Electric Fireplace Wall Hanging Ideas
The wall-mount electric fireplaces can be put to use straight out of the box. They're ideal for adding ambiance without requiring venting or reworking.
However, they typically require careful installation because they're generally heavy. Follow these steps to hang your brand new electric fireplace properly.
1. Connect the Brackets
A wall-mounted electric fireplace or recessed fire instantly transforms any space. It's a perfect solution for homes without an existing fireplace opening, or for apartment dwellers.
First, you must decide where to install your new electric fire. It's important to find the ideal location that isn't vulnerable to moisture and is at a minimum of a few inches away from drapes, furniture, and high traffic areas. Once you've found a spot, mark the wall with layout marks for the top and bottom plates of the fireplace frame.
Make use of a drill or another tool to make exploratory holes in the wall. Check for studs using a stud-detector. Mark the drywall according to the location of the brackets for mounting your fireplace. Next, build out the wall or patch and paint the drywall to prepare it for fireplace installation.
Depending on the type of wall-mounted fireplace, you could either need to fit the firebox and screen as one unit or separate them using an adjustable wall bracket. If you're uncertain about your ability to handle this part of the project on your own, you might consider hiring a general contractor or experienced carpenter.
Most electric fireplaces include a template for the installation process, but you should also have a spirit level and pencil to help accurately mark the spot in which you'll mount the wall brackets. Before drilling, you can use the template to verify that the power cable of the fireplace can reach from the installation site to an outlet nearby for a convenient plug in.
When the studs and fireplace frame are in place, you can put in the drywall as smooth and flush as you can to give a neat appearance. Add trim to the bottom edge, and then paint, sand and finish the frame.
The majority of wall-mounted electric fires come with hooks or slots on the back of the unit which you insert into slots or hooks on 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 add additional elements, such as crystal embers driftwood log pieces or decorative rocks.
2. Check the Bottom Bracket
The space above the mantel, fireplace or chimney breast is ideal to hang artwork. However, there's a fine line between an artistic arrangement and one that detracts from the overall design of the fireplace's design.
Generally, the rule of the thumb is that a painting should be about 80% the size of the mantel or firebox it is placed over. This will allow it to be proportional and look aesthetically pleasing on the wall. Other ornaments & decorative items placed on the mantel may influence the size and proportional guidelines.
If you intend to display a photo above your electric fireplace the frame must be made of glass or another material that can handle high temperatures. If you're unsure, a quick test with a heat-sensitive cloth should reveal whether the frame is suitable for this type of installation.
The possibility of destroying artwork due to smoke or hot stray heat is a typical concern when you display artworks on the flames of a fireplace. This is not a problem with a wood- or gas-powered fireplace. However when you are planning to install an electric wall fireplace it is important to read the manufacturer's instructions.
Most electrical fires have a mounting bracket that can be attached to the wall using hanging screws or wall-mounted fixing systems. If the latter option is used, it is recommended to drill exploratory holes in a distinct area of the wall prior to when you attempt to mount your electric fire. You can then utilize a pipe and cable finder to ensure that there aren't any cables or pipes close to the location where you want to mount your fire.
If they are, you can then choose to mount your fire on top of the electrical socket, or move it to a different location. If you decide to move it to a new spot, you'll need to ensure that the power cable can reach from the fire to the electrical socket. this is particularly important for older homes or homes with solid walls. If you don't, your electric fireplace will not function effectively. Some models come with templates that show you the locations to drill holes, while others require you to use an apex level and pencil to mark the locations on your wall.
3. Connect the Power Cord
If you've installed a recessed electric fireplace, you might need to move the plug socket from the wall to behind the fireplace. This can help create a more elegant appearance. Make sure to test the fireplace before you do this to ensure that everything is working as it should.
A third popular way to install an electric fireplace is to frame the space and incorporate it into the wall. This gives you a traditional elegant look and also allows the installation of a mantel. The owner's manual for your particular model will provide information on framing, securing your fireplace, and wiring.
When you're ready to install your new electric fireplace on the wall, start by marking the installation location with a marker or pencil. Make use of a carpenter's level make sure that the installation area is flat and level. You can use a studfinder mark the location so you can be sure you're drilling in a safe area.
Use the electric drill after you've marked the installation location to drill holes for bracket screws or hanging screws. Be sure to follow the precise directions in the owner's guideline for this step, especially if you're installing the fireplace in wall. If you're not sure how to do this, you can always ask an expert to do the installation for you.
A cable organizer kit can be used to conceal power cords. These kits typically come with sleeves, clips or boxes that can be used to bundle cables. You can use fish tape or wire snakes to guide the cables. If you don't want to cut into your drywall or drywall, you can install an electric bridge kit to make more secure and cleaner connections.
You can also disguise the cords with paintable wire covers or by attaching them to the wall or skirting board. Make wall mount fireplace electric to keep the cover or tacks away from the heat source, however. This will avoid accidental contact and will protect the cord.
4. Connect the Adapter
A wall-mounted electric fireplace is a great option for a home renovation or for those who do not have the space or funds to install a real gas fireplace. They are simple to hang and come ready to use straight out of the box and can be a great alternative for those looking for a chic modern design or the warmth a fire provides. These units are designed to be displayed as art on any wall. They can be recessed or not at all recessed and come with a fan-powered heating.
Before you begin the actual installation process it's recommended to take stock of all the equipment and tools you'll require. Check the user manual for specific details about how to install your electric fire. Some models might require you to screw the brackets directly to the wall while others might have an adjustable mounting plate that slides into slots or hooks attached to the mounting brackets. If you're installing a recessed model it is essential to ensure that all combustible materials are taken from the area around the installation. As a general rule, these materials should be kept at least 3 feet from the front side of the fireplace and 1.5 feet from its sides.
After you have checked all the parts after that, connect your electric fire and ensure that it works. This is an essential step since it will ensure that the flame effect screen and heater work as intended. This will also provide you with an idea of how the finished product will appear in its final location.
Cover the cord once you are sure that it's functioning properly. This will keep the finished product neat. This can be accomplished 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 an elegant finish to your fireplace.