Electric Fireplace Wall Hanging Ideas
The wall-mount electric fireplaces are ready to go right out of their box. They're an excellent way to add the ambience without venting or remodeling.
They are typically heavy and require careful installation. Follow these steps to hang your new electric fireplace correctly.
1. Connect the Brackets
A wall-mounted electric fireplace or recessed electric fire instantly transforms any room. This is an excellent option for those who don't have fireplaces or reside in apartments.
Decide where you want to put your electric fire. You should choose a place that isn't susceptible to moisture and at a minimum, just a few feet from furniture and drapes. Once you've located the perfect spot to mark the wall, you can use lines for the top and bottom plates of the fireplace frame.
Use a tool such as a drill to drill exploratory holes into the wall, checking for studs using a stud detector, and then marking the drywall the location of the fireplace mounting brackets. Next patch and paint the drywall or make the wall a bit bigger to prepare it for the fireplace installation.
Depending on the wall-mounted fireplace you choose, you may have to put the screen and firebox in one piece or separate them with a wall bracket. If you aren't sure of your capability to complete this task employ a general contractor or an experienced carpenter.
There is an installation template that comes with all electric fireplaces. However, you should also keep a level in your pocket and a pencil to mark out the exact spot where the wall brackets will be erected. Before drilling, use the template to verify that the power cable of the fireplace can reach from the installation site to an outlet near by for a plug-in that is convenient.
Install the drywall as smooth and flush as you can to give the fireplace a neat appearance. Add a piece of trim to the bottom of the frame, and then sand and paint the entire frame to give it an elegant look.
Most wall-mounted electric fires have slots or hooks on the back of the unit, which you will insert into the slots or hooks on the mounting brackets. Make sure that the slots or hooks are properly aligned prior to connecting the fire to the wall brackets. Once the fire is set, you can add any additional elements like crystal embers driftwood log pieces or decorative rocks.
2. Check the Bottom Bracket
The space above the mantel, fireplace, or chimney breast is a great spot for hanging artwork. There is a delicate balance between an artistic arrangement and one that does not detract from the overall look of the fireplace.
The general rule of thumb is that a wall should be around 80% the size of the mantel or firebox it is placed above. This will help keep it in proportion and will make it look nice on the wall. Other ornaments & decorative items placed on the mantel can also influence this size & proportional guidelines.
If you intend to hang a photo above your electric fire, the frame should be constructed of glass or a material that is able to withstand high temperatures. If you're unsure whether the frame is suitable, you can test the frame using a heat-sensitive cloth to see if it is suitable for this purpose.
A common concern with the display of artwork above a fireplace is the risk of damage to the artwork from smoke or other heat sources. While this isn't a major issue with a traditional wood or gas-powered fireplace, it's a good idea to check the manufacturer's guidelines if planning to install an electric fire that is wall-mounted.
Most electrical fires come with a mounting bracket which can be attached to the wall by hanging screws or wall-mounted fixing systems. If the latter option is used, it is recommended to make exploratory holes in a distinct area of the wall prior to when you begin mounting your electric fire. After that you can utilize an instrument to locate cables and pipes to ensure that there are no pipes or cables within the vicinity of your chosen mounting position.
If so, you could place your fire on the electrical socket or move it to a different spot. If you move it to a new location, you'll need to ensure that the power cable be able to connect from the fire to the electrical outlet - this is especially important for older homes or homes with solid walls. If you don't do this, the electric fireplace won't function correctly. Some models have a template included that will show you where to drill the holes for this purpose and others require a spirit level & pencil to mark the appropriate spots on your wall.
3. Connect the Power Cord
You may need to move your plug socket to the back of the fireplace if you've installed a recessed fireplace. This can create a sleeker look. Be sure to test the fireplace prior to doing this to ensure that everything works exactly as it should.
The third method of mounting an electric fireplace is framing the room and then building it into the wall. This gives you a traditional style, a polished look, and allows for the installation of a mantel. The owner's manual for your specific model will have details on framing, securing your fireplace, and wiring.
The location of your new electric fireplace on the wall using the help of a pencil or marker. Then apply a carpenter's level to make sure that the area of installation is flat and level. You can also employ a stud locater to mark the location of studs, so that you can be certain that you're drilling into an area that is safe.
Use your electric drill after you've identified the location of installation to create holes for the bracket screws or hanging screws. Make sure to follow the precise directions in the owner's manual for this step, especially when you're installing the fireplace in wall. If you're not sure how to do it then you can ask an expert for assistance.
You can also hide power cords from view using cable organizer kits. These kits typically include clips, sleeves or boxes to bundle cables. You can make use of fish tape or wire snakes to guide the cables. If you don't want to cut into the wall, a powerbridge kit can provide a more secure and safer connection.
Finally, you can camouflage the cords with paintable wire covers or by adhering them to the wall and skirting boards. Keep the cover or tacks enough away from heat sources. This will help prevent accidental contact and will protect the cord.
4. Connect the adapter
A wall-mounted electric fireplace is a great option for a home renovation or for those who don't have the space or money to install a real gas fireplace. They are easy-to-hang and ready to use straight out of the box. They're an excellent alternative for those who want a stylish, modern touch or warmth from a fireplace. They are designed to be displayed as art on any wall. They they can be recessed or not recessed at all, and are fully electric with heating powered by fans.
Before beginning the actual installation process, it's an excellent idea to take stock of all the equipment and tools you'll need. There are detailed redirected here on how to mount an electric fire in the user's manual. Some models require that you screw brackets directly into the wall, while others may feature a mounting plat that slides into slots or hooks on the brackets. It is important to remove any combustible materials from the area where you'll be installing a recessive unit. As a rule of thumb they should be kept at least 3 feet from the front side of the fireplace and 1.5 feet from its sides.
After you have checked all parts, connect your electric fire and make sure it is working. This is an essential step to ensure the flame effect screen and heater function exactly as they were intended to. This will also give you an idea of how the finished product will appear in its final position.
Cover the cord once you are satisfied that it's functioning properly. This will help keep the final product neat. You can do this by applying paintable wire covers, or install a new outlet that will allow you to place the cord behind the unit. This will give an elegant finish to your fireplace.