Joseph is an HVAC technician and a hobbyist blogger. He’s been working as an HVAC technician for almost 13 years, and he started blogging just...Read more
If you’re looking to add a touch of luxury and warmth to your home, an electric fireplace insert is a great option. They’re easy to install, and can be placed in any room that has an existing fireplace.
- First, find the spot where you want to install your electric fireplace insert
- If you’re installing it in an existing fireplace, make sure that the flue is open and that there’s no debris in the firebox
- Next, measure the dimensions of your electric fireplace insert to make sure it will fit properly in the chosen spot
- Once you have the correct measurements, mark out the area where the insert will go with a pencil or chalk so you know where to cut
- If necessary, use a saw to cut out any openings for your electric fireplace insert
- Be sure to wear safety goggles and gloves while doing this
- Now it’s time to install the actual insert
- Start by connecting all of the wiring according to the manufacturer’s instructions
- Once everything is hooked up, carefully place the insert into the opening and secure it in place with screws or brackets (depending on what type of installation kit you purchased)
- be careful not to damage any wiring while doing this! 6
- Finally, turn on your electric fireplace insert by flipping the switch located on the unit itself or on a wall switch near
What Tools Will I Need to Install an Electric Fireplace Insert
Assuming you would like a detailed list of tools needed to install an electric fireplace insert:
-Tape measure
-Level
-Drill and appropriate drill bits (1/8”, 3/16”)
-Screwdriver set
-Phillips and flathead
-Socket wrench with extension cord and metric sockets (10,13,15mm) OR adjustable wrench
-Hammer
-Pry bar or crowbar
-High temp silicone caulk and caulking gun
-Putty knife
Additional materials:
-Fireplace insert
-L brackets (4)
-Anchoring screws (#10 x 3” pan head Phillips screws) (4)
The first thing you want to do is make sure that the area where the fireplace will be placed is level. Measure the space using a tape measure and then use a level to check if it is even. If the area is not level, you will need to adjust it before continuing with the installation process.
Next, use the drill to create pilot holes for the L brackets. Once the pilot holes are created, screw in the L brackets using the anchoring screws. Be sure that they are screwed in tightly so that they can support the weight of the fireplace insert.
With the L brackets in place, it is now time to place the electric fireplace insert into position. Make sure that it is centered on the opening of your existing fireplace and then use high temp silicone caulk to seal any gaps around it. Use a putty knife to smooth out any excess caulk so that it looks clean when dry.
How Do I Measure for the Correct Size of Electric Fireplace Insert
If you’re looking to add an electric fireplace insert to your home, one of the first things you’ll need to do is measure for the correct size. This can seem like a daunting task, but with a little planning and some basic knowledge of fireplaces, it’s actually quite easy. Here are a few tips on how to measure for the correct size of electric fireplace insert:
The first thing you’ll need to do is measure the existing opening in your fireplace. You’ll want to take note of the width, height and depth of the opening. Once you have these measurements, you can start shopping for an electric fireplace insert that will fit snugly into the space.
When measuring for width, be sure to leave enough room on either side of the insert for proper ventilation. Most electric fireplace inserts require at least 4 inches of clearance on each side. As for height, most inserts are designed to fit flush with the top of your fireplace opening.
However, if your space is limited, there are also shallower models available that only protrude a few inches from the front of the firebox.
Finally, depth is probably the most important measurement when choosing an electric fireplace insert. The average depth of an electric fireplace insert is about 12 inches; however, some models can be as shallow as 6 inches or as deep as 18 inches.
It’s important to choose an insert that fits snugly into your fireplace so that there’s no risk of it tipping over or becoming loose over time.
How Do I Prepare the Area Where the Electric Fireplace Insert Will Be Installed
If you’re planning to install an electric fireplace insert, there are a few things you’ll need to do in order to prepare the area. First, you’ll need to make sure that the area where the fireplace will be installed is structurally sound. It’s important that the area can support the weight of the fireplace, as well as any additional weight that might be added when the fireplace is in use.
You should also check for any potential fire hazards in the area, and make sure that there’s adequate ventilation. Once you’ve done all of this, you can move on to preparing the actual space for installation.
Start by measuring the space where the fireplace will go.
This will ensure that you purchase an insert that fits properly. Next, remove any flammable materials from around the area – this includes things like curtains, carpets, and furniture. If there’s anything else in the way of where you want to install the fireplace, now would be a good time to move it out of the way too.
Once everything is cleared out, give the area a good clean so that dust and dirt doesn’t get trapped underneath or around your new electric fireplace insert. And finally, once everything is ready, you can go ahead and install your new electric fireplace!
What are the Steps Involved in Installing an Electric Fireplace Insert
Assuming you have already selected and purchased an electric fireplace insert, the first step is to ensure that you have a completely level surface on which to install it. If not, the unit will not operate properly and could be a safety hazard. Next, measure the opening of your fireplace to make sure the insert will fit snugly but not too tightly.
Once you have determined where in the fireplace the insert will go, mark those dimensions on the floor in front of the hearth so you know where to cut.
Now it’s time to prepare for installation by disconnecting any power sources to the area – this includes shutting off gas lines if your fireplace is gas-powered. Remove any existing wood or artificial logs from inside the firebox as well as anything blocking access to the back of the fireplace such as wires or pipes.
Also remove any ashes or debris from previous fires.
Using a saw, cut out a rectangle in front of your fireplace according to the measurements you took earlier for your electric fireplace insert. Be extra careful when cutting through any wiring – if you’re unsure, consult a professional electrician before proceeding.
With help from another person, lift the insert into place and secure it using screws or bolts at either side (according to manufacturer’s instructions). It’s important that it is installed level and flush with both sides of the opening.
Now all that’s left is connecting your electric fireplace insert to its power source – typically this can be done by running an extension cord from a nearby outlet (again, following manufacturer’s instructions).
Once plugged in, turn on your unit using either a switch on its exterior or a remote control, and adjust settings as desired. That’s it!
How to Install a Fireplace Insert in an Unconventional Opening | Ask This Old House
Conclusion
If you’re looking to add a little extra warmth to your home this winter, an electric fireplace insert is a great option. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to install one:
1. Choose the right location for your electric fireplace insert.
It should be placed in an area that doesn’t have any flammable materials nearby.
2. Remove any existing fireplaces or inserts from the chosen location. If there’s an old gas line present, have it capped off by a professional before proceeding.
3. Follow the instructions that come with your electric fireplace insert to assemble it. Once it’s together, place it in the opening and secure it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Hang the glass face of the fireplace insert using the provided screws or brackets.
Make sure it’s level and secure before moving on to Step 5.
5. Install the surround trim around the edge of the fireplace opening, using finish nails or screws as needed.
Joseph is an HVAC technician and a hobbyist blogger. He’s been working as an HVAC technician for almost 13 years, and he started blogging just a couple of years ago. Joseph loves to talk about HVAC devices, their uses, maintenance, installation, fixing, and different problems people face with their HVAC devices. He created Hvacbuster to share his knowledge and decade of experiences with people who don’t have any prior knowledge about these devices.
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