Using Electric Fire Places in Wall to Boost Home Value
Nothing adds more to the value of a home than a wall-mounted, electric fireplace. These unique fixtures function like modern art and provide modern, sleek design.
They are usually partially or completely recessed into 2 x 4 frame walls. They only protrude a couple of inches from the space.
Safety
To prevent dangers from fire, you must be cautious when using an electric wall fireplace. For instance, you should make sure that all combustible material is kept away from the fireplace. Also make sure to turn off the appliance when it is not in use. Also, make sure that the vents are opened and free of obstructions to allow for continuous fresh air intake. Examine your fireplace on a regular basis for signs of wear and tear.
Electric units do not emit harmful fumes unlike gas fireplaces that require chimneys. They also require heating and ventilation systems. They are a great option for homes that have children or elderly people, or those who has breathing problems. They can also be used in any house and are a great alternative to traditional gas or wood fireplaces.
However there are a few issues regarding electric fireplaces that need to be addressed before making a decision to purchase one. First of all they aren't as efficient at heating rooms as effectively as a traditional fireplace because they only warm the air around them and not the walls around them. You should only use your electric fireplace to serve as a second heater.
Another issue with electric fireplaces is that they can be extremely hot, which is why it is crucial to keep children and pets away from them once they've been turned on. This can be easily accomplished by ensuring that the unit is not in reach and not in an area in which children are likely to play.
To ensure safety, certain electric fireplaces have timers that switch them off after 30 minutes or 9 hours. This allows you to enjoy the ambience of a fireplace while you sleep, without worrying about waking up to a cold house or putting yourself at risk of an accidental power outage. Lastly, some models even include an emergency shut-off feature that cuts power to the appliance in the event of overheating or short circuit. Ensure that your new electric fireplace comes with this feature to avoid injuries resulting from misuse.
Installation
The addition of an electric fireplace to your home is a quick and cost-effective method of adding warmth and ambience. However, the correct installation of the fireplace is essential to ensure safety. It is crucial to think about the size and location of your fireplace and also the amount of heat it produces.
An electric fireplace is a safe alternative to a wood-burning or gas fireplace since it doesn't require venting outside or chimneys. It can be placed in an existing fireplace opening or mounted on the wall. It can be recessed into the wall to create an elegant appearance. These units are controlled with a remote control and come in a variety of styles to complement any home decor.
When installing an electric fireplace, it is crucial to follow the manufacturer's directions and use appropriate safety precautions. For instance, it's crucial to keep combustible objects at least three feet away from the front of the fireplace and 1.5 feet from the sides. In addition the fireplace shouldn't be located in a space with curtains or other flammable objects. It is also important to ensure that the power cord is not accessible to children.
Before starting the project, it's recommended to consult with a professional, particularly in the event that you intend to install the fireplace inside an existing residence. They will determine whether it's feasible to convert an existing chimney to an electric fireplace and suggest the best fireplace to fit your space. They can also guide you on how to install a wall and a vapor barrier in an existing chimney opening so the fireplace is safe and efficient.
Once you've established the dimensions and location of the fireplace, you can start constructing the wall. First, cut the 2x6s an inch shorter than the final height of the wall. These will be the top and bottom plates for the fireplace wall. Mark the stud and center positions every 16 inches along both plates. Then, construct a frame for the fireplace, and secure it to the studs by using screws.
Aesthetics
There are a variety of designs for electric fireplace wall units. They can be a standalone unit that resembles a traditional fireplace, with a mantel, or they can be hung on the wall like a picture. They can also appear like a built-in, with a design that conceals the firebox and focuses only on the flame display. They can be an ideal choice for those who wish to create the look of a fireplace to a room in which there isn't enough space to put in a wood or gas burning unit.
The style of the fireplace can have a significant impact on how the unit appears in the room. Stand-alone fireplaces feature a mantel with an antique appearance and are a perfect match with a wide range of interiors. They are available in widths that are a good balance to TV sizes. They are available in a range of finishes, including stucco, stone and mantel-quality wood veneers.
Some wall-hung fireplaces have a sleek look like modern, sleek TV stands. These types of fireplaces are smaller than their freestanding counterparts, and come in widths that can comfortably accommodate the majority of TV sizes. They can be finished with the same material as your walls or in a darker color which will give a more dramatic effect.
Another option is to mount an electric fireplace in a media cabinet, which can also be used as television stand. They are available in a variety of sizes and finishes. Some even come with hidden media components that hide electronic equipment. The best part is that they are not requiring any clearance, so they can be installed in most furniture and all kinds of wall materials.
There are also standard electric fireplace TV stands that are more traditional in appearance and can accommodate most popular TVs. However, these tend to be more deep than required and provide limited design options.
There are also a variety of electric wall-mounted fireplaces that come with a hidden heating system for an easier installation. They come with three heat settings, allowing you to select the ideal level of warmth to suit your space. When the fireplace is on, warm air flows through vents at the top of the unit and the heat spreads evenly across the room.
Energy efficiency
Electric fire places in wall don't emit any real heat from combustion, which means that they have lower energy efficiency ratings than other heating alternatives. However, they are still very efficient for heating a single room, and are an excellent alternative to central heating. They are able deliver heating at the exact temperature you need without wasting energy heating the entire home.
They are also extremely convenient to use, especially in homes with wood or gas fireplaces, as they don't require a chimney or flue, and can be powered by an ordinary electrical socket. It's important to choose an electric fireplace that has a high BTU rating that will be sized to your room's size and heating requirements.
Most electric fireplaces are rated at 1500 watts, which is more than a vacuum cleaner but less than an electric range. This is quite low for a heater that is electric and is sufficient to keep you warm and comfortable.
Electric fireplaces are also more affordable than other options even though they have higher initial costs. Electric fireplaces are more affordable to maintain and operate than traditional fireplaces. For electric fire place wall don't require regular chimney cleaning or fuel deliveries. You can also regulate the heating settings so that the flames illuminate when you require heat. This will lower the amount of electricity you use.
It is recommended to choose a model that has a thermostat. This allows you to set a target temperature for your home, and your electric fire will switch on and off to maintain the desired temperature. This will stop your electric fireplace from running continuously, which can reduce electricity usage by up to 10 percent.
The efficiency of electric fires depends on the local electricity rates and patterns of usage. If you reside in an area with higher electricity prices, it's worth investigating alternative heating options. If you have any concerns regarding the best method to install your new electric fire wall, you can contact a specialist company like Stylish Fireplaces & Interiors. They have a showroom located in the GTA and can assist you to find the perfect fireplace to meet your requirements.