Electric Fireplace Wall Hanging Ideas
The wall-mount electric fireplaces are ready to use straight out of their box. These fireplaces can be ideal for adding the ambience of your home without the need for remodeling or venting.
They're usually heavy and require careful installation. Follow these steps to set up your new electric fireplace correctly.
1. Connect the Brackets
A wall-mounted or recessed electric fireplace instantly improves the look of any room. This is an excellent option for those who don't have a fireplace or live in apartments.
Choose where you'd like to place your electric fireplace. It's important to find the ideal location that isn't susceptible to moisture and at least just a few inches from furniture, drapes and areas that are prone to traffic. Once you've located a location, mark the wall with layout marks 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 with a stud detector and marking the drywall for locations of the fireplace mounting brackets. Then, you can build the wall or patch and paint the drywall to prepare it for fireplace installation.
Depending on the type of wall-mounted fireplace, you could have to either install the firebox and screen as one unit or separate them by the use of a wall bracket. If you're not sure of your abilities to manage this task on your own, think about hiring an experienced general contractor or carpenter.
Most electric fireplaces come with an installation template to aid in the process, but you should also have an emery board and a pencil in hand to precisely mark the location where you'll fix the wall brackets. Before drilling, you can use the template to ensure that the power cable of the fireplace can reach from the place of installation to an outlet nearby for a convenient plug in.
Install drywall as smooth and as flush as possible to give the fireplace a neat look. Add a piece of trim to the bottom edge, and then paint and sand the entire frame to give it an attractive appearance.
The majority of wall-mounted electric fires have slots or hooks on the back of the unit which you insert into slots or hooks on the mounting brackets. Be sure to align the slots or hooks prior to connecting the fire brackets. Once the fire is set you can add other elements such as driftwood logs, crystal embers 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 look of the fireplace.
A common rule of thumb is that a picture should be at least 80% of the length of the fireplace or mantel it sits over. This will ensure that it is proportional and will make it look nice on the wall. This guideline could be influenced by other ornaments and decorative pieces on the mantel.
If you're going to hang an image above your electric fireplace, it's crucial that the frame is made of glass or another material that can withstand high temperatures. If you're not sure, a quick test with a heat-sensitive cloth should reveal whether the frame is suitable for this kind of installation.
The risk of damaging artwork due to smoke or stray heat is a common concern when you display artworks on the flames of a fireplace. Although this is rarely an issue when using a traditional gas or wood-powered fireplace, it's a good idea to check the recommendations of the manufacturer if you're contemplating using an electric fireplace that is mounted on the wall.
Most electrical fires have mounting brackets that can be attached to the wall with hanging screws or wall-mounted fixing systems. It is recommended to drill exploratory hole in an area that is distinct from the wall prior installing your electric fire. You can then use a pipe and cable finder to make sure there aren't any cables or pipes near the position of mounting.
If so, you could place your fire on the electrical socket or move it to a different location. If you decide to move it, make sure that the power cable will reach the electrical socket. This is crucial for older homes or those with walls that are solid. If you don't do this, the electric fireplace won't function properly. Some models have a template included that will show you where to drill holes for this purpose, while others require a spirit level & pencil to mark the proper places on your wall.
3. Connect the Power Cord
You may have to move your plug socket behind the fireplace if you've installed a fireplace with a recess. This can give it a cleaner appearance. Check the fireplace first to make sure it is operating properly.
Another popular method to mount an electric fireplace is to frame space and build it into the wall. This will give you a traditional elegant look and also allows for the installation of a mantel. The owner's guide for your particular model will give information on framing, wiring, and securing the fire.
When you're ready to install your new electric fireplace on the wall, start by marking the location of installation with a pencil or marker. Use a carpenter's level to make sure that the area of installation is flat and level. You can use a studfinder to mark the location so that you can be sure you're drilling in a safe area.
Once you've marked the location of the installation then use your electric drill to create holes for the bracket screws or hanging screws. Follow the instructions in the owner's manual for this step. This is particularly important if you are installing the fireplace into drywall. If you're not sure how to do it you can consult a professional for help.
You can also conceal power cords away from view using a cable organizer kit. These kits usually include sleeves, clips or boxes for bundling cables. You can also use wire snake tools to help guide the cables through the wall. If you don't want to cut into the drywall, a Powerbridge kit can offer a cleaner and safer connection.
You can also disguise the cords with paintable wire covers or by attaching them to the wall and skirting boards. Make sure to keep the cover or tacks from the heat source, however. Wall Mounted Electric Fires will avoid accidental contact and will protect the cord.
4. Connect the Adapter
A wall-mounted electric fire place is an excellent option for home renovations or for those who do not have the space or money to build gas fireplaces. They are easy-to-hang and are ready to use straight out of the box. They're an excellent alternative to those looking for an elegant, modern look or warmth from a fire. They are designed to be hung like art on any wall. They they can be recessed or not recessed at all and are fully electric and have fan-powered heating.
Before you begin the actual installation process it is a good idea to make a list of all the tools and equipment you'll require. Go through the user's manual for specific instructions on how to mount your electric fire. Certain models may require you to screw the brackets directly onto the wall, while others may feature an installation plate that slides into slots or hooks attached to the brackets for mounting. If you are installing a recessed unit, it's important to ensure that all combustible materials are removed from the area of installation. As a rule of thumb the materials should be kept 3 feet away from the front side of the fireplace and 1.5 feet away from its sides.
After you've checked all parts, you should plug in your electric fireplace and verify that it is working correctly. This is a very important step because it will guarantee that the flame effect screen and heater function in the way you intended. This will give you a good idea of the final product's final position.
Once you're satisfied that your electric fireplace is operating correctly, you should consider covering the power cord. This will keep the final product neat. You can do this by applying paintable wire covers, or you can choose to install an outlet that will allow you to tuck the cord behind the unit. This will give your fireplace a seamless finish.