Electric Wall Mounted Fireplaces Clearance
Electric fireplaces are an excellent alternative for those looking for an innovative, cost-effective and easy to install fire feature. Electric fireplaces are safe for children and do not emit smoke or fumes like traditional wood-burning fires.
They are typically sold as a set of mantel pieces that can be positioned against an unfinished surface. These typically include bracket ledges that you can rest on and places to join the top.
1. The Fireplace
Fireplaces are a sought-after feature in many homes, evoking memories of warmth, comfort and romance. They're a crucial selling feature, adding value to an property and attracting the attention of potential buyers. It is important to keep in mind that a fireplace could pose an accident hazard if it is not properly maintained and checked.
When it's time to show off your fireplace, a few easy modifications can make it appear more complete and make it stand out from other homes available. For instance installing built-in shelving or cabinetry on either side of the fireplace will make a great place to store and display items while creating an appealing focal feature. In the same way, installing a stone or tile surround around the firebox could help shield walls from soot and smoke, as well as visually appealing.
A fireplace surround is a wall structure that wraps around the entire exterior of the firebox, forming the front face of the chimney. It can be constructed of marble, stone or brick. Some fireplace surrounds include a mantel while others do not. Mantels are made of metal, wood or some other material. It acts as a frame for the surround and permits you to hang artwork or other decor.
Some homeowners choose to replace their old mantels with newer, modern designs. But this is a task that requires a certain amount of skill and expertise. It's also best to have the work checked before using the fireplace to ensure that it complies with safety codes.
The firebox is the part within the fireplace where the fuel (usually wood) is burned. The firebox can be built into a wall or ceiling however, it is usually housed within a fireplace. It's also important to replace any brick or mortar that is damaged, as well as making sure the firebox remains secure.
It's important that you highlight the benefits of a fireplace when you are preparing to sell your home. This is particularly important in open houses and viewings. Make sure to emphasize the ambiance it creates, the lower heating expenses and its function as a entertainment centre. You can hold themed open houses in front of your fireplace. For instance you could host an event themed around winter.
2. The Mantel
Electric fireplaces do not require gas lines, chimneys, or venting. This makes them more adaptable than traditional fireplaces which require costly maintenance and remodeling to install. They also have a lower chance of fire compared to natural gas and wood fireplaces. However, there are safety precautions to take with all home electronics, including electric fireplaces.
It is crucial to consider the size and the heating capacity of a wall-mounted fire place. Most electric fireplaces are plugged into a 120-volt outlet and have an energy capacity of 1500 watts. However, they can be hardwired into homes' electrical system and run at 240 volts to increase heating output.
Fireplaces and Stove -mount electric fires place an electric cord to the wall that can be plugged into. However the cord could hinder the view of the flames. Consider recessed models if you want your fireplace flush with the wall. These are designed to be erected in the wall and have a sleek modern look.
The majority of recessed electric fire places come with a template and mounting kit that make it easy to set up. However, if you're not sure about installing the fireplace yourself, you can have a licensed electrician do it for you. Make sure to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer to ensure proper installation.
If you opt to install a recessed electric fireplace installed ensure that the top of the fireplace is four to five feet above the floor. This will keep the fireplace out of reach for pets and children. It also keeps the heat away from the bottom of the TV so that it doesn't get too hot.
The back of an electric fireplace that is recessed usually has a slot which allows for the cable to be connected without having the wires visible on the wall. However, you'll have to leave a few inches of space between the back of the fireplace and the place you're planning to place your TV.
Some manufacturers include an energy chart that displays the temperature in front of the fireplace once it is turned on. This can help you determine how much space is required to ensure that you don't overheat the area around your television.
3. The TV
A lot of electric fireplaces that are mounted in the wall or cabinets require cutting into the wall or constructing an area to accommodate the unit. Surface-mounted electric fire places an elongated unit that is 4.25" to 6" from the wall. This can be moved or removed to a different location without causing a gap in the wall. Surface-mounted units can also be designed to emit heat from either the front or the back of the fireplace, rather than from the top, which could directly affect a TV set up above the fireplace.
This makes a surface-mounted electric fireplace the best choice for those who want the modern look of a wall-hung fireplace that can be moved around and repositioned easily. This type of fireplace doesn't require a chimney or vents, and simply plugs into a wall outlet. They can be fitted with fan-powered heaters that add additional heat to the room. There are wall-mounted electric fire places that aren't installed in the wall and can be hung on the wall as artwork.
4. The Wall
Many people believe that wall-mounted electric fireplaces are unsafe for homes. However, this isn't always the case, and there are a few things to consider to ensure security. For instance, it is crucial to ensure that the fireplace is plugged into a UL-approved outlet and not placed near flammable objects. It is also essential to clean the fireplace regularly to ensure that dust doesn't build up and cause fire hazards or overheating. It is crucial to never leave the fireplace unattended. This is particularly true if there are pets or children around.
It is also crucial to examine the fireplace's heat dispersal to check if it is causing damage or burn to objects nearby, like wall decor or furniture. It is also crucial to verify the safety features to make sure that the fireplace has an emergency shutoff switch in the event of a fire or the fire starting to spread.
One of the major advantages of an electric fireplace mounted on a wall is that it doesn't require venting or gas lines and occupies less space than traditional gas hearths. This is ideal for small spaces, such as apartments and condos in which space is limited.
Electric fireplaces are also popular due to the fact that they are easy to install. They can be hung on the wall like an art piece or built into recesses, giving them a more streamlined look. The main difference between the built-in fireplace and recessed fireplace is that a hearth built-in will require a bump to accommodate the fireplace, while a recessed electric fireplace can be put in a preexisting hole or niche in the wall.
Kuefler explains that while a lot of homeowners can install the fireplace by themselves but anyone who isn't comfortable cutting 2x6s, framing or finishing a bump-out should think about hiring a professional. It is also important to refer to the instructions of the fireplace and the manufacturer for further guidelines. Before starting any work, make sure that the current in the electric circuit is strong enough to support the load.