Electric Fireplace Wall Hanging Ideas
Contrary to traditional wood or gas fireplaces wall-mount electric fireplaces can be hung straight out of the box. These fireplaces can be a great way of adding ambience to your home without the need to remodel or venting.
They are typically heavy and require careful installation. Follow these steps to set up your new electric fire correctly.
1. Connect the Brackets
A wall-mounted electric fireplace or recessed electric fire instantly transforms any room. It's a perfect option for homes with no existing fireplace opening, or for apartment dwellers.
First, you must decide where to place your new electric fireplace. It is important to choose an area that isn't vulnerable to moisture and is at a minimum of just a few inches from furniture, drapes and areas that are prone to traffic. Once you've located the perfect spot, mark the wall with lines for the top and bottom plates of the fireplace frame.
Use a tool such as an electric drill to drill exploratory holes in the wall, checking for studs with a detector and marking on the drywall the fireplace mounting bracket locations. Next patch and paint the wall or build out the wall to prepare it for the fireplace installation.
Depending on the wall-mounted fireplace you choose, you may have to put the firebox and screen in one unit or separate them using a wall bracket. If you aren't sure of your capability to complete this task you can hire a general contractor or an experienced carpenter.
There is a template included with most electric fireplaces. However it is recommended to keep a level in your pocket and pencil to mark the exact location where the wall brackets will be placed. Before drilling, you can use the template to check that the power cable of the fireplace can be able to connect from the installation site to a nearby outlet for a convenient plug in.
Install the drywall as smooth and flush as you can to give the fireplace a clean appearance. Attach a piece of trim to the bottom edge, and then sand and paint the entire frame for a finished look.
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 that the slots or hooks are aligned before connecting the fire to the wall brackets. 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 that is above a fireplace, mantel or chimney breast is a prime spot to hang artwork. But, there is a line of distinction between an artistic arrangement and one that distracts from the overall appearance of the fireplace's design.
The general rule of thumb is that a picture should be around 80 percent of the size of the mantel or firebox it sits above. This will help it to be proportional and appear attractive on the wall. Other ornaments & decorative items placed on the mantel could also influence this size & proportional guidelines.
If you intend to display a photo above your electric fire, the frame should be constructed of glass or a material that can handle high temperatures. If you're not sure whether the frame is suitable, a quick test using a temperature-sensitive cloth will show whether the frame is suitable for this kind of use.
A common concern with displaying pictures above a fireplace is the risk of damage to artwork from smoke or other heat sources. While this isn't a major issue with traditional wood or gas-powered fireplace, it's worth examining the manufacturer's recommendations if you're planning to use a wall-mounted electric fire.
Most electric fires are equipped with a mounting bracket which can be fixed to the wall by hanging screws or wall-mounted fixing systems. It is recommended to drill exploratory hole in an isolated area of the wall prior installing your electric fire. Afterwards, you can use a pipe & cable finder to check whether there are any pipes or cables within the vicinity of the location you've chosen to mount it.
If so, you can either mount your fire over the electrical socket or move it to a new spot. If you decide to move it, make sure that the power cable can reach the electrical socket. This is essential for older homes or homes with solid walls. If not the electric fire won't be able to function properly. Certain models come with a template that indicates where to drill holes to make the holes Some 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 have to relocate the plug socket from the wall to behind the unit. This can create a sleeker look. Test the fireplace first to make sure it works properly.
A third popular way to install an electric fireplace is to frame space and then build it into the wall. This gives you a classic style, a polished look, and allows for the installation of a mantel. The owner's guide for your model will provide specifics on framing, wiring, and securing the fire place.
Mark the location of your electric fireplace on the wall using a marker or pencil. Then apply a carpenter's level to make sure that the area of installation is level and flat. You can use a studfinder mark the location so that you know you are drilling in a safe area.
Use your electric drill after you have marked the installation area to drill holes for bracket screws or hanging screws. Follow the steps in the owner's guide to this step. This is particularly important if you're putting the fireplace in drywall. If you are unsure how to do it then you can ask a professional for help.
A cable organizer kit can be used to hide power cords. These kits usually include sleeves, clips, or boxes that can be used to bundle cables. You can make use of wire snakes or fish tape to guide the cords. If you prefer not to cut into your wall then you can put in an electric bridge kit to make more secure and cleaner connections.
Additionally, you can disguise the cords with paintable wire covers or by attaching them to the wall or skirting board. Make sure to keep the cover or tacks far away from sources of heat. wall mount for electric fireplace 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 money to install a real gas fireplace. They are easy to hang and are ready to use straight out of the box. They are an excellent choice for those looking for a chic modern design or the warmth the fire can bring. They can be hung on any wall as art, and are powered by a fan to provide heating.
It's a good idea create an inventory of all the tools and equipment you'll require prior to beginning the installation process. You can find the complete instructions on how to install an electric fire in the user manual. Some models will require you to attach the brackets directly onto the wall while others might include an adjustable mounting plate that slides into slots or hooks on the brackets used for mounting. If you are installing a recessed fireplace it is important to make sure that all combustible substances are removed from the area of installation. In general they should be kept 3 feet away from the front of the fireplace and 1.5 feet from its sides.
After you've checked all components, you need to plug in your electric fireplace and ensure that it is working correctly. This is an important step because it will guarantee that the flame effect screen and heater work according to the specifications. This will also give you an idea of how the finished product will look in its final location.
Cover the cord when you are satisfied that it is working properly. This will help to keep the finished product neat and tidy. wall hung electric fireplace can be achieved by installing a new outlet using the cord that is placed behind the unit. This will give your fireplace a seamless appearance.