How to Choose the Right Height for an on the Wall Fireplace
A fireplace on the wall can be an elegant focal feature in any living space. Whether hung above the couch or within the sitting area, it will create a cozy atmosphere for your family and guests.
Some models can be recessed into the wall to give it a built-in appearance. This is more work, and some DIYers may need to go beyond their comfort zones.
Height
The right size for an on the wall fireplace is among the most important decisions that must be made when installing an entirely new media wall. The fireplace should be placed at a low height so that it can be easily viewed from all sitting positions. However, it must be high enough to ensure that it will provide enough heat for a comfortable home.
It is important to consider the amount of heat the wall-mounted ethonal fire generates, the distance from the floor and any other equipment that may be mounted over the fire. If you set the gas or electric fireplace too low, it will lose heat quickly and combustible materials could easily ignite. This can lead to fire in the home, and the performance of the fireplace will be drastically reduced.
The best method to avoid this is to choose a fireplace that has a low firebox opening, or an efficient chimney venting system. This will ensure that heat is efficiently dissipated and safely.
A second consideration is how the room will be used. If the space is mostly used for relaxing, socialising and watching television, a taller fireplace is a great choice. If it will be used to heat your home then a lower-end fireplace is more suitable.
Most people prefer to put their fireplace at eye level while sitting in a chair that is 40-42 inches away from the floor. However, some prefer to put their fireplace beneath televisions and this could be a good option, provided that the TV isn't too close to the heater, or it could be damaged by the heat.
It is also essential to think about the kind of fireplace you have as well as the storage required above it. For example, if you have an electric fire it could be beneficial to build a sideboard or credenza over the fireplace to keep the area free of clutter. This can create an airy, modern appearance. It also makes the fireplace seem larger.
Installation
A fireplace that is mounted on the wall can be an excellent addition to a wall of media. It's ideal for homeowners who want a more sleek style that blends with the wall structure of the media. It's also easier and quicker to install than a fireplace integrated.
Begin by selecting a place that allows you to move easily around the fireplace. Also, ensure that there are no combustible objects within the area. Check the length of your wall to ensure it is wide enough for the fireplace to have an average height of 40-42". Installing a fireplace can be a difficult task. It is recommended to hire a professional to assist you.
Depending on the model of fireplace you select, the fireplace may require a direct connection to the wall studs, or to a bracket already installed on the wall. If you're installing an direct-to-wall model, make sure to check the manual of the owner for instructions about how to mount it. For models that are bracket-mounted, attach the bracket to the wall using screws and wall board toggle-bolt anchors. Make sure the bracket is secured to at least two studs, and use a stud finder to determine the locations at which you'll need to attach screws.
Once the bracket is set and the fireplace is attached, use the tabs on the lower part of your fireplace, and the hooks on the top of the bracket. Follow the directions in the owner's manual, if your model comes with an opening in the front of the glass that needs to be removed prior to installation.
If you're installing an electric built-in fireplace, you'll need to set up the frame of the firebox in the designated area on your wall prior to when it is fixed to the bracket. After you've completed this, you can either drill holes for the mounting bracket and sand down any rough areas of the wall.
Once you've made the holes, insert rawl plugs and then screw in the mounting bracket. Some models of wall-mounted fireplaces have hooks or slots on the back which means you can place the hooks at the back of the fireplace into slots on the bracket for mounting.
Safety
The good news is that both electric and ethanol wall fireplaces are safe to use provided that the appropriate safety measures are in place. Regular inspections are needed to ensure the unit is in good condition and shows no signs of wear and tear. It is also essential to keep the fireplace clear from any flammable material such as carpets, furniture, and paper. If you have children, make sure they are aware of not touching the flames, and to keep them at a safe distance from the fireplace at all times. Also, make sure to shut off the fireplace prior to going to bed or leaving the house.
When installing an on the wall fireplace, it is crucial to follow all manufacturer instructions. This means paying attention to the dimensions, weight requirements and heat clearance zones. If you are using TVs above the fireplace, it is important to make sure that the TV and fireplace are within the appropriate heat zones. The weight of the television could exert pressure on the fireplace, which could cause it to collapse, possibly causing injury the person who is in it as well as other family members.
Electric and ethanol wall fire places can generate a lot of heat that can cause burns to you. You should consider installing an appropriate screen to put on your fireplace if have children who are small. This will help protect them from getting burned. The screen is at a low temperature while the fireplace is turned on and will not cause any harm to anyone who touches it.
It is also a good idea to keep any flammable objects like toys and books, away from the fireplace to avoid them from being accidentally ignited by sparks. It is also important to regularly clean your fireplace to remove any accumulation of soot or ash. This will lower the risk of fire hazards.
One of the most common errors people make when installing a fireplace on the wall is to not turn off the fireplace before going to go to bed or leaving the house. This is a grave error that can lead to electrical malfunctions or even fires.
Style
A wall-mounted fireplace is one the most popular features that can be integrated into a media wall. It is typically installed beneath a flat-screen television and it is essential that the fireplace is in compliance with certain requirements for installation. It is crucial to consider not only the size of the fireplace, but also the amount of heat it produces. A fireplace designed to be recessed into a wall will typically blow the heat out of a vent located in front of the unit, whereas the fireplace mounted on a surface can blow the heat from the top or bottom. The most popular option for a media wall is to put a recessed fireplace at a height of 40-42 inches above the floor, which allows it to be viewed from a sitting position.
It is possible to find electric fireplaces mounted on walls with a variety of styles. However, it is best to match the style to the overall design of the room. This will ensure that the entire media wall is unified and flows seamlessly. A number of companies offer different models of electric wall-mounted fireplaces including Amantii and Dimplex. Both brands are known for their high-quality products and quick response when customers give feedback on ways to improve the products.
Another factor to consider when building a media wall is to decide whether the space will be used to house a TV or other electronics. Some people prefer a recessed fire place as an entertainment center, and others prefer to combine a TV and wall-mounted fireplace. Selecting a wall that can accommodate both will be simpler and more efficient.
The primary drawback of wall-mounted fireplaces is that it can appear more durable than freestanding electric fireplaces that have a mantel. It is possible to move an appliance from one place to another but this requires the mounting brackets to be reinstalled. If the fireplace is in an stud, it can be difficult to install televisions or other equipment.