Electric Fireplace Wall Hanging Ideas
In contrast to traditional wood or gas fireplaces, wall-mount electric ones are ready to hang right out of the box. They're a great way to add ambience without venting or reworking.
However, they often require careful installation since they're typically heavy. Follow these steps to hang your new electric fireplace in the correct way.
1. Connect the Brackets
A wall-mounted or recessed electric fireplace instantly improves the look of any room. It's the ideal option for homes with no existing fireplace opening or apartment dwellers.
Choose where you'd like to install your electric fire. It is important to choose a location that won't be vulnerable to moisture and is at least a few inches away from drapes, furniture, and high traffic areas. Mark the wall with layout marks to mark the top and bottom plates for the fireplace frame.
Use a tool such as a drill to make exploratory holes in the wall, examining for studs with a detector and marking the drywall the fireplace mounting bracket locations. Next patch and paint the drywall, or make the wall a bit bigger to prepare it for the fireplace installation.
Depending on the wall-mounted fireplace, you could be required to install the screen and firebox as one unit or separate them with an adjustable wall bracket. If you aren't sure of your ability to complete this project employ a general contractor or an experienced carpenter.
Most electric fireplaces include an installation template to aid in the process, but you should also have an emery board and a pencil handy to help you precisely mark the area where you'll attach the wall brackets. Use the template to make sure that the power cable from the fireplace will connect to an outlet nearby to connect it.
Once the studs and fireplace frame are in place, you can put in a drywall that is as smooth and flush as possible to give a neat appearance. Add trim to the bottom edge and sand, paint and finish the frame.
Most wall-mounted electric fireplaces come with hooks or slots on the back of the unit that you will insert into the slots or hooks on the mounting brackets. Make best wall hung electric fires to align the hooks or slots before connecting the fire brackets. Once the fire is installed you can add other elements such as driftwood logs, crystal embers or decorative rocks.
2. Check the Bottom Bracket
The space above the mantel, fireplace, or chimney breast is ideal for hanging artwork. There is best in wall electric fireplace between an artistic arrangement and one that doesn't detract from the overall style of the fireplace.
A general rule of thumb is that a picture should not exceed 80percent of the width of the fireplace or mantel it's placed on. This will help it remain proportionate and look aesthetically pleasing on the wall. Other decorative and ornamental items placed on the mantel can affect the size and proportional guideline.
If you're planning to hang a photo above your electric fireplace, you must ensure that the frame is made from glass or another material that is resistant to high temperatures. If you're not sure, a quick test with a heat-sensitive cloth should reveal whether the frame is suitable for this kind of application.
The risk of damaging artwork due to smoke or hot stray heat is a typical issue when displaying artwork on the flames of a fireplace. This is not a problem with a wood- or gas-powered fireplace. However when you are planning to install an electric wall-mounted fire, it's important to check the manufacturer's instructions.
Most electric fires come with an installation bracket that can be attached to the wall with either hanging screws or wall-mounted fixing systems. If the latter is the case, it is recommended that you drill exploratory holes into an isolated area of the wall prior to when you begin to install your electric fire. You can then utilize a pipe and cable finder to make sure there aren't any pipes or cables near the position of mounting.
If so, you can place your fire on the electrical socket or move it to a different spot. If you decide to move it to a new spot it is important to ensure that the power cable can reach from the fire to the electrical socket. this is especially important for older homes or houses with solid walls. If you don't do this, the electric fireplace won't function effectively. Some models come with an outline of the locations to drill holes, while others require an apex level and pencil to mark the location on your wall.
3. Connect the Power Cord
You may have to move your plug socket to the back of the fireplace if you've installed a recessed fireplace. This can help create a sleeker finish. Test the fireplace first to make sure it is operating properly.
The third option to install an electric fireplace is by framing the room and then building it into the wall. This gives it a finished traditional look and also allows you to build mantels. The owner's guide for your model will include information regarding framing, wiring and the best way to secure the fire place.
If you're ready for mounting your new electric fireplace on the wall begin by marking the area of installation using 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 mark the location to can be sure you're drilling in a safe area.
Once you've marked the installation location, use your electric drill to create holes for the bracket screws or hanging screws. Make sure you adhere to the exact directions in the owner's manual for this step, particularly if you're installing the fireplace in a drywall. If you're not sure what to do you can consult an expert for assistance.
You can also conceal power cords from view using an organizer kit for cables. These kits typically include sleeves, clips, or boxes that can be used to bundle cables. You can also use fish tape or wire snake tools to help guide the cords through the wall. If you don't want to cut through your drywall then you can put in an electric bridge kit to make cleaner and safer connections.
You can also disguise cords with paintable wire covers or by adhering them to the wall. Be sure to keep the cover or tacks from the source of heat however. This will avoid accidental contact and protect the cord.
4. Connect the Adapter
A wall-mounted electric fireplace is a great option for home renovations or for those who do not have the space or money to install a real gas fireplace. They are simple to hang and come ready to use immediately out of the box and are a wonderful alternative for those seeking a modern and stylish touch or the warmth the fire can bring. They are designed to be hung like art on any wall, they can be recessed or not recessed at all, and are fully electric and have heating powered by fans.
It's a good idea to create a list of all the tools and equipment you'll require prior to beginning the installation process. Read the user's manual to find specific information on how to mount your electric fire. Some models might require you to attach the brackets directly to the wall. Other models may have an installation plate that slides into slots or hooks attached to the brackets used for mounting. If you're installing a recessed unit it is essential to ensure that all combustible substances are removed from the area of installation. As a rule, you should keep these materials at a minimum of 3 feet from the front of the fireplace.
After you've checked all the components, you'll need to connect your electric fireplace and make sure that it works properly. This is an essential step to ensure the flame effect screen and heater function exactly as they were intended to. This will give you a good idea of the final product in its final position.
Cover the cord after you are sure that it is working properly. This will keep the finished product neat. This can be achieved by installing a new outlet using an outlet cord that can be hidden behind the unit. This will give your fireplace a seamless look.