How to Choose the Right Height for an on the Wall Fireplace

A fireplace in the wall can be an elegant focal feature in any living space. It can be placed above the couch or within the seating area, it can create a warm cozy environment for your family and guests.

Some models can be partially built into the wall for a built-in look. This requires more work, and some DIYers may need to step outside of their comfort areas.

Height

When constructing a media wall, choosing the right size of the fireplace is a crucial decision. While the fireplace should be low enough to be seen from a variety of places of seating, it should also be high enough that it can produce sufficient warmth for an inviting living space.

When deciding on the height of a wall-mounted fireplace, it is important to consider the amount of heat it generates and how close to the floor it will be, and what else may be mounted above it. If a gas or electrical fireplace is too low its heat output, it will be dissipated quickly and combustible materials could easily ignite. This could result in a house fire and the performance of the fireplace will be drastically reduced.

The best method to avoid this is to choose an appliance with an opening for the firebox that is low or a chimney venting system that is high. This will ensure that the heat is dissipated efficiently and safely.

Another consideration is the purpose for which the room will be used for. If it will be mostly used for entertaining, watching TV and relaxing, a bigger fireplace is a great option. However, if it's intended to be used as a second source of heating it is suggested that a lower-end fireplace be more suitable.

Most people prefer to put their fireplaces at eye level when they are sitting in chairs, which is about 40-42 inches away from the floor. Some people mount their fireplaces under a TV as well, and this could work, if the TV isn't too close to it or feel the heat.

It is also essential to think about the kind of fireplace you have and the storage that will be required above it. For example, if you have an electric fire, it can be convenient to install a sideboard cupboard or credenza on top of the fireplace to keep the surface free of clutter. This will give the fireplace an airy, modern appearance. It can also make the fireplace appear bigger.

Installation

A wall-mounted fireplace is a wonderful alternative to a media wall. It's ideal for homeowners who prefer a sleeker look that is more in keeping with the design of the wall and is also simpler to install than a fireplace built-in.

Begin by selecting a place that lets you move freely around the fireplace. Also, ensure that there aren't any flammable items in the area. Measure the length of your wall and make sure that it's wide enough to hold an existing fireplace that's at least 40-42" in height. It's also recommended to have a person assist with the installation of your fireplace, because it's heavy.

Based on the model of fireplace you pick it could need to be mounted directly to a stud wall or attached to a bracket that is installed on the wall. Refer to the owner's manual for instructions on how to install direct-to-wall models. If you're using a bracket-mounted model fix the bracket to the wall by using screws and wallboard toggle-bolt anchors. Utilize a stud-finder to determine the screw locations.

Once the bracket is set then attach the fireplace using the tabs on the bottom of the fireplace and the hooks at the top of the bracket. Follow the directions in the owner’s manual when your model has a front-glass panel that needs to be removed prior to installation.

If you're installing an electric built-in fireplace, you'll need to install the frame of the fireplace in the area you've specified on the wall before it can be fixed to the bracket. After that, you can either drill holes for the mounting bracket and smooth any rough areas of the wall.

Once you've drilled the holes, you can insert rawl plugs and screw them into the mounting bracket. Certain models of wall-mounted fireplaces also have hooks or slots on the back which means you can place the hooks at the back of the fireplace into slots on the mounting bracket.

Safety

The good news is that both ethanol and electric wall fireplaces are safe to use when the appropriate safety precautions are in place. This includes regular inspections of the fireplace to ensure it is in good working order and that no signs of wear and wear and tear are evident. It is also essential to keep the fireplace clear from any flammable material such as carpets, paper, and furniture. If you have children, make sure they are taught not to touch the flames and stay at a safe distance from the fireplace at all times. Be sure to turn off the flames before you go to bed or leave the house.

It is important to adhere to all instructions from the manufacturer when installing a wall fireplace. It is crucial to pay attention to the dimensions as well as the weight requirements and the heat clearance zone. If you are using an appliance above the fireplace, it's recommended to make sure that the TV and fireplace are within the proper heat zones. The extra weight from the television could put pressure on the fireplace which could cause it to collapse and hurt you or your family members.

Be aware of the fact that ethanol and electric wall fireplaces can generate high levels of heat, that can cause you to burn yourself should you get too close to it. Consider installing a screen that is safe to touch on your fireplace if you have children who are small. This will prevent them from getting burned. The screen will be at a low heat when the fireplace is on and will not burn anyone who touches.

It is also recommended to keep any flammable items, such as books and toys 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 or soot. This will reduce the chance of fire hazards.

One of the most common errors people make when installing fireplaces on walls is to forget to switch off the fireplace prior to going to go to bed or leaving the house. This is a grave mistake that can result in fires, electrical malfunctions, and even a fire.

Style

A wall-mounted fireplace is one of the most sought-after features that can be built into a media wall. 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 height of the fireplace, but also how much heat it generates. A fireplace that is designed to be recessed into a wall will typically blow the heat through a vent in the front of the unit. However, the fireplace mounted on a surface can blow the heat from either the top or the bottom. For media walls it is common to mount a fireplace recessed at a height of 40-42 inches above the floor. This allows you to see it from a seated location.

Although it is possible to find wall-mounted electric fireplaces in a variety of styles, it is generally recommended 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 well. A number of companies offer a variety of electric wall-mounted fireplaces, including Amantii and Dimplex. Both brands are known for their quality and quick to respond when customers provide feedback regarding how they can improve their products.

Another aspect to consider when designing a wall for media is whether the wall will be used to house a TV or other electronics. Some people prefer to use a recessed fireplace as an entertainment center, while others may want to have an amalgamation of a TV and a wall-mounted fireplace. Selecting a wall that is able to accommodate both will be more convenient and more efficient.

The main drawback to wall-mounted fireplaces is that it can feel more permanent than freestanding electric fireplaces equipped with a mantel. It is possible to move the appliance from one place to another, but it requires the mounting brackets to be replaced. If the fireplace is located in a stud, it will be difficult to install a TV or other components.