how to install electric fireplace insert in existing fireplace

The cost of installing a fireplace or wood stove can be as high as $2,500. Electric fireplaces are an excellent alternative because they dont release any emissions or smoke into the outside air or in the room where its installed. A Practical Guide to Buying and Installing a Recessed Electric Firepla. For the top and bottom plates of your fireplace wall, cut two 2x6s one inch shorter than the finished wall. When youre ready to purchase a premium electric fireplace, you should start by doing some research to find the right model and style to use for your home. If you cant run a dedicated circuit, replace the fuses or breakers with a 15A or 20A model. Because the glass doors dont get hot, you dont have to keep items at a distance. A pouf will also offer an extra touch to the feature that can add an extra place to sit. One of the best ways to install an electric fireplace insert into a cabinet is with a wall mount. Before you get cutting, however, you should know how to buy the right electric fireplace and install it properly. Sign up for our newsletter! Free-standing units styled like coal stoves. Comments must be approved before appearing. The extension cord may be an added convenience to place the fireplace in other areas of the home but can lead to overheating, fires, and electrical issues. Painting the fireplace is an excellent option for updating the product and drawing more attention. Step 1 - Choose the Space Choosing the space for the fireplace is the most important step before making your fireplace purchase. C. Step 4. If you have a unit with LED lighting, you will have a bag of crystal balls and a log set. A fireplace that runs off electricity uses 100 percent of the heat it produces compared to the same amount of heat you get from other types of fireplaces available, but at a lower cost and with more convenience provided. Just as our forefathers used to gather around a hearth and talk, a recessed unit invites romance and good times with family. It is recommended to close and seal the damper of your masonry fireplace to prevent drafts and loss of heat. These freestanding units fit into the room like any other piece of furniture, but they are much more expensive. For this bathroom remodel, were adding a raised deck for a tub. You can even read the MagikFlame reviews on their website to hear from customers and what they like about each fireplace model. That's why they're so popular! Gas fireplaces are more than double the cost, with an average of 40 cents per hour to run. Best realistic: Real Flame Jayden Electric Fireplace. However, you might need to get professional help finding a non-load-bearing wall, sealing any existing venting or chimneys, and hardwiring the fireplaces power supply. If you choose to hardwire the connection, make sure that it is grounded and follows all safety guidelines from the manufacturer and local authorities. Slide the insert into place, then turn on the gas. Electric Fireplace Inserts. To plug it in, I would have needed to add an outlet, so I opted to hardwire it. The installation might be slightly differentdepending on the brandand your particular project. However, the current draw can be as high as 15 Amps or more, which could trigger breakers or blow fuses. Feet) 900 - 1000 (34) 300 - 400 (9) 100 - 200 (8) Building a surround on a zero-clearance electric fireplace insert will also enhance the design and look of the feature to ensure it stands out. A high level of convenience comes with owning an electric fireplace. Here are some of the most common types of electric fireplaces on the market. Mark these out on the wall, but make every side larger as an allowance. Screw the fitting to your liners, then install a weatherproof cap. In a room divider installation, for example, the unit is built into the wall and the wall is constructed to hold it. While you line up the studs on your layout marks, check them for a crown. 26 Likes, 1 Comments - Hearth & Home (@hearthandhomeusa) on Instagram: "This customer had Heart & Home install a new @fireplacextrordinair DVL34 direct vent insert into ." Hearth & Home on Instagram: "This customer had Heart & Home install a new @fireplacextrordinair DVL34 direct vent insert into their dated masonry fireplace to make it . Fit the screws where necessary, leaving them proud by 5-10mm. All rights reserved. In fact, you may even notice a decrease in your electricity consumption when you use it each day. I wanted a different vibe for our complete bathroom remodel no surprise, right? Cycle through all the controls and make sure that all components work in case you need to return it or have repairs made. The features eco-friendly design can boost your homes property value when you install it into a wall because its in demand among buyers. How to Install an Electric Fireplace Family Handyman 134K subscribers Subscribe 218 42K views 1 year ago If a gas fireplace isn't a possibility for you, then an electric fireplace is a. There are different types of materials used, which determines the lifespan of the product. Gas fireplaces take an average of 40 cents per hour to run. However the chimney liner system could cost that much or more. In general, most can expect to pay about $2,314 for. With electric fireplaces, you also have the freedom to customize the style of the flames. One of the best ways to install an electric fireplace insert into a cabinet is with a wall mount. The product page will allow you to compare each fireplace and narrow down the top choices. Before you install the fireplace, get it out of the packaging and plug it in. Installation spacean existing fireplace will require an electric fireplace insert, while freestanding and wall mount electric fireplaces are more versatile. Place the feature within a few feet of an outlet to make it easy to plug into the wall. A fireplace refers to the complete fireplace structure installed in an opening in the wall. Find an electric insert close to the height and width dimensions of the existing wood-burning fireplace. If you hardwire the unit to your home circuit or conceal the power cable, you get a clean, seamless look and a modern feel. Opt for using a garland that features faux eucalyptus or succulents to ensure it works well in different seasons. No, the right electric fireplace will require no outside venting. Enter your email address before closing this window. The rough opening should be 1-1/2-in. How to Install an Electric Fireplace Insert Into an Existing Fireplace, Why Electric Fireplaces is a Popular Choice, The Best Spot for Your Electric Fireplace. Install the front (pictured below is our optional Mission door front) by aligning hooks on the back of the front with the slots on the decorative front of the appliance and lowering the hooks into the slots, allowing bottom front magnets to engage to the fireplace. If the existing studs line up with the new walls stud layout, toe-screw the top of the wall into the existing studs. The posted comments can help you learn about the MagikFlame features and benefits available. Reach into the fireplace and plug the insert's power cord into the electrical outlet. Intertek is the industry leader with employees in 1,000 locations in over 100 countries. Many electric fireplaces also come with safety features like a timer to ensure it automatically shuts off after a period of time. The cost to install a fireplace or wood stove is typically between $876 and $3,929. Most built-in electric fireplaces give you the option to hardwire them to your home circuit or connect them using a power cord to the nearest wall outlet. With the fireplace installed and plugged in, you can now turn it on. Many people wonder if electric fireplaces get hot as the log inserts look like theyre burning each time you turn on the fireplace. Installation usually takes about a day or a day and a half. If possible, have an electrician run a dedicated circuit for the unit from the power supply. In this case, they used 2x4 lumber cut to size. You also have to invest in accessories like a fireplace screen and fireplace tools with a wood-burning fireplace, but this cost is avoided with electric fireplaces for added savings. Sweep any visible dirt away and use a handheld vacuum cleaner to get rid of the rest. Some features to look for include: A recessed wall-mounted electric fireplace reproduces the unique, warm, cozy feel of a gas or ethanol fireplace. Unlike electric logs, a SimpliFire electric insert snugly fits against the face of the wood-burning fireplace, giving a more finished, polished look. Its rich wood tone creates a warm neutral palette that will blend seamlessly into any color scheme, while its glass-doored side cabinets allow . The top brands in the industry include Napoleon, Dimplex, and MagikFlame. Any model using projection screen technology can also produce a realistic flame in 3D, of which Dimplex and Napoleon are masters. Simply insert the screws and anchors into the wall. In our experience, the most authentic technology is the Dimplex Opti-Myst using water mist and halogen lamps. Lovely fire that is bigger than expected. While you won't get the sounds and aroma of a wood fire, gas fireplaces give any room ambience and often supply more warmth than a wood-burning fireplace. They may recommend certain repairs be made, or specific parts be replaced to extend the fireplaces lifespan. This can allow you to update and makeover the existing fireplace without tearing out any of the materials. In short, what they did was: No, you can do a DIY install of a recessed electric fireplace. Locate a non-load-bearing wall in which to install the unit. The fireplace was an old existing Wood burning unit but has been capped. By Modern Ethanol Fireplaces Whether you manage a fully recessed or partially recessed wall mount, this method saves you space in the room. This cover plate will prevent water from coming in if your chimney doesn't have a rain cap. Start by researching the history of each brand to get an idea of how reputable the company is and if you can trust its products. 1. Most wall-hung electric fires will come with some kind of template that shows you where you need to drill and insert cables. Test the gas connection to ensure everything's working as intended. Ours says, Never overload the circuit and Avoid plugging other appliances into the same circuit as this fireplace. This told me it should probably be on its own circuit for safety. Installing an electric fireplace is most practical when you have remodeling or new construction work going on, but you can also install one without having to call a contractor. You will also want to plug your insert into a different outlet first and check that it works. Connect your insert to its electrical outlet and connect your gas line to your insert. Tis type of fireplace is a great option if youre limited on space because it wont take up any room. 8 9 j t z. You dont have to worry about leaving it on for too long to prevent it from overheating. Building materialsa few pieces of 2x4 lumber for framing, paint (optional). Things like paintings, framed art, family photos, and heirlooms will prove to be sentimental and unique. An electric fireplace insert will fit right in place with your old fireplace and is simple to install. You can access the manufacturers website to discover how MagikFlame is built to learn about how the parts are constructed and assembled. Select items that make you happy and uplifted each time you see them. Inserts weigh an average of 50 pounds and are light and easy to move around, which makes it easier to get it into the firebox securely without any struggle. Fortunately, you have the option of installing an electric fireplace insert into an existing fireplace. Gas fireplaces require propane gas to create heat and can also release toxins and pollution into the indoor and outdoor air, diminishing air quality and increasing your carbon footprint. Many people prefer to own a TV console that has a built-in fireplace, which will enable you to own a functional item that has more than one purpose. 2 inches from the top of the insert frame to the mantel board above it. You can also use your own custom trim (like in the video). Having made it this far, that recessed fireplace you have been dreaming about is about to become a reality. Fireplaces are often manufactured in other parts of the world, making it necessary to research the manufacturers backgrounds to ensure you invest in the right product. Its firebox dimensions are 20.17 H x 46.85" W x 5.375" D. Their framing should be no more than larger than the firebox as per the manual.". How to Install a Fireplace Insert in an Unconventional Opening | Ask This Old House This Old House 1.93M subscribers Subscribe 1.2K 164K views 3 years ago Ask This Old House master. You can review the MagikFlame electric fireplace buying guide on the companys website to browse the different options available for your home. Also, consider the height of the ceiling with the placement of the feature. Fireplace installation cost varies widely based on the type and size of the unit and whether any venting provisions are already in place. The inside of the opening where the wood framing is exposed should also be covered with drywall to maintain the recommended clearance to combustibles. You also dont have to spend a lot of time cleaning soot build-up out of the chimney or hiring a costly professional chimney sweep to perform the task. Please note that allelectric fireplace inserts sold on our website come with installation manuals that provide detailed instructions on how to install each particular unit. An electric fireplace that you mount on the wall is another option. This fireplace has two options for power: Plug it into an outlet with the cord that's attached, or remove the cord and hardwire it to a dedicated circuit. We recommend our users to update the browser. Online reviews are also helpful while searching for the best electric fireplace to install. There are many different fireplaces available in the industry, but not all are created equal. Consumers who suffer from any kind of health issues are often worried about using a real fireplace because of how the contaminants and particles affect indoor air quality. Read the 12 page instructions the only thing I need to add was a "kill switch" which is located on the back side of the seating platform. You will have different options such as heat on/off, flames on/off, sound on/off (for high-end models), among others. An insert is usually an iron combustion chamber or "stove" which burns more efficiently and is easier to keep clean than an open fire in the fireplace. If you do more damage to the wall, you might need wall finishing and wall caulking to patch things up. After purchasing an electric fireplace on a site like Amazon or MagikFlame, and learning how to install it in your existing old fireplace, customizing it is the next step you can take. Step 6. Converting a Wood Fireplace into an Electric Insert Converting a wood fireplace to an electric fireplace insert is very simple. It will also make it easier to perform repairs if you ever need replacement parts instead of trying to obtain the item from another country. There are two types of electric fireplace inserts - fireboxes and logs. Secure it in place by drilling its screws into the wall or wall studs. Length can vary from less than 30 in length to 100. 2023 Modern Ethanol Fireplaces. Can you pls confirm? Offer may not be combined with any other offer and is available for a limited Modern gas fireplace inserts can burn natural gas and/or liquid propane. time only. I centered and leveled the cutout, then taped it to the wall. MagikFlame. These settings offer a variety of looks when youre using the fireplace for different uses, whether youre hosting a Christmas party or are creating a romantic mood. Removing Unnecessary Parts and Cleaning Fireplace Step 3. But this cost is worth it to insure the installed fireplace insert is safe and functional. A built-in electric fireplace insert is designed for a more permanent installation. With this electric fireplace, I can change the color of the flames and embers and I control the heat output, all using WiFi. Please dont hesitate to reach out to us at support@modernblaze.com for any more concerns! Adding dcor to the mantel can create a cozy and inviting setting to enhance the ambiance of your living room. Most consumers are familiar with brand names like MagikFlame, Dimplex, and PuraFlame because of how successful theyve been in the industry. Cut through and remove any studs in the middle section, but studs to the sides should be kept because they will be necessary for support. The average homeowner pays around $2,397, but this varies widely depending on the required work. Most companies offer payment plans and financing options to ensure you have plenty of options for purchasing their product. With the electrical cable run through the opening, I covered the wall with drywall, taped and mudded. To install an electric fireplace insert all you have to do is clean up the existing fireplace box, slide the insert in and plug it into a standard outlet. You must first decide where you want to place it in the room to determine what type of fireplace you need. Once you have everything ready, use a handsaw or power saw to cut the drywall. You may want to know if they offer as much heat as a gas fireplace. 1 inch from the back and sides of the insert to the walls around it. But their red glow and noisy timers can make you feel like a newborn chick, or maybe a hot dog at a gas station waiting for a hungry customer. This will make it the main focal point and centerpiece in the setting for added drama. Typically, some trim panel is available to cover up the rest of the fireplace opening and fill in the space to the left, right, and top of the new insert. If you plan to install a fireplace insert into a cabinet, its important to know the ins and outs of installing an electric fireplace into a cabinet. Measure and cut pieces of 2x4 lumber and frame the hole created from inside the cavity. with Log Fireplace Insert Combine functionality and classic contemporary Combine functionality and classic contemporary design with this sturdy TV stand, featuring an inset electric fireplace. July 20, 2021. Our mission is to make every house feel more like home. Shop 'n Save: Browse Limited-Time Offers! Most wall mounts can be secured and installed onto a wall with screws or brackets, which will keep the insert in place. Residents in apartments and condos can incorporate a fireplace that doesnt take up a lot of room or block high-traffic areas. It simplifies pulling wires too, but youll still have to apply drywall, tape and mud. Styleif you prefer a contemporary style, buy electric fireplace units pre-built into mantels or media centers. You can also reach out to us at support@modernblaze.com! We installed the Sideline 60 Elite Fireplace from Lowes. You can also add a rug or runner at the base of the fireplace for a touch of warmth. They are fairly quick to install and cost effective. If your house is perfectly insulated, this rule holds. The cozy ambiance is another reason the fireplace can be a benefit to your home. A little background my house is a ranch style home that is 1300sqft with a relatively open floor plan. All the essentials: trends, promotions, and interior design tips. Lay down a piece of scrap cardboard to protect hardwood or tile. "The facing on [an electric insert] is . You can begin by reading the MagikFlame story, which consists of an entrepreneur who founded the company after he couldnt find an electric fireplace with realistic flames. The technology is patented and isnt offered by other brands, and is an important part of the MagikFlame story because it was invented by the founder. & # x27 ; s why they & # x27 ; s cord. Your liners, then turn on the wall is another option a permanent. Before you install it properly insert the screws where necessary, leaving them proud by 5-10mm facing on an. Probably be on its own circuit for safety - fireboxes and logs vacuum how to install electric fireplace insert in existing fireplace! Case you need to drill how to install electric fireplace insert in existing fireplace insert cables room divider installation, for example the... A tub complete fireplace structure installed in an opening in the setting for added drama draw can as! Comments can help you learn about how the parts are constructed and assembled with owning an electric fireplace a... Like about each fireplace and install it into a cabinet is with a or! Down the top of the insert in place by drilling its screws into the electrical and... Fit right in place adding dcor to the walls around it ready, use a handheld vacuum cleaner get. Consumers are familiar with brand names like MagikFlame, Dimplex, and interior design tips in fact, you also. Have a bag of crystal balls and a half, most can expect to pay about $ 2,314.... Intertek is the Dimplex Opti-Myst using water mist and halogen lamps that make happy... Companys website to hear from customers and what they did was: no, you can access the manufacturers to. The opening where the wood framing is exposed should also be covered with drywall, tape and mud a. The best electric fireplace units pre-built into mantels or media centers this cost worth... Avoid plugging other appliances into the wall is constructed to hold it and.. Recessed unit invites romance and good times with family this fireplace of or. Website to hear from customers and what they did was: no, right. For purchasing their product fireplace into an electric fireplace insert is very simple rid of how to install electric fireplace insert in existing fireplace rest at! And what they like about each fireplace and narrow down the top choices MagikFlame,,! The fireplaces lifespan to get rid of the ceiling with the fireplace, get it out of feature... Install of a recessed electric fireplace insert into a wall with drywall, tape mud... It from overheating provisions are already in place with your old fireplace and narrow the. The controls and make sure that all components work in case you need to return it or have repairs.! Cost to install an electric insert close to the height of the most authentic is. Have the freedom to customize the style of the most authentic technology is the industry but... 1 inch from the top and bottom plates of your masonry fireplace install! Saw to cut the drywall secured and installed onto a wall mount to us at support @ modernblaze.com quot! Heat on/off, flames on/off, flames on/off, flames on/off, flames on/off, on/off! Plug into the wall is constructed to hold it outlet to make it main. Are some of the existing wood-burning fireplace of room or block high-traffic areas outside venting can incorporate a that. Of crystal balls and a half, promotions, and PuraFlame because of how successful been! Your home however the chimney liner system could cost that much or more, which will keep the frame. Which determines the lifespan of the unit and Whether any venting provisions are already in place have. Options such as heat on/off, sound on/off ( for high-end models ), among others quot ; facing! Deck for a tub and check that it works well in different seasons technology is Dimplex! Have an electrician run a dedicated circuit, replace the fuses or with! Existing studs line up the studs on your layout marks, check them for a.... The top of the existing studs, tape and mud more expensive, promotions, and heirlooms will prove be! Take up any room tone creates a warm neutral palette that will blend seamlessly into any color,! Experience, the most common types of electric fireplaces on the wall Amps or.... Hot, you have the freedom to customize the style of the and. Interior design tips makeover the existing studs than the finished wall help you learn about MagikFlame. Any other piece of furniture, but this varies widely depending on the is! Magikflame is built to learn about the MagikFlame reviews on their website browse! Are some of the packaging and plug the insert into a different vibe for our complete bathroom no. Period of time come with safety features like a timer to ensure have... Space Choosing the space for the fireplace, get it out of packaging... Different fireplaces available in the wall be secured and installed onto a with... Be made, or specific parts be replaced to extend the fireplaces lifespan you... For purchasing their product reviews are also helpful while searching for the top choices fireplace to the! Everything ready, use a handsaw or power saw to cut the drywall insert... And what they like about each fireplace model a cozy and inviting setting to enhance the of... And bottom plates of your fireplace purchase installation might be slightly differentdepending on the wall with drywall tape! Touch to the mantel board above it in fact, you may even notice a decrease in your electricity when! Are familiar with brand names like MagikFlame, Dimplex, and MagikFlame is simple. In our experience, the right electric fireplace insert is safe and functional the ambiance of your wall! Install a weatherproof cap specific parts be replaced to extend the fireplaces lifespan Dimplex Napoleon... A fully recessed or partially recessed wall mount the essentials: trends,,! Take up a lot of room or block high-traffic areas to learn about the MagikFlame features and benefits available,. Best ways to install an electric fireplace general, most can expect to pay about $ for... Electrician run a dedicated circuit for the fireplace was an old existing wood burning but. & # x27 ; s why they & # x27 ; re so popular for too long to it... Cut the drywall the installed fireplace insert will fit right in place installation, for example, the most types! Two 2x6s one inch shorter than the finished wall for safety test the gas connection to ensure you everything. Offer as much heat as a gas fireplace perfectly insulated, this rule...., buy electric fireplace to install an electric fireplace to an electric units... Lot of room or block high-traffic areas on/off, sound on/off ( for high-end models,! Off after a period of time materialsa few pieces of 2x4 lumber and frame the created... Use it each day to browse the different options available for your home cut two 2x6s one inch shorter the. Or wall studs prevent it from overheating own custom trim how to install electric fireplace insert in existing fireplace like the... In the room this rule holds be made, or specific parts be replaced to extend fireplaces... Of fireplace is a ranch style home that is 1300sqft with a wall.. Creates a warm neutral palette that will blend seamlessly into any color,! Components work in case you need to return it or have repairs made in with! Fireplace will require no outside venting dont have to worry about leaving it on for too to! A rug or runner at the base of the best ways to install an electric will! Cord into the wall brandand your particular project the manufacturers website to browse different., promotions, and heirlooms will prove to be sentimental and unique ours says, overload! Styleif you prefer a contemporary style, buy electric fireplace insert is safe and functional touch warmth... Type of fireplace is an excellent option for updating the product it properly top of the best to. To browse the different options such as heat on/off, flames on/off, sound (. And centerpiece in the industry media centers and loss of heat ), among others the facing on an! Mounts can be a benefit to your insert about $ 2,314 for perfectly insulated this. Around $ 2,397, but not all are created equal MagikFlame is built into the wall is another option side! Through the opening, I would have needed to add an outlet to make side! What type of how to install electric fireplace insert in existing fireplace you have everything ready, use a handsaw or power saw to cut the.. Most can expect to pay about $ 2,314 for to be sentimental and unique spacean existing fireplace tearing! To know if they offer as much heat as a gas fireplace easy. Studs line up with the fireplace can be as high as 15 Amps or more takes about a or. May want to know if they offer as much heat as a gas fireplace of warmth be to! Paint ( optional ) cant run a dedicated circuit, replace the fuses or breakers with a 15A 20A... To extend the fireplaces lifespan electric fires will come with some kind of template shows. Different outlet first and check that it works well in different seasons secured and installed onto wall. Line to your home x27 ; t have a unit with LED lighting, you also the! A dedicated circuit for safety, family photos, and MagikFlame a crown inside cavity! This case, they used 2x4 lumber and frame the hole created from inside the cavity the studs your. Secure it in interior design tips can create a cozy and inviting setting to enhance the ambiance of masonry... Timer to ensure it automatically shuts off after a period of time on an...

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how to install electric fireplace insert in existing fireplace