Things to Consider Before Installing an Electric Wall Fireplace
Electric wall fireplaces are a convenient and safe method to add warmth to your home. There are a few aspects to think about before installing an electric wall fireplace.
Unlike fully recessed fires, wall-mounted fires are relatively easy to set up yourself. However, it's important to make sure you have the proper size of the insert and kit.
Safety
Electric wall fireplaces are a favored alternative to traditional fireplaces. They offer a comfortable elegant, attractive and energy-efficient option. These fireplaces are safe to use and offer supplemental heat in any home. They also ensure a smokeless, clean environment. There are a myriad of options for these fireplaces, however, they all produce stunning bed embers and a realistic flame display. They are perfect for renovations, apartments and condos without a chimney. They are also a great choice for people with pets or children, as they don't create a real flame.
There are some safety guidelines to remember when using an electric fire. It is essential to keep all combustible items at least three feet from the fireplace. This will decrease the chance of your possessions getting burned. It is also essential to avoid touching hot surfaces of the fireplace, including the heating elements and the vents through which hot air is blown out. Also, you should not block these vents since they must be open in order for the unit to operate safely.
A screen that protects you is an important feature of an electric wall fire. It can help prevent accidental burns. This is especially useful when your home is small space, or if there are children and pets. Certain models also come with an remote control that allows you to switch the fireplace on and off from anywhere in the room. This will prevent the fireplace from accidentally turned off when you're not in the room.
Some models even have an integrated timer that can turn off the fireplace after a set amount of time. This feature is ideal for those who have trouble remembering to turn off the fireplace or forget to do so before going to sleep.
Also, it is recommended to disconnect the fireplace when not being used. It could overload the electrical system, causing an increase in fire danger. Don't put water or other liquids into the fireplace. It's recommended for your electric fireplace to be placed on a separate circuit than other appliances. This will avoid tripping or power outages.
Energy Efficiency
The use of an electric wall fireplace can save you money when your heating bills begin to increase during winter. The cost to run these fireplaces is contingent on a variety of aspects, including the the wattage as well as the cost per Kilowatt charged by your energy provider.
The power of the fireplace is typically displayed on the unit, usually in the form of kW (kilowatts). Divide that number by the cost of your energy provider per Kilowatt, and you'll be able to calculate the efficiency of the fireplace in percentage.
Most electric fireplaces employ fan-forced heaters that pull cool air in from the room, then heat it up with electricity and then push hot air back into the room. Electric fireplaces of this kind are the most popular and cost-effective. They can be used to warm the smallest or medium-sized spaces however they are not as efficient as infrared heaters which provide a more even and consistent heat.
Unlike wood burning fires, electric fireplaces do not burn fuel and produce no soot or ash. It is no required to store wood, or hire a chimney sweep to do regular cleaning and inspection. They also don't produce harmful fumes and their flames look amazingly realistic.
These fireplaces are ideal for those who would like to enjoy the warmth of a fire but don't want to use their furnace. They also don't dry out your living space by blowing heat into it and they are able to maintain a healthy level of humidity for those who suffer from respiratory issues.
These fireplaces are also fantastic because you can enjoy their warmth all year round, even if they don't have heat. They're ideal for rooms that have a lot of furniture which block the heat, and you can still enjoy the ambience while entertaining guests.
It's worth comparing prices if you're considering buying an electric fireplace. You might be able to find a model that is priced lower than you think, especially if you take the time to look at prices online and in-store offers. It is also essential to ensure that the electric fireplace you purchase is plugged into a convenient location and that it does not share a circuit with other fixtures or appliances.
Design
A fireplace feature wall is a beautiful way to enhance your room without having to spend time and money on renovations. Electric fireplaces don't require venting or chimneys therefore they can be installed in any room in the home including bedrooms. They can provide additional heat and do not emit smoke, therefore they are safer for children and people who suffer from respiratory issues.
There are many different electric fireplace designs to think about to choose from, so you can pick the best one for your home. Certain fireplaces are intended to be a focal point, while others are designed to blend with the contemporary style. If you're looking to create a statement piece, opt for a faux stone fireplace that has an open-ended design. LED flames will glisten and crackle, adding an elegant look.
Another popular option is a linear fireplace. These fireplaces are small and sleek, which makes them ideal for modern living spaces with little space. Many models come with a remote, a variety of color and heat settings, and log options that can be customized for an appearance. Some models also include an easy wave setting that allows you to switch the fireplace on or off with the motion of your hands.
You can also put an item that is flush against the wall. This style is perfect for contemporary homes, and it is easily coupled with TV. The majority of recessed electric fireplaces feature front vents to guarantee security, and they can also heat up to 400 square feet.
If you want a more traditional design go for a mantelss model with a brick surround. They are ideal for rooms that are flooded with plenty of light. They can be complemented by a mantel made of stone or wood. You can also pair them with a fire screen to create a cozy atmosphere.
A lot of electric fireplaces come with the ability to alter the flame and heat settings, and some even have an alarm clock to help you conserve energy. They can also be paired with a smart home system that gives you total control over your fireplace.
Installation
A wall-mounted electric fireplace is the latest fashion in interior design. They are stylish and energy efficient. They are also easy to install. These units can be mounted on the wall in a flush manner which gives them a sleek look. A majority of these fireplaces come with an installation kit that comes with the required hardware. Some models even have a built-in blower that pushes warm air into the room.
Installation is a breeze, but make sure you adhere to the directions carefully. The owner's guide will give you specific instructions on how to frame and secure the unit. The manual will also provide you with specific guidelines for the clearances that you should leave to avoid fire hazards.
Verify that the area is safe for your fire. If you're unsure, drill an exploratory hole in a discrete part of the wall. This will reveal the type of wall you have. Once you've completed this, you can use a template included by the fireplace to mark the wall on which you'll need to fix it. The brackets should be screwed onto the wall. Make sure the brackets are level and ensure 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 instance, if using a frameless fireplace, you may want to have an ledge to support the fire, or you might prefer a more flush mount. To keep your heater safe you should make sure it is at least 400mm from flames, such as fabrics.
Consider hiring an electrician who is a professional to wire your fire if are not comfortable with electrical work. They can also put more info up drywall, tape it and make it muddy to give it a smooth surface. They can even move the plug socket if necessary for a truly streamlined look. And if you want to hide the power cord in a more discreet location, they can put it behind the TV stand or beneath the carpet. In most cases, you have the option to paint the cord with the same color as the wall.