach the electric fireplace to the wall. It is crucial to take your time and make sure that the holes are drilled in the correct size. It is important to take your time when using a power drill because it may be difficult to return the hole back to its original size.
After the holes have been drilled after which it is time to put the fireplace on the wall. This is a easy task, however it is important to ensure that address here the fireplace is fixed securely to the wall and that no gaps are left. It is important to make sure that the fireplace is at the right height on the wall.