Electric Fireplace Wall Hanging Ideas
Contrary to traditional wood or gas fireplaces Wall-mount electric fireplaces are ready to hang straight out of the box. They're an excellent way to add the ambience without venting or reworking.
However, they often require care in installation due to the fact that they're generally heavy. Follow these steps to hang your brand new electric fireplace correctly.
1. Connect the Brackets
A wall-mounted electric fireplace or recessed fire instantly transforms any space. This is an excellent option for those who don't have fireplaces or reside in apartments.
The first step is to decide where you'll place your new electric fireplace. It's important to find a location that won't be susceptible to moisture and at least just a few inches from furniture, drapes, and areas that are prone to traffic. Once you've located a location to mark the wall, you can use layout marks for the top and bottom plates of the fireplace frame.
Make use of a tool like a drill to make exploratory holes into the wall, checking for studs with a detector and marking the drywall the location of the fireplace mounting brackets. Then, patch and paint the drywall, or build out the wall to prepare it for fireplace installation.
Depending on the type of wall-mounted fireplace, you could either need to fit the screen and firebox as one unit or separate them by the use of a wall bracket. If you are unsure of your ability to finish this project you can hire a general contractor or a seasoned carpenter.
You will find an installation template that comes with all electric fireplaces. However, you should also keep a level in your pocket and a pencil to mark the exact location where the wall brackets will be erected. Use the template to make sure that the power cable of the fireplace can be connected to a nearby outlet in order to plug it in.
Install drywall as smooth and as flush as is possible to give the fireplace a neat appearance. Add a trim piece to the bottom edge, and then paint and sand the entire frame to give it a finished appearance.
The majority of wall-mounted electric fires have hooks or slots on the back of the unit, which you can insert into the slots or hooks on the mounting brackets. Make sure the slots or hooks are aligned before connecting the fire to the wall brackets. Once the fire is in place you can then add additional elements like driftwood logs, crystal embers or decorative rocks.
2. Check the Bottom Bracket
The space that is above a fireplace mantel, chimney breast or mantel is a prime spot to hang artwork. There is a fine balance between an artistic arrangement and one that doesn't detract from the overall style of the fireplace.
A general rule is that a photograph should not exceed 80% of the width of the mantel or fireplace it is placed over. This will ensure that it is proportional and make it look good on the wall. This guideline may be affected by other ornaments and decorative items on the mantel.
If you're going to hang an image above your electric fireplace, it's important that the frame is made from glass or other material that is resistant to high temperatures. If you're unsure whether the frame is suitable, a quick test using a heat-sensitive cloth should reveal whether the frame is suitable for this type of installation.
One of the most common concerns when the display of artwork above an open flame is the risk of damage to the artwork by smoke or stray heat. This is not an issue with gas or wood-powered fireplace. However when you are planning to install an electric wall fire it is essential to follow the instructions of the manufacturer.
Most electric fires come with an attached bracket that can be fixed to the wall using hanging screws or wall-mounted fixing systems. It is recommended that you drill an exploratory hole into an area that is distinct from the wall prior to 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 so, you can put your fire in the electrical socket or move it to another place. If you move it to a different location you'll need to make sure that the power cable will reach from the fire to the electrical outlet - this is crucial for older houses or homes with solid walls. If you don't, your electric fireplace won't work correctly. Certain models have a template included that shows you where to drill holes to make the holes and others require a spirit-level and pencil to mark the proper locations on your wall.
3. Connect the Power Cord
If you've installed a recessed electrical fireplace, you may have to move the plug socket away from the wall to behind the unit. This will give it a more sleek appearance. Make white wall mounted electric fireplace to test the fireplace prior to making this change to ensure that everything works as it should.
Another popular method to mount an electric fireplace is to frame it and then build it into the wall. This creates a polished traditional look and also allows you to build mantels. The owner's manual for the specific model will have details about framing, securing the fireplace, and wiring.
You can mark the position of your new electric fireplace on the wall using the help of a pencil or marker. Then apply a carpenter's level to make sure that the area of installation is flat and level. You can also employ a stud finder to mark the location of studs so that you know that you're drilling into a safe area.
Make use of your electric drill after having marked the installation area to drill holes for bracket screws or hanging screws. Make sure to adhere to the exact directions in your owner's manual for this step, particularly if you're installing the fireplace in a wall. If you're not sure what to do then you can ask an expert for assistance.
You can also conceal power cords from view by using an organizer kit for cables. These kits usually include clips, sleeves or boxes to bundle cables. You can use wire snakes or fish tape to guide the cables. If you don't want to cut the drywall, a Powerbridge kit can provide a more secure and safer connection.
You can also disguise the wires with paintable covers or by tacking them to the wall or skirting board. Make sure to keep the cover or tacks away from the source of heat however. This will shield the cord from damage and also prevent accidental contact.
4. Connect the adapter
A wall-mounted electric fireplace is a great alternative for home renovations or for those who do not have the space or money to put in a gas fireplace. They are easy to hang and come ready to use immediately out of the box. They are an excellent choice for those who are seeking a modern and stylish accent or the warmth that fireplaces provide. These units are designed to be hung like artwork on any wall. They can be recessed, or not recessed at all and are fully electric and have fan-powered heating.
It's a great idea to make an inventory of all the equipment and tools you will require prior to starting the installation process. Check the user manual for specific details about how to install your electric fire. Some models require that you 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 unit it is essential to ensure that all combustible materials are removed from around the installation area. As a rule you should keep these items at least 3 feet away from the front of the fireplace.
After you have inspected all the components After you have checked all the components, plug in your electric fireplace and ensure that it works. This is a very important step since it will ensure that the flame effect screen and heater function in the way you intended. This will give you a good idea of the final product in its final state.
Cover the cord when you are sure that it's working correctly. This will help keep the finished product neat and tidy. This can be accomplished by using wire covers that are paintable or you can choose to install an outlet that allows you to tuck the cord behind the unit. This will give seamless finishing to your fireplace.