8 Tips For Boosting Your In Wall Fireplace Game
In Wall Fireplace - How to Choose the Right Height and Depth for Your Fireplace
A fireplace suites that is built-in offers an elegant, polished look without the need to purchase an additional mantle. It is one of the most simple electric fireplaces to install.
There are a few aspects to consider before buying an in-wall fireplace. Follow these tips to make the most out of your investment.
Height
It may appear to be a simple question however, determining the height of your fireplace is one of the biggest decisions you will make. This is because the height of your fireplace will affect everything from how it fits into a space to how well it is visible. If your fireplace is too high could look odd and detract from the beauty of the piece. On the other side having your fireplace too low could cause it to be lost in the wall space.
Luckily, electric fireplaces are versatile enough to be positioned at various heights. For instance, a majority of people prefer to place their fireplaces electric on the eye level from a seated position. This typically requires a height of between 40 and 42 inches from the floor to the bottom of the fireplace. Some fireplaces are mounted under their TVs, which is a visually appealing option.
However, the exact size of your fireplace will be determined by several factors, including the size of the room and the length of the wall on which you'd like to place it. The larger the space the more spacious it will be. This could mean you are capable of fitting a larger fireplace in it. The same goes for the length of the wall, because a wall that is longer can accommodate a larger fireplace.
The way you plan to use your fireplace is another important factor. If you only intend to use it for decorative purposes, a smaller height will work best. If you want to use it to heat your home, you will need to make sure that the fireplace is strong and tall enough to withstand the safety standards.
It is important to choose the proper height for your fireplace so that it can fit into your decor and be easy to clean or fill. If you're unsure of the height to go with, you can always seek out an expert fireplace installer for assistance. They can recommend the ideal height for your fireplace, based on their knowledge and the design of your home's layout.
Depth
It is crucial to be aware of the depth of a fireplace when you are planning to place it in an recessed position. If you are going to cut through your wall, make sure that you have enough depth to accommodate the inner design of your fireplace (the smoke shelf area above the fireplace, the flue that is able to rise through the roof and the fireplace itself). Also, think about the space you will have for the surround and whether or not you'd like a mantle.
Many of the latest electric fireplace models have an incredibly deep depth that is invisible, creating an "integrated" look. The Panorama BI-Deep series is a great example of this type of wall-mounted electric fireplace. This model has a 5.8-inch deep that allows the viewer view the flames and ember bed and not the frame. The media package includes driftwood logs with natural looks, white pebbles or clear glass crystals to add a luster to the embers and reflect the flames.
Gas wall-mounted fireplaces also come in both deep and shallow models. When deciding on the depth of your fireplace, it is important to remember that these units operate as a heat source that can be used for supplemental purposes and should be properly vented by an experienced professional. When determining the depth for gas fireplaces you must consider the length of the vent pipe as well as the size of the chimney.
It is important to read and adhere to the instructions of the manufacturer before installing your fireplace. In the majority of instances, a professional installation is highly recommended. Also, it is always recommended to have an additional person in the event of installing gas fireplaces.
A fireplace built into the wall of your home is an great way to boost its value and also add ambiance to your living spaces. It can also reduce the cost of heating. Moreover, it is an excellent option if you aren't able to install a traditional fireplace in your home due to the space restrictions or the location of an existing chimney.
Surface Mount
If you're not able or prefer not to cut through your wall or build out a space to accommodate an electric fireplace, a surface mount provides a sleek and built-in appearance. Certain models, such as the Allusion line of electric fireplaces, can be positioned partially recessed into walls without compromising the heat output.
To begin the installation begin by marking the wall with a pencil where the bracket will be placed. Utilize a stud-finder to find the studs, and place each bracket in front of at least one stud for stability. If a stud is not reached or isn't suitable for your fireplace, you could use drywall anchors as a support.
After you've marked the position of the mounting brackets, use a drill to screw them into the wall, making sure they are aligned with the studs. If possible, connect each bracket to a stud for strength and stability, but you can also use plastic anchors when needed. Once the mounting brackets are installed move the fireplace and hang it from the bracket. Once the fireplace is in place be sure that it is level.
Before you begin the installation, plug your fireplace in and make sure all functions function properly. Light the fire, play around with the heat, the lights for the ember bed and the list goes on. Once you are happy with the results it is time to install the floating mantel.
Depending on the model of your fireplace, you will either need to connect the wire connection to the appliance connector located at the mantel's bottom, or if it has hooks or slots, connect them to the slots on the brackets for mounting. Once you've done that you must follow the owner's manual for specific directions on removing the front glass panel and inserting it inside the opening.
If you want to adjust the height, replace the glass front once you have removed the front panel. If your fireplace has ember bed media, spread it out across the top of the grate for a more natural appearance and then secure it in place using the screws included.
Plug-In
In contrast to traditional fireplaces that burn wood, electric fireplaces don't require vents or chimneys. They plug into standard outlets they provide additional heat to rooms up 400 square feet. You can also customize the atmosphere with different flame and heat settings. Some models have LED lighting effects to highlight the ethonal fire and embers. Others include an upper grille grate that conceals manual controls, but easily opens to reveal pushbuttons to select the setting you prefer.
Plug-in electric fireplaces can be mounted directly on walls or installed into the wall for an elegant look. They are generally easier to install than mantel fireplaces. Some models have a pedestal that allow you to put the fireplace on flat surfaces like a buffet or dresser. Included are a remote control, mounting hardware, and log set. Depending on the model, electric fireplaces could include heat and flame options that can be turned off for year-round ambiance.
Certain models come with adjustable privacy glass that can change instantly from fully transparent to partially. This feature makes these models popular for walls that separate common entertainment spaces like dining and living areas. They can be even used in bedrooms where adding a fireplace is a cost-effective way to take the chill off an area without compromising privacy.
While plug-in electric fireplaces don't need to be hardwired as built-in models, they must be installed on the wall that is at a minimum stud-free and capable of supporting the weight of the fireplace. Some models come with a kit that includes an already wired cord and specially designed bracket to make the installation process less difficult. This kit is suitable for concrete or drywall installation.
When deciding on a place for your wall mount electric fireplace, ensure it's near an electrical outlet. Based on the model, plug-in electric fireplaces can be connected to outlets that are connected to the same circuit or a separate one for your electric fireplace. It is best to use a separate circuit to ensure that no other appliances in your home operate on the same voltage. This could trigger your circuit breaker.