5 In Wall Fireplace Projects For Any Budget
In Wall Fireplace - How to Choose the Right Height and Depth for Your Fireplace
A fireplace in the wall gives an elegant and polished appearance without the cost of a mantle. It is one of the most simple electric fireplaces to set up.
There are a few aspects to consider before buying an in-wall fireplace. Follow these tips to make the most out of your purchase.
Height
While it may seem like a simple question but determining the height of your new fireplace is among the most important decisions you make. The size of your fireplace's height can affect everything, from how it fits into a room to its visibility. If your fireplace is too high can look unnatural and diminish the aesthetics of the piece. On the other the other hand having your fireplace too low can cause it to disappear in the wall space.
Electric fireplaces can be placed at different heights. For instance, the majority of people prefer to place their wooden fireplaces at eye level from a sitting position. This requires a height between 40-42 inches. Some people put their fireplaces beneath their TVs. This can be an attractive alternative.
However, the exact size of your fireplace will be determined by certain factors, such as the size of the room and the length of the wall you want to mount it. The larger a room is, the more spacious it will be which could mean that you can install an even larger fireplace. This is also true for the length of the wall since a longer wall can accommodate a larger fireplace suite.
Another important aspect to consider is how you plan to use your fireplace insert. If you intend to use it for decorative purposes, then a lower height is best. However, if you plan to use it to heat your home using it, you'll have to make sure that the fireplace is tall enough to satisfy the local codes and safety standards.
The right height for your fireplace can help to ensure that it matches the decor and is easy to work on when cleaning or filling it. You can always ask a professional fireplace installer to help you if you are unsure of the best height to choose. They will be able to suggest the ideal height for your fireplace in light of their experience and your particular home.
Depth
It is essential to know the depth of a fireplace, especially if you are planning to place it in a recessed position. If you're planning to cut into your wall, make sure that you have enough depth to accommodate the design of your fireplace (the smoke shelf area above the fireplace box, the flue which is able to rise through the roof and the fireplace itself). Also consider the space you will have for the surround, and whether or not you would like a mantle.
Many of the more recent electric fireplaces have the depth of being almost concealed, giving them an "integrated" appearance. This type of electric wall fireplace is best demonstrated by the Panorama BI Deep series. This model has a 5.8-inch deep frame that lets the viewer see the flames, ember bed and not the frame. The media package includes driftwood logs with natural colors, white pebbles or clear glass crystals that add a luster to the embers and reflect the flames.
Wall-mounted gas fireplaces are available in both shallow and deep models. However, when deciding on the depth of your fireplace, it is crucial to keep in mind that these units operate as a heat source that can be used for supplemental purposes and should be properly vented by a skilled 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.
If you decide to go with a surface mount or one-piece installation, it's essential to follow all of the manufacturer's instructions when mounting your fireplace. In the majority of instances, hiring a professional to install your fireplace is recommended. It is also good to have an extra person on hand when installing a gas fireplace.
The addition of a fireplace in the wall place to your home is a fantastic way to add value to it and create ambience. It also can reduce your heating expenses. Furthermore, it's an ideal option if are unable to fit traditional fireplaces in your home because of the space restrictions or the location of an existing chimney.
Surface Mount
If you're unable, or prefer not to cut through your wall or create the space needed to install an electric fireplace, a surface mount provides a sleek and modern style. Certain models, such as the Allusion line, can be installed partially recessed into the wall without compromising heat output or aesthetics.
To begin the installation, mark the wall with a pencil where the bracket will be placed. Use a stud-finder to locate the studs, and place each bracket in front of at least one stud to ensure stability. If a stud can't be reached or is not suitable for your fireplace, you could make use of drywall anchors for support.
Once you have marked the location of mounting brackets on the wall and then use a power drill to screw them in, making sure they are aligned correctly with the studs. You can use studs or anchors made of plastic to secure each bracket. Once the mounting brackets have been installed move the fireplace and hang it from the bracket. Once it's secure, verify the position of your fireplace to make sure that it is straight and not crooked in the opening.
Before you proceed with the installation, connect your fireplace and ensure that all features are working correctly - turn on the fire and light up the flames, play around with embers, heat, bed lights and more. 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 in the mantel's bottom or, if your fireplace has hooks or slots 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 to learn how to remove the front glass panel from the opening and replace it.
Once you've removed the front panel of your fireplace and installed it in its opening, follow the instructions in the manual to complete the install by replacing the glass front and adjusting the height if necessary. If your fireplace is equipped with ember bed media spread it over the top of the grille to create a natural appearance. Then secure it with the screws included.
Plug-In
These electric fireplaces Electric do not require vents or chimneys like traditional wood fireplace-burning ones. They're plugged into an outlet that is standard that can provide supplemental heating for rooms that are that are up to 400 square feet. They also come with a variety of heating and flame settings, so that you can alter your ambience. Some models have LED lighting effects that emphasize the fire and embers. Some models have an upper 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 the appearance of a built-in. These units are usually easier to install than mantel fireplaces. Some units include a pedestal to permit you to place the fireplace on flat surfaces such as a dresser or buffet. Included is the remote control, mounting hardware, and the log set. Depending on the model, electric fireplaces could include heat and flame options that can be turned off for year-round ambiance.
Some models feature privacy glass which can be changed in a flash from completely transparent to partially transparent. These models are popular for walls that divide spaces for entertainment like living and dining rooms. They can be even used in bedrooms where adding a new fireplace is an affordable way to cool a room without sacrificing privacy.
Plug-in electric fire places don't need to be hardwired, but they must be plugged into a wall capable of supporting their weight. Some models come with a kit that includes a pre-wired cord as well as a special bracket that makes the installation process less difficult. This kit is available for concrete or drywall installation.
If you decide to install your electric fireplace in a wall make sure it is located near an outlet. Based on the model the plug-in electric fireplaces can be connected to outlets that are on the same circuit, or a separate circuit for your electric fireplace. It's best to use a separate circuit to ensure that nothing else in your home will operate at the same voltage and potentially trip your breakers.