5 Best Wall Mount Electric Fireplaces: A Basic Guide

Memories are made at the fireplace. Many an evening is spent there, hunkered down, gathering warmth as we trade stories with family and friends to raucous laughter, or seated silently, watching the flames.

For many homeowners (and future homeowners), an ideal family room cannot be complete without a beautiful fireplace. It’s a hallowed spot, a blank canvas on which to paint the beautiful memories that fill our lives with joy and gladness.

Technology has created a version of this household feature that’s easier to use and maintain: the wall mount electric fireplace. Like the ethanol fireplace, the electric fireplace doesn’t need a chimney for venting. Its cost-effectiveness, energy efficiency, and longevity make it an attractive option to the contemporary homeowner.

However, not all electric fireplaces are the same. With so many options available, which alternative is ideal for you? In this article, we break down the various options and set you firmly on the path of making your memories.

The Top 5 Picks

Here’s a breakdown of the 5 Wall Mounted Electric Fireplaces:

Dimplex Prism 74’’ Wall Mounted Electric Fireplace

If you’re looking for an electric fireplace that combines technology and genuine craftsmanship, the Dimplex prism 74’’ Wall Mounted Electric Fireplace is the ideal choice for you.

This 19.5’’  by 74.25’’ by 7’’ artistic masterpiece has an acrylic bed ember with diamond-like chunks that sparkle as they reflect light from the artificial LED flames. Its sleek frame can be recessed into your wall to give you that perfect finish. 

Moreover, the Prism 74’’ is simple to install and operate. Once it's mounted, all you have to do is plug it into a standard 120 V power outlet and use its remote control to scroll through an array of heating and color options, themes, and flame types to find the ideal pick.

In addition to its stunning looks and simple installation and operation, the Dimplex remains a highly effective fireplace option.

Its in-built heater caters to an enclosed heating area of 400 square feet, keeping the room cozy enough. This heater can be turned off during the warm seasons, enabling you to enjoy the ambiance created by the reflected light even during the warm seasons.

Most importantly, this electric fireplace has a glass front that remains cool to touch even with the heater on, ensuring your safety and that of your loved ones. A sleep timer gives you even more control over your environment by enabling you to set the ‘off’ time in advance.

Pros

• Attractive, sleek design
• Realistic flame
• Quiet
• Easy to set up

Cons 

• Relatively bulky

Touchstone 80042 - Sideline Elite Electric Fireplace

The Sideline Elite 80042 has two heat settings: high and low, with a thermostat range of between 68 and 88 degrees Fahrenheit. Its heat vents are positioned strategically at the upper area of the electric device, making it a functional and practical option.

Like the Prism 74’’ Wall Mounted Electric Fireplace, the Sideline Elite serves a heating area of 400 square feet. You can also enjoy the flame effect during the summer by turning off the heater.

Aesthetically, the 80042 Sideline Elite maintains an edge over many others. It’s designed for recessed mounting, which together with its black, sleek frame makes for the perfect finish for your family room, bedroom, or office space.

This electric fireplace emits an authentic-looking flame, with up to 60 color options from which the user can choose at the tap of a remote button. Its brightness is adjustable for a more realistic look. The set also comes with faux logs and crystals that add authenticity to its look and feel.

Moreover, the Sideline Elite can be operated using a smart device. It has an in-built memory setting that enables it to remember previous flame settings. That means you don’t have to scroll through the color options every time you turn it on.

Operating the Touchstone 80042 is super easy. Its easy-to-use instruction manual makes for an easy and pleasant installation process, meaning you’ll be enjoying its ambiance in no time at all.

Pros

• Clear electric display 
• Realistic looking flame
• Attractive, sleek frame

Cons 

• Noisy 

Touchstone 80004 - The Sideline Electric Fireplace 

The Touchstone 80004 is a wall-mounted electric fireplace that gives you the beauty of a real fireplace without the smoke and high maintenance costs that come from cleaning out the soot in your chimney. 

It comes with a range of color schemes and flame settings that give you the ability to mimic an actual fire, from the glowing embers of a dying flame to an intense blaze.

This electric fireplace also features decorative glass, faux logs, and crystals for a more realistic look. Its black frame is recessed into the wall to create a beautiful, modern feel when mounted.

The Sideline comes with two heat settings (high and low) for simpler operation. Its heating element is situated at the front, allowing it to operate even when recessed. The wall-mounted electric fireplace can serve a heating area of up to 400 square feet, powered by a 110-120 V source connected by a 6-foot long cable.

In case wall recessing isn’t an option for you, the Sideline Electric Fireplace comes with a wall mount bracket for positioning. Ensure that you position it at least 8’’ below your ceiling or flat-screen TV. 

An easy-to-use guide makes installation easy for a DIY installer. However, it’s prudent to seek out advice from a professional regarding open and unused pipes, as it may pose a potential hazard. 

Pros 

• Built-in timer that helps to save energy 
• High and low temperature options for convenience 
• Realistic looking flame display 

Cons 

• Noisy 

Dimplex 33’’ Multi-Fire XD Plug-In Electric Firebox

Despite its relatively smaller size, the Multi-Fire XD Electric is an ideal fit for the home.

Its Heat Boost feature means it can quickly heat the room for a predetermined amount of time. It also features the ComfortSaver ceramic heating system that allows it to conserve energy by adjusting heater wattage to fit the room’s temperature requirements.

Additionally, its energy-saving setting reduces energy consumption by 33%, meaning maximized efficiency with minimum noise.

The glass front offers a dazzling display that mimics a natural fireplace, complete with various color themes and flame settings to choose from; all from the comfort of your remote control. It also acts as a safety feature by maintaining a cool surface temperature even as the heater is running.

Moreover, the advanced 33’’ Multi-Fire XD’s advanced gWave feature allows you to turn the firebox on and off with a simple hand wave gesture.

This electric firebox has a sleeper timer setting from which you can set ‘off time’ from as soon as 30 minutes to 8 hours ahead.

You can operate without the heater, providing a range of color schemes for a cozy ambient environment all year round. Aside from wall mounting, the Multi-Fire XD can be placed inside a mantel, making it a versatile option.

The fireplace has an LED floating display from where you can view your settings and navigate through using your remote control. 

Pros 

• Attractive 
• Easy to set up 
• Realistic flame 
• Quiet
• Different flame themes

Cons 

• None 

Dimplex Revillusion 25’’ Plug-In Electric Fireplace

Like its slightly larger alternative, this electric fireplace uses a ceramic heating system to adjust the fan speed and heater level to efficiently meet the interior space requirements.

Its look is enhanced by the partly frozen acrylic glass panel that gets rid of the reflections, thus making them more realistic. Moreover, the flames appear larger and more random as they emanate from behind the hearth.

The Revillusion 25’’ can be described in two words: simple and safe. Its simple design means there’s no need for venting or gas lines. It gives off zero emissions, making it highly sustainable and energy-efficient.

Despite its simplicity, this fireplace offers a diverse range of options for you. The display can be turned off, allowing you to enjoy the heater’s warmth in peace. The opposite is true: you can enjoy the ambiance created by the flames with the heat turned off. The light intensity can also be adjusted, and the flicker light added to enhance the firelight effect.

Ultimately, wall mount electric fireplaces are becoming an item of choice in the modern home because of many reasons. Firstly, they’re easy to install. You don’t have to knock down your wall or remodel your living space to install your unit.

Furthermore, as more people move into smaller spaces such as apartments and condos, the convenience of electric fireplaces becomes even more evident.

If you’re a DIY homeowner, an easy-to-understand instruction manual is all that stands between you and your fully installed and operational wall mount electric fireplace.

They’re also easy to operate and maintain. All you have to do is insert the cord into the electrical outlet, sit back, and control your wall mount electric fireplace remotely for a warm, even, homely atmosphere. No soot, no firewood, and no stress.

Pros

• Realistic looking flame
• Attractive
• Offers effective supplemental heating 

Cons 

• Plexiglass isn’t very durable
• Hard to hide the extension cord  

Frequently Asked Questions

Should Wall Mounted Electric Fireplaces Be Plugged in or Hard Wired?

Either can do. However, a dedicated circuit is preferred, especially in cases where the fuse blows or circuit breaker trips during operation. Use a standard 120 V, 15-amp circuit to connect to the mains. 

Can My Wall Mount Electric Fireplace Be Used Outdoors?

No. The Wall Mount electric fireplace is designed for indoor use only. Exposure to the elements may cause damage to the internal electrical components. 

Does the Electrical Fireplace Have to Be Fully Recessed During Installation?

No. The electric fireplaces can be fully or partially recessed or simply mounted onto the wall’s surface. 

What Is the Recommended Distance of Installation Away from the TV?

None. This electric fireplace can be mounted directly under your TV appliance. However, ensure that the unit’s vent faces away from your TV set.  

Do I Have to Cut My Drywall to Mount It?

No. These electrical fireplaces come with a wall bracket for mounting. 

Does it Have a Sleep Timer?

Yes. These units come with a sleep timer accessible through the remote, which also controls flame intensity and speed. 

Can My Electric Fireplace Be Set up in an Existing Fireplace Space?

The Prism 74’’and Touchstone 80042 can only be wall-mounted. The Touchstone 80004, 33’’ Multi-Fire XD and Revillusion 25’’ can be fitted into an existing fireplace. 

How Close to the Ceiling Should I Install My Electric Fireplace?

Position the Touchstone 80042 at least 8 inches below the ceiling or more.

Can I Mount the Unit in My Bathroom?

Yes. You can have the fireplace mounted on your bathroom wall. 

Do I Need a Wall Mount for My Electric Fireplace?

No. The units can be recessed into the wall.

What Other Options Do I Have Aside from Wall Mounting and Recessing?

You can build a sturdy, custom-made surface and have the fireplace mounted onto it. If it’s a stand-alone surface (for example, a cabinet), ensure that it cannot fall easily.   

Does This Unit Have a Thermostat?

No. The units don’t have a thermostat. 

What Are the Electricity Requirements of the Electric Fireplace? Can I Use an Extension Code?

No. Most units come with a 6-foot long cord that’s mounted on the right side of the log set (when facing the set). It doesn’t have special electricity requirements. Just plug it directly into the wall outlet, and you’ll be good to go. 

Does the Unit Operate Silently?

The electric fireplace doesn’t emit any sound when only the flames are on and the heater off.

What Factors Affect the Efficiency of Wall Mounted Electric Fireplaces?

Your unit’s efficiency depends on different factors, including the room size, wall and ceiling contents, and the presence of spaces between your windows and doors.

Featured Image from: Unsplash by Andrea Davis