Wall-mounted electric fireplaces create a warm, inviting space to your home without the hassles of cleaning chimneys, ash or buying stacking, hauling, or storing coal or firewood. They are an alternative to traditional fireplaces on wall and don't block the floor or trip people as they walk.
Size
A wall-mounted electric fire on the wall fireplace is a stylish option if you want the look of a fireplace but don't have enough room for a chimney and hearth. These fireplaces free up the floor space by being mounted on a flat surface. They then plug into an electrical outlet for year-round use. The majority of models have remote controls for easy switching between on and off. Some models also come with a flame display and decorative embers. These models are available in a wide range of sizes and designs.
The majority of electric fireplaces mounted on walls are compact. However, you can find large linear options which stretch across the entire wall. They are ideal for rooms with low ceilings and they can create a cozy focal piece that doesn't take much space.
Electric fireplaces can also be erected on flat walls, much as a wood fire. They are available in various frame colors, ranging from black to stainless steel and mirrored glass. Choose a frame colour that complements your wall or existing furnishings. Some models include a flat screen television to create an entertainment center in one.
Many people opt for this method placing their TV over their fireplace. This works well however you should be aware of the clearance requirements for both the TV and the electric fireplace. Most clearance guidelines suggest keeping all combustible items at least three feet away from the fireplace.
Some of these models are designed to be recessed into walls for a custom fit. This type of unit may not generate as much heat as the straight-front wall mounted model but it is ideal for a custom installation. There are also electric fireplaces that are designed to be mounted on the wall and then hung against the ceiling. These types of fireplaces are ideal for a commercial setting such as a restaurant or hotel lobby areas.
Many of these models offer different heat output settings that you can adjust according to the season. Some can be turned off for year-round use without sacrificing the appealing flame effect. Some models also have a non-heat setting that only warms the surrounding area for added comfort. These features are ideal for homes with children or pets, as the fireplace does not produce any heat, and is safe to contact.
Flame Effects
Electric fireplaces often have different flame effects that are designed to resemble real fire. These features are usually paired with an LED backdrop to create a realistic appearance that can easily be blended into different interior decor styles. The majority of models allow you to change the color and intensity of the flame to match your mood or the ambience of the room.
Another option for flame effects is a chemical effect that mimics the behaviour of a natural gas fire. These units use an evaporation can of chemical liquid that is heated within the unit to produce fire. The issue with these kinds of units is that they are messy and require an extensive amount of maintenance.
Plasma flame effects are a viable alternative to chemical flames. They are made of tiny particles that flash and glow, mimicking the appearance of an actual flame. This kind of simulated fire can look fake and not so appealing as other options.
There are wall-mounted electric fireplaces that have real log sets and holographic flame projection that give a realistic appearance. These fireplaces typically have an rust or wood finish that is a good match for traditional interior designs. They can be installed in recesses to create an individualized appearance that can be incorporated into the various wall designs.
The size of your space and your personal preferences will determine the model you choose. For larger rooms, you will want to choose a bigger model that will fill the space and not make it appear empty. If you are installing the fireplace in a smaller area, a compact or mini-model is the better option. You can also find a wide range of frame and surround options for these electric fireplaces to match your design. For example the AL45CLX2-G wall mount electric fireplace from Ambiance is available in a number of different finishes including flat black metal and a standard black glass that will fit into the majority of 2x4 walls.
Ventilation
Electric fireplaces that are mounted on the wall offer a lot of design and functionality without the hassle of installing a fireplace. You don't have to hire an electrician, you don't require a chimney and you don't need to worry about running gas lines through your home. There are a few considerations to make when selecting a wall-mounted electric fireplace.
The venting system is one the biggest distinctions between wall-mounted fireplaces and freestanding ones. While many freestanding models have a vent at the back of the unit, many wall-mounted models don't. This is due to the fact that most of the heat comes from the top of the fireplace. If the unit doesn't have enough venting, it could result in a fire hazard. This is the reason it's essential to read reviews before purchasing a unit.
Flame effects is another big difference between wall electric fireplace mounted and freestanding fireplaces. While freestanding fireplaces are equipped with LED screens and rotisserie lamps wall-mounted models utilize mist or other modern wall mounted electric fires technology to mimic smoke and flames. Dimplex, for instance, has a line of fireplaces that utilize ultrasonics to create the illusion of fire.
Some wall-mounted electric fire places can be partially recessed into the wall. This lets them fit into tight spaces where traditional fireplaces would not. They also blend into a wide range of styles for interiors.
Some electric wall-mounted fire places have multi-view, whereas others are front-view only. These are usually a little bigger than the single-view versions and allow you to see the flames from two or more sides of the room.
Installation
Like the name suggests the wall mount electric fireplaces are designed to be mounted on the wall, usually with a bracket for mounting. They are usually fairly simple to install, though the procedure for installation will differ between models. Certain models are fixed to the wall using screws and others require you to build an opening around them. In any scenario, it's crucial to follow the directions that come with the fire, making sure the opening of the frame is sized and positioning the unit in accordance with any safety guidelines.
The first thing to do is locate a spot that will work for your fireplace. Take into consideration the design of the room, as well as any existing furniture. You should also check whether the location is close enough to a power outlet or if you are willing to let an electrician move a plug socket (if one already exists) for you.
Prepare the room once you've decided on a suitable place for the fireplace by clearing the area, taking away furniture that is in use, and then preparing the walls. This may involve taking away any decoration or wallpaper and also the location of any studs, and marking them with an Stud finder (you'll often be required to have two people hold the fireplace to ensure it's positioned correctly).
The brackets used with wall-mounted electric fireplaces come with a template to drill holes. You can use this template to mark the spot on the wall hung fire where they'll be mounted. After you've marked the locations, drill the holes and then install the rawl plugs. In general the heater, which sits in the front of the fireplace and generates heat, should be at least 400mm away from any combustible material, such as fabric.
After drilling the holes, you will need to attach the bracket for mounting. Certain models will require you install the firebox onto the bracket, while others ask you to put the fireplace onto the bracket prior to attaching the screen. It is essential to follow the directions to install the fireplace correctly to avoid damaging your new appliance. Once the fireplace is installed, plug it in and test it to make sure it's working as intended.