Electric Fireplace Wall Hanging Ideas
Unlike traditional gas or wood fireplaces Wall-mount electric fireplaces can be hung right out of the box. These electric fireplaces are ideal for adding ambiance to your home without the need for remodeling or venting.
They are usually heavy and require careful installation. Follow these steps to hang your brand new electric fireplace properly.
1. Connect the Brackets
A wall-mounted electric fireplace or recessed fire instantly transforms any space. It's a perfect solution for homes that don't have an existing fireplace opening or for apartment living.
First, decide where you'll install your new electric fire. You should select a spot that isn't prone to moisture, and at least a few feet away from drapes and furniture. Once you've found a spot to mark the wall, you can use lines for the top and bottom plates of the fireplace frame.
Make use of a drill or another tool to make exploratory holes in the wall. Examine for studs with an stud-detector. Then, mark the drywall with the location of the fireplace mounting brackets. Then patch and paint the wall or make the wall a bit bigger to prepare it for the fireplace installation.
Depending on the wall-mounted fireplace you choose, you may have to put the firebox and screen as one piece or separate them with a wall bracket. If you're not sure about your ability to finish this project, hire a general contractor or an experienced carpenter.
Most electric fireplaces come with a template for the installation process, but you should also have a spirit level and pencil to help precisely mark the area where you'll attach the wall brackets. Before drilling, make use of the template to ensure that the fireplace's power cable is able to reach from the installation site to an outlet near by for a convenient plug in.
When the studs and fireplace frame are in place, you can install drywall that is as seamless and flush as is possible for a clean appearance. Trim the bottom edge and then paint, sand and then finish the frame.
Most wall-mounted electric fires come with hooks or slots on the back of the unit which you insert into slots or hooks on the mounting brackets. Make sure that the slots or hooks are aligned prior to when you connect the fire to wall brackets. Once the fire is in position, you can add any additional elements like crystal embers, driftwood log pieces, or decorative rocks.
2. Check the Bottom Bracket
The space above the mantel, fireplace or chimney breast is ideal to hang artwork. There is a delicate balance between an artistic arrangement and one that doesn't detract from the overall look of the fireplace.
A common rule is that a photograph should not exceed at least 80% of the size of the fireplace or mantel it sits over. This will help it to remain proportionate & look aesthetically pleasing on the wall. Other decorative ornaments and accessories placed on the mantel can also influence this size & proportional guideline.
If you intend to display a photo over your electric fire, the frame should be made of glass or another material that can handle high temperatures. If you are unsure about the frame, you can test it frame using a heat-sensitive cloth to see whether it's suitable for this purpose.
The possibility of destroying artwork due to smoke or hot stray heat is a typical concern when you display artworks over the fireplace. While this isn't a major issue with traditional gas or wood-powered fireplace, it's a good idea to check the recommendations of the manufacturer if you're planning to use an electric fire that is wall-mounted.
Most electric fires are equipped with a mounting bracket which can be fixed to the wall using either hanging screws or wall-mounted fixing systems. It is recommended to make an exploratory hole in a discrete area of the wall prior to putting up your electric fire. You can then utilize a pipe and cable finder to make sure there aren't any pipes or cables near the mounting position.
If so, you can either mount your fire over the electrical socket or move it to a different place. If you move it to a different location you'll need to make sure that the power cable can reach from the fire to the electrical socket. this is particularly important for older homes or homes with solid walls. If not the electric fire will not be able to function properly. Some models include an outline of where to drill holes while others require a pencil and a spirit level to mark the locations on your wall.
3. Connect the Power Cord
If you've put in a recessed electric fireplace, you may have to relocate the plug socket from the wall to behind the fireplace. This can create a sleeker appearance. Test the fireplace first to make sure it is operating correctly.
A third popular way to mount an electric fireplace is to frame it and then build it into the wall. This gives a finished, traditional look and allows you to include a mantel. The owner's manual for your model will include specifics on framing, wiring, and securing the fire.
If you're ready for mounting your new wall-mounted electric fireplace, start by marking the location of installation with a marker or pencil. Use a carpenter’s level to make sure that the installation area is flat and level. You can use a studfinder mark the location so that you can be sure you're drilling in a safe location.
After you've marked your installation location, use your electric drill to make holes for the hanging screws or bracket screws. Make sure to adhere to the exact directions in your owner's manual for this step, especially if you're installing the fireplace in wall. If you're not sure how to do it you can consult an expert for assistance.
You can also conceal power cords from view using an organizer kit for cables. These kits usually include sleeves, clips, or boxes for bundling cables. You can make use of wire snakes or fish tape to guide the cords. If you don't want to cut into your wall then you can put in the power bridge kit for more secure and safe connections.
You can also disguise the wires with paintable covers or by tacking them to the wall or skirting boards. Keep the cover or tacks far from sources of heat. best electric fireplaces wall mount will shield the cord from being damaged and will also prevent accidental contact.
4. Connect the adapter
A wall-mounted electric fire place is a great option for home renovations or for those who don't have the space or money to put in a gas fireplace. They are easy to install and can be used immediately out of the box and are an excellent choice for those who are looking for a chic modern accent or the warmth that fireplaces provide. They can be hung on any wall like art, and are electric with fan-powered heating.
It's a good idea create a list of all the tools and equipment you'll require prior to starting the installation process. Check the user manual for specific instructions about how to install your electric fire. Certain models may require you to fix the brackets directly onto the wall while others might have a mounting plate that is able to slide into slots or hooks on the brackets used for mounting. It is important to remove any combustible materials from the area you will be installing a fireplace that is recessed. As a rule, you should keep these materials at least 3 feet away from the front of the fireplace.
After you've checked all the components, you'll need to connect your electric fireplace and ensure that it is working correctly. This is a very important step since it will ensure that the flame effect screen and heater work according to the specifications. This will also provide you with an idea of how the finished product will appear in its final location.
Cover the cord when you are confident that it's functioning properly. This will keep the final product neat. It is possible to do this by using wire covers that are paintable or install a new outlet that will allow you to place the cord behind the unit. This will give your fireplace a seamless appearance.