In Wall Fireplace - How to Choose the Right Height and Depth for Your Fireplace
An in wall fireplace provides an elegant and polished look without the expense of mantles. It is one of the most simple electric fireplaces to set up.
However, there are several things to think about before buying your fireplace in wall. Follow these tips to make the most of your investment.
Height
It might appear to be a simple question however, determining the height of your fireplace is one of the most important decisions you'll make. This is because the height of your fireplace can affect everything from how well it fits in a room to how visible it is. The fireplace may appear odd if it is raised too high. It could also take away from its aesthetics. A fireplace that is too low can appear unnatural within the wall space.
Luckily electric fireplaces are able enough to be installed at various heights. Most people mount their fireplaces sitting at eye level. This usually requires a height of 40-42 inches from the floor to the bottom of the fireplace. Some people place their fireplaces underneath their TVs. This is an attractive alternative.
The size of your fireplace will depend on a number of factors that include the length and size of the wall you plan to place it on. The bigger the room the more spacious it will be. This could mean you are in a position to fit a bigger fireplace in it. The same is true for the length of the wall, as a wall with a greater length can accommodate a fireplace that is larger.
Another important aspect to consider is how you intend to use your fireplace. If you plan to use it for decorative purposes, a lower level will work better. If you want to use it to heat your home it is necessary to ensure that the fireplace is sturdy and tall enough to meet the safety standards.
It is essential to choose the right size for your fireplace to ensure that it will match your decor and is easy to clean or fill. If you're unsure of the best height to choose it is always a good idea to contact an expert fireplace installer for help. They'll be able determine the best height for your fireplace according to their experience and your particular home.
Depth
It is essential to be aware of the depth of a fireplace if you are planning to place it in an recessed position. If you are going to cut into your wall, make sure that you have enough space to accommodate the interior design of your fireplace (the smoke shelf area above the firebox, the flue that runs through the roof, and the fireplace itself). You should also consider the space available for the surround, and whether you'd like a fireplace mantle.
Many of the newer electric fireplaces have a depth that is nearly concealed, giving them an almost "built-in" look. The Panorama BI-Deep series is an excellent example of this type of wall-mounted electric fireplace. This model has a 5.8-inch deep that allows viewers to see the flames, the ember bed, but not the frame. The media package includes driftwood logs with natural looks, white pebbles or clear glass crystals to enhance the embers and reflect the flames.
Wall-mounted gas fireplaces are available in both deep and shallow models. When deciding on the depth of your fireplace it is crucial to keep in mind that these fireplaces are considered to be supplementary heat sources and should be properly vented by a trained professional. When determining the depth for gas fireplaces, you need to take into consideration the length of the vent pipe as well as the size of the chimney.
No matter if you opt for a surface mount or a recess-mounted installation, it is crucial to read and follow all of the manufacturer's instructions carefully when mounting your fireplace. A professional installer is recommended in the majority of instances. It is good to have an extra person available when installing gas fireplaces.
The addition of an in-wall fireplace space to your home is an excellent way to increase the value of it and add ambience. It can also reduce your heating costs. It is an excellent option when you aren't able to fit a traditional fire place in your home due to space constraints or because of the location of the chimney.
Surface Mount
Surface mounts are a great alternative if you don't want to or aren't able to cut into the wall to install an electric fireplace. They also give it a sleek, built-in appearance. Some models, such as the Allusion line, can be installed partially recessing in a wall without compromising aesthetics or heat output.
To begin the installation begin by marking the wall with a pencil where the bracket will be installed. Use a stud-finder for locating the studs, and place each bracket in front of at least one stud to ensure stability. If a stud isn't in reach or doesn't work for your fireplace, you can use drywall anchors to support the mounting bracket.
After you've marked the position of the brackets for mounting and drilled them, screw them into the wall, ensuring they are properly aligned with the studs. If you can, secure each bracket to a stud to ensure security and strength, but you can also use plastic anchors if necessary. After the mounting brackets have been installed then lift the fireplace up and hang it from the bracket. Once the fireplace is positioned be sure that it is level.
Before continuing with the installation, plug in your fireplace and check that all the features are functioning properly - turn on the fire, and then light up the flames, play around with embers, heat, bed lights and so on. When you're satisfied with the results you can now install your floating mantel.
Depending on the model of your fireplace, you'll require a wire connection to the appliance wire connector at the lower part of the mantel. Or in the event that your fireplace has slots or hooks on the back, connect them to the slots on the wall mounting brackets. Once you've completed this step, consult your fireplace's user manual for instructions on how to remove the glass front panel from the opening and replace it.
Once you've removed your front panel of your fireplace and installed it into its opening, follow the manual's specifications to finish the installation by replacing the glass front and adjusting the height as required. If your fireplace is equipped with ember bed media, spread it over the top of the grate to give it a a more natural appearance and then secure it in place by using the screws that come with it.
Plug-In
Electric fireplaces don't require vents or chimneys like traditional wood-burning ones. Plugged into a standard outlet they provide supplemental heating to rooms that are up to 400 square feet. You can also customize the atmosphere with different flame and heat settings. Some models feature LED lighting effects to highlight the fire and embers. Others include a top grille grate that conceals manual controls but pops open to reveal buttons for your preferred setting.
Plug-in electric fire places can be installed directly on the wall or recessed for a built-in appearance. They are typically more straightforward to install than mantel fireplaces. Some units include a pedestal to permit you to place the fireplace on flat surfaces such as dressers or buffets. A remote control as well as mounting hardware and a log set are all included. Depending on the model, electric fireplaces can include heat and flame options that can be switched off for all-year-round comfort.
Some models have adjustable privacy glass that can instantly change from completely transparent to partially. This option makes these models popular for walls that separate common areas of entertainment like dining and living areas. These models are ideal in bedrooms, where fireplaces is a cost-effective option to warm a room and ensure privacy.
Plug-in electric fire places don't require a hardwire, but they must be installed in an area that can support their weight. Some models come with kits to make this process easier, including a pre-wired power cord and an specialized mounting bracket. This kit is suitable for either drywall or concrete installation.
If you choose to install your wall-mounted electric fireplace ensure that it is located near an outlet. Plug-in electric fire places can be connected to outlets that are on the same circuit as the electric fireplace, or into a dedicated outlet. It is recommended to use a separate circuit so that no other appliances in your home can run on the same voltage. This could trigger your breaker.