BySabrina Lopez | February 6, 2023
- Top 5 Fireplace Inserts
- What to Look For
- How Heat Output is Measured
- Our Recommendation
- FAQs
- How We Chose
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Fireplace inserts are a wonderful addition to any living room or bedroom, whether you already have a traditional fireplace or not. They’re stylish and create a warm, elegant feeling. They also provide an extra heat source to keep you cozy. We compared some of the best fireplace inserts to help homeowners pick the best product for their home.
Top 5 Fireplace Inserts
- Best Design: Vitesse Wall-Mounted Fireplace Insert
- Best Wood-Burning: Ashley Hearth Wood Stove Insert
- Best Traditional Design: Valuxhome Electric Fireplace
- Most Customizable: Homedex Recessed Mounted Electric Fireplace Insert
- Best Controls: Fireblaze Electric Fireplace
Best Design
Courtesy Amazon
Vitesse Wall-Mounted Fireplace Insert
$409.99$369.99
At 60 inches long, this electric fireplace insert is suitable for those with ample wall space who want to add flair to their living room decor. This insert has 12 flame colors to match your mood, and you can even adjust the color of the crystals in the ember bed.
Fast Facts:
- Heat distance: 400 square feet
- Heat output: 1,500 watts
- Dimensions: 3.9 x 60 x 18.1 inches
What we like:This insert has both remote and touchscreen control and can be cycled through five different flame speeds. For heat, it has both 700-watt and 1,500-watt settings.
What customers are saying:
This product was popular among reviewers due to its easy installation, different color options, and thin design. However, others had issues with the flame height.
“I saw this electric fireplace and ended up creating a whole new room because of it! It’s super easy to install and to create a fireplace frame around it. The measurements were spot on. Very pleased with the colors and the different dimming features, as well as the heat that it puts out. It’s helped us create a great whiskey room. Absolutely would recommend it to family and friends.” —Alexandria Bowling via Amazon
“Great value. Easy to install. Heats nicely. Love the different light options. Definitely recommend. Love that it’s thinner than the other options out there.” —Melissa Namowitz via Amazon
“The flames are not as bright or abundant as they appear in the pictures, and they only go up about half of the screen. After about one week, the motor that runs the flames starts making a loud growling sound.” —Braxton and Kacy Mayfield via Amazon
Best Wood-Burning
Courtesy Amazon
Ashley Hearth Wood Stove Insert
$1,599.99$1,300.00
If you prefer a wood-burning fireplace insert, this is an elegant addition to your living space that also provides plenty of heat. With a durable cast-iron door and a ceramic glass window, it allows you to safely view the logs as they burn.
Fast Facts:
- Heat distance: 1,200 square feet
- Heat output: 69,000 BTUs
- Dimensions: 20.2 x 27.2 x 22.4 inches
What we like: This insert holds logs up to 18 inches long and has a cool-touch handle that makes it safe and easy to open. Its spring-loaded automatic adjustment makes installation easy.
What customers are saying:
This insert earned positive reviews for its simple installation, high heat output, and well-built design. However, some reviewers had issues adjusting the heating level even with the fan turned up to the maximum speed.
“This product turned an inefficient, drafty fireplace into a great source of additional heat for the cold winter nights. We were also able to install it in a couple of hours, and I’m not much of a handyman.” —R. Russell via Amazon.
“Easy to install. Excellent quality, and produces massive heat.” —William Whitehorn via Amazon
“I’ve used this [fireplace insert] for a week so far. I used to have an older one that was a beast but was about 20 years old and showing its age. This product kept our 1800 sq/ft house around 70 degrees while outside was in the low 20s. What’s weird is the temp stayed the same despite the temperature of fire with fan speed maxed out. I do notice this product doesn’t consume as much wood as the old one. … I’m satisfied, but time will tell. And it was relatively easy to install despite having to hack apart some of my old chimney metal pieces. If your house is less than 1800 you’d probably be happy with this!” —Gordhelmutt via Amazon
Best Traditional Design
Courtesy Amazon
Valuxhome Electric Fireplace
$379.99$359.99
This 36-inch electric fireplace insert has a traditional brick pattern design and lifelike resin logs to emulate a real fireplace. It also has three backlight options.
Fast Facts:
- Heat distance: 400 square feet
- Heat output: 1,500 watts
- Dimensions: 8.8 x 27.3 x 35.6 inches
What we like: Another excellent feature is the insert’s front speaker, which mimics a crackling flame sound without the hassle of tending to a real fire. It also has two heat settings and a timer feature.
What customers are saying:
Customers were happy with this insert’s beautiful design, heat output, and adjustable colors. However, several felt the crackling sound was not realistic.
“The Valuxhome Electric Fireplace is the perfect choice. I decided not to burn wood in my fireplace anymore and ordered this electric fireplace that fits perfectly, looks great, and does a really nice job warming my basem*nt.” —Janet Rainey via Amazon
“We are thoroughly enjoying our electric fireplace. You can adjust the brightness of the logs, which is a nice feature, and we like the different light colors you can choose. We have not used the heat much. One thing I like is it’s not an intense heat; it just warms the room. And it adds so much atmospheric to our family room.” —Jeannie Hughes via Amazon
“It is a very beautiful fireplace, but the biggest issue I have is that there is no way of anchoring it in place. Anyone could just pull it out of the wall. Also the ‘burning log sound’ is not great. It looks great, but I’m not having to find a way of making it stay in the wall” —Zachary L. via Amazon
Most Customizable
Courtesy Amazon
Homedex Recessed Mounted Electric Fireplace Insert
$350.00$249.99
If you want more variety in your electric fireplace insert’s appearance, this product offers several customization options. You can cycle through nine flame colors and five brightness levels, and choose between a log set or crystal stones.
Best Controls
Fast Facts:
- Heat distance: 400 square feet
- Heat output: 1,500 watts
- Dimensions: 5.1 x 50 x 19 inches
What we like: Bask in the subtle glow or use the heat settings, which include 700- and 1,500-watt options. This insert also comes with a timer that can be set for up to 12 hours.
What customers are saying:
Many customers loved this insert’s unique design and heat levels. Others commented on its excellent value. However, some mentioned that the flames were not as bright as expected.
“We added this to our bedroom to add a little extra heat. It’s perfect, and I love all the different settings. It’s definitely worth the money. —Abbey via Amazon
“Well exceeded my expectations. I was leery about [the low-cost of this] fireplace, but it’s great. I fix and flip homes, and an existing wood burning fireplace was not usable. I inserted this in the old firebox, and trimmed the front. This became a very affordable fix for a bad situation.”—Lynn M. via Amazon
“I live in Arizona so I bought this more for show than for heat. But the flames do not get as big or are as bright as the photos and the video show make it seem. It’s more like a very expensive night light. I wouldn’t recommend if you’re looking for something that really gives that visual flame effect.” —KiiKii via Amazon
Longest Insert
Courtesy Amazon
Fireblaze Electric Fireplace
$219.95
This classic-style fireplace insert comes in a curved or flat front glass design and displays lifelike logs to emulate a real fireplace. It can be installed as a recessed or mantel insert and comes with overheating protection for safety.
Fast Facts:
- Heat distance: 400 square feet
- Heat output: 1,500 watts
- Dimensions: 6.7 x 27.3 x 20.9 inches
What we like: This insert has several adjustable settings that can be controlled via remote control or by touch controls on the fireplace’s front. It has four adjustable flame levels, two heat settings, a timer, and a crackling sound that can be toggled on or off.
What customers are saying:
Customers who were satisfied with this insert liked its affordable price point, sleek design, and that it heated up their home quickly and efficiently. Others had issues with the packaging.
“We ended up buying a second fireplace, and we wanted something smaller size and cozy. I still can’t believe that it’s pretty affordable to have a fireplace at home. … It looks even better than the listing photos, and it fits all of our needs and surpassed all of our expectations. I really can’t say enough about this product. Easy to install, elegant, and stylish. Highly recommended.” —Julia via Amazon
“Sleek design, heats up fast, cool realistic flames and color options. Super easy to install and set up. Looks great and runs quietly. Love it!” —Satisfied Customer via Amazon
“This electric fireplace looks amazing in our RV. It works well and heats up our living space pretty quickly. What was disappointing is that the glass arrived with a crack, and the top corner appears to have been damaged before it was even packaged, as the box and packaging were all damage free.” —KPhil via Amazon
What to Look For in a Fireplace Insert
Consider the following factors when looking for the best fireplace insert for your home.
- Type: There are multiple types of fireplace inserts available depending on your needs. Electric fireplace inserts are the most common. These inserts don’t use real flames but rather lights to simulate a fire and produce heat without any fumes or buildup. Gas inserts typically hook up to your home’s gas line or a propane tank and provide a high heat output. Wood-burning fireplace inserts are fueled by wood or wood pellets and can burn hotter and longer than other models. Wood-burning units are typically ventilated through your home’s chimney.
- Size: Fireplace inserts range from around 30 inches to 60 inches (close to the size of a regular fireplace). Measure your existing fireplace opening to see how much room you have, and check the product’s dimensions to ensure it will fit.
- Noise: Electric and gas fireplace inserts can mimic but not truly duplicate the sound of wood-burning logs to create a fireplace ambience. The benefit is the ability to adjust the noise level to create more or less crackling.
How Heat Output is Measured
Typically, gas and wood-burning fireplace inserts are measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs). The higher an insert’s BTU output, the more heat it gives off. The amount of heat a fireplace insert gives off depends on its type. Wood-burning inserts have a high heat output that can exceed 80,000 BTUs, while gas inserts usually range between 25,000 and 40,000 BTUs. An electric fireplace insert’s heat is measured in watts and commonly ranges between 700 and 1,500 watts.
Our Recommendation
We recommend the Vitesse Wall-Mounted Fireplace Insert for an electric fireplace insert. It features a stylish flame with various color options and is available in several sizes to best fit your wall. If you prefer a wood-burning fireplace, the Ashley Hearth Wood Stove Insert is an excellent choice with a glass window so you can watch the logs burn while staying protected.
Fireplace Insert FAQ
What is the average cost of a fireplace insert?
Fireplace inserts vary in cost depending on their type, size, heat output, design, and other factors. A wood-burning insert can cost $2,000 to $4,000 if you’re getting it professionally installed. Electric inserts cost significantly less and can be found for as little as $200, with high-end models costing more than $500.
Is it safe to use a fireplace insert?
Electric fireplace inserts are generally safe to use as they don’t get very hot to the touch or emit fumes. Gas and wood-burning inserts are also safe, but certain measures must be taken. Gas and wood-burning inserts emit smoke that needs to be vented out of your house via an existing chimney flue or an alternative method. Without proper ventilation, the air can become dangerous to breathe. Gas or wood-burning inserts can also be dangerous around children or pets if you aren’t careful.
Do electric fireplace inserts need to be vented?
No, electric fireplace inserts are vent-free and don’t need a chimney as they don’t emit real smoke.
What is the difference between a wood stove and a wood-burning fireplace insert?
Wood-burning stoves are typically freestanding devices, while wood-burning inserts are built into your wall.
How long can a fireplace insert run?
How long a fireplace insert can run depends on its type. Wood-burning inserts can run for as long as the wood is burning, but typically shouldn’t stay on for more than a few hours at a time. Gas inserts should only run for two or three hour spurts to avoid excess fumes in your home.Electric inserts can run for as long as you want, but if you also have a central heat system running, be mindful of overheating the home or wasting electricity.
How We Chose the Top Fireplace Inserts
Over the years, our team has vetted thousands of products to help you select the top appliances for your home. We update our data points and review content regularly to account for shifts in customer consensus, product availability, new releases, and overall quality.
To steer the product selection process, our reviewers conduct detailed research that focuses on several key factors:
- Brand research: We cast a wide net by first looking at the latest, most reputable models available through trusted retailers.
- Ratings: We then scope our list down to products with a high number of verified-buyer reviews and average customer rating between four and five stars.
- Expert and consumer insights: Next, we look at what independent product testers, subject matter experts, and other publications have to say about each model we review.
- User needs: Finally, we compare each item’s features, specs, and warranty information to find a best-in-class option for every type of consumer and price point.
