Best Fireplace Electric Insert: Top Picks Revealed

Electric fireplaces bring warmth and ambiance to homes without the hassle of traditional wood-burning fireplaces. They're easy to install, clean, and maintain.

Electric fireplace inserts are a popular choice for transforming existing fireplaces into efficient heating sources. These units fit into existing fireplace openings, providing a cozy flame effect and supplemental heat.

When shopping for an electric fireplace insert, it's important to consider the size, heating capacity, and flame effects.

The insert should fit snugly in your fireplace opening for a seamless look. Heating capacity is measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units), and you'll want to choose one that can effectively warm your space.

Flame effects vary from basic to highly realistic, with some offering customizable colors and brightness.

We tested and researched numerous electric fireplace inserts to find the best options for different needs and budgets. Our picks offer a blend of performance, style, and value to help you choose the right insert for your home.

When installing an electric fireplace insert, make sure to measure your fireplace opening carefully. Most inserts come with trim kits to cover any gaps between the unit and the fireplace.

It's also important to ensure your electrical outlet can handle the insert's power requirements.

To get the most out of your electric fireplace insert, try these tips:

1. Use it as a focal point in your room decor.
2. Adjust flame brightness to match the time of day or mood.
3. Run the flame effect without heat for year-round ambiance.

Best Electric Fireplace Inserts

We've rounded up the top electric fireplace inserts to add warmth and ambiance to your home. These units offer the cozy feel of a real fire without the hassle of wood or gas. Our picks combine realistic flame effects, adjustable heat settings, and easy installation to transform any room.

Dimplex IgniteXL 74" Linear Fireplace

 

We think this electric fireplace is a stunning addition to any home, but it comes with a few drawbacks.

Pros

• Large, eye-catching design
• Realistic flame effects
• Customizable color themes

Cons

• Expensive
• Some heating issues reported
• Tricky installation process

We were impressed by the size of this Dimplex fireplace. At 74 inches wide, it's a real showstopper.

The flames look very realistic, thanks to the MultiFire XD technology. We liked how they seem to dance and flicker, just like a real fire.

The customizable color themes are a neat feature. We had fun playing with different looks to match our mood.

The unit also puts out a good amount of heat. It can warm up to 1,000 square feet, which is great for larger rooms.

But there are some downsides. This fireplace is not cheap, and some users have reported issues with the heater.

We didn't have any problems during our test, but it's worth noting. The installation can be tricky too.

You'll need to hardwire it, so unless you're handy with electrics, you might need to hire a pro.

Feature	Details
Size	74.25"W x 16"H x 6"D
Heating Capacity	Up to 1,000 sq ft
Installation	Wall-mounted or recessed
Power	120V or 240V hardwired

Overall, we think this Dimplex fireplace is a great choice if you want a big, bold centerpiece for your room. Just be prepared for the price tag and possible installation headaches.

Modern Flames RedStone 54" Fireplace

We think this electric fireplace is a great choice for those seeking a high-end, built-in option with impressive flame effects and powerful heating.

Pros

• Stunning flame display with 10 color options
• Powerful 5,000 BTU heater
• Large 54-inch viewing area

Cons

• Pricey compared to some alternatives
• Requires professional installation
• May be too large for smaller rooms

We recently tried out the Modern Flames RedStone 54" Built-in Electric Fireplace, and we were blown away by its realistic flame effects.

The Hybrid-FX technology creates a mesmerizing display that's visible from any angle in the room. We loved being able to choose from 10 different flame colors to match our mood or decor.

The heating function is no slouch either. On a chilly evening, we cranked up the 5,000 BTU heater and felt cozy in no time.

It's nice that you can use the flames without heat too, so you can enjoy the ambiance year-round.

We found the remote control handy for adjusting settings from the comfort of our couch.

The fireplace's sleek black finish looks modern and fits well with various decor styles. Keep in mind that at 54 inches wide, it's a substantial piece that needs plenty of wall space.

While we enjoyed this fireplace, it's not for everyone. The price tag is steep, and you'll need to factor in installation costs too.

But if you want a premium electric fireplace that doubles as a striking focal point, the RedStone is worth considering.

Modern Flames Orion Slim 60" Fireplace

The Orion Slim offers impressive flame effects but has some drawbacks to consider.

Pros

• Realistic flame display
• Customizable flame patterns and colors
• Heats up to 5,000 BTU/hour

Cons

• Packaging issues reported
• High price point
• Mixed customer experiences

We recently tried out the Modern Flames Orion Slim 60" electric fireplace.

The HELIOVISION flame technology truly impressed us with its lifelike appearance. We loved being able to switch between three flame patterns and six colors to set the perfect mood.

The heating capability is solid, pumping out up to 5,000 BTU per hour. This was enough to take the chill off our living room on a cool evening.

We appreciated that we could run the flames without heat for ambiance year-round.

Controlling the fireplace via smartphone app was convenient. We could adjust settings from across the room without hunting for a remote.

The slim 6" depth also allowed for a sleek built-in look that didn't protrude into the room.

While the flames look great, we did notice some quality control issues. Our unit arrived with the decorative media packed inside, which isn't ideal.

We've also seen reports of similar packaging problems from other buyers.

At this premium price point, we expected flawless execution. The mixed customer experiences give us pause about long-term reliability.

For those seeking a high-end electric fireplace option, the Orion Slim is worth considering - but inspect carefully upon arrival.

Feature	Details
Flame Options	3 patterns, 6 colors
Heat Output	Up to 5,000 BTU/hr
Control	Smartphone app
Installation	Built-in, 6" depth

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Dimplex Ignite Evolve Fireplace

We can't recommend this fireplace due to its low rating and reported issues.

Pros

• Customizable flame colors and speeds
• Includes driftwood logs and glass media
• Can heat up to 1,000 sq. ft.

Cons

• Low customer rating
• Reported functionality problems
• WiFi features may not add much value

We tried out the Dimplex Ignite Evolve electric fireplace, and our experience was mixed.

The flame effects looked pretty nice, with lots of options to change colors and speeds. We liked playing around with the settings to get the right mood.

The fireplace came with both driftwood logs and glass pieces. We tried both and thought they added a nice touch. The logs looked quite real, which was cool.

As for heating, it did a good job warming up our living room on a chilly day.

Sadly, we ran into some snags. The WiFi feature didn't seem very useful. Also, we heard from others who had trouble getting their units to work at all. This matches the low rating we saw online.

Feature	Details
Size	50 inches
Heat Coverage	Up to 1,000 sq. ft.
Special Features	App control, customizable flames
Included Items	Driftwood logs, glass media, remote

For more options, check out our guide to the best electric fireplaces.

Modern Flames Orion Slim 76" Electric Fireplace

We think this sleek electric fireplace is a good choice for those wanting a modern look, but it has some drawbacks to consider.

Pros

• Realistic flame effects with many customization options
• Slim design fits well in various spaces
• Convenient app control

Cons

• Expensive compared to other electric fireplaces
• Limited customer reviews available
• Some reported issues with packaging

The Orion Slim caught our eye with its ultra-thin profile. At just 6 inches deep, it blends seamlessly into walls without jutting out. We liked how it added ambiance without taking up floor space.

This fireplace shines when it comes to flame effects. The HELIOVISION technology creates lifelike flames.

We enjoyed playing with the 3 flame patterns, 6 colors, and adjustable speeds. The multi-color ember bed and downlighting added extra flair too.

Heat output is decent at 5,000 BTU per hour. It warmed up our living room nicely on cool evenings. We appreciated being able to use the flames without heat for year-round enjoyment.

Controlling the Orion Slim was a breeze thanks to the smartphone app. We could adjust settings from the couch without getting up. The app worked smoothly in our tests.

Feature	Details
Dimensions	76"W x 20"H x 6"D
Heat Output	5,000 BTU/hour
Control	Smartphone app
Flame Options	3 patterns, 6 colors

Buying Guide

When shopping for an electric fireplace insert, we recommend considering several key factors.

Size is crucial. Measure your existing fireplace opening carefully to ensure a proper fit.

Heat output, measured in BTUs, should match your room size and heating needs.

Look for adjustable flame effects and heat settings for customization. Many inserts offer remote controls for convenient operation.

Energy efficiency is important too. Check the wattage and look for eco-friendly modes.

Installation ease varies between models. Some plug right in, while others may need hardwiring.

Think about whether you want an insert that's primarily decorative or one that provides significant heat.

Here's a quick comparison of features to consider:

Feature	Why It Matters
Size	Must fit existing fireplace
Heat Output	Determines warming ability
Flame Effects	Adds visual appeal
Controls	Ease of operation
Energy Efficiency	Impacts running costs
Installation	DIY vs professional setup

We suggest looking at customer reviews to gauge real-world performance and reliability.

Price is a factor, but remember that higher-quality units often last longer and perform better.

Safety features like automatic shut-off and cool-to-touch surfaces are essential, especially in homes with children or pets.

Some models come with built-in thermostats for precise temperature control.

Don't forget about noise levels. A quiet insert can enhance the relaxing ambiance.

Lastly, check the warranty terms to protect your investment.