Things to Consider Before Installing an Electric Wall Fireplace
A wall-mounted electric fireplace is a secure and practical way to provide warmth and aesthetic appeal to your home. However, there are a few things you should consider before installing one.
Contrary to fully recessed fires wall-mounted fires are relatively easy to install by yourself. But, it's crucial to ensure that you have the proper dimensions of the kit and insert.
Safety
A very popular feature of interior design, an electric wall fireplace is a comfortable and attractive alternative to traditional fireplaces. They're safe for use in any house and are an energy-efficient method to provide additional warmth while maintaining a clean smoke-free space. They come in a variety of different options, but all of them provide a stunning bed of embers and a realistic flame presentation. This makes them ideal for condos, apartments and renovations without the traditional chimney. They're also an excellent choice for households with children or pets, as they do not produce a real fire.
There are some safety tips to follow when using an electric fireplace. It is essential to keep all materials that ignite at least three feet from the fireplace. This will help protect you from fire hazards and decrease the chance of burning your possessions. It is also essential to stay away from hot surfaces of the fireplace, like the heating elements, as well as the vents where hot air is being blown out. These vents should not be blocked as they are necessary for 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 can be especially helpful in a small space or in the case of pets and children with young ones. Certain models also come with a remote control that allows you to turn the fireplace on and off from any room. This prevents the fire from being accidentally lit when you aren't in the room.
Some models even come with a built-in timer that will shut off the fireplace after a set amount of time. This feature is perfect for those who do not remember to turn off the fireplace or have difficulty remembering.
Additionally, you should always unplug the fireplace when not in use. It can overload the electrical system, causing the risk of fire. Also, never place any liquids or water in the fireplace. Finally, it's a good idea to keep your electric fireplace on a separate circuit to other appliances. This will avoid the possibility of tripping and power outages.
Energy Efficiency
Using an electric wall fireplace can save you money when heating bills begin to rise in winter. The cost of running these fireplaces is dependent on a number of factors, such as the wattage of the particular appliance and the energy provider's cost per Kilowatt.
The energy consumption of the fireplace is typically displayed on the unit, usually in the form of kW (kilowatts). Divide this figure by the price per kilowatt that your energy provider charges to get an energy efficiency percentage.
Most electric fireplaces use fan-forced heaters which pull cool air into the room, heat it up with electricity and then push the hot air back into the room. These are the most commonly used and affordable kind of electric fireplaces. These can be used to heat smaller or medium-sized areas however they are not as efficient as infrared heaters which offer more consistent and even heat.
Contrary to wood-burning fires, electric fireplaces use no combustible fuel and produce no soot or ash. This eliminates the need to stockpile wood or hire an expert chimney sweep for routine cleaning and inspection. They also don't produce harmful fumes and their flames appear real.
Since there's no requirement for gas or coal they can be used in a variety locations and are ideal when you want the cozy feel of a fireplace without the need to run your furnace. They also aren't a source of drying out your living space by blowing heat into it, and they can help to maintain a healthy humidity for those suffering from respiratory problems.
Another benefit of these types of fireplaces is that they can make use of them without or with the heat, giving you the option to enjoy the ambience throughout the year. These fireplaces are great for rooms with lots of furniture, as they block out the heat. You can still enjoy the ambience while entertaining guests.
It pays to shop around if you're considering buying an electric fireplace. You may be able to find a model that is priced lower than you imagine, especially when you take the time to compare prices on the internet and in-store offers. Additionally, it is essential to ensure that you purchase an electric fireplace that is plugged into an outlet located in a safe location and isn't sharing a circuit with any other appliances or fixtures.
Design
A fireplace feature wall can be an amazing way to add beauty to your room without having to spend time and money on renovations. Electric fireplaces don't require chimneys or venting and can be placed in any room, even the bedroom. They also provide supplemental heating and do not produce smoke, making them safer for children and people with respiratory ailments.
There are a variety of ideas for electric fireplaces to think about so you can choose the ideal one for your home. Some fireplaces are designed to stand out as an eye-catching focal point in the room, whereas others blend into contemporary design. If you're looking for a striking piece, choose a faux stone fireplace with a curved opening. LED flames will glisten and crackle, and provide an elegant accent.
A linear fireplace is a popular option. They are sleek and compact, making them ideal for modern spaces that are short on space. Many models come with an adjustable remote, several color and heat settings, as well as log options that can be customized for an appearance. Certain models also have an easy wave setting that lets you turn the fireplace on and off by the movement of your hand.
Alternatively, you can install a recessed model that is flush with the wall. This design is ideal for modern homes, and can be paired with TV. Most recessed electric fire places come with front vents to ensure security and can heat up to 400 square foot.
If you're looking for an older-style design opt for a mantelss style with a brick surround. They are ideal for rooms that receive lots of natural light and can be complemented with mantels made of wood or stone. You can also add an edging for your fireplace to create a cozy ambience.
Many electric fireplaces come with an remote that lets you alter the flame and heat settings, and some even have a timer that helps you conserve energy. They can be paired with a smart home system to give you complete control over your fireplace.
Installation
The newest trend in interior design is the wall-mounted electric electric fireplace wall mount fireplace. These units are stylish, energy-efficient and easy to install. They can also be put on the wall in a flush for an elegant look. The mounting kit for most of these fireplaces includes all the necessary equipment. Some models come with an inbuilt blower that can push warm air into the room.
The installation is easy but you must follow the instructions. The owner's manual will provide you with specific instructions on how to frame and secure the unit. It will also give you specific guidelines on the clearances you need to leave to prevent fire hazards.
Start by checking whether the area you've selected is suitable for your fire. If you're not sure, drill a small hole into a discrete area of the wall. This will let you know the type of wall you have. Once you've completed this then, use the template that came with the fireplace to mark the wall on which you will need to install it. Then, you can attach the brackets to the wall and secure them with screws. Make sure that the brackets are level and make sure the fire is properly positioned to ensure a neat and tidy finish.
You'll also need to think about the height that you would like your fire to be. If you have a frameless fireplace, you might prefer a flush mount or fireplace ledge. To ensure that your heater is safe, you'll want to ensure that it's at least 400mm from flames, such as fabrics.
If you're uncomfortable with electrical work, think about hiring an expert to wire the fire for you. They can also drywall the area and tape it, then mud it to give it a smooth finish. If needed, they can move the plug socket to give it a a more streamlined appearance. And if you want to hide the power cord in a more discreet location, they can put it behind the TV stand or beneath the carpet. In most cases you could paint the cord the same color as the wall.