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10 Best Electric Insert For Fireplace 2025 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

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.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
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

PuraFlame Western Electric Fireplace Insert with Fire Crackling Sound, Remote Control, 750/1500W, Black, 33 5/64 Inches Wide, 21 Inches High

The PuraFlame Western Electric Fireplace Insert is a stylish and practical addition to any home. Its dimensions make it a good fit for many existing fireplaces, measuring 35.04 inches wide, 22.44 inches high, and 8.78 inches deep. One of its highlights is the realistic flame effect and crackling sound, which can be enjoyed with or without the heat function, providing ambiance year-round. The resin log and ember bed add to the authentic look, making it a visually appealing option.

This insert is energy-efficient, utilizing LED technology, and offers three flame settings with adjustable intensity and brightness. It's designed for easy installation and can simply sit on the floor without the need for complex set-up, though it must be plugged into a standard 120V outlet and cannot be hardwired. The heating capacity is suitable for supplemental heating of rooms up to 400 sq. ft., but it shouldn't be relied upon as the main heat source.

The included remote control enhances convenience, allowing easy adjustment of settings from a distance. Safety features include a flat bottom design for stable placement and a one-year warranty with responsive customer service for peace of mind. However, it's important to note that it's not suitable for larger spaces needing significant heat and cannot be integrated into hardwired systems. Those looking for a primary heating solution might need to look elsewhere. In summary, the PuraFlame Western offers a blend of aesthetics and functionality, ideal for those seeking to enhance their living space with a realistic and easy-to-use fireplace insert.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Heating Capacity
The insert provides better heating compared to older models, offering nice warmth for supplemental heat.
Flame Effect and Realism
The realistic flames, crackling sound, and moving embers create a mesmerizing and cozy ambiance, transforming a house into a home.
Installation and Venting
The PuraFlame Western Electric Fireplace Insert fits perfectly and is easy to install, making it a hassle-free addition to any home.
Safety Features
It's designed with safety in mind, making it a great choice for families with children.
#3

PuraFlame Western Electric Fireplace Insert with Fire Crackling Sound, Remote Control, 750/1500W, Black, 25 63/64 Inches Wide, 23 3/16 Inches High

The PuraFlame Western Electric Fireplace Insert is designed to bring both warmth and a cozy atmosphere to your home. Measuring approximately 28 inches wide, 25 inches high, and 9 inches deep, it is compact enough to fit in various spaces. This unit provides supplemental heat for areas up to 400 square feet, which is ideal for small to medium-sized rooms but not sufficient as a primary heat source.

The adjustable thermostat and remote control offer convenient operation, and the 750/1500W power settings allow you to manage energy usage effectively. The realistic flame effect, with three intensity settings and a fire crackling sound, adds to the ambiance without the mess of a traditional fireplace. LED technology ensures energy efficiency while maintaining a visually appealing flame. Installation is straightforward; it can sit directly on the floor and simply plugs into a standard 120V outlet. However, it is not designed for hard wiring.

Safety features like the cool-touch exterior make it family-friendly, and the one-year warranty provides peace of mind. On the downside, its heating capacity is limited, and some users may find the flame effect less convincing than a real fire. However, with its combination of aesthetic appeal, ease of use, and energy-saving features, the PuraFlame Western Electric Fireplace Insert is a strong choice for those looking to enhance their living space with supplemental heating and a cozy atmosphere.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Size and Dimensions
Installation was super easy, fitting perfectly inside a prior fireplace opening, and the side brackets effectively covered the insert.
Heating Capacity
Despite not being intended as a primary heat source, the fireplaces provided more heat than expected, even enough to delay using the central heating.
Flame Effect and Realism
Ordering two units online was a risk, but the fireplaces exceeded expectations with their realistic log set and flames, adding a wonderful finish to both family and living rooms.
Installation and Venting
Installation was super easy, fitting perfectly inside a prior fireplace opening, and the side brackets effectively covered the insert.
Controls and Features
The simple remote and realistic flame effects enhance the ambiance without the need for complex settings or multiple flame colors.
Safety Features
The unit is safe and ideal for families with kids, thanks to the cool-touch exterior.

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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