Electric Fireplace Wall Hanging Ideas
In contrast to traditional wood or gas fireplaces Wall-mount electric fireplaces can be hung straight out of the box. These electric fireplaces are a great way of adding ambiance to your home without the need for renovations or venting.
However, they usually require careful installation because they're generally heavy. Follow these steps to set up your new electric fireplace correctly.
1. Connect the Brackets
A wall-mounted electric fireplace or recessed electric fire instantly transforms any room. It's the ideal solution for homes that don't have an existing fireplace opening, or for apartment residents.
The first step is to decide where you'll put your new electric fire. It's important to find an area that isn't susceptible to moisture and is at least just a few inches from drapes, furniture, and other areas with a lot of traffic. Once you've found a spot you like, mark the wall with lines for the top and bottom plates of the fireplace frame.
Use a drill or other tool to drill exploratory holes into the wall. Examine for studs with a stud-detector and mark the wall with the position of the fireplace mounting brackets. Next, build out the wall or patch and paint the drywall to prepare it for your fireplace installation.
Depending on the fireplace mounted to the wall you choose, you may have to put the firebox and screen as one piece or separate them using a wall bracket. If you're unsure about your capability to tackle this task on your own, consider hiring an experienced general contractor or carpenter.
You will find an installation template that comes with all electric fireplaces. However you should keep a pencil level handy and pencil to mark the exact spot where the wall brackets will be erected. Before drilling, make use of the template to verify that the fireplace's power cable can reach from the installation site to an outlet near by for a convenient plug in.
Install the drywall as smooth and as flush as is possible to give the fireplace a sleek look. Add trim to the bottom edge and sand, paint and finish the frame.
You will need to insert the hooks or slots on the back of many electric fireplaces mounted on walls into the brackets that mount them. Make sure you align the slots or hooks before connecting the brackets for your fire. Once the fire is installed you can then add additional elements like driftwood logs crystal embers or decorative rocks.
2. Check the Bottom Bracket
The space above the fireplace, mantel, or chimney breast is the perfect spot for hanging artwork. There is a delicate balance between an artistic arrangement and one that doesn't detract from the overall design of the fireplace.
Generally speaking, the rule of thumb is that a wall should be about 80% the size of the fireplace or mantel it sits above. This will help it remain proportionate and appear pleasing on the wall. Other decorative and ornamental items placed on the mantel could influence the size and proportional guideline.
If you are planning to hang a photograph above your electric fire the frame should be constructed of glass or a material that can withstand high temperatures. If you're unsure whether the frame is suitable, a quick test using a cloth that is heat-sensitive will reveal whether the frame is suitable for this type of installation.
The possibility of destroying artwork due to smoke or stray heat is a common concern when you display artworks in front of a fireplace. This is not an issue with gas or wood-powered fireplace. However when you are planning to install an electric wall fireplace, it's important to check the instructions of the manufacturer.
Most electric fires come with mounting brackets that can be attached to the wall using either hanging screws or wall-mounted fixing systems. If the latter, it's recommended that you make exploratory holes in a distinct area of the wall prior to when you begin mounting your electric fire. You can then utilize a pipe and cable finder to ensure that there aren't any cables or pipes near the position of mounting.
If there are, you can then choose to mount your fire over the electrical socket or move it to a new location. If you choose to move it to a new location it is important to ensure that the power cable will extend from the fire to the electrical outlet - this is particularly important for older homes or houses with solid walls. In the event that it doesn't the electric fire will not be able to function properly. Certain models include a template that will show you the locations to drill holes for this purpose and others require a spirit-level and pencil to mark the proper places on your wall.
3. Connect the Power Cord
You may need to move your plug socket in front of the unit if you have installed a recessed fireplace. This can give it a cleaner look. Be sure to test the fireplace prior to making this change to ensure that everything works as it should.
Another popular method to mount an electric fireplace is to frame it and incorporate it into the wall. This will give you a traditional style, a polished look, and allows for a mantel. The owner's manual for your particular model will include information on framing, securing your fireplace, and wiring.
If you're ready for mounting your new electric fireplace on the wall begin by marking the installation location with a pencil or marker. Then, use a carpenter's level to make sure that the area of installation is flat and level. modern electric wall mounted fire can use a studfinder to mark the location so you know you are drilling in a safe area.
After you've marked the location for installation, use your electric drill to create holes for the bracket screws or hanging screws. Follow the steps in the owner's manual for this step. This is especially important if you are installing the fireplace into the drywall. If you're unsure of how to go about it, you can always ask an expert to take care of the installation for you.
You can also hide power cords away from view using an organizer kit for cables. These kits usually come with clips, sleeves or boxes for bundling cables. You can make use of fish tape or wire snakes to guide the cables. If you'd rather not cut through your drywall, you can install an electric bridge kit to make more secure and cleaner connections.
You can also disguise cords with paintable wire covers or by adhering them to the wall. Make sure to keep the cover or tacks from the source of heat, however. This will protect the cord from damage and also prevent accidental contact.
4. Connect the adapter
A wall-mounted electric fireplace is an excellent option for home renovations or for those who do not have the space or the money to install a real gas fireplace. They are easy to install and are ready to use immediately out of the box. They are an excellent choice for those seeking a modern and stylish design or the warmth fireplaces provide. These units can be put up on any wall as artwork, and they're electric and have fan-powered heat.
Before you begin the actual installation process it is an excellent idea to take stock of all the tools and equipment you will need. You can find detailed instructions on how to install an electric fire in the user's manual. Some models might require you to fix the brackets directly to the wall, while others may feature an installation plate that slides into slots or hooks on the brackets used for mounting. It is essential to remove any combustible materials from the area you'll be installing a fireplace that is recessed. In general it is recommended to keep these materials at a minimum of 3 feet away from the front of the fireplace.
After you have checked all parts, plug in your electric fireplace and make sure it is working. This is a very important step since it will ensure that the flame effect screen and heater function according to the specifications. This will also give you an idea of how the product will appear in its final configuration.
If you're confident that your electric fireplace is operating properly, you'll want to think about covering the power cord. This will help to keep the final product neat and neat. This can be achieved by installing a new outlet using an outlet cord that can be placed behind the unit. This will provide a seamless finish to your fireplace.