I Tested And Reviewed 10 Best Electric Fireplace Inserts (2023)

The electric fireplace insert is truly a stunning addition to any home. Its elegance and beauty surpass the images provided online. The colors of the flames and crystals can be customized, allowing you to create the perfect ambiance for any occasion. With a dimmer and speed control feature, you can adjust the intensity and speed of the flames, creating a mesmerizing and meditative experience.

While the heat generated by the fireplace may not be sufficient to heat an entire room, it is important to note that the primary purpose of this fireplace is not for heating but rather for its artistic value. It serves as a piece of artwork that brings relaxation and tranquility to your space.

The ease of installation and the quiet operation of the heater are noteworthy. The fireplace seamlessly fits under a 60" TV and adds the perfect touch to your living room. Additionally, the fireplace is easy to clean, making maintenance hassle-free.

In terms of functionality, this fireplace surpasses expectations. The different color options, adjustable brightness, and sleek design give it a modern and sophisticated look. The heat output is also commendable, providing warmth when needed.

When it came to delivery, the unit was securely strapped to a linear pallet, ensuring its safety during transportation. UPS freight did an excellent job handling the delivery process.

Installation of the Touchstone fireplace was a bit cumbersome, ideally requiring two people. However, I managed to install it on my own by being cautious and patient. It's worth noting that mishandling the unit could result in damage to the glass facade or the metal housing. Once I carved out the opening in the drywall, the installation process was relatively straightforward.

I did encounter one issue during the initial testing phase. Upon plugging in the unit, I noticed a grinding noise coming from the fireplace. After contacting Touchstone customer service, they promptly provided me with a supplemental guide on how to fix the issue. I discovered that the "flame rod" was not properly attached and was causing the noise. I had to remove multiple screws from the back of the unit to resolve the problem. While this was an inconvenience, it allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of the inner workings of the fireplace. It became apparent that this was a quality control issue during the manufacturing process. I reported the issue to the customer service team, and they acknowledged it. Luckily, I was able to fix it myself and did not require further assistance or a replacement unit. It's worth noting that other customers who reported grinding noises may have experienced the same issue with the dislodged flame rod. When the unit is installed correctly, it operates silently (without heat).

After successfully completing the installation, I must say that the Touchstone fireplace looks absolutely fantastic. The flames are incredibly realistic, and I appreciate the option to use fake crystals or fake wood for added visual appeal. The fireplace also offers multiple dimming options, which is a feature I particularly value. Moreover, one of the main reasons I chose this unit was because of the blue-only flame option. It creates a unique and captivating ambiance, especially when watching movies. Living in Florida, I won't be using the heat feature frequently, so I cannot comment on that aspect just yet.

I recently purchased this electric fireplace insert and I must say, it has exceeded my expectations. Firstly, the delivery was prompt, arriving several days earlier than the estimated date. The packaging was exceptional, ensuring the product arrived in perfect condition.

Upon unboxing, I was impressed by the sturdy construction of the fireplace insert. Made with metal and glass, it felt durable and I had no concerns about handling it. The installation process was straightforward, although I did need to make a minor adjustment to fit it perfectly in my fireplace opening. I simply cut a 2×4 board segment and painted it black to create a level base. This quick fix blended seamlessly with the unit.

I also appreciated the flexibility in positioning the fireplace insert. I needed the power cord to extend from the left side, and there was ample space behind the housing to conceal a 6ft extension cord. The front trim, including the grate covering the controls, was surprisingly made of metal, which added to the overall quality of the unit.

Now, let's talk about the fire effect. While it may not fool everyone, it provides a remarkably satisfying ambiance. It's clean, safe, and creates a cozy atmosphere in the room. There are multiple crackle sound options to choose from, allowing me to find the perfect one for my preferences. Although I haven't used the heat function extensively, it's great to have the option available.

In terms of noise, the unit emits a low hum when running, even without the fan. However, I quickly got used to it and don't notice it anymore. I've been using the fireplace insert for almost a month now and I still love it. In fact, my mom visited and initially thought I had gas logs installed. She was impressed to learn that it was an electric fireplace and couldn't believe how realistic it looked.

The attention to detail is another standout feature of this fireplace insert. The glass doors and the safety chain curtain give it a premium feel, surpassing other models on the market. In response to a buyer's concern about the unit tipping out when the glass doors are open, I personally secured the top edge trim with hot glue to the tile behind it. This has proven to be effective, although I have not had the need to open the doors since installation.

I am extremely satisfied with the 26" version of this fireplace. I decided to recess it into a wall and the results are fantastic. The flame pattern and flickering log set look incredibly realistic, especially when viewed from a distance. The firebox itself is very well-made and sturdy, as other reviews have mentioned.

Setting up the fireplace was a breeze. I simply plugged it in and turned it on. The white power cord is connected to the upper left side of the unit, extending about 5 feet. In my case, I cut a hole in the wall slightly larger than the size of the firebox and easily slipped it in. Fortunately, there was ample space behind the wall, below a staircase landing, allowing for about 8 inches of depth for the unit. I left about an inch and a half of space between the top of the unit and the top wall cutout.

One thing to note is that the inside top of the unit does get quite warm when the heat is on high. I will be keeping a close eye on the heat build-up inside the wall and may consider installing a strip of cement board to prevent any potential issues. In terms of power, I was fortunate enough to have the unit installed about 12 inches above the ceiling in my basement. This allowed me to run a dedicated line/receptacle to the ceiling joist and drop the power cord through a hole in the floor, keeping all the wires concealed. However, for those who do not have this option, plugging the fireplace into a nearby outlet should be fine as long as there isn't too much on that circuit. It's important to note that using an extension cord for any electrical heating device is not recommended due to resistance and voltage drop over length.

The unit itself slides in effortlessly and there is no need to anchor the frame to the wall, unless noticeable holes are drilled in the front of the frame. The weight of the unit keeps it securely in place inside the wall, but I may consider making a shelf for the back bottom surface to rest on. The top, left, and right sides of the unit have a 1-inch lip, while the bottom does not. As a result, I can easily pull the unit forward from the top and extract it from the cutout if necessary. However, if the unit continues to work well, I may just caulk the bottom edge and leave it as is.

Heat is blown from the upper left of the unit, and I must say that the fan is impressively quiet on high. It produces a sound similar to forced air through ceiling vents in a quiet room or a computer fan. The room in which the fireplace is installed is approximately 13 X 9 feet, with a ceiling height of about 9 feet. There are also three good-sized windows in the room, with lounge chairs positioned directly in front of them. Additionally, there are two long, forced hot water baseboards for regular heat. On very cold days when the windows make the room drafty, this fireplace is a welcomed addition. However, I don't believe it would be sufficient to solely heat the room. In fact, I was slightly disappointed with the heat output, but I understand that a stronger fan would have meant more noise. I will continue to monitor its performance and see how it goes. That being said, standing in front of the fireplace after coming in from the cold does help to warm up more quickly.

I recently purchased this electric fireplace insert for my office bookcase, and I must say, it has been a fantastic addition. Not only does it save me money on my heating bill by allowing me to heat just one room instead of the whole house, but it also adds a lovely aesthetic to my workspace.

Installation was a breeze, and the fireplace looks great in my bookcase. The design is sleek and modern, and it blends seamlessly with the rest of my office decor. One of the standout features of this fireplace is how quiet it is. I can work without any distractions or noise interruptions.

In terms of heating capabilities, this electric fireplace does a great job of keeping my small home office at a comfortable temperature. Even during long workdays, it consistently provides warmth without any issues. Additionally, the different color flames add a fun touch, especially during Halloween.

Compared to other electric fireplaces on the market, the flames may not be super bright, but I find them to be quite realistic, especially considering the price point. The option to change the flame colors is a nice bonus, adding some versatility and personalization to the overall ambiance.

However, I must mention that there was an unfortunate issue with the unit after a few months of use. It stopped working at the end of March. While this could have been an isolated incident with my particular unit, I must admit that I did not keep the necessary paperwork to return it. As a result, I am hesitant to purchase another one.

Despite this setback, I still highly recommend this electric fireplace insert. It has proven to be a great alternative for those who want the cozy feel of a fireplace without the hassle and expense of a gas fireplace. In fact, I even placed it in front of my existing gas fireplace, and it blends in seamlessly.

Another advantage of this electric fireplace is that it allows for low to high light settings for the flames, and even offers pink, blue, and red flame options. Although I haven't had the chance to use the heater yet due to the hot weather where I live, the ambiance it adds to my space is already worth the purchase.

Lastly, I want to commend the user-friendly experience I had on the seller's website. It was easy to navigate and find the perfect replacement for my old fireplace. The delivery and installation process was quick and efficient, and now I can enjoy using my fireplace again.

After initially encountering some issues with the fireplace, we decided to troubleshoot and discovered that the cord needed to be pulled out further. Once we resolved this, the fireplace worked perfectly. We realized that the cord being stuffed into the unit was causing it to overheat and trigger the safety feature, shutting off the unit.

I am pleased to update my review from one star to five stars as the seller promptly reached out to us and was willing to work with us to resolve the issue. We appreciate their excellent customer service and are now keeping the fireplace insert.

In terms of performance, this fireplace has exceeded our expectations. It effectively heats our living room and the adjustable temperature and timer features make it very convenient to use. Additionally, the unit is well-constructed and the fan operates quietly, making it a pleasant addition to our space.

Contrary to some reviews, we find that the logs and fire in the fireplace look realistic, especially considering the price point. The overall design of the fireplace complements our living room beautifully.

I recently purchased this gas log set and I am extremely satisfied with my purchase. Right out of the box, it was ready to use, no complicated setup required. The heat output is exceptional and the logs look very realistic, giving the impression of a real fire. Initially, I was a bit skeptical, but these logs exceeded my expectations.

One of the things I appreciate about this log set is the low fan noise. Even on the medium setting, it is barely noticeable and effectively disperses the heat into the room. On the high setting, the fan noise is minimal and resembles the sound of true gas logs. It creates a cozy and warm atmosphere in my home.

In terms of aesthetics, I love the way this log set looks. The nice glow it provides in the firebox adds a touch of elegance to my largely unused fireplace. While living in Florida, I may not rely on the heat feature as much, but it will definitely come in handy during the cooler winter months. The remote control is easy to use, and the flame glow has three different brightness settings.

I have been using this log set for about 10 days now, and it has become a part of my daily routine. I enjoy sipping a hot cup of coffee in the morning while watching the flames dance in the firebox. Throughout the day and evening, I find myself turning it on multiple times, as the warm glow brings a sense of relaxation and contentment. Its visibility from the kitchen and dining room adds to the overall ambiance of my living room.

For those on a budget who want to revive a fireplace that doesn't get much use, I highly recommend this log set. It was incredibly easy to set up – simply open the box, remove the packaging, place it in the fireplace, plug it in, and turn it on! No mess, no wood to carry, no smoke or ash, and no cleaning up afterwards. Just happy, dancing flames and a warm glow without the hassle.

The fire place is an incredible feature that is definitely worth every dollar. The quality of the fire place is exceptional, with clean glass and the supply of two big bags of clear rock. Although we were only able to apply one bag, it did not affect the overall quality.

One of the best things about this fire place is the variety of color options available. It can be a utility and art piece at the same time, with the ability to play with different colors on a daily basis. Even in the event of a power outage, our generator can single-handedly use this fire place to supply heat and warm our home over the winter.

Installation was a breeze, with a 4-inch gap on the fireplace frame made of marble that hung perfectly inside. There were no over gap brackets and no buttons or controls behind the fireplace box, making it flush on the wall and aesthetically pleasing. Hanging the box was as simple as removing two screws and adding crystal stones. The glass has two brackets that easily go back on with hooks that fit into the groove.

The fire place offers a wide range of colors for the rocks, including blue, red, pink, yellow, dark blue, white, and green. Flames can also be mixed and matched with the rocks, allowing for different combinations. The flame can be adjusted to five different levels, from low to high.

One of the best features is that the lights and crystals work with or without heat. The remote control adds an element of fun, and you never have to use the touch screen if you don't want to get up. Installation took us only five minutes, and there are even helpful installation videos available on YouTube.

I recently purchased the electrical insert for my home and I must say, I am beyond pleased with my purchase. I have a 1700 sq ft colonial home in Buffalo, NY, and this insert has exceeded my expectations in terms of cost-effectiveness, functionality, and overall ambiance.

First and foremost, the price point of this unit is unbeatable. I would have happily paid double for the quality and features it offers. Additionally, the set-up process was a breeze. There was no complicated installation or assembly required. All I had to do was slide it out of the box, place it where I wanted it, and plug it in. Easy-peasy.

The ambiance created by this electric insert is truly impressive. Unlike older models that looked cheesy and unrealistic, this unit offers 5 levels of "fire glow" that actually resemble the real thing. In fact, several people have mistaken it for a gas fireplace. The level of detail and realism is truly remarkable.

One of the key factors for me was the lack of odor. Apart from a slight manufacturing smell that dissipated within 10 minutes of initial use, there is no odor emitted by this unit. This is crucial for me as I have asthmatics in the house and I wanted to ensure a clean and healthy environment.

In terms of heat output, this unit offers three levels: no heat (just flame effect), low heat, and high heat. The heat and flame effect can be controlled separately using the remote. Even the low heat setting has proven helpful during the harsh Buffalo winters, effectively supplementing the heat from my furnace and keeping my living room toasty. It will also come in handy during the transitional spring and fall days when I just want to take the chill out of the air without having to turn on the entire furnace.

Another noteworthy feature is the quiet operation of this unit. While there is a hum when the heat is blowing, it is not distracting or overly loud. The noise level remains consistent on both high and low heat settings.

I recently purchased this fireplace insert and I am extremely satisfied with my purchase. Not only does it provide a cozy and inviting ambiance to my living room, but it also serves as an efficient heater. The lights in the fireplace create a beautiful and captivating atmosphere, enhancing the overall feel of the room. In terms of functionality, it effectively heats up the living room, making it a valuable addition to my home.

One of the standout features of this fireplace insert is its ability to evenly distribute heat throughout the space. Previously, I had issues with inconsistent heating in my home, with certain rooms being too warm while others remained chilly. However, since using this insert, I have noticed a significant improvement in the temperature regulation throughout my house. The living room stays warm, while the bedrooms remain comfortably cooler.

Furthermore, this fireplace insert has had a positive impact on my electric bill. It has reduced the need for my heating unit to run constantly, resulting in energy savings. I anticipate that this will make a noticeable difference in my monthly expenses.

The remote control, although basic, is easy to use and convenient. It has four buttons, making it straightforward to operate. I have attached a small piece of Velcro to the back of the remote and my coffee table to ensure it doesn't get misplaced.

My overall experience with this fireplace insert has exceeded my expectations. Initially, I had doubts and considered the possibility of returning it, but after the first night of use, I knew it was here to stay. I highly recommend giving it a try, especially if you have a wood-burning fireplace that is rarely utilized. This particular insert offers great value for the price and has transformed my fireplace into a vital part of my living room's ambiance.