The 10 Worst Electric Wall Fireplace Fails Of All Time Could Have Been Prevented
Considerations When Shopping For an Electric Wall Fireplace
Electric wall fireplaces can add a touch of warmth and ambiance any room. They look like a real fire 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 a variety of color options and a remote for convenience.
Choose electric wall mounted fireplace are a popular choice for individuals looking to add some modern style to their living spaces. They can also be used to provide zone or supplementary heating when needed. When searching for a brand new electrical fireplace, there are several considerations homeowners should keep in mind to help narrow the selection and find the ideal match.
One of the most important aspects is the dimension of the room. Depending on the available square footage, there are different types of electric fireplaces that you can consider. A wall-mounted electric fireplace with a flat design may be the best option for small spaces, whereas a mantel-style unit is ideal for larger homes or apartments.
The type of flame effect you prefer is also important. Many electric fireplaces come with a number of colors and flame settings that can be adjusted to your preference. Some models use mirrors to create thrilling and unique flame motions. Other features to consider include whether the fireplace is equipped with a remote control, and what the maximum wattage is. The greater the wattage of the fireplace, the more heat it will produce.
Certain models must be hard-wired into your home's electrical system, while others are simply connected to an outlet on the wall. If you decide to go with the latter option, make sure there's a suitable outlet in the space where you intend to install the fireplace. It's important to ensure that the outlet is on a dedicated circuit and not shared with other appliances or fixtures.
When it comes to determining the amount of heat an electric fireplace produces, its BTU rating must be taken into consideration. This information is typically included in the product description, or on a label. BTUs measure the amount of heat produced by a fireplace that is high, and a higher BTU rating indicates that the electric fireplace can effectively warm the room.
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 furniture pieces such as a TV or media console stand, or integrated into a custom cabinet. This is also influenced by the thickness of the wall. The walls that are thin may not be able accommodate the size of a fireplace and may need to be changed.
Find a Great Location
A wall-mounted electric fireplace is a convenient way to heat your home without the expense and trouble of installing a chimney. These fireplaces are typically preferred due to their lack of harmful gas byproducts and they can be installed in places where a real fireplace is difficult to install due to space or safety concerns. These units can easily be tripped over by children and pets or accidentally. Therefore, it is essential to secure them securely to the wall.
Fortunately, this can be done by following a couple of simple steps. The first step is to fix the fireplace to the wall with an anchor. This will stop it from swaying or moving around once it is fixed. The next step is to ensure that the fireplace is properly secured and this can be done by using self-tapping screws or heavy-duty wall anchors. They can be found in the majority of hardware stores and are fairly affordable to purchase. The fireplace should be erected on the wall in an area that isn't susceptible to moisture, and away from drapes, furniture or high traffic areas.
Before installing a fireplace, it's crucial to consider how you plan to utilize it. If you intend to put it above your sofa, make sure that the unit is wide and tall enough to be able to accommodate the fireplace and the couch. Be aware that the fireplace produces heat. It is recommended to place the fireplace higher in the room to ensure that the heat is distributed evenly.
If you enjoy sitting by a warm fire, it's also recommended to put the fireplace in a place that is easy to reach when relaxing on the sofa or reading a book. The fireplace can also provide a cozy atmosphere for intimate gatherings of family and friends.
Electric fireplaces are also great for homes with pets or young children because they do not release smoke or ash into the air. It's a great choice for people suffering from asthma or allergies as it won't cause harmful odors in carpets, rugs or furniture.
Drilling the Holes
Depending on the kind of fireplace you select and your level of experience with DIY projects, drilling the holes for an electric wall fireplace may or not be possible. If you have a fireplace that plugs into an electrical outlet, it will be easy to install however, if you're planning to install a fireplace with a built-in design that requires cutting into 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 will first need to determine the location of your studs using a stud finder or drilling an exploratory hole into the wall. Mark the studs on the wall with a pencil after you have located them. You should also make sure that the wall is dry and if not, you will require a layer of insulation before beginning.
Some recessed wall mount electric fires include templates that indicate the locations to drill holes, making this process much simpler than if you were to mount the fire without the template. You will still need to make use of a spirit level as well as a pencil to mark where you plan to fix the brackets, you should be patient and do this carefully.
It is important to use a hammer-drill with a drill for masonry when drilling into brick, concrete block or stone walls. These drills are specifically designed for these materials and will provide a more precise outcome than a standard one. Wear a dust mask when drilling into these types walls as they can produce a large amount of dust.
After the holes have been made, you will be able to install the brackets on the electric fire. You will need to ensure that the fire is away from combustible materials like curtains, bedding, and clothing, as these items could get hot and ignite or even burn. Also, make sure that the fireplace is plugged into a source of power that is close enough to keep it safe from overheating or burning out.
Mounting the Fireplace
Most electric fireplaces can be positioned onto a flat wall but it is important to make sure that the wall is free of furniture and other items that might interfere with the heating of the room. It is also essential to make sure that the drywall, as well as other materials aren't fire-proof. This could lead to major fires when the fireplace is operating at high temperatures.
It is crucial to consult a professional installer if you are unsure if a wall will be able to support an electrical fireplace. They will be able to provide you with advice on the type of wall that can be used and what the most suitable method of installation would be. They could also provide you with information on the different kinds of electric fireplaces are suitable for the type of home that you own.
Once you have located the ideal location for your electric wall fireplace, it is time to begin mounting it on the wall. The first step will be to remove the wall mount bracket from the back of the fireplace and then mark the location at which it will need to be installed on the wall. It is beneficial to have a spirit level gauge to assist you with this as it will allow you to make sure the wall is straight and level before drilling holes into it.
The next step is to drill the holes needed for the electric fireplace to be fixed to the wall. It is crucial to take your time and make sure that the holes are drilled to the correct dimensions. It is crucial to be patient when drilling using a power drill, as it can be difficult to return the hole to its original size.
After the holes have been drilled it is time to mount the fireplace on the wall. This can be a fairly simple job but it is crucial to make sure that the fireplace is fixed securely to the wall and no gaps are left. It is important to ensure that the fireplace is placed at the correct height on the wall.