Electric Fireplace Wall Hanging Ideas
Unlike traditional gas or wood fireplaces wall-mount electric fireplaces are ready to hang 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 are usually heavy and require careful installation. Follow these steps to install your new electric fireplace correctly.
1. Connect the Brackets
A wall-mounted or recessed electric fireplace instantly enhances the appearance of any room. This is a great solution for those who don't have a fireplace or live in apartments.
Choose www.fireplacesandstoves.uk where you'd like to put your electric fire. You should choose a place that isn't prone to moisture and is at least just a few feet from drapes and furniture. Once you've located a location, mark the wall with layout marks for the top and bottom plates of the fireplace frame.
Use a drill or similar tool to drill exploratory holes into the wall. Find studs using an stud-detector. Then, mark the wall with the position of the fireplace mounting brackets. Next, patch and paint the drywall or make the wall a bit bigger to prepare it for fireplace installation.
Depending on the type of wall-mounted fireplace, you could be required to install the firebox and screen as one unit or separate them using the use of a wall bracket. If you're not sure about your capability to tackle this part of the project on your own, you might consider hiring an experienced general contractor or carpenter.
Most electric fireplaces come with a template for the installation procedure, but you must also have a spirit level and pencil to help accurately mark the spot in which you'll mount the wall brackets. Utilize the template to ensure that the power cable of the fireplace can be connected to a nearby outlet in order to connect it.
Once the studs and fireplace frame are in place, you can install drywall that is as smooth and flush as possible for a clean appearance. Add trim to the bottom edge, and then paint, sand and then finish the frame.
You'll need to put the hooks or slots on the back of many electric fireplaces mounted on walls into the mounting brackets. Make sure that the slots and hooks are aligned before you connect the fire to wall brackets. Once the fire is set 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 prime real estate to hang artwork. There is a delicate balance between an artistic arrangement and one that doesn't detract from the overall design of the fireplace.
Generally speaking, the rule of thumb is that a wall should be about 80% the size of the fireplace or mantel it is placed above. This will ensure that it is proportional and make it look good on the wall. This guideline may be affected by other ornaments or decorative items on the mantel.
If you are planning to hang a photograph above your electric fireplace the frame should be made of glass or a material that can handle 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 use.
The risk of damaging artwork by smoke and hot stray heat is a typical concern when you display artworks on the fireplace. This is not an issue with a wood- or gas-powered fireplace. However should you decide to use an electric wall fire, it's important to check the instructions of the manufacturer.
Most electrical fires come with mounting brackets that 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 an isolated area of the wall prior to when you attempt to mount your electric fire. You can then use a pipe and cable finder to make sure there aren't any pipes or cables close to the location where you want to mount your fire.
If you do, you can either mount your fire over the electrical socket or move it to another place. If you move it to a new location you'll need to make sure that the power cable will extend from the fire to the electrical socket. this is particularly important for older houses or homes with solid walls. If you don't do this, the electric fireplace won't function properly. Some models have a template included that shows you the locations to drill holes to make the holes Some require a spirit level and pencil to mark the proper locations on your wall.
3. Connect the Power Cord
It is possible to relocate your plug socket behind the unit if you have installed a recessed fireplace. This will give you a sleeker finish. Check the fireplace first to make sure it works correctly.
Another popular method to install an electric fireplace is to frame it and build it into the wall. This gives a finished, traditional look and allows you to include mantels. The owner's guide for your model will include information on framing, wiring and securing the fire place.
You can mark the location of your electric fireplace on the wall with a marker or pencil. Then apply a carpenter's level to ensure that the location is flat and level. You can also employ a stud finder to mark the location of studs, so that you can be certain that you're drilling in an area that is safe.
After you've marked the location for installation, 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 particularly important if you are installing the fireplace in the drywall. If you're not sure how to proceed then you can ask a professional for help.
You can also hide power cords from view by using an organizer kit for cables. These kits usually come with sleeves, clips or boxes for bundling cables. You can also make use of fish tape or wire snake tools to guide the cords along the wall. If you don't want to cut into your drywall then you can put in the power bridge kit for cleaner and safer connections.
Additionally, you can disguise the cords with paintable wire covers or by tacking them to the wall or skirting boards. Keep the cover or tacks far from sources of heat. This will shield the cord from damage and also prevent accidental contact.
4. Connect the Adapter
A wall-mounted electric fire place is an excellent option for home renovations or those who do not have the space or money to build gas fireplaces. They are easy to install and come ready to use straight out of the box. They can be a great alternative for those who are looking for a stylish modern touch or the warmth the fire can bring. These units are designed to be displayed as art on any wall. They they can be recessed or not recessed at all, and come with a heating that is powered by a fan.
Before beginning the actual installation process it is an excellent idea to take stock of all the equipment and tools you'll require. Check the user manual for specific information on how to mount your electric fire. Certain models require brackets to be screwed directly into the wall while others could have a mounting plat that slides into slots or hookeds on the brackets. If you're installing a recessed model it is essential to make sure that all combustible substances are removed from the area around the installation. As a general rule, these materials should be kept 3 feet away from the front side of the fireplace and 1.5 feet away from its sides.
After you have checked all parts after that, plug in your electric fire and ensure that it works. This is a crucial step, as it will ensure that the flame effect screen and heater work exactly as they were intended to. This will also provide you with an idea of how the product will look in its final configuration.
Cover the cord after you are satisfied that it's working correctly. This will keep the finished product neat. This can be accomplished by using wire covers that are paintable or install a new outlet that will allow you to place the cord behind the unit. This will give seamless finishing to your fireplace.