DIY Electric Fireplace Installs
DIY #1: Elisha Albertson, Pneumatic Addict
Elisha decided to add a concrete fireplace to her second level loft using the Dimplex IgniteXL 50” watch and see the entire process as well as all the required materials:
*Check out Elisha's blog to see some cool features of the IgniteXL.
DIY #2: Lee Smith
Lee also opted for a concrete fireplace using the IgniteXL 50”. We decide to interview Lee on why Dimplex and some tips and tricks for your next install.
Why did you choose the IgniteXL 50”?
“I wanted a newer tech electric fireplace system and I didn’t want the hassles/costs of gas. I also value the options the XLF50 possesses, such as the multi-colour features. The 50” was the perfect size for the wall I was putting this in and anything bigger wouldn’t have looked right.”
What was the hardest part of the installation?
“The hardest part of the installation was getting information and pictures on how to build the fireplace as not much intel is online. I finally just envisioned what it should look like and worked off of that.”
Did you use any guidelines with respect to measurements of height for the TV?
“Yes, as I wanted a bottom ledge on my fireplace with a hearthstone (this stone is actually real stone) and my wife wanted a mantel incorporated from her late Grandmother’s coffee table. I had to be very cognizant of all these measurements and where the television would fit without looking ‘out of place’.”
What made you decide to use stone rather than another material on the feature wall?
“I love the look of stone and I actually used a clay based stone casted veneer that looks and feels like real stone. The advantages were that it weighed a lot less than real stone and it cost less as well. I also wanted to use the dry stacked stone look as I personally like the look and it saves time when doing the project because no grouting is required.”
How long did the project take you?
“The project took about 5 days in total.”
Anything else you want first time DIY’ers to know?
“Do your research, plan as best you can for the future and build to your visions. With my completed fireplace, I have hidden all the wires by placing a wire plate with an open slot behind the TV. I then fed the wires to the television and ran them out to the bottom right side of the fireplace.
I didn’t want any electronics on the mantel and constructing this allowed all electronic devices to be hidden by furniture, etc. on the side of the fireplace. Also, if I need to add another wire I will strap it to one of the wires through this plate and pull it through; I also ensured these two access points weren’t blocked within the framing area.”
About IgniteXL Electric Fireplaces
The IgniteXL is a builtin linear electric fireplace that comes in three lengths: 50”, 74”, and 100”. It is more life-like and visually stunning than anything that has come before.
With new, patented flame and heat technology, IgniteXL transforms the look and feel of any room. Installation is more simple and flexible than ever, making the possibilities endless.
The IgniteXL can be used with or without the heater, making it an excellent choice for year-round use and its ceramic heating system uses 11% less energy than the leading quartz infrared heater.