If you’re considering adding a wall-mounted electric fireplace to your home, you probably have questions about installation, efficiency, and whether it's the right choice for you. This guide answers the most frequently asked questions about wall fireplaces to help you make an informed decision.

 

Wall mounted electric fireplace in a gray paneled wall in a living room with console table below and lamp to the side.

 

What is a Wall-Mounted Electric Fireplace? 

A wall-mounted electric fireplace is a heating unit that can be installed on a wall, often requiring minimal setup. Unlike traditional fireplaces, it doesn’t need venting or a chimney, making it a hassle-free and modern way to add warmth and ambiance to any space. Many models also come with LED flames that mimic the look of a real fire.

Three Types of Wall Fireplaces 

Compared to the one size fits all approach of a traditional fireplace, wall fireplaces come in a variety of styles to fit your needs. Here are the three main types you need to know about: 

  • Fully recessed: Just like a traditional fireplace, a fully recessed electric fireplace is placed in a cut-out area of your wall. The sides of the fireplace are hidden while the frame and front are fully in view.   
  • Partially recessed: A partially recessed fireplace gives you an in-wall look without going as deep as a fully recessed unit. That means the frame, front, and a portion of the sides will stick out slightly.  
  • Surface mount: If you’d rather not cut into your wall, opt for a surface mount unit instead. Just like a flat-screen TV, surface mount units give the appearance of floating in an easy-to-install application. 

Are Wall-Mounted Electric Fireplaces Worth It?

Yes! A wall-mount fireplace offers many benefits, including:

  • Easy Installation – Most models can be mounted directly onto drywall or recessed into the wall for a sleek, built-in look.
  • Low Maintenance – Unlike gas or wood-burning fireplaces, electric wall fireplaces require no cleaning, ash removal, or chimney maintenance.
  • Energy Efficiency – Many models allow you to use the flame effect independently from the heater, helping you control energy usage.
  • Modern Aesthetic – A wall-mounted fireplace enhances any room with a contemporary, stylish look.

What Is the Downside of an Electric Fireplace?

While wall-mounted electric fireplaces offer many benefits, there are a few drawbacks:

  • No Real Flames – While modern models feature realistic flame effects, they do not produce real fire.
  • Limited Heat Output – They provide supplemental heat but may not be enough for heating large areas.
  • Dependent on Electricity – Unlike wood or gas fireplaces, electric models will not function during a power outage unless connected to a backup power source.

What about Installation & Maintenance?

Can You Just Hang an Electric Fireplace on the Wall? 

Yes, but you need to follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions. Some electric wall fireplaces come with brackets for easy hanging, while others require recessing into the wall. Always check the weight capacity of your wall and ensure proper electrical connections.

Do Wall-Mounted Electric Fireplaces Need to Be Vented?

No! One of the biggest advantages of an electric wall fireplace is that it does not require venting or a chimney. This makes it easy to install in apartments, condos, or any space without traditional fireplace infrastructure.

How Do I Hide the Wires to My Fireplace?

If you’re wondering how to hide wires for a wall fireplace, treat them just like your TV. You can:

  • Band the cords together
  • Install wall panels
  • Use a mantel

Can I Mount a TV Above My Wall Fireplace?

Yes, you can. In most cases, extra clearance isn’t necessary, but we still recommend 8-12 inches of clearance just to be safe. Additionally, the width of the TV shouldn’t go beyond the width of the fireplace console.

Be sure to check the manual for detailed instructions and up-to-date manufacturer recommendations.

Linear electric fireplace hung on a wall in a rustic cozy living room.

How Safe Are Wall Fireplaces? 

The most obvious threat associated with a fireplace is right there in the name. “Real” fires in wooden fireplaces carry real risks of fire damage, smoke damage, and carbon monoxide if left unchecked. Even the task of cutting firewood can be considered a hazard. 

So how much safer are electric fireplaces? Whether they’re mounted on the wall or not, one of the biggest safety benefits of an electric fireplace is the lack of a real fire behind it. Running purely on electricity, there aren’t any dangerous embers or wandering smoke to deal with. You also don’t need safety barriers, heatproof barriers, or annual safety checks that come with wood and gas-powered units. 

Every wall fireplace is: 

  • Cool to the touch 
  • Pet and child friendly
  • Easy to use and maintain 

All it takes is the click of a remote to heat your room like a “real” fireplace. Your home will be warmer and safer, but there’s another big benefit that has a critical impact on our planet. 

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Are Wall Fireplaces Good for the Environment? 

“Going green” is quickly becoming the norm for homeowners across the country. When you choose a wall fireplace, you’re giving your home a “green advantage" in the fight for our planet. Some of the environmentally friendly benefits include: 

  • No harmful emissions: An electric fireplace doesn’t emit greenhouse gasses or harmful gasses like carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide  
  • Minimal waste: According to experts, up to 50% of all heat in gas and wood-burning fireplaces goes up the chimney and out of your home. An electric fireplace uses infrared and fan-forced heating to convert 100% of the energy expended to heat.  
  • Better energy efficiency: Through zone heating, an electric fireplace heats only the rooms you’re using. That’s compared to central heating which heats your entire home regardless of occupancy. 

Do Electric Wall Fireplaces Use a Lot of Electricity?

Not necessarily. Most wall-mounted electric fireplaces operate on standard 120V outlets and consume about 1,500 watts when running at full heat. If you use only the flame effect without heat, the energy consumption is significantly lower.

Do Electric Fireplaces Increase the Electric Bill?

It depends on usage. A wall-mounted fireplace running on full heat for several hours a day will add to your electric bill. However, using it for supplemental zone heating can help reduce the need for central heating, ultimately saving money.

Cozy living room with recessed electric fireplace built into the wall.Our general fireplace FAQs go more in-depth into heating specs and all the basics of electric fireplaces. 

 

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