Electric Fireplace Wall Hanging Ideas
Contrary to traditional wood or gas fireplaces Wall-mount electric fireplaces can be hung straight out of the box. They're an excellent way to add ambiance without requiring venting or renovation.
They are usually heavy and require careful installation. Follow these steps to install your new electric fireplace correctly.
1. Connect the Brackets
A wall-mounted electric fireplace or recessed fire instantly transforms any space. This is an excellent option for those who don't have fireplaces or reside in apartments.
Choose the location where you'd like to install your electric fire. It is important to choose a location that won't be susceptible to moisture and is at least just a few inches from furniture, drapes and high traffic areas. Mark the wall with layout marks that indicate the top and bottom plates for the fireplace frame.
Make use of a drill or another tool to make exploratory holes in the wall. Find studs using an stud-detector. Then, mark the drywall according to the location of the fireplace mounting brackets. Then, you need to build out the wall or patch and paint the drywall to prepare it for fireplace installation.
Depending on the fireplace mounted to the wall you choose, you may need to install both the screen and firebox in one unit or separate them using a wall bracket. If you're not sure about your capability to tackle this task on your own, think about hiring an experienced general contractor or carpenter.
Most electric fireplaces include templates for the installation process, but you should also have an emery board and a pencil handy to help you precisely mark the area where you'll fix the wall brackets. Use the template to ensure that the power cable of the fireplace is able to connect to an outlet nearby to connect it.
When the studs and fireplace frame are in place, you can put in a drywall that is as smooth and flush as possible for a clean appearance. Add a trim piece to the bottom edge and then paint and sand the entire frame for a finished look.
You will need to insert the hooks or slots on the back of most electric fireplaces that are wall mounted into the brackets for mounting. Make sure that the slots or hooks are aligned prior to when connecting the fire to the wall brackets. Once the fire is set you can add other elements like driftwood logs, crystal embers or decorative rocks.
2. Check the Bottom Bracket
The space above the fireplace, mantel, or chimney breast is ideal to hang artwork. But, there is a line of distinction between an artistic arrangement & one that detracts from the overall look of the fireplace design.
Generally speaking, Electric wall mount fireplace of thumb is that a picture should be at least 80% the length of the fireplace or mantel it sits above. This will help keep it in proportion and look great on the wall. Other decorative and ornamental items placed on the mantel could also influence this size & proportional guideline.
If you're planning to put a picture above your electric fireplace, you must ensure that the frame is made of glass or other material that is able to withstand high temperatures. If you're unsure whether the frame is suitable, you can test the frame with a heat sensitive cloth to determine if it is suitable for this purpose.
The possibility of destroying artwork due to smoke or stray heat is a common issue when displaying artwork in front of the fireplace. This is not an issue with a wood- or gas-powered fireplace. However when you are planning to use an electric wall fire it is important to read the manufacturer's instructions.
Most electrical fires have an installation bracket that can be attached to the wall with either hanging screws or wall-mounted fixing systems. If the latter is the case, it is recommended that you drill exploratory holes in an isolated area of the wall prior to you begin mounting your electric fire. Afterwards you can utilize a pipe & cable finder to ensure that there aren't any pipes or cables within the vicinity of the location you've chosen to mount it.
If there are, you can then decide to put your fire above the electrical socket or relocate it to a different location. If you decide to move it, you must make sure that the power cable is able to reach the electrical socket. This is crucial for older homes or those with walls that are solid. In the event that it doesn't the electric fire won't be able to work properly. Certain models come with a template that indicates the locations to drill holes for this purpose and others require a spirit level and pencil to mark the appropriate places on your wall.
3. Connect the Power Cord
If you've put in a recessed electric fireplace, you may need to relocate the plug socket from the wall to behind the fireplace. This can give it a cleaner appearance. Test the fireplace first to make sure it is operating correctly.
Another popular method to mount an electric fireplace is to frame space and then build it into the wall. This creates a polished, traditional look and allows you to add mantels. The owner's manual for your particular model will give details on framing, wiring and securing the fire place.
If you're ready for mounting your new electric fireplace on the wall begin by marking the area of installation with a marker or pencil. Then apply a carpenter's level to ensure that the installation location is level and flat. You can use a studfinder to mark the location to know that you're drilling in a safe location.
Use your electric drill after having identified the location of installation to create holes for the bracket screws or hanging screws. Make sure you follow the precise directions in your owner's manual for this procedure, especially in the case of installing the fireplace in a drywall. If you're not sure of how to go about it you can always ask an expert to handle the installation for you.
You can also conceal power cords away from view using cable organizer kits. These kits usually come with clips, sleeves or boxes for bundling cables. You can use wire snakes or fish tape to guide the cables. If you don't want to cut into the drywall, a Powerbridge kit will provide a cleaner and safer connection.
You can also disguise cords by using paintable wire covers or by tacking them to the wall. Keep the cover or tacks far from sources of heat. This will protect the cord from damage and also prevent accidental contact.
4. Connect the adapter
A wall-mounted electric fireplace is a fantastic alternative for home renovations or for those who do not have the space or funds to build a gas fireplace. They are easy to hang and ready to use straight out of the box. They're an excellent alternative for those looking for a stylish, modern touch or warmth from a fireplace. These units can be hung on any wall as art, and are electric and have fan-powered heat.
It's a great idea to create a list of all the tools and equipment you'll require prior to starting the installation process. You can find the complete instructions on how to install an electric fire in the user manual. Certain models require you to screw brackets directly into the wall while others might have an installation plate that slides into slots or hooks onto the brackets. It is important to remove any combustible materials from the area where you will be installing a fireplace that is recessed. As a rule, you should keep these materials at least 3 feet from the front of the fireplace.
After you've checked all the components, you need to plug in your electric fireplace and verify that it functions correctly. This is an essential step because it will guarantee that the flame effect screen and heater work according to the specifications. This will give you a good idea of the final product in its final configuration.
If you're confident that your electric fireplace is operating correctly, you should consider covering the power cord. This will keep the finished product neat and tidy. This can be accomplished by applying paintable wire covers, or install a new outlet that allows you to place the cord behind the unit. This will give a seamless finish to your fireplace.