How to Choose the Right Height for an on the Wall Fireplace
A fireplace that is mounted on the wall can be a stunning focal feature in any living space. It can be placed above the couch or in the sitting area to create a warm and cozy space for your family and guests.
Some models can be partially integrated into the wall to create an integrated look. This requires some extra work and may require some DIYers to step out of their comfortable zone.
Height
The right height for a wall fireplace is among the most crucial decisions to be made when constructing the media wall. The fireplace should be low to allow it to be viewed easily from most places of seating. However, it should be tall enough that it will provide enough heat for a comfortable home.
It is crucial to consider the amount of heat the wall-mounted fire generates and the distance to the floor and any other equipment that might be positioned above the fire. If you place an electric or gas fireplace too low, it will lose heat quickly, and combustible materials are able to easily ignite. This could lead to a fire inside the house and reduce the fireplace's performance.
To avoid this, pick a fireplace with a low opening for the firebox or a chimney venting system that is high. This will ensure that the heat is dissipated efficiently and safely.
Another factor to consider is what the room is used for. If the room is used primarily for socialising, relaxing and watching television, a higher fireplace is a good choice. If it is used to heat the house the lower fireplace is better.
Most people prefer to put their fireplaces at eye level while sitting in the chair approximately 40-42 inches away from the floor. However, some prefer to place their fireplace under a TV and this can work well too, providing that the TV is not too close to the heater or it may be damaged by the heat.
Depending on the kind of fireplace, it could be beneficial to think about the kind of storage that will be needed above the fire. If you have an electric fireplace, it might be beneficial to install an endboard or credenza above the fireplace to keep the surface clear. This can create a an airy and clean appearance and make the fireplace appear bigger as well.
Installation
A fireplace that is mounted on the wall is a fantastic option to add to a media panel. It's perfect for homeowners who prefer an elegant look that blends with the design of the media wall, and it's also easier to set up than a fireplace that is built-in.
Start by choosing a location that allows you to move easily around the fireplace. Also, make sure that there are no combustible items in the vicinity. Check the length of your wall to ensure that it is wide enough for a fireplace with a height of at least 40-42". Installing your fireplace is a an overwhelming task. It is best to get help from someone.
Based on the model of fireplace you select, the fireplace may require a direct connection to the wall studs or to an existing bracket that is mounted on the wall. If you're installing a direct to wall model, refer to the manual of the owner for instructions about how to mount it. For a bracket-mounted model, fix the bracket to the wall with screws and wall board toggle bolt anchors. Make sure the bracket is fastened to at least two studs, and make use of a stud finder to locate the places where you'll need to attach a screw.
Once the bracket is in place and the fireplace is attached, use the tabs on the lower part of your fireplace, and the hooks at the top of the bracket. Certain models have an opening for the front glass that needs to be removed prior installation, so make sure to follow the guidelines in the owner's manual.
If you're installing a built-in electric fireplace, you'll have to install the frame of the fireplace in the designated area on the wall before it can be fixed to the bracket. After you've completed this process, you can either use a drill for making holes for the mounting bracket, or sand rough areas on the wall.
After drilling the holes, you can screw into the mounting bracket. Certain models of wall-mounted fireplaces include hooks or slots on the back, so you can simply place the hooks at the back of the fireplace into the slots on the bracket for mounting.
Safety
The good news is that both electric and ethanol wall fireplaces are safe when the proper safety measures are in place. Regular inspections are necessary to ensure the unit is in good working order and displays no signs of wear. Keep the fireplace clear of any flammable materials, such as carpets, furniture or even paper. If you have children, ensure that they are aware of not touching the flames and stay away from the fireplace at all times. It is also important to turn off the fire before going to bed or leaving the house.
When installing a 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 have a television above the fireplace, it is recommended to make sure that the TV and fireplace are within the proper heat zones. The weight of the TV can put pressure on the fireplace, causing it to collapse, possibly injuring your family members or you.
You should also be aware that ethanol and electric wall fireplaces are capable of producing high levels of heat, that can cause you to burn yourself if you come close enough to it. If you have young children think about putting a safe-to-touch screen over your fireplace to prevent them from burning their hands. The screen will be at a low heat when the fireplace is on and will not cause any harm to anyone who touches.
It is also an excellent idea to keep any flammable items like toys and books, away from the fire to avoid them from getting accidentally ignited by sparks. It is also important to regularly clean your fireplace to eliminate any accumulation of soot or ash. This will reduce the risk of an fire.
One of the most frequent mistakes that people make when installing an wall fireplace is to not ensure that the fireplace has been turned off before they go to bed or leave the house. This is a serious mistake which could cause electrical problems or even fires.
Style
A wall-mounted fireplace is one of the most popular features that can be built into a wall for media. It is typically installed beneath the flat-screen TV and it is essential that the fireplace meets certain requirements for installation. It is crucial to consider not just the size of the fireplace, but also how much heat it produces. A fireplace designed to be recessed into the wall will typically blow the heat through an opening located in front of the unit, while a surface-mounted fireplace may blow the heat from either the top or bottom. A popular option for media walls is to mount the fireplace in a recess at a height between 40-42 inches from the floor, which permits it to be seen from a sitting position.
It is possible to find wall-mounted electric fires with a variety of styles. However it is important to match the style to the overall design of the room. This will help ensure that the entire media wall is unified and flows nicely together. Amantii, Dimplex and other companies provide a range of electric wall-mounted fire places. Both brands are well-known for their quality and quick to respond when customers give feedback on ways to improve the products.
A media wall can be designed to accommodate a TV or other electronic devices. Some people prefer using a recessed fireplace for an entertainment centre, while others might want an amalgamation of television and a wall-mounted fireplace. Picking a media wall that can accommodate both will be simpler and more efficient.
The biggest drawback of wall-mounted electric fireplaces is that they can appear more permanent. It is possible to move the appliance from one location to another, but it will require the mounting brackets to be replaced. It's also not as simple to install a television or other component on the wall in the event that the fireplace is in a space that is a stud.