Electric Fireplace Wall Hanging Ideas
The wall-mount electric fireplaces are ready to use right out of their box. These electric fireplaces are an excellent way to add ambiance to your home without the need to remodel or venting.
However, they typically require care in installation due to the fact that they're usually heavy. Follow these steps to hang your brand new electric fireplace correctly.
1. Connect the Brackets
A wall-mounted electric fireplace or recessed electric fire instantly transforms any space. This is a great option for those who don't have fireplaces or reside in apartments.
First, decide where you'll place your new electric fireplace. It is best to choose a location that isn't prone to moisture and is at least at least a few feet away from furniture and drapes. Mark the wall with layout marks that indicate the top and bottom plates of the fireplace frame.
Use a tool such as an electric drill to drill exploratory holes into the wall, looking for studs with a detector, and then marking the drywall for locations of the fireplace mounting brackets. Then, you need to build out the wall or patch and paint the drywall to prepare it for your fireplace installation.
Depending on your chosen wall-mounted fire, you may be required to install the screen and firebox as one unit or separate them using a wall bracket. If you're uncertain about your ability to handle this part of the project on your own, consider hiring a general contractor or experienced carpenter.
There is an installation template that comes with all electric fireplaces. However, you should also keep a level in your pocket and pencil to mark the exact spot where the wall brackets will be erected. Utilize the template to ensure that the power cable of the fireplace is able to connect to an outlet nearby to connect it.
Install the drywall as clean and flush as you can to give the fireplace a sleek appearance. Attach a piece of trim to the bottom edge and then sand and paint the entire frame to give it an elegant appearance.
Most wall-mounted electric fires come with hooks or slots on the back of the unit which you can insert into the slots or hooks on the mounting brackets. Make sure to align the hooks or slots before connecting the fire brackets. Once the fire is set you can then add additional elements like driftwood logs, crystal embers, or decorative rocks.
2. Check the Bottom Bracket
The space above a fireplace mantel, chimney breast, or mantel is a prime spot to hang artwork. However, there is a fine line between an artistic arrangement and one that distracts from the overall design of the fireplace design.
The general rule of thumb is that a wall should be about 80% the length of the fireplace or mantel it sits above. This will help it remain proportionate and appear attractive on the wall. Other ornaments & decorative items placed on the mantel can affect the size and proportional guidelines.
If you're going to hang a picture above your electric fireplace, it's important that the frame is made of glass or another material that is resistant to high temperatures. If you're not sure then a quick test using a temperature-sensitive cloth will show whether the frame is suitable for this type of installation.
The possibility of destroying artwork by smoke and stray heat is a common concern when displaying pictures in front of the flames of a fireplace. This is not an issue with gas or wood-powered fireplace. However, if you plan to use an electric wall fire, it's important to check the manufacturer's instructions.
Most electrical fires have an attached bracket that can be fixed to the wall using hanging screws or wall-mounted fixing systems. If the latter is the case, it's recommended that you drill exploratory holes in a distinct area of the wall before you begin mounting your electric fire. You can then use a pipe and cable finder to make sure there aren't any pipes or cables near the mounting position.
If there are there are, you may decide to place your fire on top of the electrical socket or move it to a different location. If you decide to move it, make sure that the power cable can reach the electrical socket. This is crucial for older homes or those with solid walls. If not the electric fire will not perform as it should. Some models have a template included that will show you where to drill the holes to make the holes and others require a spirit level and pencil to mark the correct places on your wall.
3. Connect the Power Cord
You may have to move your plug socket in front of the fireplace if you've installed a recessed fireplace. This can create a sleeker look. Check the fireplace first to make sure it is operating properly.
A third popular way to install an electric fireplace is to frame the space and build it into the wall. This gives you a traditional elegant look and also allows the installation of an optional mantel. The owner's manual for your particular model will provide information on framing, securing your fireplace, and wiring.
If best wall hung electric fires for mounting your new electric fireplace on the wall begin by marking the location of installation with a marker or pencil. Use a carpenter's level to ensure that the area of installation is flat and level. You can use a studfinder to mark the location to know you are drilling in a safe location.
Use the electric drill after you've marked the installation location to make holes for bracket screws or hanging screws. Follow the instructions in your owner's guide for this step. This is particularly important if you're putting the fireplace into drywall. If you're not sure of the best way to go about this you can always ask a professional to do the installation for you.
You can also conceal power cords away from view using a cable organizer kit. These kits usually come with sleeves, clips or boxes for bundling cables. You can also make use of fish tape or wire snake tools to guide the cords through the wall. If you prefer not to cut into your drywall or drywall, you can install a power bridge kit for more secure and cleaner connections.
You can also disguise cords by using paintable wire covers or by attaching them to the wall. Be sure to keep the cover or tacks from the source of heat, however. This will shield the cord from damage and prevent accidental contact.
4. Connect the Adapter
A wall-mounted electric fireplace is a fantastic alternative for home renovations or for those who don't have the space or money to build a gas fireplace. They are easy to hang and are ready to use right out of the box and can be a great alternative for those who are seeking a modern and stylish touch or the warmth the fire can bring. These units are designed to be hung as artwork on any wall. They can be recessed or not at all recessed and are fully electric and have heating powered by fans.
Before beginning the actual installation process it is an excellent idea to gather all the equipment and tools you will need. You can find detailed instructions on how to install an electric fire in the user manual. Certain models require you to screw brackets directly into the wall while others may feature a mounting plat that slides into slots or hooks on the brackets. If you are installing a recessed fireplace it is essential to make sure that all combustible substances are removed from the area of installation. As a rule of thumb the materials should be kept 3 feet away from the front of the fireplace and 1.5 feet from its sides.
After you've checked all the parts, you should plug in your electric fireplace and ensure that it functions properly. This is an essential step since it will ensure that the flame effect screen and heater operate as intended. This will give you a good idea of the final product in its final position.
When you're sure that your electric fire is working properly, you must think about covering the power cord. This will help keep the final product neat. This can be accomplished by using wire covers that are paintable or you can choose to install an outlet that allows you to place the cord behind the unit. This will give your fireplace a seamless appearance.