How to Install an interlligent ethanol Fireplace in the Wall
The first thing that you’ll need to decide even before purchasing your fireplace is whether or not you want to install it within the wall or simply hang it. Some inserts can be recessed into the wall to make the face of the fireplace run flush with the wall. This give your fireplace a custom and contemporary look.
When choosing to recess your intelligent insert, you also need to consider whether you have enough space within the wall. You will need to find an area that does not have any electrical boxes, wiring, plumbing pipes, etc that will get in the way. The other option that you can use is to build the wall outwards to accommodate your wall fireplace.
Installing a Recessed Wall Ethanol Fireplace
Installing a recessed wall fireplace will require some cutting, patching, and finish work. If you’re the handy Do-It-Yourself type, you can take it on as a weekend project. If not, you should hire a licensed professional to install it for you.
Installation instructions vary based on manufacturer and model. Always follow the installation guides that were sent with your ethanol fireplace. All hardware should be included. You can expect to find metal mounting brackets, screws, a mounting plate, and pins. If you’re installing your electric fireplace into a masonry wall, you’ll have to use masonry anchors and screws. This is provided within your installation kit but you can easily purchase them from your local hardware store.
Below are simple steps to help you install your recessed wall fireplace. For reference, you can use this Installation Guide for the Dimplex Two-Sided Firebox.
Step 1: Designating the right Location
Locate studs behind sheetrock. Depending on the size of your ethanol fireplace, your wall may have to support a considerable amount of weight. Never mount a wall fireplace to drywall!
Make sure that you have an electric outlet located close by and beneath the unit. You want the electrical outlet to be below the fireplace because the rising warm air will blow into your outlet. When possible, replace nearby outlets with non-flammable coverings.
Step 2: Hardwire vs Plugin Installation
There are hardwire and plugin units. A hardwired unit is “hardwired” directly into the wiring of your home. Plugin units have a standard 120V 3 prong that plugs directly into wall outlets. Never use extension cords to connect your electric fireplace or this could happen.
Hardwired units look better because they can be hidden in the wall and you don’t have to worry about loose connections. The only downside is that you’ll need a licensed electrician to do this for you. Plug-ins are easier but they don’t offer the clean aesthetics of a hidden wire. Still, you can find creative ways to hide unsightly wall outlets.
Hardwire Electrc ethanol Fireplaces: Builders Box Contemporary 220V, Dimplex Galveston Wall Mount, and the Wakefield Espresso.
Plug in Wall Fireplaces: Dzonlic, Bliss Electric Fire Display, and the Serenity.
Step 3: Opening the Wall and Building a Frame
Cut open the wall using a reciprocating saw. Once you’ve opened up the wall, you will need to build a frame using 2×4’s according to the dimensions of your electric fireplace. Learn how to measure the dimensions of your fireplace correctly.
Place the unit inside the frame. Use shims to level the unit and verify that the fireplace is balanced with a leveler. This is one of the most important steps. When you’re certain that the unit is level, you can attach the fireplace to the box frame using the provided mounting brackets and screws.
Step 4: Wiring
For hardwired units, strip your wires ½” from the end. For safety and the best connections, you should use twist on wire connectors like these.(LINK) Don’t make the beginners error and finish everything up without first testing your electrical connection. Turn on your electric fireplace and make sure that all programs are functioning correctly.
Step 5: Adding the Finishing Touches
When all of the internal installation is complete, you can patch up the wall. Most units will come with a trim piece that will help cover up the area where the fireplace and drywall meet. Make your drywall come as close as possible for a clean finish.
Texturize and paint the wall before attaching trim pieces. Make sure that you use painters tape and painters plastic to protect your electric fireplace. When everything is dry and complete, you can attach the trim and enjoy your new recessed wall mount fireplace!
Installing a wall hung electric ethanol fireplace is much simpler. It’s much like hanging a large picture frame or a large piece of artwork. You will need nails that are long (2”) and sturdy to make sure that they can support the weight of your electric fireplace. Keep in mind, drywall is normally ½” thick so make sure your screws are long enough to get a deep grip into your studs.
You can use a stud finder like this one or use the tap on the wall trick to locate studs. Most of these units are plugin so you can simply plug your electrical wire into the closest outlet and enjoy!
Conclusion
Wall mounted electric ethanol fireplaces have a very contemporary look. By elevating your fireplace, this feature is more prominent in your home. It looks sleek, modern, and stylish. If installing a wall fireplace isn’t a feasible solution, you can always consider standard electric inserts which slide into your existing firebox and offer simple installation procedures.
