How to Choose and Install an in Wall Electric Fireplace
A wall-mounted electric fireplace can provide both visual interest and supplemental heating to any room. Renters will also appreciate the ease of installation.
They're available in a vast selection of styles and some are able to be fully or partially integrated for a seamless appearance. Here's how you can choose the right one for your home.
Styles
There are a myriad of designs to pick from when choosing the right electric fire place for your home. One of the most sought-after options is a wall mount. This kind of mount is easy to install, using a plug-in design that does not require hardwiring. This design is an ideal choice for those who want to bring the look of a fireplace to their room without the hassle of cutting into drywall and adding a chimney.
Another option is a built-in fireplace. This kind of fireplace is somewhat more complicated to set up than a recessed one. This is because it requires a little more know-how in carpentry to construct the wall recess. But, it also allows you to personalize the new wall to fit your existing decor. This kind of electric fireplace is typically used to divide walls into two separate bedrooms.
Certain manufacturers, like Amantii manufacture a broad variety of electric fireplace models in a variety of designs and finishes. Some models even come with smart fireplace home automation which lets you control your fireplace using your smartphone or tablet.
It is crucial to think about the energy efficiency of your fireplace's electric and its capacity to produce heat when choosing one for your home. This will affect your operating expenses and the degree of warmth you can expect your living space to be. The design and finish of the fireplace will also determine how well the fireplace matches your interior design.
The best electric fireplaces feature various flame and color settings and a variety of effects such as a realistic log fire or an audio loop of an actual wood burning fire. Many manufacturers employ LED lights to create these effects, which are much more energy efficient than conventional incandescent bulbs. They also last for a longer time and are safe to touch.
Selecting an electric fireplace for your home is a difficult process. You'll need to decide whether you want the fireplace to be an element of heating or just decorative. If you're looking for a unit that has both heat and flames, make sure to select an option with independent controls so you can adjust the flame and heat levels according to the time of year or your personal preferences.
Optical illusions
Hole in the wall electric fire places are heavily reliant on optical illusions. Different models employ different techniques to make flames appear more realistic. These range from basic ones, like adding additional logs, to holographic displays which create an impressive illusion, without taking up space.
Modern electric fireplaces are more realistic than older models that make use of LED screens or rotisserie lighting to create the illusion of flames. Most feature a rotating refractor that has three-dimensional patterns that replicate the reflections of light in real fire. Some also make crackling sounds to enhance the realism.
Electric fireplaces do not require chimneys or venting. They also do not emit any smoke or pollution. Certain models come with a remote control that allows you to adjust the flames' intensity and heat. Electric fireplaces don't require gas lines or chimneys. They can be installed on the wall, or on a concealed mount.
A great choice for those looking to keep things simple Simplifire Allusion is an excellent entry-level model that features an electric log set as well as clear crystal ember bed media. It's available in a range of colors on the front and comes with a full-size remote. Upgrade to driftwood logs, or ceramic stones for more personalization.
Another option is the Dimplex Revillusion insert and standalone log set. The holographic display, which is placed between the flames on the log set and the insert, creates the illusion that there are numerous logs. The design isn't as realistic as the other alternatives in our roundup, but it is an option for those who prefer a more traditional style.
Magikflame is one manufacturer which has gone further than Dimplex Revillusion by using a touchscreen design instead of mechanical buttons. The touchscreen is backlit, making it easier to use and also self-illuminated, so you can read the icons even in a darkened room. This kind of control panel is also more attractive and can be a perfect match with the modern style.
Easy to Set-up
In comparison to built-in fireplaces that require an entire section to be removed from the wall, an electric in wall fireplace is much simpler to install. As long as the studs behind the wall are in good condition it is easy to attach your fireplace to the wall with the bracket. Many models include an illustration of the location on the wall where to put the bracket. Use this along with a spirit level and pencil to mark the holes. After you've made the holes, you can put hanging screws into them. Rawl plugs can be used to hide the finish. They are placed 5-10mm higher than the wall.
Then, you can screw the fireplace into the opening, making sure that it is fully embedded into the opening. You can do this either by hand or using drills, based on your preferences and previous experience. Once your fireplace is installed ensure that the grate and heat vents are free of combustible materials. You should also keep your fireplace at a minimum of 400mm from anything that could ignite.
Some people prefer to have their fireplaces placed at eye level. This can be accomplished by placing the fireplace in the center of the room. It can also be a good spot for television, but you should ensure that the fire isn't too close the screen as this may cause it to overheat.
It is also important to take into account the dimensions of your electric fireplace when choosing the location. It's also worth bearing in mind that the heating element - situated at the bottom and front of an electric fire must be at least 400mm away from any material that is combustible such as fabrics.
It's important that you test your electric fireplace before installing it. Plug the fireplace in, test the LED lights and heat, and if works just as it should, you can proceed with installation. You should always seek out a qualified electrician for any electrical work, which includes installing an electric fire place.
Installation
When deciding on and installing an electric wall fireplace, there are a few aspects to take into consideration. The first is the size. It is crucial to ensure that the fireplace can fit within the desired space This is done by measuring the area and checking against the dimensions of the unit. Some manufacturers also provide online guides which will make the process easier and assist you to select the perfect model to meet your needs.
It is important to remember that the fireplace must be placed near an electrical outlet. Ask an electrician to install a plug socket on the wall close to where you plan to mount your fireplace. This will make it easier to conceal the power cable, and the installation will look more professional and tidy.
It is also essential to keep combustibles at a minimum of three feet away from the electric fire. This will reduce the chance of a fire and also protect your furniture, curtains, or clothing from burning. Also, it is recommended to make sure that filters are not blocked so that the heating element can have an air flow that is consistent.
Before mounting the fireplace, it is crucial to test it. Before you begin, it is an ideal practice to remove all the packaging and plug in the fireplace to verify that it functions. This will ensure that everything is in place and you do not encounter any issues later on.
After the tests are completed and you are happy that everything is functioning as expected, it is time to prepare the location for mounting your fireplace. Use the instructions provided by your manufacturer to create an opening that is framed in the wall. You can use blocks to ensure that it is securely attached to the studs. Attach the fireplace to the wall using screws.
Once the work is done, you can enjoy the stylish and practical electric fireplace. It's a great method to add some warmth to your home and will create a warm atmosphere that will delight your guests.