Things to Consider Before Installing an Electric Wall Fireplace
Electric wall fireplaces are a convenient and safe method of adding warmth to your home. There are some things to think about before installing an electric wall fireplace.
Contrary to fully recessed fires wall-mounted models are fairly simple to install yourself. It is essential to verify to ensure you have the right size of insert and kit.
Safety
A well-known element of décor, an electric wall fireplace provides a warm and inviting alternative to traditional fireplaces. These fireplaces are safe to use and provide supplemental heat in any home. They also provide a smokeless, clean environment. These fireplaces come in many varieties however, they all offer a captivating fire with a realistic flame display. They are great for renovations, apartments and condos that don't have chimneys. They are also a great choice for people with pets or children, as they don't create a real flame.
There are a few safety tips to remember when using an electric fire. It is essential to keep all combustible items at least three feet away from the fireplace. This will protect you from fire hazards and decrease the chance of burning your possessions. Avoid touching surfaces of the fireplace that are hot, like the heating element, as well as the vents that blow hot air out. The vents shouldn't be blocked, since they are required to allow the fireplace to function properly.
Another crucial feature to look for in an electric wall fireplace is a safety screen that can help avoid accidental burns. This can be especially helpful in small spaces or if you have young children and pets. Some models have a remote control, which lets you switch off and on the fireplace from any part of the space. This will prevent the fire from accidentally lit while you are not in the room.
Some models even have an integrated timer that can turn off the fireplace after a certain amount of time. This feature is ideal for those who have difficulty remembering to turn off the fireplace, or who may forget to do it prior to going to bed.
Additionally, you should always unplug the fireplace when it's not being used. It could overload the electrical system, creating an increase in fire danger. Also, never place any liquids, including water, in the fireplace. Also, it's best to keep your electric fireplace suite in a separate circuit from other appliances. This will avoid tripping or power outages.
Energy Efficiency
Using an electric wall fireplace will save you money when the heating bills begin to increase in winter. The cost of running these fireplaces is dependent on a number of factors, including the wattage of the individual unit as well as your energy provider's price per kilowatt.
Usually the wattage is shown in kW (kilowatts). Divide that number by the cost of your energy provider per Kilowatt, and you'll be able to calculate the efficiency of the fireplace as a percentage.
Electric fireplaces are typically powered by fans. They draw cool air from the room, warm it using electricity, then blow the heated air back into the space. These are the most common and affordable type of electrical fires. These can be used to warm the smallest or medium-sized spaces however, they aren't as efficient as infrared heaters, which provide more uniform and consistent heat.
Electric fireplaces do not use combustion materials and do not produce soot or ash. This means that you don't have to stockpile wood fireplace or hire a chimney sweep to perform regular cleaning and inspection. They also don't produce harmful fumes and their flames are amazingly realistic.
Since there's no need for coal or gas they can be used in a variety of locations and are ideal if you want the cozy feel of a fire without running your furnace. They also don't dry out your living space by blowing heat into it and they can be used to maintain a healthy humidity for those inflicted with respiratory issues.
Another benefit of these types of fireplaces is that they can use them with or without the heat, which gives you the possibility of enjoying their ambiance all year round. They're ideal for rooms that have a lot of furniture that block heat, and you can still enjoy the ambience when entertaining guests.
It's worth comparing prices if you're considering buying an electric fireplace. You may be able to find a model that costs significantly less than you think, particularly when you are willing to look at prices online and in-store deals. It's also important to ensure that the electric fireplace you buy is plugged into a convenient location and that it does not share a circuit other fixtures or appliances.
Design
A fireplace feature wall can be a beautiful way to enhance your home without having to spend time and money on renovations. Electric fireplaces do not require chimneys or venting, so they can be installed in any room in the home, including bedrooms. They provide heat for supplemental use and do not emit smoke, so they are safer for children and those who suffer from respiratory issues.
There are a variety of electric fireplace concepts you can pick from to choose the best one for your home. Certain fireplaces are intended to be a focal point while others are designed to blend in with the modern aesthetic. If you're looking for a striking piece, opt for a faux stone fireplace that has an opening that is curved. LED flames will glow and crackle, adding an elegant accent.
Another option that is popular is a linear fireplace. These models are compact and sleek, making them ideal for modern homes with limited space. Many are equipped with a remote control, a variety of colors for flames and heat, and log set options to give an individual look. Some models have a wave setting, which allows you to switch on and off the fireplace with just a simple hand movement.
You can also mount a model flush against the wall. This style looks great in contemporary homes and can easily be combined with a flat-screen television. Most recessed electric fire places have front vents for safety and can be heated to up to 400 square feet.
If you're looking for more traditional style go for a mantelss model with a brick surround. They are ideal for rooms with a lot of natural light and can be complemented by a mantel made from stone or wood fireplace. You can pair them with a fireplace screen to create an inviting atmosphere.
A lot of electric fireplaces come with a remote that lets you customize the heat and flame settings, and some even have a timer that helps you save energy. You can also use them in conjunction with a smart-home system to have complete control over your fireplace.
Installation
A wall-mount electric fireplace is a recent trend in home design and interiors. They are fashionable and energy efficient. They are also simple to install. They can also be positioned in a flush position to give the wall a sleek look. The majority of fireplaces come with an installation kit that comes with the required hardware. Some models have a blower built in that forces warm air into the room.
Installation is simple, but you must follow the instructions. The owner's manual should contain specific guidelines for framing and securing the unit. It will also provide specific guidelines regarding the clearances you must leave in order to avoid fire hazards.
Start by checking that the spot you've selected is suitable for your fire. If you're not sure, drill a small exploratory hole in a discrete part of the wall to reveal what kind of walls you have. Once you've done this you can use the layout that came with the fireplace in order to mark the wall on which you will need to mount it. The brackets must be screwed onto the wall. Make sure that the brackets are level, and ensure that the fire fits properly to ensure a neat and tidy finish.
You'll also need to think about how tall you want your fire to be. For instance, if using a frameless model, you may want to have a ledge to hold the fire, or you may prefer a more flush mount. You'll need to check that the heater - which sits at the bottom and front of the fireplace - is at least 400mm from combustibles, such as fabrics to keep it safe.
Consider hiring an electrician who is a professional to wire your fire if you are not comfortable working with electricity. They can also use drywall, tape and mud the area to create a smooth, finished appearance. They can even move the plug socket in case of need to create a sleek look. And if you want to conceal the power cord you can put it behind the TV stand or under the carpet. In many cases, you can paint the cord the same color as your wall.