In Wall Fireplace - How to Choose the Right Height and Depth for Your Fireplace

A fireplace in the wall gives an elegant and polished look without the expense of a mantle. It is one of the most simple electric fireplaces to install.

There are some things to think about prior to purchasing an in-wall fireplace. Follow these guidelines to get the most of your purchase.

Height

While it may appear to be something that is easy, figuring out the height of your fireplace is among the most important decisions to make. This is because the height of your fireplace will impact everything from how it will fit in a room to how easily it can be seen. Your fireplace could look strange if it is raised too high. It will also take away from its attractiveness. A fireplace that is too low could appear unnatural within the wall space.

Luckily, electric fireplaces are versatile enough to be placed at a variety of heights. Most people mount their fireplaces in a seated position at eye level. This requires a height between 40 and 42 inches. Some people place their cheap fireplaces under their TVs, which is an attractive option.

The exact height of your fireplace will depend on certain factors, such as the dimensions of the room as well as the length of the wall you'd like to place it. The bigger the room is, the bigger it will be. This could mean that you're in a position to fit a bigger fireplace into it. The same goes for the length of the wall, as a wall with a greater length can accommodate a fireplace that is larger.

The way you intend to use your fireplace is another important factor. If you plan to use it only for decoration, then the lower height is ideal. However, if you plan to heat your home with it, you'll have to make sure that the fireplace is tall enough to meet the local codes and safety standards.

It is important to choose the appropriate height for your fireplace, so that it is in line with your decor and be simple to clean or fill. If you're not sure what size to choose you can always seek out an expert fireplace installer for help. They'll be able suggest the ideal height for your fireplace according to their experience and the specifics of your home.

Depth

It is essential to know the depth of a fireplace if you intend to put it in a recessed location. If you are going to cut through your wall, make sure that you have enough depth to accommodate the inner design of your fireplace (the smoke shelf above the firebox, the flue that is able to rise through the roof and the fireplace itself). Also, think about the space available for the surround, and whether you want a fireplace mantle.

A lot of the latest electric fireplaces have the depth of being almost concealed, creating an almost "built-in" look. This type of wall fireplace made from electric is best illustrated by the Panorama BI Deep series. The model is 5.8-inch deep that allows the viewer view the flames and ember bed and not the frame. The media package includes driftwood logs in natural appearance white pebbles, as well as crystals of clear glass to increase the embers' glow and reflect the flames.

Wall-mounted gas fireplaces are available in both shallow and deep models. But, when deciding the depth of your fireplace, it is essential to keep in mind that these fireplaces work as a supplemental heat source and should be properly vented by an experienced 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 a one-piece installation, it's important to read and follow all of the manufacturer's instructions carefully when mounting your fireplace. In the majority of cases, a professional installer is highly recommended. It is recommended to have an additional person in the event of installing gas fireplaces.

Installing a fireplace in the wall of your home can be an great way to boost its value and add ambiance to your living spaces. It can also help lower your heating costs. It is also a great alternative if you cannot fit a traditional fireplace in your home due to space limitations or the location of the chimney.

Surface Mount

If you're unable or prefer not to cut into your wall or build out a space to accommodate an electric fireplace, a surface mount gives a sleek and modern style. Certain models, such as the Allusion line of electric fireplaces, can be mounted partially recessed into a wall without compromising the output of heat.

To begin the installation start by marking the wall using a pencil where the bracket will be installed. Utilize a stud-finder to find the studs, and place the brackets in front of at least one stud to ensure stability. If a stud cannot be reached or is not suitable for your fireplace, use drywall anchors to provide support.

Once you've marked the location of the brackets to be mounted and drilled them, screw them into the wall, making sure they are aligned with the studs. You can use studs or anchors made of plastic to connect each bracket. After the mounting brackets are installed, lift your fireplace and place it from the wall bracket. When the fireplace is positioned, make sure it is level.

Before proceeding with the installation, plug in your fireplace and ensure that all the features are functioning correctly. Turn on the fire, and then light up the flames, play around with embers, heat, bed lights and more. Once you're happy with the results, it's time to install your floating mantel.

Depending on the model of your fireplace, you'll require a wire connection to the appliance wire connector on the mantel's bottom or in the event that your fireplace has slots or hooks on the back connecting them to slots on the wall mounting brackets. Once you've completed this step you should consult your fireplace's user manual for directions on how to remove the front glass panel from the opening and replace it.

Once you've removed your front panel of your fireplace and inserted it into the opening, follow your guideline to complete the install by replacing the glass front and adjusting the height if needed. If your fireplace is equipped with ember bed media, spread it out across the top of the grate to give it a an appearance that is more natural and then secure it in place by using the screws that come with it.

Plug-In

Contrary to traditional wood-burning fireplaces electric wooden fireplaces don't require chimneys or vents. Plugged into a standard outlet they provide supplemental heating for rooms up to 400 square feet. You can also customize the atmosphere with different settings for flame and heat. Certain models have LED lighting effects that enhance the ember bed and the fire. Certain models have a grille on top that hides the manual controls, however they it can be opened easily to reveal buttons.

Plug-in electric fireplaces can be hung directly on walls or built into the wall to create an elegant look. These fireplaces are usually easier to install than mantel fireplaces. Some have pedestal bases that allow you to place the fireplace on a flat surface, such as a dresser or buffet. There is an remote control, mounting hardware and a log set. Based on the model, electric fireplaces could include flame and heat options that can be switched off to provide ambiance throughout the year.

Certain models come with adjustable privacy glass that you can quickly change from fully see-through to partially transparent. These models are popular for walls that divide zones of entertainment such as living and dining rooms. They can also be utilized in bedrooms where the addition of the fireplace is an affordable way to reduce the chill in a room without sacrificing privacy.

While plug-in electric fireplaces don't require hardwiring like traditional fireplaces, they must be mounted within an area that is at a minimum not stud-free and is able to support the weight of the freestanding fireplace. Some models come with kits to make this process simpler with a pre-wired power cord and a bracket for mounting. This kit is suitable for either drywall or concrete installation.

If you choose to install your electric fireplace on the wall, be sure that it is near an outlet. Based on the model, 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 an exclusive circuit to ensure that nothing else in the home will operate at the same voltage, and potentially trip your breakers.