Do you want to enjoy the warmth and coziness of a fireplace without the hassle of installing a traditional one? If so, you might want to consider an electric fireplace insert. These devices are designed to fit into existing fireplaces or wall openings and create realistic flame effects with or without heat. They are easy to use, energy-efficient, and safe for children and pets.

But with so many options available on the market, how do you choose the best electric fireplace insert for your needs? In this article, we will help you answer that question by reviewing some of the latest products as of February 2, 2024, and giving you some tips on what to look for when buying an electric fireplace insert. Let’s get started!

What is an Electric Fireplace Insert and Why Do You Need One?

An electric fireplace insert is a device that mimics the look and feel of a real fireplace, but uses electricity instead of wood or gas to produce heat and flame effects. It consists of a metal or plastic frame, a glass front, and an LED screen or a light bulb that projects the flame image. Some electric fireplace inserts also have fire media, such as logs, crystals, or stones, that add to the realism and aesthetic appeal of the device.

There are many benefits of using an electric fireplace insert over a traditional fireplace, such as:

• Ease of Use: You don’t need to chop wood, light a fire, or clean the ashes. You just need to plug the electric fireplace insert into a standard outlet and turn it on with a remote control or a touch screen. You can also adjust the temperature, flame effect, brightness, timer, and other settings according to your preference.
• Energy Efficiency: You don’t waste any energy or fuel, as the electric fireplace insert only uses the amount of electricity needed to create the desired heat and flame effect. You can also turn off the heat function and enjoy the flame effect only, which consumes very little power. Most electric fireplace inserts have an efficiency rating of 99%, which means they convert almost all the electricity they use into heat.
• Safety: You don’t have to worry about fire hazards, carbon monoxide poisoning, or smoke inhalation. The electric fireplace insert does not produce any real flames or emissions and has a cool-to-touch exterior that prevents burns. It also has safety features such as overheating protection and tip-over protection that automatically shut off the device in case of any malfunction or accident.
• Versatility: You can use the electric fireplace insert in any room of your home, as long as you have a suitable fireplace or wall opening. You can also choose from different sizes, styles, and features that match your home decor and personal taste. You can create a cozy and romantic ambiance in your bedroom, a warm and inviting atmosphere in your living room, or a festive and cheerful mood in your dining room.

What to Look for When Buying an Electric Fireplace Insert

Before we dive into the product reviews, let’s go over some of the features and factors that you should consider when shopping for an electric fireplace insert.

• Size and Style: The first thing you need to do is measure the dimensions of your existing fireplace or wall opening and choose an electric fireplace insert that fits snugly and securely. You also need to decide whether you want a recessed or a plug-in model. A recessed model requires some installation work and wiring, but it offers a sleek and flush look. A plug-in model is easier to install and move, but it may protrude from the wall slightly. You also need to consider the style and design of the electric fireplace insert and how it matches your home decor. You can choose from different colors, finishes, and materials, as well as different flame effects and fire media (such as logs, crystals, or stones).
• Heating Capacity and Efficiency: The next thing you need to consider is how much heat you need and how efficient the electric fireplace insert is. The heating capacity of electric fireplace inserts is measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units), which indicate how much heat they can produce per hour. The higher the BTU rating, the more heat the electric fireplace insert can generate. However, you also need to factor in the size and insulation of your room, as well as the ambient temperature and humidity. Generally speaking, a 5,000 BTU electric fireplace insert can heat a 400 square foot room, while a 10,000 BTU electric fireplace insert can heat an 800 square foot room. You also need to check the energy consumption and efficiency of the electric fireplace insert, which are measured in watts and percentages, respectively. The lower the wattage, the less electricity the electric fireplace insert uses. The higher the efficiency, the more heat the electric fireplace insert produces with less energy.
• Safety and Convenience Features: The last thing you need to consider is the safety and convenience features of the electric fireplace insert. Some of the common features include:
  • Overheating Protection: This feature prevents the electric fireplace insert from overheating and causing fire hazards or damage to the device or the surrounding area.
  • Cool-to-Touch Exterior: This feature ensures that the surface of the electric fireplace insert remains cool to the touch, even when it is operating at high temperatures. This is especially important if you have children or pets who might touch the electric fireplace insert accidentally.
  • Tip-Over Protection: This feature automatically shuts off the electric fireplace insert if it is knocked over or tilted, preventing potential injuries or damage.
  • Remote Control: This feature allows you to control the electric fireplace insert from a distance, without having to get up or reach for the device. You can adjust the temperature, flame effect, brightness, timer, and other settings with a simple click of a button.
  • Thermostat: This feature allows you to set a desired temperature for the electric fireplace insert, and it will automatically turn on or off to maintain that temperature. This can help you save energy and money, as well as create a comfortable and consistent ambiance.
  • Timer: This feature allows you to set a timer for the electric fireplace insert, and it will automatically turn off after the specified time. This can help you avoid leaving the electric fireplace insert on for too long or forgetting to turn it off when you leave the room.

The Best Electric Fireplace Inserts of 2024

Now that you know what to look for when buying an electric fireplace insert, let’s take a look at some of the best products available on the market as of February 2, 2024. We have selected these products based on their features, performance, customer reviews, and ratings. Here are our top picks:

Homedex 36″ Recessed Mounted Fireplace Insert

• Pros: Sleek and modern design, 12 flame colors and 5 brightness levels, 3 fire media options, remote control, thermostat, timer, overheating protection, cool-to-touch exterior, easy to install, energy-efficient, and affordable.
• Cons: May not fit into some fireplaces or wall openings, may require professional installation and wiring, may not produce enough heat for large rooms, may have some noise from the fan or the LED screen, may have some quality issues or defects.
• Verdict: The Homedex 36″ Recessed Mounted Fireplace Insert is a great choice for anyone looking for a stylish and versatile electric fireplace insert that can create a cozy and colorful ambiance in any room.

RICHFLAME Gavin Electric Fireplace Insert

The RICHFLAME Gavin Electric Fireplace Insert is a classic and elegant electric fireplace insert that can fit into most standard fireplaces. It features a black metal frame and a curved glass front that displays realistic flame effects with 3 colors and 3 brightness levels. You can also choose from 2 different fire media options: logs or crystals.

• Pros: Classic and elegant design, 3 flame colors and 3 brightness levels, 2 fire media options, remote control, thermostat, timer, overheating protection, cool-to-touch exterior, easy to install, energy-efficient, and affordable.
• Cons: May not fit into some fireplaces or wall openings, may require professional installation and wiring, may not produce enough heat for large rooms, may have some noise from the fan or the LED screen, may have some quality issues or defects.
• Verdict: The RICHFLAME Gavin Electric Fireplace Insert is a great choice for anyone looking for a traditional and elegant electric fireplace insert that can create a warm and cozy atmosphere in any room.

PuraFlame Klaus 33″ Electric Fireplace Insert

• Pros: Realistic and high-quality design, 4 flame colors and 4 brightness levels, 3 fire media options, remote control, thermostat, timer, overheating protection, cool-to-touch exterior, easy to install, energy-efficient, and durable.
• Cons: May not fit into some fireplaces or wall openings, may not produce enough heat for large rooms, may have some noise from the fan or the LED screen, may have some quality issues or defects, and may be more expensive than some other models.
• Verdict: The PuraFlame Klaus 33″ Electric Fireplace Insert is a great choice for anyone looking for a realistic and high-quality electric fireplace insert that can create a warm and cozy atmosphere in any room.

Real Flame Callaway 63″ Grand Electric Fireplace

• Pros: Stunning and luxurious design, 5 flame colors and 5 brightness levels, 3 fire media options, remote control, thermostat, timer, overheating protection, cool-to-touch exterior, large heating capacity, comes with a mantel, energy-efficient, and elegant.
• Cons: May not fit into some fireplaces or wall openings, may require professional installation and wiring, may consume more electricity than some other models, may have some noise from the fan or the LED screen, may have some quality issues or defects, may be very expensive compared to some other models.
• Verdict: The Real Flame Callaway 63″ Grand Electric Fireplace is a great choice for anyone looking for a grand and gorgeous electric fireplace that can transform any room into a cozy and elegant retreat.

Valuxhome Recessed Wall-Mounted Electric Fireplace

• Pros: Sleek and modern design, 12 flame colors and 5 brightness levels, 3 fire media options, remote control, thermostat, timer, overheating protection, cool-to-touch exterior, easy to install, energy-efficient, and affordable.
• Cons: May not fit into some fireplaces or wall openings, may require professional installation and wiring, may not produce enough heat for large rooms, may have some noise from the fan or the LED screen, may have some quality issues or defects.
• Verdict: The Valuxhome Recessed Wall-Mounted Electric Fireplace is a great choice for anyone looking for a stylish and versatile electric fireplace that can fit into any wall opening and create a cozy and colorful ambiance in any room.

Dimplex Featherston Electric Fireplace Mantel Package

• Pros: Realistic and high-quality design, 3 flame colors and 3 brightness levels, 2 fire media options, remote control, thermostat, timer, overheating protection, cool-to-touch exterior, large heating capacity, comes with a mantel, energy-efficient, and durable.
• Cons: May not fit into some fireplaces or wall openings, may require professional installation and wiring, may consume more electricity than some other models, may have some noise from the fan or the LED screen, may have some quality issues or defects, may be very expensive compared to some other models.
• Verdict: The Dimplex Featherston Electric Fireplace Mantel Package is a great choice for anyone looking for a realistic and high-quality electric fireplace that can add some charm and character to your home.

Conclusion

Electric fireplace inserts are a great way to add some warmth and coziness to your home without the hassle of installing a traditional fireplace. They are easy to use, energy-efficient, and safe for children and pets. They also come in different sizes, styles, and features, so you can find the one that suits your needs and preferences. We hope this article has helped you learn more about electric fireplace inserts and how to choose the best one for your home. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to leave them below. Thank you for reading and happy shopping!

Check out more articles!