Electric fireplace inserts are a convenient and stylish way to transform an existing fireplace into a modern, energy-efficient heating solution.
They offer the charm and ambiance of a traditional fire without the need for wood or gas, making them ideal for any home.
With features like adjustable flame settings, remote control operation, and realistic ember effects, these inserts combine functionality with aesthetic appeal.
Whether you want supplemental heat for a cozy living room or simply wish to enhance your home’s décor, an electric fireplace insert provides a practical and visually appealing option.
Here are the top ten choices available today.
10. Giantex 28.5″ Electric Fireplace Insert
The Giantex 28.5″ Electric Fireplace Insert delivers the warmth and ambience of a traditional hearth without the mess of wood or gas.
Its tempered‑glass front showcases lifelike flames that can be set to orange‑red, blue, or a vibrant orange‑blue‑red mix, with five brightness levels to match any mood. When you only want the visual effect, the flame‑only mode runs without heat.
An intelligent thermostat lets you dial the temperature between 62℉ and 82℉, while the built‑in 0‑8 hour timer automatically turns the unit on or off, freeing you from constant adjustments.
Choose between a low‑heat 750 W (2,559 BTU) setting for gentle warmth or a high‑heat 1,500 W (5,118 BTU) mode for rapid comfort—both clean, emission‑free, and safe.
Control is effortless via the included remote or the front panel, and the ETL‑certified unit features an overheat cut‑off for added peace of mind.
Its versatile design lets you install the fireplace recessed in a wall, mounted, or used as a freestanding piece, making it a sleek focal point in living rooms, bedrooms, or offices. Just verify clearances for cabinets or TV stands before installation.
Pros
- Realistic, multi‑color flame effect
- Adjustable heat: 750 W / 1,500 W
- 0‑8 hour programmable timer
- Remote control with overheat protection
- Flexible wall‑recessed or freestanding install
Cons
- Requires adequate clearance space
- Remote battery not included long‑term
- Limited to 82℉ maximum temperature
9. LegendFlame EF484 Electric Fireplace
The LegendFlame 25″ W Free‑Standing Electric Fireplace (EF484) delivers a realistic, crackling fire experience without the mess of wood. Its compact 25″ W × 20″ H × 10″ D footprint fits both small and large openings or cabinets, so installation is as easy as placing the unit into the space.
Authentic resin logs sit on an ember bed, while an energy‑saving LED creates vivid, flickering flames that look even better than a traditional wood fire.
Choose between 750 W or 1500 W heating modes to comfortably warm rooms up to 400 sq ft, or run the unit without heat for year‑round ambiance.
The fireplace runs on a standard 120 V, 15 A circuit and includes a handy remote control powered by two AAA batteries. CSA certification guarantees safety, and the one‑year limited warranty is backed by responsive customer service.
Pros
- Easy plug‑and‑play installation
- Realistic resin logs with ember bed
- Energy‑saving LED flame effect
- Dual heating settings up to 1500 W
- Remote control convenience
Cons
- Not a primary heat source
- Requires 15 A circuit
- Remote batteries not included
8. PuraFlame 27 Electric Fireplace Insert
Enjoy the cozy charm of a real fire without the mess. The PuraFlame 27‑inch free‑standing electric fireplace log set slides easily into most existing openings—just set it, plug it in, and let the ambience begin.
Choose from six vivid flame colors and five brightness levels, and let the built‑in crackling sound complete the illusion of a wood‑burning hearth.
Whether you want pure heat or just the visual effect, the dual‑power option (750 W / 1500 W) can warm a 400 sq ft room while staying dust‑free and smoke‑free.
The digital thermostat ranges from 60 °F to 82 °F, and a timer from 0.5 to 9 hours lets you fine‑tune comfort, all displayed clearly on an LED screen.
A handy remote control puts every setting at your fingertips. Backed by a one‑year warranty and responsive customer service, this sleek insert adds warmth, style, and convenience to any living space.
Pros
- Easy fit for most openings
- Six flame colors, five brightness levels
- Dual‑power heating up to 1500 W
- Remote control for effortless operation
- LED display shows all settings
Cons
- Not a primary heating source
- Requires 120 V polarized plug
- Limited to 400 sq ft coverage
7. Riseon 20-Inch Electric Fireplace Log
The Riseon 20‑inch electric fireplace insert delivers fast, efficient heat with its 1500 W quartz‑tube infrared system, warming rooms quickly on the coldest days.
Realistic resin birch logs create a lifelike flame display, offering five vivid flame colors and five adjustable fan speeds for a customizable ambiance. A dedicated remote lets you control temperature, flame effects, and a built‑in timer without leaving your seat.
Safety is front‑and‑center: an over‑heat sensor shuts the unit off at 230 °F, while a quiet‑operation design (≤40 dB) ensures it won’t disturb sleep.
The flame effect works independently of the heater, so you can enjoy a cozy glow year‑round, and the plug‑and‑play design requires no permanent installation.
Its sleek black finish and classic silhouette blend seamlessly with living‑room, bedroom, office, or retail décor, making it a versatile heating solution for any North American space.
Pros
- 1500 W rapid infrared heating
- Five flame colors, five fan speeds
- Over‑heat protection shuts off at 230 °F
- Remote control with timer and thermostat
- Quiet operation, ≤40 dB noise
Cons
- Requires nearby power outlet
- Flame effect only visual when heater off
- Limited to 20‑inch opening size
6. AmazonBasics 21″ Electric Fireplace Insert
Enjoy the cozy charm of a traditional hearth without the mess or maintenance. This 21‑inch freestanding electric fireplace insert delivers lifelike flame effects with five brightness levels and adjustable flicker speed, creating the perfect ambiance for any moment.
Whether you’re winding down after a long day or hosting friends, the realistic flames provide visual warmth while the heater supplies up to 1,500 W of heat—enough to comfortably warm rooms up to 450 sq ft.
Safety is built in: the unit is ETL‑certified, stays cool to the touch, and features over‑heat protection with an automatic shut‑off.
Independent flame and heat controls let you enjoy the decorative fire year‑round or turn on heating only when you need it, selecting between 750 W (low) and 1,500 W (high) for efficient warmth. Installation is a breeze—no chimney or venting required—just plug it in and set the mood.
Operation is effortless via the side panel or the included remote, allowing you to tweak flame brightness, speed, and heater settings with a single click.
Pros
- Realistic flames with five brightness levels
- Dual heating modes (750 W / 1,500 W)
- ETL‑certified safety with auto shut‑off
- Plug‑and‑play, no venting needed
- Remote control for easy adjustments
Cons
- Remote may be misplaced
- Requires nearby power outlet
- Not suitable for very large spaces
5. Masarflame 36” Electric Fireplace Insert
The Masarflame 36’’ Electric Fireplace Insert brings a classic retro vibe to any space while delivering modern convenience. Its compact overall size of 35.6″L × 8.84″D × 27.3″H fits neatly into existing fireplace openings, and the insert itself measures 32.6‑32.7″L × 8.5‑8.7″D × 26.4‑26.5″H.
Powered by a 120 V AC outlet and equipped with a 6‑ft power cord, it provides up to 5000 BTU (750 W / 1500 W) of supplemental heat—enough to comfortably warm rooms up to 400 sq ft.
Realistic, life‑like resin logs and an ember bed sit behind three‑sided interior brick panels, creating a three‑dimensional retro look. Choose from three flame colors and five intensity levels, or turn off the heat entirely for year‑round ambience.
A built‑in speaker adds authentic fire‑cracking sounds, while a front air vent circulates warm air efficiently. Safety is built‑in with auto‑heat‑kill protection to prevent overheating.
Enjoy effortless control via the included remote, set timers, and switch between heating modes—all without the mess of gas, oil, or ash. The sleek black finish makes it a stylish focal point for homes, offices, or any gathering space.
Pros
- Easy insert installation, fits most openings
- Two heating levels for energy savings
- Realistic flames with three‑color lighting
- Built‑in speaker adds authentic fire sounds
- Remote control and timer for convenience
Cons
- Requires 120 V outlet nearby
- No true fire heat output
- Limited to 400 sq ft coverage
4. Innoflame 23 Electric Fireplace Insert
The Innoflame 23″ Electric Fireplace Insert is a sleek, plug‑and‑play solution that replaces outdated wood‑burning units in a 23″ × 19 ¾” opening.
Its realistic log set and dancing flames create the ambiance of a true fire while the adjustable four‑level flame brightness lets you set the mood from subtle glow to full blaze.
With 1400 W (≈5,000 BTU) output, the built‑in thermostat heats rooms up to 400 sq ft, and you can dial the temperature between 64 °F and 82 °F for comfortable, energy‑efficient warmth.
The low‑noise fan operates quietly, and an 8‑hour timer lets you schedule heating cycles. Control is effortless via the included remote, so you can change flame intensity, temperature, or timer without leaving your seat.
Safety is paramount: CSA/UL certification, an overheat protection switch, and an internal fuse provide dual protection.
The unit fits seamlessly into TV stands, mantels, or other furniture, making it a versatile addition to any living space. Backed by a responsive customer‑service team, you can buy with confidence and get help whenever you need it.
Pros
- Easy remote control operation
- Adjustable flame brightness levels
- Heats up to 400 sq ft efficiently
- Low‑noise fan for quiet rooms
- Built‑in overheat protection
Cons
- Requires nearby power outlet
- No real wood scent option
- Limited to 23″ × 19 ¾” openings
3. PuraFlame Western Electric Fireplace Insert
The PuraFlame Western Electric Fireplace Insert brings the cozy charm of a real wood‑burning hearth into any modern space. Its sleek black exterior frames a three‑sided interior brick wall and a clean glass front, giving the illusion of a traditional fireplace without the mess of ash or dust.
The realistic resin log, standing 11 13/16″ tall on a grate above an ember bed, flickers convincingly, while three flame‑setting options let you adjust intensity and brightness year‑round—heat optional.
An adjustable thermostat delivers supplemental warmth for up to 400 sq ft (not a primary heat source), and the included remote makes operation effortless.
Installation is a breeze: the flat‑bottom unit simply sits on the floor and plugs into a standard 120 V outlet—no hard‑wiring required. With dimensions of 35 3/24″ W × 22 7/16″ H × 8 25/32″ D, it fits comfortably in most wall spaces.
Backed by a one‑year warranty and responsive customer service, the PuraFlame insert offers a low‑maintenance, energy‑saving focal point for any room.
Pros
- Realistic flame with three settings
- Energy‑saving LED technology
- Remote‑controlled convenience
- Easy plug‑in installation
- Compact, sleek black design
Cons
- Not suitable as primary heater
- Requires 120 V outlet only
- Limited to 400 sq ft supplemental heat
2. PuraFlame Western Electric Fireplace Insert
The PuraFlame Western Electric Fireplace Insert delivers a realistic wood‑burning ambiance without the mess of ash or the cost of fuel. Its sleek black exterior houses a three‑sided interior brick wall and a clean glass front trim, giving any room a modern, cozy focal point.
The firebox measures 32 1/8″ W × 25 9/16″ H × 7 51/64″ D, fitting comfortably within the overall dimensions of 35 1/16″ W × 26 31/32″ H × 8 25/32″ D—just be sure to double‑check your opening before ordering.
Three flame‑intensity settings let you enjoy a crackling sound and flickering LED flames all year round, with or without heat. The 11 13/16‑inch resin log sits on a grate above an ember bed, mimicking the look of a genuine wood‑burning hearth.
An adjustable thermostat provides supplemental heat for up to 400 sq ft, but it’s intended as a boost, not a primary heat source.
A handy remote control and plug‑in operation (120 V, no hard‑wiring) make installation and daily use effortless, while the flat bottom allows the unit to sit directly on the floor.
PuraFlame’s responsive customer service is ready to assist whenever you need help.
Pros
- Realistic LED flames with crackling sound
- Three flame‑intensity levels, heat optional
- Adjustable thermostat for supplemental warmth
- Remote‑controlled, plug‑in convenience
- Easy floor‑standing installation
Cons
- Not a primary heating solution
- Requires 120 V outlet only
- Must verify opening dimensions beforehand
1. LegendFlame EF290 Electric Fireplace Insert
The LegendFlame 23″ W Free‑Standing Electric Fireplace (EF290) brings the ambiance of a traditional hearth to any room without the mess of wood or the hassle of venting.
Measuring 23″ W × 20″ H × 10″ D, it fits both small and large openings or cabinets—just set it in place and you’re ready to go.
Realistic resin logs sit on an ember bed, producing a vivid, rising flame that’s accentuated by authentic crackling sound. The 100 % LED lighting delivers a mesmerizing glow while using a fraction of the energy of a conventional heater, keeping your electric bill low.
When you need warmth, the dual‑power setting (750 W / 1500 W) can comfortably heat rooms up to 400 sq ft, though it’s intended as supplemental heat.
Powered by a standard 120 V polarized plug on a 15 A circuit, the unit is CSA‑certified for safety and comes with a one‑year limited warranty plus responsive customer service.
Pros
- Easy drop‑in installation
- Realistic logs with ember bed
- Energy‑saving LED flame effect
- Dual heat settings up to 400 sq ft
- Remote control and crackling sound
Cons
- Not a primary heating source
- Requires 15 A circuit
- Limited to 400 sq ft coverage
Frequently Asked Questions
What size electric fireplace insert should I choose for my existing fireplace opening?
Measure the width, height, and depth of the existing opening. Most inserts are sold in standard widths (30″, 36″, 42″, 48″), but you can also find custom‑size models. Choose an insert that’s 1–2 inches narrower than the opening on each side to allow for clearance and proper ventilation. Also verify the depth fits the firebox without protruding into the mantle or surrounding wall.
Do I need a dedicated circuit or special wiring for an electric fireplace insert?
Electric inserts typically draw 1,200–1,800 W (5–7.5 A on a 240 V circuit or 10–15 A on a 120 V circuit). Most homes can run the unit on a standard 15‑amp branch circuit, but it’s best to plug it into a dedicated outlet to avoid overloads. If the existing outlet is far away, have a qualified electrician install a new outlet or a dedicated circuit for safety and to meet local code.
How do I ensure proper heat distribution and safety when installing an electric insert?
- Follow the manufacturer’s clearance guidelines – keep combustible materials (mantel, wood trim, curtains) at least the recommended distance away.
- Use the provided mounting brackets or a secure frame to keep the unit level and stable.
- Leave the rear ventilation gap (usually 1–2 inches) so heat can dissipate and the unit doesn’t overheat.
- Install a thermostat or use the built‑in controls to maintain comfortable room temperature without wasting energy.
- Regularly clean the glass and vents to maintain efficiency and prevent dust buildup.
Following these steps will give you consistent warmth, protect your home, and extend the life of the electric fireplace insert.
Conclusion
Choosing the right electric fireplace insert transforms an underused hearth into a versatile, efficient focal point that blends warmth, ambiance, and modern convenience.
By prioritizing factors such as heating capacity, realistic flame effects, ease of installation, and smart controls, you can ensure the unit complements your existing décor while delivering reliable performance year‑round.
Energy efficiency and low maintenance further enhance the appeal, making these inserts a smart upgrade for both comfort and style.
Ultimately, the best choice aligns with your space’s dimensions, aesthetic preferences, and functional needs, delivering a cozy atmosphere without the hassle of traditional wood or gas fires.
