Things to Consider Before Installing an Electric Wall Fireplace
Electric wall fireplaces are a practical and safe method of adding warmth to your home. However there are some things you should consider before installing one.
Unlike fully recessed fires, wall-mounted fires are relatively easy to install yourself. It's important that you check to make sure you have the right size of insert and kit.
Safety
Electric wall fireplaces are a popular alternative to traditional fireplaces. They provide a warm, attractive and energy-efficient alternative. They're safe to be used in any house and provide a low-energy method to provide additional heating while maintaining a tidy smoke-free space. Fireplaces are available in many different designs and all provide a stunning fire with a realistic flame presentation. This makes them ideal for condos, apartments and renovations that do not have the traditional chimney. They are also a great choice for those with pets or children as they don't create the flame of a real one.
However, there are some safety guidelines that must be observed when using an electric fireplace. All combustible materials should be kept at least three feet from the fireplace. This can protect you from fire hazards and decrease the chance of burning your belongings. It is also important to avoid touching the hot surfaces of the fireplace, including the heating elements and the vents through which hot air is blown out. These vents should not be blocked, since they are essential for the unit to function properly.
A screen that protects you is an important feature of an electric wall fire. It can help prevent accidental burns. This can be especially helpful in a small space or in the case of pets and children with young ones. Certain models also come with a remote control that allows you to turn the fireplace on and off from any room. This will stop the fire from being accidentally lit while you are not in the room.
Some models even have an integrated timer that can turn off the fireplace after a predetermined amount of time. This feature is great for those who are unable to shut off the fireplace or have trouble remembering.
It is also recommended to unplug your fireplace when it isn't being used. If you leave it connected, it can overload the electrical system and create a fire risk. Also, don't place any liquids, including water, in the fireplace. Finally, it's a good idea to keep your electric fireplace on a separate circuit from other appliances. This will avoid the possibility of tripping and power outages.
Energy Efficiency
Electric wall fireplaces can help you save money on heating bills in the winter. The cost of running these fireplaces is contingent on a variety of factors, including wattage and the price per Kilowatt charged by the energy provider.
The energy consumption of the fireplace is usually displayed on the unit, usually in the format of kW (kilowatts). Divide that figure by the cost of your energy provider per kilowatt and you'll get the unit's energy efficiency in percentage.
Most electric fireplaces use fan-forced heaters which pull cool air from the room, warm it with electricity and then push the hot air back into the room. These are the most common and inexpensive kind of electric fires. These can be used to warm smaller or medium-sized areas however, they aren't as efficient as infrared heaters which offer more consistent and even heat.
Electric fireplaces do not use combustible materials and produce no soot or ash. This means that you don't have to store wood in a storage facility or employ a chimney sweep for regular cleaning and inspection. The fireplaces don't emit harmful fumes and their flames appear amazingly real.
Since there's no need for gas or coal, these fireplaces can be utilized in a variety of locations and are ideal when you want the warmth of a fireplace without the need to run your furnace. They also aren't a source of drying out your living space by blowing website heat into it and they can be used to maintain a healthy level of humidity for those inflicted with respiratory issues.
These fireplaces are also great because they allow you to enjoy their warmth all year round even if they're not heated. They're ideal for rooms where you have lots of furniture that block heat, and you'll still enjoy the ambience when entertaining guests.
It pays to shop around in the event that you are considering purchasing a new electric fireplace. If you compare online and in-store prices, you might find that the price is lower than you expected. It's also important to ensure that the electric fireplace you purchase can be connected to an appropriate location and that it does not share a circuit with other appliances or fixtures.
Design
A fireplace feature wall is a beautiful way to enhance your living space without having to spend time and money on renovations. Electric fireplaces don't require venting or chimneys and can be put in any room of the house including bedrooms. They also provide additional heating and do not emit smoke, which makes them safer for children and people with respiratory ailments.
There are numerous ideas for electric fireplaces to think about so you can choose the perfect one for your home. Some fireplace designs are designed to be a focal point, while others are designed to blend in with the modern aesthetic. If you want a statement piece, opt for an elegant faux stone design with an angled opening and LED flames that shine and smudge to give an elegant appearance.
Another popular option is a linear fireplace. These models are slim and sleek which makes them perfect for modern rooms that are limited in space. A majority of models include an adjustable remote, several color and heat settings, and log options for a customizable appearance. Some models also come with an easy wave setting that allows you to switch the fireplace on and off with the movement of your hands.
You can also mount a model flush against the wall. This design is great for modern homes and can be paired with a flat screen TV. The majority of recessed electric fire places come with front vents to ensure safety and can be heated to up to 400 square feet.
If you prefer a more traditional design opt for a mantelss style with a brick surround. These are great for rooms that have lots of light and can be enhanced with a mantel made from wood or stone. They can be paired with a fireplace screen to create a warm and inviting ambience.
Many electric fireplaces include the ability to control the fireplace remotely, allowing you to adjust the heat and flame settings. Some models even come with an energy saving timer. They can be paired with a smart home system that gives you total control over your fireplace.
Installation
The latest fashion in interior design is the wall-mounted electric fireplace. These units are stylish and energy-efficient. They are also easy to install. They can be positioned in a flush position to the wall which gives them a sleek design. The mounting kit for the majority of these fireplaces includes all the necessary hardware. Some models even have an inbuilt blower that can push warm air into the room.
The installation is easy, but you must follow the instructions. The owner's manual will contain specific details about framing and secure the unit. The manual will also provide you with specific guidelines for the clearances you need to leave to avoid fire hazards.
Make sure the area is safe for your fire. If you're not sure then drill a small hole into a discrete part of the wall. This will reveal the kind of wall you have. Once you've completed this you can use the template that comes with the fireplace to mark the wall where you'll need to put it up. The brackets should be screwed to the wall. Make sure the brackets are straight and the fire is correctly positioned to ensure an even finish.
You'll also need to consider the height that you would like your fire to be. For example, if you're using a frameless model, you might want to include an ledge to support the fire, or you might prefer a more flush mount. You'll need to ensure that the heater, that is located in the front and bottom of the fireplace - is at least 400mm away from combustibles such as fabrics to keep it safe.
Think about hiring a professional electrician to wire your fire if you aren't comfortable working with electricity. They can also put up drywall, tape it and mud it to give it a smooth finish. They can even move the plug socket, if needed, for a truly streamlined look. If you wish to hide the power cord, they can run it behind the TV stand or under the carpet. In most instances, you can opt to have the cord painted in the same hue as the wall.