If you already have a fireplace opening and want the warmth and glow of an electric unit, you’ve got two main options: an electric log set or a full electric fireplace insert.
Inserts are especially popular because they deliver a built-in look without major construction.
They also work well if you’re upgrading an older electric fireplace inside an existing mantel.
Pros & Cons of Electric Fireplace Inserts
Most electric fireplace inserts include a finished frame, faux interior walls, and a backing panel that slide right into your fireplace opening. The result looks clean and intentional, almost like the unit was always there. Some models also feature a glass front for a more polished appearance.
The main thing to watch out for is sizing. Fireplace openings aren’t always identical, so not every insert will be a perfect match right out of the box.
Electric Fireplace Insert Comparison Chart
| Feature | Standard Electric Insert | Infrared Electric Insert | Builder’s Box Insert | Contemporary Fire Box |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best For | Ambiance + light heat | Maximum supplemental heat | Realistic flame look | Modern, minimalist spaces |
| Heat Output | Moderate (zone heating) | Up to ~5,200 BTUs | Up to ~800 sq. ft. | Up to ~1,000 sq. ft. |
| Heating Coverage | Small to medium rooms | Medium to large rooms | Medium rooms | Medium to large rooms |
| Flame Style | LED logs & embers | LED flames + visible heater | Highly realistic flames | Crushed glass + color flames |
| Customized Flame | Limited | Extensive (colors, speed, brightness) | Brightness adjustment | Color-changing LEDs |
| Flame-Only Mode | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Remote Control | Yes (most models) | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Thermostat / Timer | Sometimes | Yes (digital) | No | Yes |
| Installation Type | Slide-in hearth insert | Slide-in hearth insert | Hearth or wall install | Recessed wall or hearth |
| Hardwire Option | Some models | Some models | Yes (220V) | Yes |
| Typical Fireplace Size Fit | 28–36″ W | 28–36″ W | 36″ W | 36″ W |
| Visual Trade-Off | Most natural look | Heater element visible | Traditional appearance | Less traditional flame |
| Ideal Home Style | Classic or transitional | Comfort-focused homes | Traditional living rooms | Modern & contemporary homes |
That said, many traditional hearths fall within a standard range—roughly 28–36 inches wide and 20–24 inches tall. To make installation even easier, many inserts include trim kits that cover small gaps and help everything look seamless.
Another big win? Installation is usually simple. In many cases, it’s just a matter of sliding the unit in and plugging it in. Here’s a quick video walkthrough that shows how straightforward the process can be:
Click here for more information
Electric fireplace inserts add both visual warmth and supplemental heat without the expense of building a new wood-burning fireplace or converting one to gas. When you compare costs to traditional fireplace construction or gas conversions, electric inserts are often far more budget-friendly.
Most models let you control flame brightness, heat output, and even timers using a remote or onboard controls. You can enjoy the look of a fire with or without heat, which makes them practical year-round.
Today’s electric fireplaces use advanced LED flame technology that looks surprisingly realistic, especially in low lighting. If you want to enhance the illusion even more, adding a fireplace screen can soften the light and make the flames feel more authentic.
How Much Heat Do Electric Fireplace Inserts Provide?
If heating performance matters just as much as appearance, infrared electric fireplace inserts are worth a closer look. These models are designed to warm larger spaces—often up to 1,000 square feet—while still delivering a convincing flame effect.
One trade-off is the visible infrared heating element on the front of the unit. Some people feel it slightly distracts from the flame visuals, but users who prioritize warmth tend to love the heat output.
The Classic Flame Infrared SpectraFire Plus Insert stands out for customization. You can mix and match flame colors, speeds, and brightness levels to create exactly the look you want.
Infrared SpectraFire Plus Insert Specs
- Dimensions: 34.1″ wide × 9.64″ tall × 26.6″ deep
- Built-in digital thermostat and programmable timer
- Infrared quartz heater produces up to 5,200 BTUs of supplemental heat
The Builder’s Box is another favorite, especially for its realistic flame presentation. The flame brightness is adjustable across five levels, letting you fine-tune the ambiance.
A built-in downlight enhances the flame effect and adds depth to the firebox.
This model can heat spaces up to about 800 square feet or operate in flame-only mode. It also supports hardwiring and runs on 220V power.
Installing an Electric Fireplace Insert in a Wall
No existing mantel or hearth? That’s not a dealbreaker. Many electric firebox inserts can be recessed directly into a wall. The included trim and fixed glass front give it a finished, built-in look—no traditional fireplace required.
If your style leans modern, the contemporary version swaps logs for crushed glass and color-changing flames. It delivers the same heating performance with a sleeker, more current look.
Functionally, both styles are very similar—the difference is mainly visual.
Electric Fireplace Insert Specs
- Dimensions: 36″ wide × 7.6″ deep × 24″ tall
- Traditional: 4,600 BTUs / 1,400 W / 11.7 amps
Contemporary: 8,900 BTUs / 2,800 W / 11.7 amps
Click here for more on the Builder’s Box Fireplace Insert