Wall Mount Electric Fireplaces
Wall mounted electric fireplaces add an inviting, warm space to your home without the hassles of cleaning chimneys, ash or purchasing stacking, hauling, or storing coal or firewood. They also provide a safe alternative to traditional fireplaces and do not obstruct floor space or cause injury to people as they walk through the room.
Size
If you like the look of a traditional fireplace, but don't have space for a full-sized chimney and hearth, a wall mounted electric fire place is a chic alternative. They free up the floor space by being mounted on a flat surface. They plug into an electrical outlet for all-year-round use. The majority of models have a remote control for easy on/off operation. Some models also have decorative embers and a flame display that's quite realistic. These models are available in a variety of sizes and designs.
The majority of electric fireplaces mounted on walls are slim. However, you can find large linear options that span across the entire wall. These are perfect for rooms with low-ceilings, and can be used to create a warm focal point that isn't a big deal.
There are also electric fireplaces with mantel which can be positioned on a wall that is flat, similar to a standard wood fireplace. These units are available in frames in a variety of colors that range from black to mirror glass and stainless steel. Pick a frame color that is compatible with your existing furniture or wall. Some models include flat-screen TVs and are an entertainment system in one.
Many people opt for this method by putting their TV on top of their fireplace. This is great however you should be aware of the required clearances for both the TV and the electric fireplace. Most clearance guidelines recommend keeping all combustible objects at least three feet from the fireplace.
Some of these models can be recessed into a wall to create a custom fit. This kind of fireplace may not be as efficient as a straight-front wall mounted but it is perfect for a bespoke installation. There are also electric fireplaces designed to be mounted on the wall and then hung against the ceiling. These types of fireplaces are ideal for commercial settings like a restaurant or hotel lobbies.
Many of these models have different settings for heat output that you can alter according to the season. Certain models can be turned off to use all year round without losing the attractive flame effect. Some have a no-heat setting that just warms the area surrounding it for added comfort. These are great features for homes with children or pets, as the fireplace doesn't produce any heat, and is safe to touch.
Flame Effects
Electric fireplaces typically come with different flame effects that are designed to mimic real fire. These features are often combined with an LED background to create an appearance that is more realistic and is easy to blend into various styles of interior decoration. Most models also allow you to alter the color and intensity of the flame according to your mood or the overall atmosphere of the space.
A more traditional option for flame effects is to use a chemical effect that mimics the behavior of a natural gas fire. They use an oil can that is heated by an element inside the unit to produce the flame. The issue with these kinds of units is that they are messy and require lots of maintenance.
Plasma fire effects are a great alternative to chemical flames. They are made of tiny particles that flash and glow, emulating the appearance of a real flame. The problem with this kind of simulated flame is that it may appear too fake and might not be as appealing visually as other options.
For those who prefer a more natural flame there are wall mounted electric fireplaces that offer an authentic log set and a realistic looking flame projection using holographic technology to create a very life-like appearance. These units are usually coated in rust or wood and blend well with traditional designs for interiors. They can be set in a recess to give an individualized appearance that can be incorporated into various wall designs.
The size of your space and your personal taste will determine the type of model you pick. You will want to select a larger model for larger spaces so that it can fill the space without making it appear empty. If you are installing the fireplace in a smaller area, a compact or mini-model is the best choice. There is also many frame and surround options for these electric fireplaces to suit your home decor. For example the AL45CLX2-G wall-mount fireplace from Ambiance is available in a variety of finishes like flat black metal, and standard black glass that can fit into most 2 x 4 walls.
Ventilation
Electric fireplaces mounted on the wall provide practicality and elegance without the hassles of installing the fireplace. You don't have to hire an electrical contractor or worry about the flow of gas through your home. There are a few things to take into consideration when choosing an electric fireplace that is wall-mounted.
One of the biggest distinctions between wall-mounted and freestanding fireplaces is the way they vent. Many wall-mounted units do not have a vent at the back. This is because the majority of the heat is emitted from the top of the fireplace. If the unit doesn't have sufficient venting, it could create a fire risk. It's important to check reviews before buying the unit.
Another significant distinction between freestanding and wall-mounted fireplaces is the effects of flames. While the majority of freestanding fireplaces feature LED screens and rotisserie style lights, wall-mounted units use mist and other technologies to mimic flames and smoke. Dimplex, for instance, has an entire line of fireplaces that use ultrasonics to create the illusion of fire.
Some wall-mounted electric fireplaces are able to be recessed in a part of the wall, and this allows them to be installed within tight spaces where a traditional fireplace would not fit. This helps them blend into a wide variety of interior styles.
Some wall-mounted electric fire places are multi-view while others are only front-view. They tend to be larger than single-view models, and allow you to see the flames from two or more sides.
Installation
Like the name suggests, wall mount electric fireplaces are designed to be hung on the wall, usually with a bracket for mounting. These are generally fairly easy to install, but the precise process will vary between models. Some are connected to the wall and screwed in some may require you to construct a frame around them before installing them on the wall. In either case, be sure to follow the guidelines that come with the fire. Be sure that the opening size of the frame is correct and position the unit in line with any safety guidelines.
The first step is to locate the best location for your fireplace, based on the room design and any furniture you own. It's also worth checking that the location is close to a power source, or that you're willing to let an electrician move the plug socket for you (if there's one there already).
After you've located a suitable location to place the fireplace, prepare the area by clearing it, removing any existing furniture and then preparing the wall. This could involve taking away any decorations or wallpaper in addition to finding and marking any studs you can with a Studfinder.
The brackets that are used for wall-mounted electric fireplaces come with a template for drilling holes. You can use this template to mark the location on the wall where they will be mounted. Once you've marked the positions, drill the holes and install the rawl plugs. As a rule the heater, which sits in front of the fireplace, and generates heat, should be at least 400mm from any combustible materials, such as fabric.
Once the holes are made, you'll need to mount the bracket. Some models require that you place the firebox on the bracket while others will require you to place the fireplace on the bracket before attaching the screen. It is important to follow the instructions for installation exactly in order to avoid damaging your new appliance. Once the fireplace is installed connect it to the electrical outlet and test it to make sure it's functioning properly.