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10 Best Electric Insert For Fireplace 2026 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Touchstone Smart Electric Fireplace-The Sideline 36" Wide-in Wall Recessed - 30 Realistic Ember Color/Flame Options - 1,500W Heater w/Thermostat - Log & Crystal Hearth Options - Alexa/WiFi Enabled

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,206
Heating Capacity
Flame Effect and Realism
Installation and Venting

Most important from
3593 reviews

Heating Capacity
The heater fan is very quiet and has two fan speeds, high and low.
Flame Effect and Realism
The Sideline flames look better than any of the other brands I checked out.
Installation and Venting
Installation was actually a piece of cake once I carved out the opening in the drywall.
Controls and Features
Multiple dimming options and the ability to choose blue-only flames for a cool look during movie nights.

The Touchstone Smart Electric Fireplace - The Sideline 36" offers a stylish and functional addition to any room, particularly benefiting those who want a cozy atmosphere without the hassle of traditional fireplaces. With 30 ember and flame options, it creates a realistic look that can enhance any home décor. The 1,500W heater can efficiently warm a room up to 400 square feet, making it suitable for living areas or bedrooms, although it won't replace a primary heat source entirely.

One of its strong points is the installation flexibility; it can be recessed into a wall or mounted on the surface, fitting seamlessly in existing fireplace openings. Plus, the ventless design ensures that you won’t need to worry about exhausting air or complicated venting systems, which can simplify setup. The fireplace is also equipped with smart features, allowing you to control it through Alexa, Google Home, or a mobile app, adding a modern touch to its operation.

However, there are a few considerations. The fireplace requires a minimum 8 inches of clearance from a TV or other heat-sensitive items, which may limit placement options in some rooms. While it provides a pleasant warmth, users need to keep in mind that it’s not intended to warm larger spaces or replace central heating. Some users might find the reliance on AAA batteries for the remote a bit inconvenient, as these are not included with the product.

The Touchstone Sideline Electric Fireplace is a great choice for those seeking a blend of ambiance and modern convenience, especially if you appreciate the aesthetic of a traditional fireplace without the maintenance. It's ideal for anyone looking to enhance their home environment while enjoying the benefits of a safe, ventless heating option.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,206
Heating Capacity
Flame Effect and Realism
Installation and Venting

Most important from
3593 reviews

Heating Capacity
The heater fan is very quiet and has two fan speeds, high and low.
Flame Effect and Realism
The Sideline flames look better than any of the other brands I checked out.
Installation and Venting
Installation was actually a piece of cake once I carved out the opening in the drywall.
Controls and Features
Multiple dimming options and the ability to choose blue-only flames for a cool look during movie nights.
#2

Dimplex IgniteXL 74" Built-in Linear Electric Fireplace (Model: XLF74), 8530/5118 BTU, 240/120 Volt, 2500/1500 Watt, Black

Rating
9.7
Heating Capacity
Flame Effect and Realism
Installation and Venting

Most important from
191 reviews

Heating Capacity
Heat output on 120V is noticeably limited, making the 240V option preferable for effectively warming larger spaces.
Flame Effect and Realism
The fireplace offers a stunning modern accent that enhances any media or living room with its realistic flame effects and adjustable colors.
Installation and Venting
Installation can be challenging and requires professional help, especially since the unit is heavy and mounting hardware is not included.
Controls and Features
The remote control is intuitive and convenient, allowing easy switching between different flame intensities and color modes.

The Dimplex IgniteXL 74" Built-in Linear Electric Fireplace is a stylish modern option designed to fit into a wall space, measuring roughly 74 inches wide and about 6 inches deep, making it suitable for medium to large rooms. It provides a decent heating capacity of about 5,118 BTUs, which should comfortably warm spaces up to 1,000 square feet, so it’s a good choice if you want supplemental heat rather than a primary heat source. One of its standout features is the Multi-Fire XD technology, which creates very realistic and vibrant flame effects with adjustable colors, enhancing the ambiance year-round even without heat.

Installation requires hard-wiring at either 120V or 240V, with 240V recommended for better heat output. It’s designed as a built-in unit, so some wall modification is needed, which might not be ideal if you want a quick setup. A remote control allows easy adjustment of flame settings and temperature, adding convenience. Energy-wise, it draws up to 2,500 watts at full power, so it’s not the most energy-saving option but typical for this size of electric fireplace.

Safety features include vent-free operation and a reputable design from Dimplex, which generally ensures reliable performance. On the downside, at 103 pounds, it’s quite heavy, and the mounting hardware isn’t included, so professional installation is recommended. Some users may find it less powerful compared to traditional fireplaces, but it avoids the mess and hassle of venting and fuel. This fireplace suits those wanting a large, visually impressive built-in electric model that adds heat and atmosphere to bigger living spaces, provided they’re prepared for a more involved installation and power requirements.

Rating
9.7
Heating Capacity
Flame Effect and Realism
Installation and Venting

Most important from
191 reviews

Heating Capacity
Heat output on 120V is noticeably limited, making the 240V option preferable for effectively warming larger spaces.
Flame Effect and Realism
The fireplace offers a stunning modern accent that enhances any media or living room with its realistic flame effects and adjustable colors.
Installation and Venting
Installation can be challenging and requires professional help, especially since the unit is heavy and mounting hardware is not included.
Controls and Features
The remote control is intuitive and convenient, allowing easy switching between different flame intensities and color modes.
#3

Touchstone Sideline Elite Smart 72” WiFi-Enabled Electric Fireplace - 80038 - in-Wall Recessed - 60 Color Combinations - 1,500W Heater - Black - Log, Crystals & Driftwood

Rating
9.4
Size and Dimensions
Heating Capacity
Flame Effect and Realism

Most important from
826 reviews

Size and Dimensions
The unit arrives on a pallet due to its size, requiring careful handling during delivery and installation.
Heating Capacity
The heat output is sufficient for supplemental warmth, comfortably heating medium-sized spaces with quiet, reliable performance.
Flame Effect and Realism
The fireplace offers an impressive range of flame colors, speeds, and ember effects, creating a customizable and cozy ambiance.
Installation and Venting
Installation is straightforward for those with above-average DIY skills or a contractor, though the unit is heavy and benefits from a second person during setup.
Controls and Features
Smart controls through an easy-to-use app and Alexa integration make operation seamless without relying on the remote.

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.

Rating
9.4
Size and Dimensions
Heating Capacity
Flame Effect and Realism

Most important from
826 reviews

Size and Dimensions
The unit arrives on a pallet due to its size, requiring careful handling during delivery and installation.
Heating Capacity
The heat output is sufficient for supplemental warmth, comfortably heating medium-sized spaces with quiet, reliable performance.
Flame Effect and Realism
The fireplace offers an impressive range of flame colors, speeds, and ember effects, creating a customizable and cozy ambiance.
Installation and Venting
Installation is straightforward for those with above-average DIY skills or a contractor, though the unit is heavy and benefits from a second person during setup.
Controls and Features
Smart controls through an easy-to-use app and Alexa integration make operation seamless without relying on the remote.

Buying Guide for the Best Electric Insert For Fireplace

Choosing the right electric insert for your fireplace can transform your living space into a cozy and warm environment. Electric inserts are a great alternative to traditional wood or gas fireplaces as they are easier to install, require less maintenance, and are more energy-efficient. When selecting an electric insert, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your needs and preferences.
Size and DimensionsThe size and dimensions of the electric insert are crucial because they need to fit perfectly into your existing fireplace opening. Measure the height, width, and depth of your fireplace to ensure the insert will fit. Inserts come in various sizes, so choose one that matches your fireplace dimensions. If you have a larger space, a bigger insert will provide more heat and a more impressive visual effect, while a smaller insert is suitable for compact spaces.
Heating CapacityHeating capacity is measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs) and indicates how much heat the insert can produce. This is important because it determines how effectively the insert can warm your room. For small rooms, an insert with a lower BTU rating (around 4,000-5,000 BTUs) is sufficient. For larger rooms or open-plan areas, look for an insert with a higher BTU rating (up to 10,000 BTUs or more). Consider the size of the area you want to heat when choosing the right heating capacity.
Flame Effect and RealismThe flame effect and realism of the electric insert contribute to the overall ambiance and aesthetic appeal. Some inserts use LED technology to create realistic flame effects, while others may have more basic designs. If you want a more authentic fireplace experience, look for inserts with advanced flame technology that offers adjustable brightness, color options, and realistic ember beds. If the visual effect is less important to you, a simpler model may suffice.
Installation and VentingElectric inserts are generally easier to install than traditional fireplaces, but it's still important to consider the installation process. Some inserts are plug-and-play, requiring only a standard electrical outlet, while others may need hardwiring by a professional. Additionally, electric inserts do not require venting, making them more versatile and easier to install in various locations. Choose an insert that matches your installation capabilities and preferences.
Controls and FeaturesModern electric inserts come with a variety of controls and features that enhance convenience and functionality. Common features include remote controls, adjustable thermostat settings, timers, and multiple heat settings. Some models also offer smart home compatibility, allowing you to control the insert via a smartphone app. Consider which features are important to you and how they will fit into your lifestyle when selecting an electric insert.
Energy EfficiencyEnergy efficiency is an important consideration as it affects your electricity consumption and overall cost of operation. Look for inserts with energy-saving modes, programmable timers, and adjustable heat settings to optimize energy use. An energy-efficient insert will provide adequate warmth while minimizing electricity usage, making it a more sustainable and cost-effective choice in the long run.
Safety FeaturesSafety features are essential to ensure the safe operation of your electric insert. Look for models with automatic shut-off mechanisms, overheat protection, and cool-to-the-touch surfaces. These features help prevent accidents and ensure that the insert operates safely, especially if you have children or pets in the home. Prioritize safety features to ensure peace of mind while using your electric insert.

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