If you want to give your electric fireplace a more sophisticated built-in look, you can sink it into a wall. Here’s a step-by-step tutorial for how to recess a wall mount electric fireplace:
These are the materials you’ll need:
- Electric fireplace
- Measuring tape
- Stud finder
- Level
- Drywall saw
- Screwdriver
- Drill
- Screws
- Electrical tape
- Wire stripper
Don’t Want to Cut Open Your Wall? Alternatively, you can get an electric fireplace WITH a surround mantel. Therefore, you don’t have to cut a hole in your wall or build a framework around your firebox to achieve that finished look.
This all-in-one package includes both the fireplace and surround mantel, AND you can plug it into a standard 120V outlet (that you can conveniently hide behind the fireplace).
Step 1: Decide Where You Want Your Fireplace
Since electric fireplaces don’t require venting or chimneys, you have more options as far as where you can put them. For example, some people install these units in a bathroom, a kitchen or a master bedroom.
That said, the best location is usually against a wall with no windows or doors. You also want to allow room around the hearth for furniture (unless it’s in a bathroom). Then, measure the height and width of the fireplace and mark the center point on the wall.
Step 2: Find and Mark the Wall Studs
Next, use a stud finder to locate the studs in the wall where you want to install the electric fireplace. Then, mark the center point of each stud on the wall.
Draw a vertical line on the wall at the center point you marked in Step 1. This line will help you align the fireplace with the wall.
Step 3: Cut a Hole in the Wall to Recess Your Fireplace
Once you have your lines drawn, cut a hole in the wall using a drywall saw according to the fireplace dimensions. Make sure to cut around the studs, as you’ll need them to mount the fireplace.
Step 4: Mount the Fireplace Bracket
Next, mount the bracket that came with your electric fireplace onto the wall, using screws and the studs you located in Step 2. Make sure the bracket is level and secure.
Step 5: Hardwire the Electric Fireplace
Connect the wires from the electric fireplace to the electrical supply in your home. Use electrical tape to secure any exposed wires and a wire stripper to strip the wires to the correct length.
Step 6: Install Fireplace Into the Wall
Slide the electric fireplace into the bracket you mounted in Step 5. Then, check that it fits securely in place.
Most units come with a frame or surround to create a clean, finished look for the hearth. Therefore, you typically don’t have to buy an additional surround to cover up the hole you cut in your wall.
Step 7: Test Your Recessed Electric Fireplace
Turn on your electric fireplace to ensure it functions properly. In addition, check the heater/blower (if applicable) to make sure they work too.
Recessing a wall mount electric fireplace can be a DIY project for handy homeowners, but always make sure to follow safety guidelines and manufacturer instructions.
Alternatively, you can hire a professional to do the work, and you can feel good that you’ll still save money over a standard fireplace build.