Five In Wall Fireplace Lessons From Professionals
In Wall Fireplace - How to Choose the Right Height and Depth for Your Fireplace
A built-in fireplace provides an elegant, polished appearance without having to pay for mantles. It is among the simplest electric fireplaces to install.
There are a few aspects to think about before purchasing an in-wall fireplace. Follow these guidelines to get the most out of your purchase.
Height
Although it might seem like an easy task to answer, determining the height of your new fireplace is one of the most crucial decisions you can make. This is because the height of your fireplace will affect everything from how well it will fit in a room to how visible it is. The fireplace might appear strange in the event that it is set too high. It could also take away from its attractiveness. A fireplace that is too low will look drab in the wall space.
Electric fireplaces can be mounted at various levels. The majority of people install their fireplaces sitting at eye level. This typically requires a height of 40-42 inches from the floor to the bottom of the fireplace. Some people place their fireplaces wooden beneath their TVs. This can be an attractive option.
The exact height of your fireplace will depend on several factors, including the dimensions of the room as well as the length of the wall where you'd like to put it. The larger the room and the bigger it is, the larger it can be which could mean that you are able to fit a bigger fireplace in it. The length of a wall is also important, as a longer wall will support a larger fireplace.
Another crucial aspect to take into consideration is how you plan to make use of your fireplace. If you intend to use it only for decoration, then a lower height is best. If you intend to use it to heat your home using it, you'll need ensure that the fireplace is tall enough to meet local codes and safety standards.
Having the proper height for your fireplace will help to ensure that it is in line with the decor of the room and is easy to work with when cleaning or filling it. It is always a good idea to ask a professional fireplace installer to assist you if you are unsure about the size you should pick. They will be able to determine the best height for your fireplace according to their experience and your particular home.
Depth
A fireplace's depth is important to know if you plan to install it in a recessed location. If you plan to cut your wall, ensure that you have enough depth to accommodate the design of your fireplace (the smoke shelf that is above the firebox, the flue that runs through the roof, and the fireplace itself). Also consider the space you will have for the surround, and whether or not you want a mantle.
Many of the latest electric fireplace models have the depth of being almost hidden, giving them an "integrated" appearance. This kind of wall fireplace made from electric is best exemplified by the Panorama BI Deep series. It has an 5.8-inch depth that lets the user see the flames and ember bed instead of the frame of the fireplace. It is also equipped with a range of media packages, such as natural looking driftwood logs, white pebbles, or crystals of clear glass that reflect the flames and add luster to the ember bed.
Wall-mounted gas fireplaces are also available in deep and shallow versions. When determining the depth of your fireplace it is important to keep in mind that these units are supplemental heat sources and should be vented properly by a trained professional. The length of the vent pipe, the length of the flue, as well as the distance from the stove to the vent are all elements that must be considered when determining the depth of a gas fireplace.
No matter if you opt for a surface mount or recess-mounted installation, it is essential to adhere to the instructions of the manufacturer when installing your fireplace. In the majority of cases, a professional installer is highly recommended. It is also recommended to have a second person on hand for the installation of a fireplace.
Addition of an in-wall fire space to your home is a fantastic way to increase the value of it and add an atmosphere. It also can help reduce your heating bills. Moreover, it is an excellent option if you are unable to fit traditional fireplaces in your home due to space limitations or due to the location of your existing chimney.
Surface Mount
Surface mounts are a great option if you don't wish to or can't cut into the wall to mount an electric fireplace. They also provide a sleek, built-in appearance. Certain models, like the Allusion line, can even be mounted partially recessed in the wall without compromising the heat output or aesthetics.
To start the installation process, determine where you want your fireplace to be located and mark the area using a pencil on the wall where the bracket will be installed. Utilize a stud locater to find the studs in the area, and ensure that the mounting bracket is in front of one or more studs to ensure stability. If a stud is not in reach or doesn't work for your fireplace, use anchors for drywall to help support the mounting bracket.
After you've marked the position of the mounting brackets then use a drill to screw them into the wall ensuring they are properly aligned with the studs. If you can, secure each bracket to a stud to ensure strength and stability, however you can also use plastic anchors if necessary. Once the mounting brackets have been put in place, raise your fireplace, then hang it on the wall bracket. Once it's secure, check the position of your fireplace to ensure that it's level and not crooked in the opening.
Before you proceed with the installation, connect your freestanding fireplace and check that all the features are functioning correctly - turn on the fire, and then start the flames. play around with heat, ember bed lights, etc. Once you are satisfied with the results, it's time to put in the floating mantel.
Depending on the type of your fireplace, you'll either need to connect its wire connection to the appliance wire connector biofireplace at the bottom of the mantel or in the event that your fireplace has hooks or slots on the back, connect them to the slots on the wall mounting brackets. After you've completed this then, refer to the owner's manual for specific instructions on removing the front glass panel and inserting it into the opening.
If you have to alter the height you can replace the glass front once you have removed the front panel. If your fireplace includes ember bed media, place it over the top of the grille to create a natural appearance. Then secure it with the screws included.
Plug-In
Unlike traditional wood-burning fireplaces, electric fireplaces don't require chimneys or vents. They're plugged into a standard outlet that can provide supplemental heat for rooms that are up 400 square feet. They also come with a variety of flame and heat settings so you can customize your ambience. Some models come with LED lighting effects that accentuate the ember bed and the fire. Other models include a top grille grate that conceals manual controls, but easily can be opened to reveal buttons to select the setting you prefer.
Plug-in electric fire places can be mounted directly on the wall or recessed to give an appearance of a built-in. These fireplaces are usually simpler to install than a mantel fireplace. Some come with pedestal bases that allow you to place the fireplace suite on a flat surface such as a dresser or buffet. A remote control as well as mounting hardware and a log set are all included. Based on the model, electric fireplaces can include heating and flame options that can be switched off for all-year-round comfort.
Certain models come with privacy glass which can be changed in a flash from fully transparent to partially transparent. These models are popular for walls that divide zones of entertainment such as living and dining rooms. They can even be used in bedrooms where the addition of a fireplace is an affordable way to reduce the chill in a room without sacrificing privacy.
Although plug-in electric fireplaces don't need to be hardwired like built-in versions they must be mounted within an area that is at a minimum free of studs and able to support the weight of the fireplace. Certain models come with a kit that comes with a pre-wired cord and a special bracket that makes the installation process less difficult. This kit is suitable for either drywall or concrete installation.
When choosing a location for your wall mount electric fireplace, ensure it's close to an electrical outlet. Electric fire places with plug-ins can be connected to outlets that are on the same circuit as the electric fireplace or into a separate outlet. It is recommended to use a dedicated circuit so that nothing else in the home will operate at the same voltage, and could cause a trip to your breakers.