How to Choose the Right Height for an on the Wall Fireplace
A on the wall fireplace can be a stylish feature for any living space. It can be placed above the couch or within the living room it will create a cozy space for your family as well as guests.
Some models can be partially built into the wall for a built-in appearance. However, this will require a bit more work and may require some DIYers to step outside their comfort zone.
Height
Choosing the right size for an on the wall fireplace is one of the most important decisions to be made when building an entirely new media wall. While the fireplace should be low enough to be easily seen from a variety of places of seating, it should be high enough so that it will generate enough heat for a comfortable living space.
It is important to consider the amount of heat that the wall-mounted fireplace produces and the distance to the floor, and any other items that may be mounted above the fire. If a gas or electric fireplace is too low its heat output, it will quickly evaporate and combustible materials are able to easily ignite. This could lead to an explosion in the home and decrease the efficiency of the fireplace.
To avoid this, select an open fireplace with a narrow opening for the fireplace or a chimney venting system that is high. This will ensure that heat is dissipated efficiently and safely.
A second consideration is how the room will be used. If it is primarily for entertaining, watching TV and relaxing, a bigger fireplace is an ideal choice. However, if it's intended to be utilized as an additional source of heat then a lower fireplace will be more suitable.
Most people prefer to put the fireplace at eye-level while they sit in the chair. This is approximately 40-42 inches above the floor. However, some prefer to mount their fireplace beneath a TV and this can work well too, providing that the TV is not too close to the heater, or it could suffer damage from the heat.
It is also important to think about the kind of fireplace you have and the storage space that will be required above it. For instance, if are using an electric fireplace, it can be convenient to put a sideboard cabinet or credenza over the fireplace to keep the surface free of clutter. This can create a an open and sleek appearance, and also make the fireplace appear larger too.
Installation
A fireplace that is mounted on the wall is a great addition to a media wall. It's ideal for homeowners who desire a sleeker look that is more in keeping with the design of the media wall, and is also simpler to install than a built-in fireplace.
Begin by selecting a place that allows you to move freely around the fireplace. Also, ensure that there aren't any flammable items in the area. Measure the length of your wall to ensure that it's wide enough to accommodate an elongated fireplace that has a height of at least 40-42". Installing your fireplace is a an intimidating task. It is best to get help from someone.
Depending on the fireplace model you select, the fireplace may require direct attachment to the wall studs, or to an existing bracket on the wall. The owner's manual will provide instructions on how to set up a direct-to-wall model. If you're installing a bracket-mounted unit you'll need to attach the bracket using toggle bolt anchors and screws. Make sure that the bracket is fastened to at least two studs, and utilize a stud locater to determine the locations at which you'll require screws.
Once you've positioned the bracket, mount the fireplace on it using the tabs at the side of the fireplace, and the hooks on top of the mounting bracket. Some models come with a front glass panel that needs to be removed prior installation, so be sure to follow the instructions in the owner's manual.
If you're installing an electric built-in fireplace, you'll have to set up the frame of your firebox in the designated area on your wall prior to when it can be attached to the bracket. Once you've completed this step then you can use a drill for making holes for the mounting bracket, or sand any rough areas on the wall.
Once you've drilled the holes, you can insert rawl plugs and then screw in the mounting bracket. Certain models of wall-mounted fireplaces also include hooks or slots on the back, so you can simply place the hooks at the back of the fireplace into slots on the mounting bracket.
Safety
It is important to be aware that both electric and bioethanol wall fireplaces can be used safely when the proper safety precautions are followed. Regular inspections are needed to ensure that the fireplace is in good working order and shows no signs of wear and tear. It is also essential to keep the fireplace clear from flammable materials like paper, carpets and furniture. If you have children, ensure that they are taught not to touch the flames and keep them at a safe distance from the fireplace at all times. Make sure you shut off the fire when you go to bed or leave the house.
When installing a wall fireplace, it is essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions. This means paying attention to dimensions of the fireplace, the weight requirements and the heat clearance zone. Double-check the heat zones of the TV and fireplace in the event that you intend to install an electric fireplace with a TV. The additional weight of the television could put pressure on the fireplace which could cause it to collapse and possibly hurt you or your family members.
Be aware of the fact that ethanol and electric wall fireplaces are capable of producing huge amounts of heat which could cause burns should you get too close to it. If you have kids you should consider installing a safe-to touch screen on your fireplace to protect your hands from burning. The screen will be at a low heat when the fireplace is lit, and will not burn anyone who touches.
It is also recommended to keep any items that are flammable like toys and books, away from the fire to avoid them from getting accidentally ignited by sparks. In addition, you should regularly clean your fireplace to eliminate any accumulation of ash and soot. This will decrease the chance of a fire.
One of the most frequent errors people make when installing an electric fireplace on their wall is to not switch off the fireplace prior to going to sleep or leaving the home. This is a grave error that could lead to electrical problems or even fires.
Style
A wall-mounted fire place is one of the most popular components that can be incorporated into a media wall. It is commonly installed underneath the flat-screen TV and it is essential that the fireplace meets certain installation requirements. The height at which it is mounted can play a role, but it is also important to take into consideration the heat it generates. A fireplace designed to be recessed into the wall will typically blow the heat out of vents located in front of the unit, while a surface-mounted fireplace may blow the heat from either the top or bottom. For media walls, it is popular to mount a fireplace recessed at a height of between 40 and 42 inches above the floor. This allows you to observe it from a sitting place.
Although it is possible to find wall-mounted electric fireplaces with a variety of designs however, it is best to match the style of the fireplace with the overall style of the room. This will help ensure that the entire media wall is cohesive and flows seamlessly. A number of companies provide different types of electric wall-mounted fireplaces including Amantii and Dimplex. Both brands have a reputation for quality, and they are quick to respond to feedback to improve their products.
Another consideration for a media wall is to decide whether the room will be used to house a television or other electronic devices. Some people choose to use the recessed fire place as an entertainment center and others prefer to combine the wall-mounted fireplace and TV. It is easier and more efficient to choose a media wall which can accommodate both.
The biggest drawback of a wall-mounted electric fireplace is that they can feel more durable. Although it is possible to move the appliance from one location to another, this will require reinstalling the brackets for mounting. If the fireplace is on an stud, it can be difficult to mount a TV or other components.