Best Electric Fireplace Inserts

How To Measure Your Existing Fireplace Opening For An Electric Insert

Getting accurate measurements before you order saves headaches and return shipping fees. You'll need a tape measure and about five minutes.

Start with the width at the front of the firebox opening, measuring from the inside of one side wall to the other. Then measure depth from the front opening straight back to the rear wall. Finally, measure height from the floor of the firebox to the top of the opening. Take each measurement at multiple points since older fireplaces are rarely perfectly square.

• Width: Measure at the top and bottom of the opening—use the smaller number
• Height: Measure at the left and right sides—again, use the smaller number
• Depth: Measure from front to back, accounting for any damper hardware

For log set inserts like the Napoleon Woodland series, you'll also want to measure any angled side walls and note where your gas line enters if you're converting from gas. Most inserts need 2-3 inches of clearance on each side for proper fit and ventilation, so subtract accordingly from your measurements when comparing to product dimensions.

Electric Fireplace Insert Installation: Plug-in vs Hardwired Options

Most electric inserts offer both installation methods, but the right choice depends on your situation and how permanent you want the setup to be.

Plug-in installation is straightforward: run the cord to an existing outlet, and you're done. This works well if you have an outlet inside or near your fireplace, or if you're renting and need to take the insert with you later. The downside is cord management—you'll need to hide that cable somewhere, and dedicated circuits aren't always conveniently located near fireplaces.

Hardwired installation connects the insert directly to your home's electrical system, eliminating visible cords entirely. This requires an electrician in most areas and typically adds $200-400 to your project cost. However, you get a cleaner look and dedicated circuit capacity, which matters if you're running the heater regularly.

Consider your fireplace location too. Inserts in primary living spaces benefit from hardwired installations since cord hiding options are limited. Guest room or basement fireplaces might not justify the extra electrical work. Either way, verify your home's electrical capacity—most inserts draw 1500 watts on high heat, requiring a 15-amp circuit at minimum.

Log Set Inserts vs Full Box Inserts: Which Style Fits Your Fireplace

These two insert styles serve different purposes, and choosing wrong means either a cramped look or wasted space.

Log set inserts like the Napoleon Woodland series sit directly on your existing firebox floor. They're designed for working fireplaces where you want to preserve the original masonry look while adding electric convenience. The logs, ember bed, and heating element form a self-contained unit that mimics a traditional fire. These work best in shallow fireboxes or when you want to maintain your existing fireplace surround and hearth aesthetic.

Full box inserts like the Modern Flames Redstone series are complete fireplace units that slide into your opening. They include their own firebox, flame display, and trim kit that covers the gap between the insert and your opening. These create a more modern, finished look and typically offer larger flame viewing areas.

• Choose a log set if: You love your existing fireplace look, have a shallow opening, or want a traditional aesthetic
• Choose a full box insert if: You want a contemporary appearance, have a deep firebox, or prefer maximum flame visibility

Budget plays a role too. Log sets generally cost less than full box inserts at comparable sizes, making them a practical choice when the traditional style suits your space.