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 Elite Pro 60" Smart Electric Fireplace is a versatile and stylish option for those looking to add an electric insert to their living space. It offers both wall-mount and recessed installation options, making it adaptable to various room layouts. Its sleek, modern design, combined with a realistic flame effect featuring 6 different colors and 13-color down lighting, enhances the ambiance of any room. The added crackle sound feature adds an extra layer of realism, making it a cozy addition to your home.

It integrates well with smart home systems, as it is compatible with Alexa and WiFi, allowing you to control the settings remotely via smartphone or voice commands. This includes adjusting flame color, temperature, and timers, offering convenience and advanced control over your home's atmosphere. The 1500W/750W heater with an adjustable thermostat provides sufficient supplemental heat for rooms up to 400 sq. ft., making it functional as well as visually appealing. The programmable timer ensures you can maintain the perfect temperature and comfort level with ease.

The fireplace's large size (60" W x 19 ¼” H x 6 5/16" D) might require careful planning during installation to ensure it fits your space perfectly. Additionally, weighing 66 pounds, it may require assistance during setup. Despite its advanced features, the product's high-tech capabilities might be a tad overwhelming for users not familiar with smart home technology. While it offers a high-quality build and multiple features for customization, its relatively high price point and specific installation requirements could be a drawback for some. Yet, it stands out as a premium choice for those seeking a modern, functional, and aesthetically pleasing electric fireplace insert.