Electric Fireplace Wall Hanging Ideas
In contrast to traditional wood or gas fireplaces, wall-mount electric ones are ready to be installed right out of the box. These electric fireplaces are an excellent way to add ambiance to your home without the need for remodeling or venting.
They're usually heavy and require careful installation. Follow these steps to install your new electric fireplace correctly.
1. Connect the Brackets
A wall-mounted electric fireplace or recessed electric fire instantly transforms any space. It's a perfect solution for homes that don't have an existing fireplace opening or for apartment dwellers.
The first step is to decide where you'll place your new electric fireplace. It's crucial to select the ideal location that isn't susceptible to moisture and at least just a few inches from furniture, drapes, and high traffic areas. Once you've found a spot you like, mark the wall with lines for the top and bottom plates of the fireplace frame.
Make use of a tool like a drill to drill exploratory holes in the wall, checking for studs using a stud detector, and then marking the drywall for the location of the fireplace mounting brackets. Then, you need to build out the wall or patch and paint the drywall to prepare it for fireplace installation.
Depending on the wall-mounted fireplace you select, you might require the installation of both the firebox and screen as one piece or separate them by using a wall bracket. If you aren't sure of your capability to complete this task, hire a general contractor or a seasoned carpenter.
You will find an installation template that comes with all electric fireplaces. However you should keep a spirit 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 power cable of the fireplace can reach from the installation site to an outlet nearby to plug it in.
Install drywall as smooth and as flush as possible to give the fireplace a clean appearance. Add a piece of trim to the bottom edge and then sand and paint the entire frame to give it a finished look.
Most wall-mounted electric fires have slots or hooks on the back of the unit which you can insert into the slots or hooks on the mounting brackets. Be sure to make sure that the slots or hooks are aligned before connecting the fire brackets. Once the fire is in position you can then add additional elements such as crystal embers driftwood log pieces or decorative rocks.
2. Check the Bottom Bracket
The space above a fireplace mantel, chimney breast or mantel is a prime spot for hanging artwork. There is a fine balance between an artistic arrangement and one that does not detract from the overall design of the fireplace.
Generally speaking, the rule of the thumb is that a painting should be at least 80 percent of the length of the mantel or firebox it is placed above. This will allow it to be proportional and appear pleasing on the wall. Other ornaments & decorative items placed on the mantel can influence the size and proportional guidelines.
If you're going to hang an image above your electric fireplace, it's important that the frame is made of glass or other material that is able to withstand high temperatures. If you're unsure whether the frame is suitable, a quick test using a heat-sensitive cloth should reveal whether the frame is suitable for this kind of application.
The risk of damaging artwork due to smoke or scattered heat is a common concern when displaying pictures on the fireplace. While this isn't a major issue with a traditional wood or gas-powered fireplace, it's worth examining the manufacturer's guidelines if contemplating using a wall-mounted electric fire.
Electric wall mount fireplace of electrical fires are equipped with a mounting bracket which can be attached to the wall by hanging screws or wall-mounted fixing systems. It is recommended to drill exploratory hole in an area that is distinct from the wall prior to putting up your electric fire. Then you can use a cable finder and pipe to check that there are no cables or pipes near your chosen mounting position.
If there are the electrical sockets, you can decide to place your fire above the electrical socket, or move it to a different spot. If you decide to move it, be sure that the power cable will reach the electrical socket. This is important especially for older homes and those with solid walls. If not the electric fire won't be able to work properly. Some models come with a template to show you where to drill holes, while others require you to use a pencil and a spirit level to mark the locations on your wall.
3. Connect the Power Cord
If you've installed a recessed electric fireplace, you may need to relocate the plug socket from the wall to behind the fireplace. This can help create a sleeker finish. Test the fireplace first to make sure it is operating correctly.
The third method of mounting an electric fireplace is framing the room and then building it into the wall. This gives you a classic style, a polished look, and allows the installation of the installation of a mantel. The owner's manual for your model will include information on framing, wiring, and the best way to secure the fire place.
When you're ready to install your new wall-mounted electric fireplace, start by marking the area of installation with a pencil or marker. Make use of a carpenter's level make sure that the area of installation is level and flat. You can use a studfinder to mark the location so that you know that you're drilling in a secure area.
Use the electric drill after having marked the installation area to drill holes for bracket screws or hanging screws. Follow the steps in your owner's guide for this step. This is especially important if you're putting the fireplace into the drywall. If you're unsure of how to proceed then you can ask a professional for help.
A cable organizer kit can be used to conceal power cords. These kits usually include sleeves, clips, or boxes to bundle cables. You can use fish tape or wire snakes to guide the cables. If you don't want to cut the wall, a powerbridge kit can offer a cleaner and safer connection.
You can also camouflage cords using paintable wire covers or by attaching them to the wall. Keep the cover or tacks from sources of heat. This will avoid accidental contact and will protect the cord.
4. Connect the adapter
A wall-mounted electric fireplace is a fantastic option for home renovations or for those who don't have the space or funds to put in a gas fireplace. They are simple to hang and come ready to use straight from the box. They are a wonderful alternative for those who are looking for a stylish modern design or the warmth the fire can bring. They can be hung on any wall like art, and they are electric with fan-powered heating.
Before you begin the actual installation process it is a good idea to take stock of all the tools and equipment you'll require. You can find detailed instructions on how to mount an electric fire in the user manual. Certain models require you to screw brackets directly into the wall while others might have an installation plate that slides into slots or hookeds on the brackets. It is essential to remove any combustible materials from the area where you are installing a fireplace that is recessed. As a rule of thumb, these materials should be kept at least 3 feet from the front side of the fireplace and 1.5 feet away from its sides.
After you've checked all the parts, you should plug in your electric fireplace and make sure that it is working correctly. This is an essential step because it will guarantee that the flame effect screen and heater function in the way you intended. This will also give you an idea of how the product will appear in its final configuration.
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 finished product neat. This can be achieved by installing a new outlet with a cord that can be hidden behind the unit. This will provide seamless finishing to your fireplace.