10 Best Electric Insert For Fireplace 2026 in the United States

The Touchstone Sideline 72" electric fireplace is a spacious and stylish option for anyone looking to add a cozy, traditional fireplace feel without the hassle of venting. Measuring 72 inches wide and designed for recessed in-wall installation, it fits both new and existing fireplace openings. Its flame effect is quite realistic, offering 30 different ember color and flame settings, including options to display logs, crystals, or both, which enhances the authentic look. The flames can be controlled via remote, Alexa, or a smart app, adding modern convenience.

Heating-wise, the Sideline delivers up to 1,500 watts (around 5,000 BTUs), which is suitable for warming spaces up to about 400 square feet. It’s great for taking the chill off a room but isn’t meant to replace a main heating system. A thermostat and timer help manage energy use, and the unit is vent-free, so no special venting or gas lines are needed, simplifying installation. It’s also designed to stay cool on the sides and back for safety, making it safer around children and pets.

Installation is straightforward, with options to plug it in or hardwire it, and it can be safely mounted just 8 inches below a TV thanks to front-facing heater vents. However, the size and weight (over 95 pounds) mean you’ll need to ensure your wall or existing fireplace opening can support it, and professional consultation is recommended when installing in existing fireplaces to handle any old gas or vent lines properly. While the flames look impressive, the heating power is modest, so it’s best seen as a supplemental heat source. Also, the remote requires batteries (not included), and the unit pulls up to 12 amps, which might require checking your home’s electrical circuit capacity if you have other devices nearby.

The Touchstone Sideline Elite Smart 72” electric fireplace is a great choice if you're looking for a stylish, in-wall recessed unit that adds both warmth and ambiance to a room. Its large 72-inch size offers a wide flame view, making it an impressive centerpiece for living rooms, bedrooms, or offices. The flame effect stands out with 60 color combinations and multiple intensity settings, enhancing the cozy atmosphere with realistic-looking logs, crystals, and driftwood included.

Heating-wise, it delivers up to 1,500 watts with two heat settings and a thermostat range from 68 to 88 degrees Fahrenheit, comfortably warming spaces up to about 400 square feet. Installation is designed to be straightforward for homeowners, though you should carefully measure your wall space since it requires a recessed setup and some clearance above. The fireplace is vent-free, so no chimney or ventilation is needed, which simplifies placement options. Controls can be managed via remote, smartphone app, or Alexa, allowing flexible and convenient operation.

The unit is fairly deep at over 5 inches, which might limit installation options in very narrow walls. It uses a moderate amount of power (1500W) compared to traditional heaters, so it’s best suited as a supplemental heat source rather than primary heating. Also, batteries for the remote are not included, and the frame’s minimal design, while modern, may not suit everyone’s décor preferences. Safety features are standard for electric fireplaces, but positioning it correctly with adequate clearance is important. For those seeking modern looks, smart controls, and decent heating for medium-sized rooms, this model fulfills those requirements effectively.

The Touchstone Sideline Infinity 3-Sided Electric Fireplace is a stylish and modern option for those looking to add warmth and ambiance to their living spaces. Its 72-inch size with three sides of glass enhances the visual experience, making it a focal point in any room. With a heating capacity of 1,500 watts, it effectively warms areas up to 400 square feet, offering two heat settings for customized comfort.

A standout feature is its extensive flame effect options, allowing users to choose from six flame colors and ten media bed colors, complete with five intensity settings. This level of customization contributes to a realistic and inviting atmosphere. The Wi-Fi-enabled design is particularly appealing, as it allows for control through smartphone apps or voice commands via Amazon Alexa and Google Home, making it convenient and tech-savvy.

Installation is flexible, with four options to suit various room layouts, and you can choose between plugging it in or hardwiring it. However, the unit's weight of 94 pounds may require professional installation for some users, especially if opting for the wall-mounted style. On the safety side, it includes features like a timer and a built-in thermometer for better energy efficiency, which helps maintain safety and comfort. The price point might be on the higher side for budget-conscious buyers.