In Wall Fireplace 101 A Complete Guide For Beginners
In Wall Fireplace - How to Choose the Right Height and Depth for Your Fireplace
A fireplace built into the wall provides an elegant, polished look without having to pay for a mantle. It is one of the easiest electric fireplaces to put in.
There are a few things to think about prior to purchasing an in-wall fireplace. Follow these tips to make the most out of your investment.
Height
It may seem like a simple issue however, determining the height of your fireplace is one of the biggest decisions you will make. This is because the height of your fireplace will affect everything from how it fits in a room to how easily it can be seen. If your fireplace is too high can look unnatural and diminish the aesthetics of the piece. On the other the other hand having your fireplace too low will cause it to be lost in the wall space.
Luckily, electric fireplaces are versatile enough to be placed at various heights. The majority of people install their fireplaces from a sitting position at eye level. This typically requires a height of between 40 and 42 inches from the floor to the bottom of the fireplace. Some people place their fireplaces underneath their TVs. This can be an attractive alternative.
The size of your fireplace will depend on several factors such as the dimensions and length of the wall you want to put it on. The bigger the room, the larger it can be. This could mean you are in a position to fit a bigger fireplace into it. This is also true for the length of the wall, because a wall that is longer can support a wider fireplace.
How you intend to make use of your fireplace is an important aspect. If you only intend to use it for decorative purposes, a lower size will be the best. If you want to use it to heat your home, you will need to ensure that the fireplace is strong and tall enough to withstand the safety standards.
Having the proper height for your fireplace will help to ensure that it's in keeping with the decor and is simple to work on when cleaning or filling it. If you're not sure what best height to choose it is always a good idea to reach out to an experienced fireplace installer for assistance. They can suggest the best height for your fireplace, in accordance with their expertise and the design of your home's layout.
Depth
It is crucial to be aware of the depth of a fireplace if you plan to install it in an recessed position. If you're planning to cut into your wall, ensure that you have enough depth to accommodate the interior design of your fireplace (the smoke shelf above the firebox, the flue that is able to rise through the roof and the fireplace itself). You should also consider the space you will have for the surround, and whether or not you want a mantle.
Many of the newer electric fireplaces come with a depth that is nearly concealed, giving them an almost "built-in" look. The Panorama BI-Deep series is a great example of this kind of wall-mounted electric fireplace. The model is 5.8-inch depth that lets viewers to view the flames and the ember bed, but not the frame. The media package includes driftwood logs in natural colors white fireplace pebbles, or crystals of clear glass to enhance the embers and reflect the flames.
Gas wall-mounted fire places are also available in deep and shallow models. When deciding on the depth of your fireplace it is important to keep in mind that these fireplaces work as a supplemental heat source and must be properly vented by a knowledgeable professional. When determining the depth of gas fireplaces you must take into consideration the length of the vent pipe as well as the size of the chimney.
Whether you choose a surface mount or a recessed installation, it is crucial to read and follow all of the instructions of the manufacturer when installing your fireplace. A professional installer is recommended in the majority of instances. Also, it is always good to have an extra person on hand when installing gas fireplaces.
Addition of an in-wall fire place to your home is an excellent way to increase the value of it and create an atmosphere. It also can reduce your heating expenses. It is an excellent alternative for those who are unable to install an old-fashioned fireplace into your home due to space limitations or because of the location of the chimney.
Surface Mount
If you're unable or prefer not to cut into your wall or build out an area to accommodate an electric fireplace, a surface mount gives an elegant and integrated look. Some models, such as the Allusion line of Electric Fire fireplaces, can be positioned partially recessed into a wall without compromising the heat output.
To begin the installation, mark the wall with a pencil on the wall where the bracket will be mounted. Utilize a stud-finder to find the studs and then place each bracket in front at least one stud to ensure stability. If a stud isn't within reach or won't work for your fireplace, make use of anchors for drywall to help support the mounting bracket.
Once you've determined the location of the mounting brackets and drilled them, screw them into the wall, ensuring they are properly aligned with the studs. If possible, attach each bracket to a stud to ensure strength and stability, however you can also use plastic anchors if necessary. Once the mounting brackets are installed move the fireplace and hang it from the bracket. Once the fireplace is installed, make sure it is level.
Before proceeding with the installation, connect your fireplace and check whether all features are operating properly - turn on the fire, and then light up the flames, play around with the heat, ember bed lights, etc. Once you're happy with the results, it's time to install your floating mantel.
Based on the model of your fireplace, you will either need to connect the wire connection to the appliance connector at the bottom of the mantel, or if it has slots or hooks connected to the slots on the mounting brackets. Once you've completed this step make sure to consult the user manual for directions on how to remove the front glass panel from the opening and replace it.
If you have to alter the height and width, you should replace the glass front after you have removed the front panel. If your fireplace is equipped with ember bed media, spread it across the top of the grate to create an organic appearance, then secure it by using the screws that come with it.
Plug-In
In contrast to traditional fireplaces that burn wood, electric fireplaces don't require vents or chimneys. They plug into standard outlets they can provide additional heat to rooms up 400 square feet. They also come with a variety of flame and heat settings so that you can alter your ambience. Some models feature LED lighting effects that emphasize the embers and fire. Other models include the top grille grate which conceals manual controls but can be opened to reveal buttons to set the desired setting.
Plug-in electric fire fireplaces can be mounted directly on walls or installed into the wall for an aesthetically pleasing look. These units are typically more straightforward to install than a mantel fireplace. Some come with a pedestal base to permit you to put the fireplace on a flat surface like a dresser or buffet. Included are an remote control, mounting hardware and a log set. Depending on the model, electric fireplaces could include heat and flame options that can be switched off to provide ambiance throughout the year.
Some models have adjustable privacy glass that can change instantly from fully transparent to partially. This makes these models popular for walls that divide common entertainment spaces like dining and living areas. They can also be utilized in bedrooms where adding a new fireplace is a cost-effective way to cool the space without sacrificing privacy.
While plug-in electric fireplaces don't need to be hardwired as built-in models, they must be positioned on a wall that is at least free of studs and able to support the weight of the fireplace insert. Certain models come with kits to make this process more simple by providing a pre-wired power cord as well as an specialized mounting bracket. This kit can be used for construction of drywall or concrete.
When deciding on a place for your wall-mounted electric fires fireplace, ensure it's near an electrical outlet. Based on the model, plug-in electric fireplaces can be connected to outlets that are on the same circuit, or a separate one for your electric fireplace. It is best to choose a different circuit so that no other appliances in your home be powered by the same voltage. This could cause a trip to your circuit breaker.