It’s time to use a modern electric fireplace instead of a wood-burning one or a gas unit. And once you choose the best electric fireplace insert, don’t worry about the installation because it is easy. Just follow these steps:
Step 1: Carefully remove all existing installations of your fireplace and clean it.
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Make sure your fireplace is bare for the insert. That means you need to remove any installations such as grates, blowers or fireplace doors. If your fireplace has an electrical outlet, it will be useful so don’t remove it.
You don’t need a typical tool for an electric fireplace insert, but you need to remove everything to ensure the insert fits. Also, don’t leave your fireplace dirty before the installation.
Step 2: Waterproof your fireplace
Although using an electric fireplace is very convenient, it can be extremely dangerous when it’s not waterproof.
So don’t forget to put a rain cap on your chimney to avoid rainwater. If you don’t do that, the electric insert can be damaged when water gets in. If you don’t know how to install a rain cap properly, you should ask a professional to do the job.
Step 3: Seal the damper
When you use a wood or gas fireplace, you need a damper to regulate the flow of air in the chimney. But when you replace it with an electric one, you don’t need that damper anymore.
If you leave the damper there, you will waste energy as cold air gets in and heat escapes up the chimney. So you need to seal it before installing your electric insert by using a dedicated fireplace sealer, or a plywood and foam pipe insulation.
Step 4: Take care of your power supply
Of course when you use an electric fireplace, you need a power supply or a power outlet. And you need to know where to draw your electric power from before the installation.
Normally a standard home outlet is good for it, so you just need to run a cord to the nearest outlet. However, if you have never touched a wire, it will be better to hire an electrician who can do it properly.
Step 5: Install the electric insert
You have done everything needed for the installation. Now you have to slide in the firebox or log insert into its position.
Step 6: Test the new insert
It’s almost done. You need to power up your new fireplace insert and run a test. Make sure everything is checked carefully, including its features and functions.
The best way to tell is look at the flame it produces. If it is bright and the ember bed is working amazingly, you will be alright with it. And don’t forget to check the remote control. If there is any problem, you can try to fix it with the troubleshooting guide before calling customer support.
Step 7: Attach the trim
Depending on the brand of your fireplace, you will have a different trim and different way to install it. Just check the manual’s instructions to know how. If you need a larger trim, you can make your custom one using different types of materials.
That’s it. Now you can use your electric fireplace safely. Just make sure that you get the best electric fireplace insert to install!
See more: How to Install a Fireplace Insert in an Unconventional Opening Video on Youtube
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