10 Best Infrared Fireplace Insert Heater 2025 in the United States

The Touchstone Smart Electric Fireplace - The Sideline is a stylish and modern infrared fireplace insert designed for recessed in-wall installation. With a heating capacity of 1,500 watts, it can provide warmth to spaces up to 400 square feet, making it suitable for living rooms or bedrooms. One of its standout features is the realistic flame effect, offering 30 ember color and flame options, which can create a cozy atmosphere without the need for actual fire. Users will appreciate the convenience of controlling the fireplace through a remote, smart devices, or voice commands via Alexa or Google Home, enhancing user-friendliness.

Installation is straightforward, and the unit is ventless, meaning it doesn't require extensive ductwork. It stays cool to the touch on its sides and back, providing added safety, particularly in homes with children or pets. The option to run it with just the flame effect without heat is a great feature for warmer climates or ambiance without warmth.

While the Sideline can heat a room, it shouldn't be relied upon as a primary heat source. The heater is effective for taking the chill off, but larger spaces may require additional heating solutions. Additionally, the fireplace needs a minimum of 8 inches of clearance from televisions or mantels, which may limit installation options in some rooms. Another consideration is the use of two AAA batteries for the remote control, which aren't included, and those looking for a plug-in option will need to ensure they have the appropriate circuit, as the unit draws up to 12 amps.

The Touchstone Sideline Elite Smart 60” Electric Fireplace is a stylish option designed for in-wall installation, making it suitable for modern homes. Its sleek black frame and large flame viewing area contribute to its aesthetic appeal, while the realistic flame effect, featuring 60 color combinations and various intensity settings, enhances the cozy atmosphere traditionally found in fireplaces. The unit operates with a heating capacity of 1,500 watts, providing supplemental heat with adjustable thermostat settings ranging from 68 to 88 degrees Fahrenheit, which allows users to customize their comfort level. Additionally, it supports both plug-in and hardwired installation, offering flexibility based on your home’s needs.

On the flip side, while the installation is user-friendly, it may still require some basic DIY skills, which could be a hurdle for some homeowners. The 5 1/2-inch depth is relatively slim, but it’s crucial to ensure there is adequate wall space for proper placement and ventilation. The remote control feature adds convenience, though it's important to note that batteries are not included. Furthermore, while it provides a nice range of flame colors and effects, some users might find that the heater's output is more suitable for small to medium rooms, making it less effective in larger spaces.

The Touchstone Sideline stands out for its advanced features, including smart device compatibility and flame memory settings, which enhance user experience. However, as with any electric heater, relying solely on it for primary heating might not be ideal during extremely cold weather. With its combination of beauty and functionality, this fireplace is an excellent choice for anyone looking to upgrade their living space while enjoying the ambiance of a real flame.

The Dimplex Revillusion 36" Built-in Firebox is a stylish and functional option for those looking to add both warmth and ambiance to their living space. It offers a heating capacity of up to around 4400 BTU, suitable for heating small to medium rooms efficiently. The unit’s size—just over 37 inches wide and about 12 inches deep—makes it a good fit for built-in installation in a variety of room layouts, whether centered or in a corner. One of its standout features is the Mirage Flame Panel, which creates a very realistic flame effect thanks to partially frosted acrylic that avoids unwanted reflections, enhancing the cozy atmosphere without the glare typical of many electric fireplaces.

This fireplace provides three power levels (1375, 1975, and 2575 watts), giving some flexibility in heating output and energy use. Installation is straightforward, as it can be surface-mounted and plugged in or recessed and hardwired, but it requires some care due to its weight (about 75 pounds) and hardwired power source. Safety-wise, it is vent-free and includes standard protections, but because it’s vent-free, good room ventilation is important. Maintenance is minimal since it uses LED flames and does not produce real combustion by-products. While it doesn't have a digital thermostat control, it allows you to adjust heat levels manually, which keeps things simple but might feel less convenient for some.

Combining elegant design with reliable heating and a visually appealing flame effect, this electric fireplace insert is a solid choice for anyone wanting a built-in solution that balances style and function.