Transform your cold hearth into an efficient, cozy heating source instantly. That empty fireplace in your living room isn’t just wasted space—it’s a drafty energy drain. A quality fireplace insert changes everything. It slips right into your existing opening, sealing off that chimney draft while pumping out real warmth. No more watching flames that feel nice but leave the rest of the room chilly. You deserve better than that.
These units are designed to work for you, not just look pretty. They trap heat inside your home instead of sending it up the chimney. You’ll save on heating bills and stay comfortable all winter. Plus, the installation is simpler than youd think. Some models even include remote controls and thermostat settings. Your cold hearth can become the most efficient room in your house with just one upgrade.
Product Comparison Table: 9 Best Fireplace Insert
| Image | Why We Like This Product | Editor’s Rating | |
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R.W.FLAME 60″ Recessed and Wall Mounted Electric Fireplace, Low…
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9.6 |
Read Review |
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R.W.FLAME 42IN Recessed and Wall Mounted, The Thinnest Fireplace,…
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9.3 |
Read Review |
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EUHOMY 50 Inch Electric Fireplace Wall Recessed and Wall…
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9.1 |
Read Review |
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EUHOMY 60 Inch Electric Fireplace Wall Recessed and Wall…
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8.8 |
Read Review |
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Touchstone Smart Electric Fireplace-The Sideline 36″ Wide-in Wall Recessed…
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8.6 |
Read Review |
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Electactic 36 Inch Electric Fireplace Insert Ultra-Thin – Recessed…
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8.3 |
Read Review |
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Xbeauty 50 inch Wall Mounted Recessed Electric Fireplace Insert,…
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8.1 |
Read Review |
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PuraFlame Western Electric Fireplace Insert with Fire Crackling Sound,…
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7.8 |
Read Review |
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Westinghouse 60 Inch Electric Fireplace Heater, Compatible with Alexa…
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7.6 |
Read Review |
Quick Review For Top 9 Fireplace Insert
R.W.FLAME 60" Recessed and Wall Mounted Electric Fireplace, Low Noise, Fit for 2 x 6 Stud, Remote Control with Timer, Touch Screen, Adjustable Flame Color and Speed, 750-1500W
The R.W.FLAME 60″ Recessed and Wall Mounted Electric Fireplace is a straightfoward upgrade for your home heating and decor. It measures 3.86 inches deep, 60 inches wide, and 18.11 inches tall. The new design is only about 3.86 inches thick, which is a big improvement over the older 6-inch model. It works exactly the same but looks much sleeker on your wall. We also moved the main power and cable location, so it fits more neatly and is easier to install.
It is built to work with standard 2×6 studs, making recessed mounting simple. You have multiple ways to control it. Use the touch screen on the unit itself or the remote control from your couch. There are 12 different flame and LED flame bed color modes to choose from. You can also adjust the flame speed across 5 settings and the flame brightness across 5 levels.
There is a special automatic flame design that changes the color and brightness on its own, so you don’t have to keep fiddling with it. The noise level is low, so it wont disturb your conversations or sleep. For heating, it offers two power modes: 750 watts and 1500 watts. You can switch between them depending on how warm you need the room to be. The lower setting is good for energy saving when you just want a little extra warmth.
R.W.FLAME 42IN Recessed and Wall Mounted, The Thinnest Fireplace, Low Noise, Fit for 2 x 6 and 2 x 4 Stud, Remote Control with Timer, Touch Screen, Adjustable Flame Color and Speed
The R.W.FLAME 42IN Recessed and Wall Mounted fireplace is designed to be the thinnest option on the market, and it really delivers on that promise. At just 3.86 inches deep, this model is a big upgrade from the old 6-inch versions, yet it functions just as well. The power supply and cable have also been repositioned to make the unit look cleaner and fit more flush against your wall.
It works with both 2 x 6 and 2 x 4 studs, so installation is flexible whether you want to recess it or mount it on the surface.
You get a lot of control with this fireplace. There is a touch screen on the unit itself, plus a remote control for when you are sitting across the room. The flame offers 12 different colors and LED bed colors to choose from, along with 5 different speed settings and 5 brightness levels.
One feature worth noting is the automatic flame design, where the color and brightness change on their own. This is nice if you want a more dynamic look without having to adjust it constantly. The noise level is also very low, so it wont distract you while you read or watch TV.
For heating, there are two power modes: 750 watts and 1500 watts. You can pick the lower setting for mild days to save energy, or crank it up when you need more warmth.
EUHOMY 50 Inch Electric Fireplace Wall Recessed and Wall Mounted with Adjustable Flame Color, Fireplace Heater with Remote Control, Linear Fireplace with Timer, Touch Screen, Log & Crystal, 750/1500W
The EUHOMY 50 Inch Electric Fireplace Wall Recessed and Wall Mounted with Adjustable Flame Color is a linear heater designed to fit your space and your style. It comes as a complete package. You get one carbon log, one pack of crystal stones, the installation manual, and all the hardware you need. It is ETL certified for safety. On top of that, EUHOMY provides two years of technical support.
If anything comes up, just reach out and they will help you quickly.
You have two ways to install this unit. You can recess it fully into the wall for a built-in look, or mount it on the surface. The front panel is black tempered glass. This glass makes the flames look brighter and more brilliant. The overall dimensions are 50 inches wide, 4.13 inches deep, and 17.01 inches tall. It fits well in living rooms, bedrooms, offices, home theaters, and even RVs.
The sleek design blends in with most décors.
The flame effects are very customizable. You can pick from 12 different flame colors and 12 LED fuel bed colors. There are also 5 brightness levels for the flames. The high-intensity LEDs create a realistic visual. You can run the flames with or without heat. This means you can enjoy the cozy look in summer too. The touch screen and remote control let you change these settings easily.
Heating is efficient and flexible.
EUHOMY 60 Inch Electric Fireplace Wall Recessed and Wall Mounted with Adjustable Flame Color, Fireplace Heater with Remote Control, Linear Fireplace with Timer, Touch Screen, Log & Crystal, 750/1500W
The EUHOMY 60 Inch Electric Fireplace Wall Recessed and Wall Mounted with Adjustable Flame Color gives you a lot of control over your heating and ambiance. It comes with both carbon logs and crystal stones, so you can choose the look you prefer. The package includes an installation manual and all hardware accessories.
It is ETL certified for safety, and you also get two years of technical support from EUHOMY if you ever have questions.
You can install this fireplace as a fully recessed unit or mount it on the wall. The black tempered glass front panel makes the flames look brighter and more brilliant. It fits nicely into living rooms, bedrooms, dining rooms, offices, home theaters, and even RVs.
The overall dimensions are 60 inches wide, about 4 inches deep, and just over 17 inches tall, so it is slim enough to blend into most spaces.
The flame effects are very customizable. You have 12 different flame colors and 12 LED fuel bed colors to mix and match. There are also 5 brightness levels you can adjust independently. The high-intensity LEDs create realistic flame visuals that look good from any angle.
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″ Wide is a recessed in-wall unit that brings the look of a real fire into your home without the mess or venting. It is designed to sit flush inside your wall, creating a clean, built-in appearance. If you want a cozy atmosphere without the hassle of wood or gas, this is a solid option.
The Sideline offers 30 realistic ember color and flame options. You get five flame settings, from a soft glow to an intense blaze.
The flames look real enough that friends might hesitate to touch the glass. You can run the fireplace with or without heat, so it works in warmer climates too. The heater puts out 1,500 watts and includes a thermostat to take the chill off a cool room or basement. Just keep in mind it is not meant to replace your main heating system.
For the hearth, you have a choice. You can use the included faux-fire logs, the crystals, or mix both safely.
The unit stays cool to the touch on the sides and back while the heat is on, which makes it a safe choice near furniture or electronics. The front facing heater vents let you place the Sideline as close as 8 inches below a flat screen TV. Just be sure to leave that 8-inch gap between the top of the fireplace and your TV, mantel, or ceiling.
Installation is straight forward. The Sideline can be recessed into the wall and attached to framing studs.
Electactic 36 Inch Electric Fireplace Insert Ultra-Thin – Recessed & Wall-Mounted Fireplace Heater with Thermostat, Adjustable Flame, Remote Control – Linear with Timer, Touch Screen, 750/1500W
The Electactic 36 Inch Electric Fireplace Insert Ultra-Thin is a recessed and wall-mounted heater that brings both warmth and style into your home. Its ultra-slim frameless design is only 3.86 inches thick, with a nearly invisible bezel that gives you a seamless full view of the flames.
This minimalist frame makes the fireplace look built-in, turning your wall into a stylish centerpiece without taking up extra space.
You get total control over the look with 12 flame colors and 12 bed colors. You can adjust the brightness, color, and speed of the flames to match your mood. Whether you want a cozy amber glow, a sleek blue tone, or a multi-color effect, this fireplace gives you a truly customizable atmosphere for any moment. The heating is just as flexible.
It has two modes: 750W for energy-saving or 1500W for high-efficiency warming. It can heat spaces up to 400 square feet, making it a good fit for living rooms, bedrooms, or mid-sized rooms. The 5100 BTUs and a 1 to 8 hour timer let you set it exactly how you want.
Controlling everything is easy with the dual control system. You get both a remote control and a touchscreen panel.
Xbeauty 50 inch Wall Mounted Recessed Electric Fireplace Insert, Ultra-Thin Lightweight LED Flush Mount Linear Fireplace Heater, Fit 2×4&2×6 Stud w/Touch Screen,Remote Control,750W-1500W,Black
The Xbeauty 50 inch Wall Mounted Recessed Electric Fireplace Insert is a slim, smart heater designed to fit right into your wall with minimal fuss. It works for both wall mounted and recessed build in installation, fitting nicely into 2×4 or 2×6 stud walls. The overall size is 50 inches wide, 18.11 inches tall, and just 3.86 inches deep. The recess box measures 30.35 inches wide, 16.54 inches tall, and 3.86 inches deep.
That shallow depth is a big deal—it lets you flush mount the fireplace so it sits nearly flat against your wall, giving a clean, modern look that stands out. The ultra-thin design is a real plus. At only 3.86 inches thick and weighing 39.4 pounds, one person can easily hang it on the wall. Because it’s lightweight, it’s also safer—less risk of it pulling away from the wall over time. The slim profile means you get a more streamlined sideline mounting effect that other fireplaces just cant match.
The flame effect is impressively realistic. Ultra high intensity LED lights create lifelike flames with 12 different color modes for the LED flames and crystal hearth. You also get 5 speed and brightness levels for the flames. You control everything with the touch screen panel or the remote control. The flame effect works with or without heat, so you can enjoy the ambiance year-round, even in summer.
PuraFlame Western Electric Fireplace Insert with Fire Crackling Sound, Remote Control, 750/1500W, Black, 33 1/16 Inches Wide, 25 9/16 Inches High
The PuraFlame Western Electric Fireplace Insert brings a realistic flame effect to your space without the mess of a real fire. This unit measures 35 1/16 inches wide, 26 31/32 inches high, and 8 25/32 inches deep, with a firebox that is 32 1/8 inches wide and 25 9/16 inches high. It is designed to fit into an existing fireplace opening or sit directly on the floor thanks to its flat bottom.
If you are unsure about whether it will suit your opening, it is best to contact customer service before ordering to confirm the fit.
You get three flame intensity settings, which can be used with or without the heater. This means you can enjoy the look of a fire all year round, even in summer. The LED technology is 100% energy saving, so it won’t drive up your electric bill. The three-sided interior brick wall and clean glass front trim give it a sleek, finished look.
Best of all, there is no dust or ashes to clean up. The life-like resin log sits 11 13/16 inches high on a grate above the ember bed, making it look just like a real wood burning fireplace.
This insert provides supplemental heat for up to 400 square feet. Please note that it is not a main heat source, but it works well to take the chill off a room. You can choose between 750 and 1500 watts, and the adjustable thermostat helps you maintain a comfortable temperature.
Westinghouse 60 Inch Electric Fireplace Heater, Compatible with Alexa & Google Home, Wall Mount or in-Wall Recessed Fireplace Insert, 24 Hour Timer, Color Changing Flames, 750W/1500W Indoor Heater
The Westinghouse 60 Inch Electric Fireplace Heater gives you a lot of control over how your room looks and feels. This model works with Alexa and Google Home, so you can adjust it with your voice or through the Westinghouse app. It also comes with a remote for more traditional control.
You can really make the flames your own. There are up to 144 total color combinations for the flames and embers. You get 5 independent brightness levels and 5 flame burning speeds.
The set includes interchangeable faux logs and a Camphor wood and crystal ember bed, so you can switch up the visual style whenever you want.
For heating, this unit has two power settings: 750W and 1500W. The built-in thermostat lets you set a target temperature between 62F and 82F. The heater will work to maintain that temp, which helps keep you comfortable without wasting energy.
There is also a 24 hour timer, so you can schedule when the fireplace turns on or off.
Installation is flexible. You can mount it on the wall or recess it flush into the wall. The product measures 60 inches wide by 15.75 inches tall on the front face. For recessed installation, you will need an opening that is about 59.06 inches by 15 inches by 6 inches. The back of the unit is slightly smaller at 58.75 by 14.35 by 5.56 inches.
Fireplace Insert Buying Guide
Selecting a fireplace insert boosts heating efficiency while adding cozy ambiance to your living space. You want warmth without sky-high energy bills, right? These units slide into existing fireplaces, turning drafty openings into powerful heat sources. Most people don’t realize how much heat escapes through a traditional open hearth. An insert changes that, trapping warmth inside your room instead of letting it vanish up the chimney.
Fuel Type Matters
Wood, gas, or pellet—each has its own personality. Wood inserts give you that crackling fire smell, but thay require constant feeding and cleaning. Gas models offer instant heat with a flip of a switch, perfect for lazy evenings. Pellet stoves burn compressed wood pellets and need electricity to run. Think about your lifestyle. Do you want to chop wood or just push a button? Your answer narrows down the options fast.
Heating Capacity and Room Size
Bigger isn’t always better here. An oversized insert will roast you out or waste fuel. Measure your square footage first. Most inserts rate their heating capacity in BTUs. A small room needs about 20,000 to 30,000 BTUs. Larger spaces might require 50,000 or more. Check your windows and insulation too—drafty homes need more power. A common mistake is guessing instead of measuring.
Efficiency and Emissions
This is where money talks. Look for EPA-certified models with efficiency ratings above 70%. High-efficiency inserts burn less fuel while producing more heat, cutting your monthly costs. Some modern units hit 80% or higher. Lower emissions also mean cleaner air for you neighborhood. It’s a win-win if you check the fine print.
Installation Requirements
Not every fireplace can accept an insert. You’ll need a proper hearth extension and a flue liner that fits. Gas inserts often require a gas line hookup by a professional. Wood models need a stainless steel liner to handle smoke safely. Hire a certified installer—this isn’t a weekend DIY project. Bad installation can lead to fires or carbon monoxide leaks.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fireplace Insert
What exactly is a fireplace insert?
A fireplace insert is a self-contained heating unit that fits into your existing fireplace opening. It slides right in, like a box. It burns wood, gas, or pellets. It makes your old fireplace much more efficient.
Why would I need one?
Old fireplaces lose a lot of heat up the chimney. A insert seals the opening. It pushes heat into your room instead. You’ll stay warmer and save on energy bills. It also looks modern and clean.
What types of inserts are there?
You have three main choices. Wood inserts give you that classic fire feel. Gas inserts are easy to turn on with a switch. Pellet inserts burn compressed wood pellets. They are very efficient and need less work.
How do I measure my fireplace for an insert?
Measure the height, width, and depth of your fireplace opening. Do this in inches. Write down the smallest measurments. Most inserts need a few inches of space around them. Check the product specs for clearance requirements. A professional can help if you’re unsure.
Can I install it myself?
Some gas and wood inserts need professional installation. You’re dealing with gas lines or venting. That’s not a DIY job for most people. Pellet inserts are simpler but still have rules. Always check local codes. Hiring a pro ensures safety.
Will an insert make my room warmer?
Yes, absolutely. Inserts are very efficient. They can heat a single room or even a small house. Many have blowers to spread the heat. You’ll feel a big difference compared to an open fire.
How much maintenance do they need?
Wood inserts need ash cleaning and chimney sweeps. Gas inserts need less work—just check the logs and vents yearly. Pellet inserts require cleaning the burn pot and hopper. All need an annual inspection by a professional. It’s simple but important.
Are they expensive to run?
It depends on fuel costs in your area. Wood is often cheap or free. Gas is convienient but costs vary. Pellets are steady in price. Overall, inserts are cheaper to run than electric heaters or oil furnaces. You’ll save over time.
How long do they last?
A good insert can last 15 to 20 years with proper care. Gas and pellet models might need a few part replacements. Wood inserts are built tough. Regular maintenance is key to a long life.
Our Verdict
You’ve done your homework, and now it’s time to make a choice. Think about your room size, your style, and how much heat you really need. A good insert will pay for itself over time by lowering your energy bills. Don’t forget to check for proper ventilation and a blower fan if you want to move heat further into your home. Installing one is a big step, but you’ll enjoy teh payoff every cold evening.
Pick the insert that suits your home and heat your space with efficient, cozy warmth. Whether you choose gas, electric, or wood, a quality fireplace insert can change the feel of your whole house. You’ll get more heat, less waste, and a cleaner look. That’s the kind of upgrade that makes winter something to look forward too. Just be sure to measure twice and buy once, and you’re all set for years of comfort.