Things to Consider Before Installing an Electric Wall Fireplace
A wall-mounted electric fireplace suite is a safe and efficient way to provide warmth and aesthetic appeal to your home. There are some things to consider before installing an electric wall fireplace.
In contrast to fully recessed fires wall-mounted models are fairly simple to install by yourself. However, it is important to ensure that you have the correct dimensions of the kit and insert.
Safety
A popular element of decor A wall fireplace that is electric is a comfortable and attractive alternative to traditional fireplaces. They are safe to use and provide supplemental heat in any home. They also maintain an air-free, clean and smoke-free environment. There are a myriad of options for these fireplaces however, they all produce captivating bed embers with a realistic flame display. This makes them ideal for apartments, condos and renovations that do not have the traditional chimney. They are an excellent choice for pet owners or children, as they don't generate an actual flame.
However, there are certain precautions to be observed when using an electric fireplace. It is important to keep all materials that ignite at least three feet away from the fireplace. This will help to reduce the chance of your possessions burning. Avoid touching areas of the fireplace that are hot, like the heating element, as well as the vents that blast hot air out. You should also not block these vents, as they need to be open to allow the unit to function safely.
A protective screen is another important feature of an electric wall fire. It will help to avoid accidental burns. This is especially useful in smaller spaces or when you have pets or children who are young. Certain models come with the option of a remote control that allows you to turn off and on the fireplace from any part of the space. This will prevent the fireplace from being accidentally turned on when you're not in the room.
Some models have a timer built-in that shuts off the fireplace after a certain amount of time. This feature is perfect for those who have trouble remembering to turn the fireplace off, or who may not remember to do it before going to bed.
Also, it is recommended to unplug the fireplace when not being used. It can overload the electrical system, which could create an increase in fire danger. Also, never place any liquids or water in the fireplace. It's also a good idea for your electric fireplace to be placed on a separate circuit from other appliances. This will avoid tripping or power outages.
Energy Efficiency
A wall fireplace that is electric can save you money when your heating bills begin to increase in the winter. The cost of running these fireplaces is contingent on a variety of factors, such as power and the cost per kilowatt charged by your energy provider.
Usually the wattage is shown in kW (kilowatts). Divide this number by the cost per kilowatt that your energy provider charges to get an energy efficiency percentage.
Most electric fireplaces employ fan-forced heaters that pull cool air into the room, heat it with electricity and then push hot air back into the room. These are the most common and inexpensive kind of electric fireplaces. They can be used to warm the smallest or medium-sized spaces however they are not as efficient as infrared heaters, which offer more uniform and consistent heat.
In contrast to wood burning fires electric fireplaces do not burn fuel and produce no soot or ash. It is no more necessary to store wood, or hire an chimney sweep to conduct regular cleaning and inspection. They also don't produce harmful fumes, and their flames appear realistic.
These fireplaces are ideal for those who wish to warm themselves by an open flame but don't want to use their furnace. They also aren't a source of drying out your living space by blowing heat into it and they can be used to maintain a healthy level of humidity for those inflicted with respiratory issues.
Another advantage of these kinds of fireplaces is that you can use them with or without the heat, giving you the chance to enjoy their ambience all year long. They're ideal for rooms where you have a lot of furniture which block the heat, and you can still enjoy the ambience while entertaining guests.
It pays to shop around when you're thinking about buying an electric fireplace. It's possible to find a model that is priced lower than you imagine, especially if you take the time to compare online prices and in-store offers. It's also important to make sure that the electric fireplace you buy can be plugged in at an appropriate location and that it doesn't share a circuit with other appliances or fixtures.
Design
A fireplace feature wall is an excellent way to improve your home without having to spend time and money on renovations. Electric fireplaces don't require chimneys or venting therefore they can be installed in any room of the house, including bedrooms. They also provide supplemental heating and do not emit smoke, which makes them safer for children and people with respiratory conditions.
There are many electric fireplace designs you can pick from to find the right one for your home. Certain freestanding fireplace designs are made to make a statement as an eye-catching focal point in the room, whereas others blend with a modern aesthetic. If you want a statement piece, opt for a contemporary faux stone model with a curved opening and LED flames that glow and crackle to add an elegant appearance.
Another popular option is a linear fireplace. They are compact and sleek, making them perfect for modern spaces with little space. A majority of them come with a remote control, multiple colors for flames and heat and log set options for an adjustable look. Certain models also have an easy-to-use wave setting that allows you to turn the fireplace on and off by the movement of your hand.
Alternately, you can put in an recessed model that is in line with the wall. This design is great for modern homes and can be paired with a flat-screen TV. Most recessed electric fireplaces have front vents to guarantee safety, and can also be heated up to 400 square feet.
If you're looking for a more traditional style of fireplace, think about the mantelss model with a traditional brick surround. These are great for rooms that have plenty of light. They can be paired with a mantel made of wood or stone. You can also pair them with a fireplace screen to create a cozy setting.
A lot of electric fireplaces come with a remote that lets you customize the heat and flame settings, and some feature a timer that helps you save energy. They can also be used in combination with a smart home system that gives you total control over your fireplace.
Installation
The latest fashion in interior design is the wall-mounted electric fireplace. They are stylish and energy efficient. They are also simple to install. These fireplaces can be installed in a flush position to the wall which gives them a sleek design. The mounting kit that comes with most of these fireplaces comes with the necessary equipment. Some models have a blower inside which pushes warm air into the room.
Installation is simple but you must follow the steps. The owner's manual will give you specific directions on how to frame and secure the unit. The manual will also give you specific guidelines for the clearances that you should leave to avoid fire hazards.
Make sure the area is suitable for the fire. If you're not sure then make a small hole in a small area of the wall. This will let you know the kind of wall you have. Once you've done this you can use a template provided with the fireplace to mark the wall that you'll need to fix it. The next step is to attach the brackets to the wall and secure them using screws. Make sure that the brackets are level and ensure that the fire is properly positioned to ensure a neat and tidy finish.
You'll also need to think about the height you want your fire to be. For example, if you're using a frameless model you may want to have a ledge to hold the fire, or you may prefer a more flush mount. To ensure that your heater is safe you should make sure it is at least 400mm away from the combustibles like fabrics.
You may want to consider hiring a professional electrician to connect your fire if you aren't confident working with electricity. They can also put up drywall or tape it, and then put it in mud to give it a smooth surface. They can even move the plug socket in case of need to create a sleek look. If you wish to conceal the power cord, it could be hidden behind the TV stand or beneath the carpet. In the majority of cases, you have the option to have the cord painted in the same hue as the wall.