Electric Fireplace Wall Hanging Ideas
The wall-mount electric fireplaces are ready to use right out of their box. Electric fireplaces are an excellent way to add ambience to your home without the need for renovations or venting.
However, they usually require care in installation due to the fact that they're usually heavy. Follow these steps to install your new electric fire correctly.
1. Connect the Brackets
A wall-mounted electric fireplace or recessed electric fire instantly transforms any space. This is an excellent option for those who don't have fireplaces or live in apartments.
First, decide where you'll place your new electric fireplace. It is best to choose a location that is not susceptible to moisture and at a minimum, just a few feet from drapes and furniture. Once you've located the perfect spot, mark the wall with markings for the top and bottom plates of the fireplace frame.
Make use of a tool like an electric drill to drill exploratory holes in the wall, checking for studs using a stud detector, and then marking the drywall for fireplace mounting bracket locations. Then, you can build the wall or patch and paint the drywall to prepare it for your fireplace installation.
Depending on the fireplace mounted to the wall you select, you might require the installation of both the firebox and screen in one unit or separate them with a wall bracket. If you're uncertain about your capability to tackle this part of the project on your own, consider hiring a general contractor or experienced carpenter.
Most electric fireplaces include templates for the installation process, but you should also have a spirit level and a pencil in hand to precisely mark the area in which you'll mount the wall brackets. Utilize the template to ensure that the power cable from the fireplace will connect to an outlet nearby to plug it in.
Install the drywall as clean and as flush as possible to give the fireplace a neat appearance. Add trim to the bottom edge, and then paint, sand and then finish the frame.
Most wall-mounted electric fires come with hooks or slots on the back of the unit which you can insert into the slots or hooks on the mounting brackets. Make sure the slots or hooks are aligned before connecting the fire to wall brackets. Once the fire is set, you can add additional elements such as driftwood logs, crystal embers, or decorative rocks.
2. Check the Bottom Bracket
The space that is above a fireplace, mantel or chimney breast is the ideal spot to hang artwork. There is a delicate balance between an artistic arrangement and one that detracts the overall design of the fireplace.
Generally speaking, the rule of thumb is that a picture should be at least 80% the size of the fireplace or mantel it sits above. This will allow it remain proportionate and look aesthetically pleasing on the wall. electric wall fireplace of thumb could be affected by other ornaments or decorative items on the mantel.
If you are planning to display a photo above your electric fireplace the frame must be made of glass or another material that can withstand high temperatures. If you're not sure, you can test the frame using a heat-sensitive cloth to see if it is suitable for this type of installation.
The most common issue with displaying pictures over the fireplace is the possibility of damage to the artwork by smoke or other heat sources. While this isn't a major issue with a traditional gas or wood-powered fireplace, it's worth examining the recommendations of the manufacturer if you're planning to install an electric fireplace that is mounted on the wall.
Most electric fires come with an attached bracket that can be fixed to the wall using hanging screws or a wall-mounted fixing system. It is recommended to drill exploratory hole in an area that is distinct from the wall prior to putting up your electric fire. Afterwards, you can use a cable finder and pipe to check that there are no pipes or cables within the vicinity of your chosen mounting position.
If you do, you can place your fire on the electrical socket or move it to a new place. If you move it to a new spot you'll need to make sure that the power cable reach from the fire to the electrical socket. this is especially important for older homes or houses with solid walls. If not the electric fire won't perform as it should. Some models include an outline of where to drill holes while others require you to use a spirit level and pencil to mark the location on your wall.
3. Connect the Power Cord
It is possible to relocate your plug socket to the back of the unit if you have installed a fireplace that is recessed. This will give you an elegant look. Check the fireplace first to make sure it works properly.
The third way to mount an electric fireplace is framing the room and then building it into the wall. This gives it a finished traditional look, and also allows you to include a mantel. The owner's manual for the specific model will have details about framing, securing the fireplace, and wiring.
Mark the position of your new electric fireplace on the wall using the help of a pencil or marker. Then you can use a carpenter's degree to ensure that the installation location is level and flat. You can use a studfinder mark the location so that you know that you're drilling in a safe area.
After you've marked the installation location, use your electric drill to make holes for the hanging screws or bracket screws. Follow the steps in the owner's manual for this step. This is especially important if you're putting the fireplace in the drywall. If you're not sure of how to do this, you can always ask a professional to handle the installation for you.
A cable organizer kit can be used to conceal power cords. These kits usually include clips, sleeves or boxes that can be used to bundle cables. You can also use wire snake tools to help guide the cords along the wall. If you do not want to cut the drywall, a Powerbridge kit can offer a cleaner and more secure connection.
Additionally, you can disguise the wires by painting them with paintable covers or by adhering them to the wall and skirting boards. Make sure to keep the cover or tacks far from sources of heat. This will avoid accidental contact and will protect the cord.
4. Connect the Adapter
A wall-mounted electric fireplace is an excellent alternative for home renovations or for those who don't have the space or money to install a real gas fireplace. They are easy-to-hang and are ready to use right out of the box. They're a great alternative to those looking for an elegant, modern design or warmth from a fire. These units can be hung on any wall like art, and they are powered by a fan to provide heat.
Before you begin the actual installation process it's a good idea to take stock of all the equipment and tools you'll require. You can find detailed instructions on how to install an electric fire in the user's manual. Some models will require you to screw the brackets directly onto the wall, while others may include a mounting plate that is able to slide into slots or hooks attached to the brackets used for mounting. It is important to remove all combustible material from the area where you are installing a recessed unit. As a general rule, these materials should be kept 3 feet from the front of the fireplace and 1.5 feet away from its sides.
After you've inspected all the parts, you should plug in your electric fireplace and make sure that it is working correctly. This is a very important step as 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 finished product will look in its final location.
When you're sure that your electric fire is working properly, you'll want to think about covering the power cord. This will keep the final product neat. You can achieve this by installing a new outlet with an outlet cord that can be tucked behind the unit. This will give your fireplace a seamless look.