We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy

10 Best Electric Insert For Fireplace 2026 in the United States

How do we rank products for you?

Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

headphones-stars

Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

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

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,234
Size and Dimensions
Heating Capacity
Flame Effect and Realism

Most important from
856 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
10.0
Chosen by1,234
Size and Dimensions
Heating Capacity
Flame Effect and Realism

Most important from
856 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.
#2

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

Rating
9.4
Heating Capacity
Flame Effect and Realism
Installation and Venting

Most important from
160 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
9.4
Heating Capacity
Flame Effect and Realism
Installation and Venting

Most important from
160 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

Dimplex Revillusion® 36" Built-in Firebox (Model: RBF36), 4435/6739/8786 BTU, 120/208/240 Volt, 1375/1975/2575 Watt, Herringbone

Rating
8.5
Heating Capacity
Flame Effect and Realism
Installation and Venting

Most important from
81 reviews

Heating Capacity
The heat is decent and steady, making the house noticeably warmer.
Flame Effect and Realism
It looks beautiful, with a realistic and calming flame effect.
Installation and Venting
Very easy to set up and install if you are fairly handy.
Controls and Features
The remote control is functional but could be better.

The Dimplex Revillusion 36 Inch Built-in Electric Firebox is a versatile option for those wanting to add both warmth and a realistic flame effect to their home. It features the impressive Revillusion Flame Technology and a Mirage Flame Panel for a realistic fire look. With a decorative full brick surround, the firebox adds a stylish touch to any living room.

The mood lighting and color-enhanced flames, adjustable in blue or red, further enhance the ambiance, offering adjustable brightness and flicker effects to suit different preferences. This product is capable of providing a strong heat output, with three settings (4400, 6745, and 8794 BTUs), making it a powerful supplemental heat source for your home. The included multi-function remote control adds convenience, allowing you to adjust settings easily from a distance.

The firebox is vent-free, making installation simpler and more versatile, and its rectangular shape can be oriented for corner or central placement. At 74.7 pounds, it is relatively heavy, and its power consumption is 2503 Watts. The product is energy-efficient and comes with essential safety features, making it practical for home use. However, the brick style may not suit all decor, and the product does require hardwiring for installation, which might be a limitation for some users. The manufacturer's 2-year warranty offers some peace of mind. This fireplace insert is ideal for those looking for an aesthetically pleasing and powerful heating solution for their living room.

Rating
8.5
Heating Capacity
Flame Effect and Realism
Installation and Venting

Most important from
81 reviews

Heating Capacity
The heat is decent and steady, making the house noticeably warmer.
Flame Effect and Realism
It looks beautiful, with a realistic and calming flame effect.
Installation and Venting
Very easy to set up and install if you are fairly handy.
Controls and Features
The remote control is functional but could be better.

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.

FAQ

Most Popular Categories Right Now