Electric Wall Mounted Fireplaces Clearance
Electric fireplaces are an excellent option for those who want an innovative, cost-effective and easy to install fire feature. Electric fireplaces are safe for children and do not produce fumes or smoke like traditional wood-burning fires.
They are usually sold as a set of mantel pieces that can be positioned against an unfinished surface. These typically come with bracket ledges to rest on and places to join the top.
1. The Fireplace
Fireplaces are a cherished feature of many homes, evoking memories of warmth, comfort and romance. They are an important factor in selling homes, increasing the value and attracting potential buyers. However, it's important to remember that your fireplace could pose a risk to your health in the event that it is not properly maintained and examined.
When you're looking to show off your fireplace, a few minor modifications can make the space feel more complete and distinguish it from other homes on the market. Installing built-in shelves or cabinetry on either side of the fire area can create a focal point, while offering a convenient storage space. In the same way, installing a stone or tile surround around the fireplace can help protect the walls from the soot and smoke, as well as enhance the visual appeal.
A fireplace surround is a wall structure that covers the entire exterior of the firebox, forming the front of the chimney. It can be constructed of brick, stone or marble. Some fireplace surrounds include a mantel but others don't. A mantel is a piece of wood or another material that acts as the frame for the fireplace surround and provides a platform for hanging artwork or other decorative items.
Some homeowners decide to replace their old mantels with newer designs, which are more modern. This project requires some expertise and knowledge. It is also advisable to have the work inspected prior to using the fireplace in order to ensure that it meets the safety standards.
The firebox is a part of the fireplace where the fuel (usually wood), is burned. The firebox can be constructed into a ceiling or wall but is typically placed inside the fireplace. In addition to making sure that the firebox is secure, it's important to replace any damaged bricks or mortar.
When you are preparing to sell your house it is crucial to emphasize the benefits of having a fireplace at open houses and showings. Bring out the ambience, the reduced heating cost and the fireplace's role as a source of entertainment when preparing to sell your home. You can even host themed open houses around your fireplace, such as an inviting winter-themed event.
2. The Mantel
Electric fireplaces don't require a chimney, gas line or venting. This makes them more flexible than traditional fireplaces which require costly maintenance and remodeling to install. They also have a lower risk of fire when compared to wood and natural gas fireplaces. However, there are safety precautions to be taken with all home electronics, including electric fireplaces.
It's important to consider the size and heating capability of a wall-mounted fireplace. Most electric fireplaces are plugged into a standard 120-volt outlet and have an energy capacity of 1500 watts. They can also be hardwired into a home's electrical system and operated at 240 volts for higher heat output.
Surface-mount electric fire places a cord to the wall that can be connected to. However the cord could hinder the view of the flames. If you'd like your fireplace to be in a straight line with the wall, look for an recess-style model. These are designed to be installed in the wall and come with a a sleek modern look.
Most recessed electric fire place come with a template and mounting kit which makes it easy to install. However, if you're not comfortable installing the fireplace yourself, you can have a licensed electrician install it for you. Make sure you follow the directions provided by the manufacturer for proper installation.
If in wall mount electric fireplace choose to have a recessed electric fireplace installed, make sure the top of the fireplace is at least four to five feet higher than the floor. This will keep pets and children away from the fireplace. This will keep the heat off the bottom of your TV to ensure 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. You'll need to leave a few inches between the back of the electric fireplace and the wall where you'll want to place the TV.
Certain manufacturers have a heat chart that shows the temperature at the front of the fireplace once it is switched on. This will help you determine how much space is required to prevent overheating the space surrounding your television.
3. The TV
A lot of electric fireplaces that are mounted to the wall or into cabinets require cutting into the wall or constructing a portion of it to allow for the installation. Surface-mounted electric fire places a projecting unit of 4.25" to 6" from the wall. This can be moved away or moved to another location, without leaving a huge hole in the wall. Surface-mounted fireplaces are typically designed to expel heat out the front or back of the fireplace, and not the top, which could directly impact a TV that is placed over the fireplace.
A surface-mounted electric fire is the best option for those who like the contemporary look of a wall hanging fireplace, but would like to be capable of moving it around or reposition it easily. This type of fireplace does not need a chimney or vents, and it simply plugs into an outlet on the wall. It is possible to purchase models with heaters powered by fans that provide additional heat for the room. There are also wall-mounted electric fireplaces which are not installed in any way and instead hang on the wall like artwork.
4. The Wall
Some people believe that electric fireplaces installed on walls could pose a risk to homes. This is not always the situation however there are some factors to take into consideration to ensure safety. For example, it is important to make sure that the fireplace is connected into an approved outlet that is UL-approved and not placed near flammable objects. It is also essential to keep the fireplace clean so that dust doesn't build up which can cause overheating and a fire hazard. It is also essential to ensure that a fireplace is not left running unattended, especially if children or pets are around.
Examine the distribution of heat in the fireplace to determine if any adjacent items, such as furniture or wall decor, will be damaged or burned. It is also crucial to verify the safety features to ensure that the fireplace has an emergency shutoff switch in the event of an overheated fire or the fire starting to spread.
One of the biggest advantages of wall-mounted electric fireplaces is that it does not require venting or gas lines and it takes up much less space than traditional gas hearths. This is ideal for smaller areas, like condos and apartments in areas with limited space.
Electric fireplaces are also popular because they are simple to set up. They can be hung like a piece of art or installed into the wall using a recession, which gives the appearance of a sleeker design. A fireplace that is built-in requires a bump out in order to accommodate the unit. However, a recessed electric fire place can be built into a preexisting niche or hole in a wall.
Kuefler says that while many homeowners can install the fireplace by themselves however, anyone who feels uncomfortable cutting 2x6s or framing or finishing a bump-out needs to think about hiring an expert. Review the instruction manual of the fireplace and the manufacturer to get additional suggestions. Lastly, it is essential to make sure whether the electrical current is able to take on the demands of the fireplace prior to commencing any work.