Things to Consider Before Installing an Electric Wall Fireplace
Electric wall fireplaces are a practical and safe method to add warmth to your home. However there are a few things you should consider before installing one.
Unlike fully recessed fires, wall-mounted fires are relatively easy to set up yourself. It is important to check to make sure you have the right dimensions of the insert and the appropriate kit.
Safety
Electric wall fireplaces are a favored alternative to traditional fireplaces. They provide a warm, attractive and energy-efficient alternative. They are safe to use and provide the warmth needed in any house. They also provide the air clean and smoke free. These fireplaces come in many different designs and all create a captivating bed of embers and a realistic flame presentation. This makes them perfect for apartments, condos and renovations that don't have a traditional chimney. They're also a great choice for those with pets or children, as they don't produce an actual flame.
However, there are certain safety tips that should be observed when using an electric fireplace. It is important to keep all combustible materials at least three feet away from the fireplace. This can reduce the risk of fire and to reduce the danger of burning your possessions. Avoid touching any surfaces of the fireplace which are hot, for instance the heating element and the vents that blow hot air out. It is also important to avoid blocking these vents because they must be open for the unit to operate safely.
A protective screen is another important aspect of an electric wall fire. It can help prevent accidental burns. This is especially useful if your home has a limited space, or if there are pets or children. Certain models come with the option of a remote control that lets you turn off and on the fireplace from anywhere in the room. This will prevent the fireplace from accidentally turned on when you're not in the room.
Some models even come with built-in timers that turn off the fireplace after a certain amount of time. This feature is great for those who forget to shut off the fireplace or have trouble remembering.
It is also recommended to unplug your fireplace when it is not in use. It can overload the electrical system, creating the risk of fire. Also, never place any liquids, including water, in the fireplace. It's also a good idea for your electric fireplace to be placed on a separate circuit than other appliances. This will avoid tripping and power outages.
Energy Efficiency
Electric wall fireplaces can help you save money on your heating costs in winter. The cost to run these fireplaces depends on several factors, including wattage and the price per Kilowatt charged by your energy provider.
The wattage of the fireplace is often displayed on the fireplace, typically in the format of kW (kilowatts). Divide that number by the price of your energy provider per kilowatt and you'll get the unit's energy efficiency as a percentage.
Most electric fireplaces use fan-forced heaters which pull cool air from the room, warm it up with electricity and then push hot air back into the room. These are the most common and inexpensive type of electrical fires. It is possible to heat a small to medium-sized room using one of these, however they're not nearly as efficient as infrared heating systems, which provide more consistent and even heating.
Unlike wood burning fires, electric fireplaces do not burn fuel and produce no soot or ash. This eliminates the need to store wood or hire a chimney sweep for regular cleaning and inspection. They also don't release harmful fumes and their flames look amazingly realistic.
These fireplaces are great for those who wish to relax by the fire, but don't want to use their furnace. They also do not dry out your living space by blowing heat into it and they can help to maintain a healthy humidity for those inflicted with respiratory issues.
Another advantage of in wall fireplace these kinds of fireplaces is that they can use them with or without the heat, which gives you the option to enjoy their ambiance all year round. These fireplaces are ideal for rooms that have a lot of furniture, which will stop the heat. You can still enjoy the ambience while entertaining guests.
If you're considering purchasing an electric fireplace for the first time it is important to search around for the best prices. It's possible to find a model that costs significantly less than you think, particularly if you take the time to look at prices online and in-store prices. It is also essential to ensure that the electric fireplace you purchase can be plugged in at an appropriate location and that it does not share a circuit with other appliances or fixtures.
Design
A fireplace feature wall is an amazing way to add a touch of elegance to a room without spending time and money remodeling. Electric fireplaces do not require chimneys or venting and can be used in any room in the home, including bedrooms. They also provide additional heating and do not emit smoke, making them safe for children and people with respiratory ailments.
There are numerous ideas for electric fireplaces to think about so you can choose the perfect one for your home. Certain fireplace designs are made to be an eye-catching focal point in the room, while others blend with an elegant design. If you're looking for a statement piece, go for an imitation stone fireplace with an opening that is curved. LED flames will glisten and crackle, adding an elegant touch.
Another popular option is a linear fireplace. These models are slim and sleek, making them ideal for modern rooms which are small in space. A majority of models come with a remote, a variety of color and heat settings, and log options to create a custom appearance. Some models include an option for a wave that allows you to switch off and on the fireplace by a simple hand motion.
Alternatively, you can install a recessed model that is in line with the wall. This design is ideal for contemporary homes, and it is easily coupled with television. The majority of recessed electric fireplaces feature front vents to ensure safety, and they can also heat up to 400 square feet.
If you prefer a more traditional design go for a mantelss model with a brick surround. They are ideal for rooms with a lot of light and can be enhanced with mantels made of stone or wood. You can even add an edging for your fireplace to create a cozy ambience.
Many electric fireplaces include a remote control that allows you to adjust the flame and heat settings. Some models even come with a timer for energy conservation. They can also be paired with a smart home system to give you total control over your fireplace.
Installation
A wall-mounted electric fireplace is a recent trend in home design and interiors. They are stylish and energy efficient. They are also simple to install. They can also be mounted in a flush position to give the wall an elegant look. The mounting kit that comes with most of these fireplaces comes with all the necessary hardware. Some models have a blower built in that forces warm air into the room.
Installation is simple but you must follow the steps. The owner's manual will have specific information on framing and fixing the unit. The manual will also give you specific guidelines regarding the clearances you should leave to prevent fire hazards.
Make sure the area is suitable for your fire. If you're not sure, drill a small hole in a small part of the wall. This will let you know the kind of wall you have. Once you've done this you can use the layout that was included with the fireplace to mark the wall which you will need to put it. The brackets must be screwed onto the wall. Make sure that the brackets are level and check that the fire is positioned correctly to ensure a neat and clean finish.
You'll need to think about the dimensions of your fire. For example, if you're using a frameless fireplace, you may want to have a ledge to hold the fire, or perhaps you'd prefer a more flush mount. It is important to ensure that the heater - which sits in the front and bottom of the fireplace - is 400mm away from combustibles such as fabrics to ensure its safety.
Consider hiring a professional electrician to wire your fire if you are not comfortable with electrical work. They can also use drywall or tape the area to give it a smooth, finished appearance. They can even move the plug socket in case of need to create a sleek look. If you'd like to conceal the power cord in a more discreet location, they can run it behind the TV stand or beneath the carpet. In most instances, you can opt to paint the cord in the same color as the wall.