Concealing Heaters: Bedroom Design Tricks To Try

There are several ways to hide an unsightly heater in your bedroom. You can use a room divider, hang curtains, build a faux cabinet, or place it in a cupboard or wardrobe. If you want a simple solution, a room divider or curtains can easily block your view of the heater. Building a cabinet around your heater not only conceals it but also gives you additional shelf space. Placing the heater in a cupboard or wardrobe is also a great way to keep it out of sight, but remember to ensure that the heater is well-ventilated and easily accessible. You can also buy or make a custom cover for your heater to blend in with the bedroom decor.

Using a room divider

Measure the Height of Your Water Heater

Start by measuring the height of your water heater, including any pipes that extend from the top. Write down this measurement, as you will need it when purchasing a room divider. You can also measure the width and depth, but these dimensions are less important as you can adjust the length of the room divider.

Buy a Room Divider That Completely Hides Your Water Heater

Look for a room divider that is tall enough to conceal your water heater and can wrap around its sides. Multi-panel room dividers are a great option, and you may need to buy multiple dividers if you can't find one that is large enough. Choose a divider that matches the design of the rest of the room so that it doesn't stand out. Room dividers come in various materials and designs, so select one that fits your space.

Surround Your Water Heater with the Room Divider

Stand the room divider up and pull the panels apart to prevent it from falling over. Place one edge of the divider against the wall, about 6 inches (15 cm) in front of the water heater. Extend the other end of the divider until your water heater is completely concealed. Remember to push the divider against the wall when you need to access the water heater.

It is important to note that you should not rest the divider against a gas water heater to prevent any fire hazards.

Hanging curtains around the heater

Hanging curtains around a heater is a simple and cost-effective way to hide it from view. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Step 1: Measure the Dimensions of the Heater

First, you need to measure the width and depth of the heater. Extend a tape measure from the wall behind the heater to its outer edge. Add about 4-5 inches (10-13 cm) to this measurement to ensure the curtain doesn't touch the heater, which could create a fire hazard. Next, measure the depth by extending the tape measure from the second wall behind the heater to its furthest point, again adding a buffer of 4-5 inches.

Step 2: Measure the Height of the Ceiling

Start your tape measure on the floor near the heater and pull it straight up to the ceiling to determine the required curtain length. Ensure the tape is perfectly vertical for an accurate measurement.

Step 3: Purchase Ceiling Curtain Track

Buy a ceiling curtain track that matches the combined length of the width and depth measurements. This metal track will be installed on the ceiling for the curtain to hang from. If you want the curtain to wrap fully around the heater, get angled corner sections of the track, too. You can cut the track to size with a hacksaw if needed.

Step 4: Install the Curtain Track

Position the first section of the track against the wall, extending past the heater. Ensure it's straight before screwing it into the ceiling. Use an electric screwdriver to secure the screws. If you're screwing into drywall, use anchors to prevent the track from falling out of place.

Step 5: Attach the Curtain Hooks

Slide the curtain glider hooks onto the first piece of track. Ensure the hooks match the width of the track. Push the round end of the hook into the track and slide them to the end. It's easier to put hooks on before installing the rest of the track. Choose hooks that match the hardware in the room so they blend in.

Step 6: Install the Remaining Track

Position and screw in the remaining track pieces, ensuring they wrap around the heater completely. Use angled pieces if the curtain needs to turn a corner.

Step 7: Hang the Curtain

Hang a floor-length curtain from the hooks, ensuring it matches the ceiling height to hide the entire heater. Feed the hooks through the holes along the top of the curtain and spread it out along the track. Choose a curtain that complements the room's style. If it's a little long, you can use hem tape to shorten it.

Important Considerations:

• Ensure the curtain is made of fire-resistant material and doesn't touch the heater to prevent fire hazards.
• Leave adequate space for the boiler to vent properly.
• Don't block access to the boiler's controls.
• If you're using a gas heater, ensure it's adequately vented to avoid carbon monoxide risks.

Installing a faux cabinet

Step 1: Measurements

Start by measuring the height, width, and depth of your water heater. It's important to add about 2-3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) to each measurement to ensure you have enough space around the heater. Write down these measurements as you will need them for the next steps.

Step 2: Cut the Boards

You will need 1 in x 4 in (2.5 cm x 10.2 cm) boards for this project. Cut the boards according to your measurements from Step 1. Here's how many pieces you will need:

• Height: 5 pieces
• Width: 3 pieces
• Depth: 2 pieces

Step 3: Assemble the Frames

Assemble the boards into two rectangular frames for your cabinet. Lay out two boards for the height of the cabinet and position two boards for the width perpendicularly between them. Make sure the top board is flush with the end of the side board. Position the second width board 3-4 inches (7.6-10.2 cm) from the bottom of the side pieces. Screw the pieces together to form a rectangular frame with two legs extending out from the bottom. Repeat this process to create the second frame.

Step 4: Cover the Middle Section

After assembling the frames, it's time to cover the large middle section. Measure the inside of each panel and add 1 inch (2.5 cm) to each side. Cut pieces of 1/4 inch (0.64 cm) plywood to size and staple them to the frame. You can also use fabric if you want a more decorative look.

Step 5: Join the Frames

Now, stand the frames up on their legs and screw them together to form an L-shape. Use clamps to hold the pieces together and place a screw every 4-5 inches (10-13 cm) to ensure the cabinet is sturdy. If your water heater is not in a corner, you will need to create a third frame to form a U-shape.

Step 6: Add a Rear Support Leg (Optional)

If you plan on placing heavy items on top of the cabinet, you can add a rear support leg. Clamp a short piece of wood to the top corner of the cabinet and screw on an angle bracket to hold it in place. Attach a longer piece of wood to the end of the short piece for added support.

Step 7: Create the Top

Measure the dimensions of the top of your cabinet and cut plywood or wood planks to size. Nail or screw the top piece in place, ensuring it doesn't bump into any pipes.

Step 8: Install the Cabinet

Slide the cabinet over your water heater, making sure the open end faces the heater and the paneled sides face out. You can now use the top of the cabinet as a shelf for storage.

Remember to always leave enough space between the water heater and the cabinet to allow for proper airflow and ventilation.

Using a curtain to conceal it

Using a curtain to conceal your heater is an effective and affordable way to hide it while still allowing access when necessary. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Step 1: Measure the dimensions of your heater

Measure the width and depth of the heater, adding 4–5 inches (10–13 cm) to each measurement to ensure the curtain doesn't touch the heater. Also, measure the height of your ceiling to determine the required curtain length.

Step 2: Purchase a ceiling curtain track and glider hooks

Buy a ceiling curtain track that matches the combined length of the width and depth measurements. Additionally, get curtain glider hooks that match the width of the track.

Step 3: Install the curtain track on the ceiling

Position the end of the first track section against the wall, extending past the heater. Use an electric screwdriver to secure the track to the ceiling with screws. If you're installing into drywall, use anchors to prevent the track from falling out.

Step 4: Attach the glider hooks to the track

Slide the glider hooks onto the first piece of the track. It's easier to attach the hooks before installing the rest of the track. Ensure the hooks match the hardware in the room to avoid standing out.

Step 5: Install the remaining track sections

Hold the remaining track pieces against the ceiling, ensuring they wrap around the heater. Secure them with screws, using an electric screwdriver. You may need angled pieces for corners.

Step 6: Hang the curtain

Hang a floor-length curtain from the glider hooks, ensuring it matches the ceiling height to conceal the heater entirely. Guide the hooks through the holes along the top edge of the curtain. Choose a curtain that complements the room's decor.

Important considerations:

When using a curtain to hide your heater, ensure the following:

• The curtain is made of fire-resistant material.
• There is sufficient space around the heater for proper ventilation.
• The curtain does not block any heater controls.

Boxing up the pipes

Planning and Preparation:

First, ensure you have the necessary tools and materials. For this project, you will need wooden boards, a saw, a drill, screws, a measuring tape, and a stud finder. You may also want to get some sandpaper and wood stain or paint to give your box a smooth finish and a polished look.

Measure and Mark:

Use your measuring tape to determine the dimensions of the box you will build. Measure the length of the pipes you want to cover and the distance between the pipes and the wall or floor. Mark these measurements on the wall with a pencil, using a stud finder to ensure you are screwing into wall studs for a secure hold.

Cut and Assemble:

Cut your wooden boards to size using a saw. You will need two pieces that are the same length as the pipes you are covering, and two pieces that are the same length as the distance between the pipes and the wall. Assemble these pieces into a rectangular frame using your drill and screws. Sand the edges for a smooth finish, if desired.

Ventilation and Access:

Before attaching the frame to the wall, ensure you have considered ventilation and access to the pipes. Cut or drill holes in the wooden frame to allow for airflow and ventilation. You may also want to consider adding a removable panel or access door to the frame to easily access the pipes for maintenance.

Finishing Touches:

Once you have confirmed the fit and functionality of the frame, you can add the finishing touches. Paint or stain the wood to match your room's decor, and consider adding a door or curtain to conceal the pipes further. You can also use this opportunity to add extra storage by building a false wall around the pipes or adding shelves above.

Safety Reminders:

Remember to always turn off the power or gas supply to your heater before starting any work. Consult with a professional if you are unsure about any aspect of the project, especially if it involves electrical or gas lines. Ensure your heater has adequate ventilation to prevent overheating and the risk of carbon monoxide buildup.

Frequently asked questions