An in wall fireplace provides a sleek and polished look without the cost of mantles. It is one of the easiest electric fireplaces to install.
There are a few things to think about before buying your fireplace in wall. To maximize the value of your investment, follow these tips for a successful purchase:.
Height
It might seem like a simple issue but determining the size of your fireplace is among the biggest decisions you will make. The height of your fireplace will influence everything, from how well it fits in a room to its visibility. If your fireplace is too high can look unnatural and diminish the aesthetics of the piece. On the other hand, having your fireplace too low could make it appear unattractive in the wall space.
Luckily electric fireplaces are adaptable enough to be placed at various heights. Most people mount their fireplaces from a sitting position at eye level. This usually requires a height of between 40 and 42 inches from the floor to the bottom of the fireplace. Others mount their fireplaces underneath their TVs, which is an attractive option.
The size of your fireplace will depend on a few things, including the size of the room and the length of the wall where you'd like to place it. The bigger the room the more spacious it will be. This could mean you are capable of fitting a larger fireplace in it. The length of the wall is also important because a wall that is longer will support a larger fireplace.
Another important factor to consider is how you plan to make use of your fireplace. If you are planning to use it to decorate your home, the lower height is ideal. However, if you plan to heat your home with it, you'll need to ensure that the fireplace is tall enough to meet the local codes and safety standards.
A proper height for your fireplace will allow you to ensure that it is in line with the decor and is easy to work on when cleaning or filling it. You can always ask a professional fireplace installation expert to assist you if are unsure of the height you should choose. They can advise on the best height for your fireplace, according to their experience and the design of your home's layout.
Depth
A fireplace's depth is important to know if you plan to put it in a recessed place. If you are planning to cut into the wall, ensure that you have enough space to accommodate your fireplace's interior design (the space for the smoke shelf above the firebox and the flue that extends upwards from the roof). Also, think about the space available for the surround, and whether you'd like a fireplace mantle.
Many of the latest electric fireplaces have the depth of being almost concealed, giving them an "integrated" look. This kind of wall fireplace that is electric is best exemplified by the Panorama BI Deep series. This model has a 5.8-inch deep that allows the viewer see the flames, the ember bed, but not the frame. It also comes with a variety of media packages including natural-looking driftwood logs that look like driftwood white pebbles, clear glass crystals that reflect the flames and add luster to the ember bed.
Wall-mounted gas fireplaces are also available in deep and shallow models. When deciding on the depth of your fireplace it is important to remember that these fireplaces are supplementary heating sources and must be properly vented by a skilled professional. The length of the vent pipe, the dimensions of the flue, as well as the distance from the stove to the vent are all elements that need to be taken into consideration when determining the depth of a gas fireplace.
It is important to read and follow the instructions of the manufacturer when mounting your fireplace. A professional installer is recommended in most instances. It is also recommended to have an additional person available when installing gas fireplaces.
Addition of an in-wall fire place to your home is a fantastic way to add value to it and create ambiance. It can also reduce your heating costs. It's an excellent alternative when you aren't able to fit a traditional fire place in your home due to space constraints or the location of a chimney.
Surface Mount
Surface mounts are an excellent option if you don't want to or aren't able to cut into the wall to mount an electric fireplace. They also give it a sleek integrated look. Certain models, such as the Allusion line of electric fireplaces, can be positioned partially recessed into walls without compromising the heat output.
To begin the installation process, determine the location where you would like your fireplace to be placed and make a mark using a pencil on the wall where the bracket will be installed. Use a stud-finder for locating the studs and then place each bracket in front of at least one stud for stability. If a stud isn't within reach or won't work for your fireplace, you can use drywall anchors to support the mounting bracket.
Once you've determined the location of the mounting brackets, use a drill to screw them into the wall, making sure they are aligned with the studs. You can use studs or plastic anchors to connect each bracket. After the mounting brackets are installed, lift the fireplace and hang it from the bracket. Once the fireplace is positioned ensure that it is level.
Before continuing with the installation, plug in your fireplace and make sure that all the features are functioning correctly. Turn on the fire and ignite the flames, play around with embers, heat, bed lights, etc. When you're satisfied with your results you can now install your floating mantel.
Depending on the model of your fireplace It is possible to connect the wire connection to the appliance connector located at the lower part of the mantel or if it has hooks or slots connected to slots on the brackets for mounting. After you've completed this process, consult your fireplace's user manual for directions on how to remove the glass front panel from the opening and replace it.
If you need to adjust the height and width, you should replace the glass front once you have removed the front panel. If your fireplace has ember bed media, place it over the top grate for a more natural appearance. Secure it using the included screws.
Plug-In
These electric fireplaces do not require chimneys or vents as do traditional wood-burning ones. Plugged into a standard outlet they provide additional heating for rooms up to 400 square feet. They also offer multiple flame and heat settings so that you can alter your ambience. Some models feature LED lighting effects that highlight the embers and fire. Some models have a top grille grate that hides manual controls but easily can be opened to reveal buttons to set the desired setting.
Electric fire places with plug-ins can be mounted directly on the wall or recessed to create an appearance of a built-in. These units are usually simpler to install than mantel fireplaces. Some have a pedestal base to allow you to set the fireplace on a flat surface such as a dresser or buffet. A remote control along with mounting hardware and a log set are included. Depending on the model, electric fireplaces can include heat and flame options that can be switched off to provide ambiance throughout the year.
Some models feature privacy glass that can be easily adjusted, from being fully transparent to partially transparent. This makes these models popular for walls that separate common areas of entertainment like living and dining spaces. They can also be utilized in bedrooms where the addition of a fireplace can be a cost-effective method to reduce the chill in the space without sacrificing privacy.
Plug-in electric fire places do not require hardwiring however they must be plugged into a wall capable of supporting their weight. Some models come with a kit that includes a pre-wired cord as well as a special bracket that makes the installation process easier. This kit can be used for either the installation of drywall or concrete.
When deciding on a place for your wall mount electric fireplace, ensure that it is near an electrical outlet. Electric fire places with plug-ins can be connected to outlets that are on the same circuit as the electric fireplace or into a designated outlet. It is recommended to have a separate circuit so that all other appliances in your home operate on the same voltage. This could cause a trip to your circuit breaker.
