Many homeowners don’t know what to do with an old fireplace that is no longer safe. An electric fireplace insert is a great way to give new life to that old fireplace that is safe and affordable.
We’ll look at the best electric fireplace inserts and what you should consider when selecting one in 2023.
Best Electric Fireplace Inserts
We’ll look at the best electric fireplace inserts and what you should consider when selecting one in 2023.
- 5 Sizes Available
- 5118 BTU Heat Output
- 3 Flame Settings
- LED Variable Intensity and Brightness
- Life-like Resin Log Sits on Ember Bed
- 3-Sided Interior Brick, Glass Door & Mesh Screen
- Adjustable Thermostat
- Remote Control for Easy Operation
- Easy to Install Plug-in to 120v Wall Outlet
- One Year Warranty
PuraFlame Klaus Electric Fireplace Insert
The PuraFlame Klaus Electric Fireplace Insert is about 35 inches wide and 27 inches high, which means it can fit easily within a standard fireplace with a little room to spare. It consists of wood, resin, and glass. And it is powder coated, making it durable, antique looking, and highly resistant to scratches and wear and tear.
Thanks to the resin electric log set sitting on a grate right above the ember bed, three-sided brick wall, and mesh screen, the insert gives the illusion of a traditional fireplace, while the glass lets you see the flame. And since the resin is highly fire-resistant, ensuring a reduction of heat and harmful gases if the insert becomes engulfed in flames.
The PuraFlame electric fireplace uses 100 percent energy-saving LED technology, lowering your electric bills. And since it has three different flame settings with varying intensity and brightness levels, you can enjoy it with or without heat throughout the year.
However, when cold outside, the electric insert can provide supplemental heat to the tune of 5118 British Thermal Units (BTUs), covering up to 400 square feet. And the adjustable thermostat and remote control will come in handy for adjusting the heat settings at your convenience.
It’s also easy to install the electric fireplace insert thanks to its freestanding design. The bottom is flat, allowing you to place it directly on the existing fireplace floor. And you can quickly plug it into a 120V source and start using it.
If any issue crops up, there’s always the one-year warranty. You can take advantage of it to get things fixed.
- 5 insert sizes
- 3 flame settings
- 3-sided interior brick wall
- Clean glass front
- Life-like resin log
- Adjustable thermostat
- Remote control
- One year warranty
- UL listed
PuraFlame Western Electric Fireplace Insert
The PuraFlame Western Electric Fireplace Insert is designed for standard-sized existing fireplaces. It consists of a realistic resin log set upon a grate on an ember bed and a three-sided interior brick wall, enabling it to mimic the look of traditional wood fireplaces. Also, it incorporates clean glass front trim for enhanced visibility. And it also has a powder coating finish to enhance its resistance to scratches and durability.
The 1500-Watt produces enough supplemental heat to cover up to 400 square feet of space. And it is suitable year-round thanks to its triple-flame settings that offer varying levels of warmth and brightness. So, you can choose the heating settings on wintry days and nights or non-heating options on warm days.
The PuraFlame Western electric fireplace insert is a good option if you prefer easy installation. Its flat bottom enables you to place it on the floor directly, and the plug-in cord means there’s no need to hire an electrician to do any installation work. Once you connect the insert, it’s good to go.
- 8 Sizes Available
- 5118 BTU Heat Output
- Easy Installation Plugs into 120V Wall Outlet
- Life-like Resin Logs with Ember Bed
- 3 Colors Light with Variable Brightness
- Remote Control
- 2 Heat Options 750W/1500W
- 1-hr to 9-hr Timer
- Auto Shut-off Overheat Protection
- LED technology
- 1-Year Warranty
Valuxhome Electric Fireplace
The Valuxhome Electric Fireplace is 36 inches wide and 27 inches high, enabling it to fit within any medium-sized fireplace. It consists of metal and tempered glass, making it relatively heat- and impact-resistant, stylish, and durable.
The Valuxhome electric fireplace offers up to 5100 BTUs if you want varying heat options. It has a 750-Watt setting (low) and a 1500-Watt setting (high), enabling you to enhance your comfort at various times of the year. And there’s even a built-in timer with auto shut-off periods varying from one to nine hours. But you don’t have to worry about excessive energy bills since the insert uses LED technology.
Thanks to the ember bed, realistic resign logs, incorporated crackling sounds, and varying flame settings, you can enjoy realistic flames with this product. The flames come in three color modes, ranging from orange to blue. In addition, its adjustable flame brightness varies from bright to dim, depending on the ambiance you prefer.
Also, for added convenience, you can use the remote control to adjust the heat and flame settings. And you can access information about the insert’s timer, temperature, flame, and heater via the LCD panel. In addition, the insert includes overheating protection and an automatic shut-off feature that works when the insert overheats.
You would need to hardwire the electric components of the built-in electric fireplace insert. But if any issues arise, you should activate the one-year warranty and lifetime support offers.
- 6 Sizes Available
- 5118 BTU Heat Output
- 2 Heat Modes: 750W/1500W
- Cool to Touch Glass
- ETL Certified
- 7 Flame Brightness Settings
- LED Display Settings
- Remote Control
R.W.FLAME Electric Fireplace Insert
The R.W. FLAME Electric Fireplace Insert consists of glass, making it an excellent addition to any modern space. It has a freestanding design, enabling you to place it directly on the floor of an existing fireplace. However, you can also mount it into a recessed wall, allowing more flexibility about its placement.
If you have kids or pets, you don’t have to worry about the risk of burns. The R.W. FLAME fireplace insert’s glass is cool to the touch. And the appliance is compliant with Electric Testing Lab (ETL) safety standards.
You should consider the product if you are looking for an eco-friendly solution. Unlike gas fireplaces, it doesn’t burn any propane, ethanol, or gas. And unlike wood-burning fireplaces, it doesn’t require wood. So it doesn’t pollute your environment by producing harmful gases like carbon monoxide. In addition, it is relatively silent due to its powerful compressor, preventing noise pollution and allowing you to work in peace.
Also, the R.W. FLAME insert offers lifelike flames with seven different brightness levels. So, it can work as an ambiance fireplace in any of your amenity spaces. But aside from that, it offers two heat options ranging from low (750W) to high (1500W), allowing you to save energy on warmer days and nights. And for your convenience, you can adjust your flame settings or heat levels using a LED display panel or remote control, depending on your preference.
Best Electric Fireplace Log Inserts
Below are our top picks of electric fireplace log inserts.
- Revillusion Flame Technology
- Life-like hardwood-cast logs
- Year-round operation
- Fan-forced ceramic heater
- Two year warranty
Dimplex Revillusion Log Set
The Dimplex Revillusion Log Set is a freestanding fireplace insert consisting of metal and resin, making it elegant and durable. It is designed to fit in small unused fireplaces. Also, it includes a partially frosted acrylic panel, which enhances its shatter-resistance, portability, and durability and prevents heat reflections when the electric fire is on.
Thanks to the acrylic panel surrounding the resin log set, you can have a 360-degree view of the fire and hardwood cast logs, allowing you to enjoy realistic flame effects from any angle. And you can adjust the flicker effect if you need more light.
Because this log set produces 5118 BTUs, you can use it to provide additional heating in your living room. Its fan-forced ceramic heater will ensure all small rooms you place it in are cozy and comfortable. However, you can also enjoy the insert’s flames without heat, allowing you to use it throughout the year.
- Realistic LED Log and Ember Bed Experience
- No Flame Heat or Emission
- 100% Efficient
- 4692 BTU Heat Output
- One-Year Warranty
Dimplex Deluxe Electric Fireplace Insert
The Dimplex Deluxe Electric Fireplace Insert has a heater that is 42 percent smaller than typical baseboards, making it a good option for small spaces. In addition, the built-in consists of steel and glass, making it suitable durable and suitable modern homes and offices.
The electric firebox utilizes a patented pulsating ember technology and LED inner glow. As a result, it creates an experience similar to what a real fireplace would produce because the logs and embers glow in concert. However, unlike a real fireplace, it doesn’t have any gas emissions or particulates, making it one of the best options if you prefer an eco-friendly fireplace insert.
If you want heat, the Dimplex Deluxe insert produces 4,695 BTUs. Yet the glass will remain cool to the touch, enhancing its safety. Alternatively, you can opt for the no-heat option, allowing you to enjoy the flame show every day of the year.
- 3 Sizes Available
- 5118 BTU Heat Output
- Infrared Quartz Heat
- Realistic Log and Ember Bed
- Projects Realistic Flames Onto Back of Fireplace
- Operate With or Without Heat
- 1-Year Warranty
Duraflame Infrared Quartz Realistic Log Set
The Duraflame Infrared Quartz Realistic Log Set consists of Quartz and a black finish. Due to its construction design and materials, it is resistant to scratches, chips, cracks, dents, and burns. As a result, it will last longer and be easier to maintain.
Despite its small size, the Duraflame infrared log set is one of the best electric fireplaces for large rooms. The infrared heater produces 5,200 BTUs of heat, covering up to 1,000 square feet.
Also, the infrared quartz heat works so that natural humidity in your space remains. So, you won’t have to deal with dry air that could irritate your sinuses and throat.
When you place the insert into the traditional wood-burning fireplace, the open flames from the log set and ember bed will reflect onto its back, creating a realistic fireplace experience. But you can also opt for the no-heat settings to enjoy the flame shows throughout the year.
Also, for your convenience, you can use the power, flame, or heat control remote control. And there’s also a programmable thermostat at the side of the fireplace insert. It will enable you to determine the temperature settings, embers, and flame levels.
It is worth noting that the Duraflame quartz log set is pretty light. You can easily maneuver it around to the space you need it, including any outdoor space, then plug its decently long cord into a power source to start using it.
- 2 Sizes Available
- 5118 BTU Heat Output
- 2 Heat Modes 750W/1500W
- Infrared Quartz Heat
- Realistic 3D Flame Effect
- 5 Level Flame Brightness
- Adjustable Flame and Temp
- Operate With or Without Heat
- Overheating Protection
- 24 Hour ON/ OFF Timer
VIVOHOME Electric Fireplace Insert Log Set
The VIVOHOME Electric Fireplace Insert Log Set is designed for small spaces, allowing you to use it even in a small home. It consists of exquisitely crafted wood, making it a great fit regardless of your design theme.
Thanks to the product’s 3D adjustable flame colors with five variable brightness modes, you will enjoy the best experience with your fireplace. And you also have two heat settings – low and high mode – to choose from. Also, you can use the flame mode without the heater, allowing you to set your room’s ambiance even on warm days and nights.
The VIVOHOE fireplace heater controls the humidity and temperature. And even when you shut it off, the fan will continue to work for an additional minute, so it distributes the remaining heat into the room. You don’t have to worry about it disturbing your sleep or concentration because it is silent.
If safety is a matter of concern, the product is a great choice. One of its additional features is an automated shutdown function that switches the appliance off to prevent overheating. Also, its in-built sleep timer within the insert enables you to set the shut-off time, ranging from one hour to 24 hours, after which the heater will automatically go off.
What to Consider When Buying an Electric Fireplace Insert
Below are factors you should consider when purchasing electric inserts.
Price
You need to have a budget when buying an electric fireplace insert. The quality, craftsmanship, brand, size, labor, and heating capacity will influence the final cost.
Typically, electric inserts cost anywhere from $120 to $2,300. But those on the lower end tend to cost as low as $50. So, the chances are high that you will find something that suits your needs and financial abilities.
Ease of Installation
Some inserts only require you to place them directly on the floor of the existing fireplace and plug them in. Others require hardwiring, so you may hire a licensed electrician to install a power outlet and connect relevant wiring.
So, select a fireplace insert that is easy to install if you prefer DIY projects. It also helps if the insert is portable.
Overall Dimensions
The size of the fireplace insert may influence its ability to heat a space. But because fireplace inserts stay within existing fireplaces or hollow wall spaces, ensure they will fit within them.
Standard fireplaces tend to be at least 36 inches wide, while smaller ones can be less than that. Anything over 48 inches wide qualifies as a large fireplace.
The Room Size
The room size determines your heating needs and partly influences the size or power of the fireplace insert.
The general rule of thumb is to multiply the length, width, and height of the space you want to heat to get the cubic volume. And then multiply that volume by four to heat the minimum number of British Thermal Units your room needs to stay warm.
For example, a room that is 1000 cubic feet would need at least 4,000 BTUs.
That said, some brands provide additional information about the coverage area with which the fireplace heater is compatible. So, you can use that instead if you don’t want to do the math.
However, your climate will also influence your heating needs. For example, a heater that would sufficiently heat your space in Kentucky would probably not cut it in Alaska. So, you need to factor that in.
Attractive Features
With so many types of electric fireplaces available in the market, it would be a good idea to consider the features they offer to help you choose the right one.
Safety is one differentiator you can consider. In such cases, it may be wise to consider features such as built-in timers that enable the fireplace to go off even when you are asleep and automatic shut-off functions that switch off the appliance when it overheats.
You may also want to consider the construction materials used and how they address your needs and preferences. For example, tempered glass doors are impact resistant, reducing their chances of shattering when your pets or kids knock them. On the other hand, metals like steel are durable, which means they will last longer.
In addition, think about the heat and flame settings and the level of control you have over them. For example, if you want an insert that mimics real flames, you should pick log sets and ember beds that create the appearance of a real fire. Also, choose a firebox that has brick designs.
Concerning heat, it helps to have high and low heat settings to address the changing temperature throughout the year. That way, you can still enjoy the warmth of the fireplace while reducing energy bills since you won’t need to use excessive power. And it would also be wise of you to find a fireplace insert with separate heat and flame settings. Then you can use your appliance to set the mood, regardless of the time of year.
Puraflame vs. Dimplex vs. Duraflame Electric Fireplace Inserts
Duraflame electric fireplace inserts suit people with smaller budgets who want portable inserts that can heat large spaces of up to 1,000 square feet. In addition, they are suitable for DIY enthusiasts due to their ease of installation.
Dimplex fireplace inserts are a better choice for a mid-to-high-end budget who wants a small but sturdy and fashionable fireplace insert with interesting but realistic flame settings. Also, they are great for those who want a fireplace they can use throughout the year.
On the other hand, PuraFlame inserts are an excellent choice for anyone looking for inserts that give the appearance of a gas or wood-burning fireplace while being safe to operate even when children and pets are around. And thanks to their LED technology, they are also a good option for anyone looking to cut down their energy bills.
Electric Fireplace Insert FAQs
Here are some answers to your FAQs.
Is an Electric Fireplace Insert Worth It?
Electric fireplace inserts are worth it because they are energy-efficient, safe to use, and eco-friendly. They can also be placed within existing fireplaces, eliminating the need for renovation.
Do Electric Fireplaces Use a lot of Electricity?
Electric fireplaces use the same energy as space heaters and are cheaper than gas heaters. And those with low heat settings can save even more energy.
Can You Put an Electric Fireplace Insert in an Existing Fireplace?
Many inserts are small to fit within small to large existing fireplaces. But you should confirm their overall dimensions to be sure. The larger the electric fireplace insert, the more expensive the insert will be.
Do Electric Fireplace Inserts Need a Vent?
Electric fireplaces don’t need venting because they produce no emissions. Electric fireplace inserts are the best choice for your house since they don’t produce flame heat or emissions. They’re a great green alternative with no dangerous pollutants or emissions and are 100% efficient.
What is the Cheapest Option Available within Electric Fireplace Inserts?
The cheapest option depends on your needs and preferences. Amazon offers quality inserts that cost less than $150. For example, the ROVSUN 23″ Electric Fireplace Insert Log Set Heater sells for less than $80. The downside is many lack realism and features found in more expensive inserts.
What is the Most Common Feature for Electric Fireplace Inserts?
Electric fireplace inserts usually have smokeless flames whose intensity and color you can control remotely or via a control panel.
