How to Choose and Install an in Wall Electric Fireplace
A wall-mounted electric fireplace can provide both visual interest and supplemental warmth to any room. Renters will also appreciate their ease of installation.
You can pick from a variety of styles. Some are even totally or partially recessed to create an integrated look. Here's how to select the most appropriate one for your home.
Styles
There are a myriad of styles to consider when selecting the best electric fire place for your home. A recessed wall mount is one of the most popular options. This kind of mount is simple to set up, using a plug-in design that doesn't require hardwiring. This is a great choice for those looking to bring the look of a fireplace to their living space without the hassle of cutting through drywall and adding chimneys.
Another alternative is to install an insert. This kind of fireplace is somewhat more difficult to build than a recessed unit. This is due to the wall recess requires more carpentry skills. But, it also allows you to customize the new wall to match your existing decor. This kind of electric fireplace is commonly used to divide walls into two separate bedrooms.
Certain manufacturers, like Amantii offer a wide variety of electric fireplace models in various styles and finishes. Some models even come with smart home automation for fireplaces, which allows you to control your fireplace with your tablet or smartphone.
When selecting an electric fireplace for your home, it's important to take into consideration the power and the capacity to produce heat. This will impact the operating cost and how warm your living space will be. It is also important to think about the design and finish of the fireplace as it will determine how it will fit into your current interior design.
The most effective electric fireplaces offer various flame and color settings along with various effects, like a simulated log fire or the video loop of an actual wood burning fire. These effects are created by numerous manufacturers using LED lights which are more efficient in energy than conventional incandescent lights. They also last for a longer time and are safe to handle.
The choice of an electric fireplace for your home is a difficult process. You'll need to decide if you want your fireplace to be an element of heating or just decorative. If you want a unit that has both flames and heat make sure you choose a fireplace that has independent controls. This allows you to alter the heat and flames according to the time of year or your personal preferences.
Optic illusions
optical illusions are a key element that makes holes in the wall electric fireplaces so efficient. Different models employ various tricks to make flames appear more realistic. These range from basic ones, like adding additional logs, to holographic displays that create an impressive illusion, without taking up any space.
A lot of older electric fireplaces employ LED screens and rotisserie-style lights to create the illusion of flames. However, modern designs have evolved to become much more realistic. Most electric fireplaces have an elongated reflector that spins in three-dimensional patterns to resemble the light reflections from real fire. Some even produce a crackling noise to enhance the authenticity.
Contrary to wood-burning or gas-burning fireplaces, electric fires don't require chimneys or venting, which means they don't emit any smoke or pollution. Some even come with remote controls to control the flames and heat levels. Electric fireplaces do not require a chimney or gas lines. They can be installed on a wall, or on a mounted in a recess.
A great option for those who want to keep things simple, the Simplifire Allusion is a great entry-level model with an electric log set as well as clear crystal ember bed media. It is available in a range of front face colors, and includes a full size remote. To further customize, upgrade to driftwood log sets or ceramic stones.
The Dimplex Revillusion insert is also available as a stand-alone log set. The holographic display, which is placed between the flames on the log set and the insert creates the illusion that there are many more logs. The design isn't as realistic looking as other options in our roundup, but it is an option for those who prefer a more traditional look.
Other companies, such as Magikflame, have taken a step beyond the Dimplex Revillusion with a design that uses touchscreens instead of mechanical buttons. The backlit touchscreen is more intuitive to use, and is self-illuminated, which means you can easily see the icons even in dark rooms. This kind of control panel will enhance a modern interior design.
Easy to Set-up
As opposed to built-in models which require the removal of a section of wall, an in-wall electric fireplace is much simpler to set up. As long as the studs behind the wall are suitable, you can simply fix your fire to the wall using the bracket. A lot of models come with a template showing you where to place the bracket on the wall. Use this in conjunction with a spirit level and pencil to mark holes. After the holes have been made, you can put in hanging screws. Rawl plugs can be used to conceal the finish. They are left 5-10mm above the wall.
The fireplace can be fixed by screwing it into the wall. Make sure that it is fully encased in the opening. You can do this either by hand or using the aid of a drill, based on your preference and experience. Once your fireplace is set ensure that the heat vents and the grate are free of combustible materials. Keep your fireplace at a minimum of 400mm from anything that could catch fire.
Some people prefer having their fireplaces placed at eye level. This can be achieved by placing the fireplace in the middle of the room. This is also a great location for a TV, however you will want to ensure that the fireplace isn't too close to the television as it could cause the screen to overheat.
You'll also need to consider the size of your electric fireplace when choosing the location. It's also worth bearing in mind that the heater element - which is located in the front and bottom of an electric fire must be at least 400mm away from any combustible materials including fabrics.
It is essential to test your fireplace's electric components prior to installing it. If everything is functioning as it should, then plug into the fireplace, test the LED lights and then move on to the installation. It's worth mentioning here that you should always use a qualified electrician to complete electrical work, such as installing an electric fireplace.
Installation
There are a few aspects to be aware of when deciding on and installing a wall mounted electric fireplace. The first thing to consider is the size. It is important to make sure that the fireplace fits within the desired space by measuring and comparing the dimensions. Certain manufacturers offer an online guide that makes this process simpler and assists you to pick the right model for your needs.
It is important to remember that the fireplace needs to be located near an electrical outlet. Ask an electrician to install a plug socket on the wall near where you plan to mount your fireplace. This will make it easier to hide the power cable, and the installation will look more finished and clean.
You should also ensure that any combustible materials are kept at least three feet from the electric fireplace, as this will reduce your Ethonal Fire risk and protect you from burns to your clothing, curtains or furniture. Also, it's recommended to make sure that filters are not blocked to ensure that the heating element can have the ability to circulate air.
Before putting in the fireplace, it is essential to test it. It is a good idea to take a few moments prior to beginning to take off all packaging and plug the fireplace in to check that it is working. This will ensure that you are prepared and there are no problems later.
After the tests have been completed and you are satisfied that everything is operating as expected, it is time to prepare the place to mount your fireplace. Use the instructions provided by the manufacturer to make a framed opening in the wall. Then, make use of blocks to ensure that it is securely attached to the studs. Attach the fireplace to the wall using screws.
Once the installation is completed, you will be in a position to enjoy your new stylish and functional electric fireplace. It's a great method to add heat to any room. It will also create an inviting atmosphere that will impress your guests.