11 Best Rated Fireplace Inserts With Modern and Exclusive Design

H aving a fireplace installed at home will surely create a cozy and sophisticated ambiance, given that these objects are considered very elegant. Besides, they also double as a heating system, so you have even more reasons to want to have one at home. Unfortunately, not anyone can afford a real fireplace or they might lack the required aspects for mounting one, considering they need ventilation and constant upkeep. Experts shed light on fireplace safety, and as you will soon understand as we will list the cautionary measures you must take, a classic-style fireplace might not be the best idea possible:

• For gas fireplaces: Make sure proper ventilation is in check. Respect the clearance zone – don’t keep objects made from paper, wood, and fabric in the proximity of the fireplace. Install a safety screen to keep the flames from torching the proximity.
• For electric fireplaces: Always plug it into an appropriate socket. Avoid using extension cords.
• For wood fireplaces: Avoid wood from recently cut trees and synthetic logs. Store the hot ashes you remove in a metal container. Avoid using gasoline to start the fire. Set up a screen that will prevent the live ember from escaping and posing a fire hazard.

The good news is that fireplace inserts are a thing and they can bring just as many welfares as their bigger alternative, all without posing any sort of danger. At a more affordable cost and with a stress-free installation, the inserts can become a secondary heating system in the winter and a decorative asset all year round. Besides, you’ll enjoy other important benefits such as energy efficiency, fast heating time, lighting, and auxiliary features like colorful flames or remote controls. If you are already convinced to buy one, we come to your assistance with a top of the most effective and sought-after models available online.

What Should I Look for in a Fireplace Insert?

There are a few details to take into consideration before purchasing a fireplace insert, and we want to go over them briefly before we start reviewing your best options to help you make a correct decision. Firstly, you have to decide what type of fireplace you need. Available in stores and online, there’s a various range of heating devices available, so selecting the right one might be tricky if you aren’t an expert. Let’s see the main aspects worth taking into account when acquiring a recessed fireplace.

• Expenses - The budget is an essential consideration as it should comprise all costs, including the maintenance ones. Keep in mind they’re pricey units, so acquiring one it’s an investment. However, upkeep is minimal, with no filters to buy, no spare parts to replace, and little to no cleaning since they don’t leave behind any ash or soot to remove.
• Energy source - The next step is to think about the energy source. There are five types of heaters: wood, pellet, gas, bioethanol, and electric. In this case, we’re speaking of electric units, so you need an electrical outlet to plug it in. From many points of view, these are the most energy-saving and environmentally friendly as there are no emissions of gasses to leak into the air.
• Heating ability – You certainly want to purchase a fireplace that will serve its purpose of heating the room. Hence, we suggest you look at the BTU output and the wattage, so you can be certain that the model chosen will perform as expected. Have a look at the area coverage while you do the research, to make sure it’s what you need.
• Design - Except for heating a room, they also improve your home’s design. There are plenty of models available so users can select the one that will perfectly suit their homes. You can either go for the traditional model with metallic log holders or you can opt for the more modern flat design, with LCDs and clean lines.
• Airing - Ventilation is a very important factor to consider before investing. Deficient ventilation can cause health issues so the risks to become sick are higher. The perk of the models we presented is the self-enclosed system, which doesn’t allow for discharges. They are ventless, so the installation steps are few and simple.

Top 11 Fireplace Inserts Compared

Photo	Product	BTU	Wattage	Heat Settings	Flame Settings	Area Coverage	Price
Best Overall	1. Classic Flame 36EB220-GRT	8,900	2,100W/2,800W	N/A	5 brightness	800 sq. ft.	Check Price at Amazon
Editor’s Choice	2. Real Flame 4099	4,780	1,500W	1	5 brightness	1,000 sq. ft.	Check Price at Amazon
	3. Touchstone 80014	5,118	750W/1,500W	2	5 brightness	400 sq. ft.	Check Price at Amazon
	4. PuraFlame 30”	5,120	750W/1,500W	2	3 brightness	400 sq. ft.	Check Price at Amazon
Best for the Money	5. Duraflame Electric Log DFI021ARU	4,600	1,400W	1	5 brightness	400 sq. ft.	Check Price at Amazon
	6. R.W.FLAME 36”	N/A	750W/1,500W	2	5 brightness, 5 speed	400 sq. ft.	Check Price at Amazon
	7. Homedex 50-Inch Fireplace Insert	5,000	750W/1,500W	2	5 brightness	400 sq. ft.
	8. Dimplex DFI2310	4,695	1,375W	2	2 brightness	400 sq. ft.	Check Price at Amazon
Best for RV	9. Giantex HW51075	5,118	750W/1,500W	2	5 brightness	400 sq. ft.	Check Price at Amazon
	10. Valuxhome Armanni 36”	5,120	750W/1,500W	2	5 brightness, 5 speed	400 sq. ft.	Check Price at Amazon
	11. Best Choice Products SKY1826	5,118	750W/1,500W	2	5 brightness	400 sq. ft.	Check Price at Amazon

1. Classic Flame 36EB220-GRT

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Heating versatility

Classic Flame is among the most common companies when speaking of chimneys. This electric model is worth considering thanks to the power and conveniences it offers. Hence, we’re speaking of an 8,900 BTU heater, able to cover spaces of 800 sq. ft. If the area you want to use the insert in is larger, the Classic Flame 23II042FGL is more appropriate since it covers spaces of up to 1,000 square feet. See how it fares compared to our top pick from Classic Flame by checking out the comparison matrix we feature later in this review.

The heat intensity can be set from 60 to 90°F, thus providing extended versatility in obtaining the ideal environment while enjoying a stunning view. By turning low the incorporated thermostat, you can create heat only in the room where the fireplace is positioned, so you can limit energy usage by heating unnecessary areas of the house. There’s also an automatic timer that lets you set the time between 30 minutes and 9 hours, after which the fireplace will automatically turn off.

The tempered glass cover incorporates an LCD where you can visualize the temperature and the flame intensity, making it stress-free to make the perfect adjustments.

Highly appealing design

It’s a relatively large model that measures 36” wide and 7.62” deep, all for ensuring an impressive view of the flames. The powder-coated metal is highly resilient so you won’t have to worry about tearing over time. Using up-to-the-minute technology, it creates a traditional LED flame effect with a log set and pulsating light for additional realism.

Even so, if you want the unit just for design, you can operate it without heat. It has five illumination settings and temperature readouts in both Celsius and Fahrenheit degrees. As the company cares for its customers, it offers a 1-year warranty in case of inconveniences.

Classic Flame 36EB220-GRT vs. Classic Flame 23II042FGL

Classic Flame 36EB220-GRT	Classic Flame 23II042FGL
Vent type: Vent-free Temperature range: 60°F to 90°F Timer: 30 minutes to 9 hours Usability: With/without heat Dimensions: 24” x 7.62” x 36” Classic Flame 36EB220-GRT Rating:10/10	Vent type: Vent-free Temperature range: 62°F to 82°F Timer: 30 minutes to 9 hours Usability: With/without heat Dimensions: 20” x 8.5” x 23.6” Classic Flame 23II042FGL Rating:9.8/10
Check Price at Amazon	Check Price at Amazon

Classic Flame 36EB220-GRT Performance Ratings – Tester’s Feedback

• Area coverage: We used a 780 square feet space for the testing trial. Rating – 10/10
• Heat output: It warmed up the area without any problems. Rating – 10/10
• Installation: Setting the fireplace insert up was easier than we expected. The provided instructions were on point and as clear as possible. Rating – 10/10

Classic Flame 36EB220-GRT Specifications Sheet
Size (H x D x W): 24” x 7.62” x 36”	Vent Type: Vent-free
Flame Colors:	Timer: 30 min. – 9 hr.
Temperature Range: 60°F - 90°F	Material: Metal, Tempered glass
Highlights: Temp reading LCD, Thermostat included, Remote control	Warranty: 1 year

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2. Real Flame 4099

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Bringing the heating capacity up to 4,780 BTU, it will keep you warm and cozy during chilly days. The area coverage is extended, the largest we have encountered, reaching 1,000 sq. ft. so it can become of great help in increasing the indoor temperatures from 71 to 99F. Nevertheless, if you choose to cut the heating function, you can simply use it only as a decorative piece. It can create a pleasant ambiance, ideal to delight in with your beloved ones. It’s a compact unit that’s 20” tall, 24” wide, and 7” deep, so it won’t take up too much room, neither will it be a bulky device to overcrowd your home.

It’s easy to work with, as it has a programmable thermostat that displays both Celsius and Fahrenheit degrees. It offers the possibility to set it to function for periods between 10 minutes and 9 hours, which is pretty much the same span as offered by the Classic Flame 36EB220-GRT that offers a peak timer setting of 9 hours as well. With this model, you’ll also enjoy the extra-bright LED technology that will perfectly light up the firebox. 5 different brightness settings are offering the convenience of picking the one desired. As it imitates real logs, you won’t even notice the difference between the real blazes and these blazes. There’s also a screen kit for extra protection and it comes backed by a 12-month warranty, as well.

Real Flame 4099 Specifications Sheet
Size (H x D x W): 20” x 7” x 23.65”	Vent Type: Vent-free
Flame Colors:	Timer: 10 min. – 9 hr.
Temperature Range: 71°F - 99°F	Material: Steel, Tempered glass
Highlights: Thermostat included, Press controls, Remote control	Warranty: 1 year

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3. Touchstone 80014

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This unit is intended to be wall-mounted, so it will not need a mantle for installation. It guarantees high-performance as it’s powered by 1,500 watts, an impressive amount that will keep your room warm and cozy. The 5,118 BTU power enables it to cover areas measuring 400 sq. ft., which is the most common area coverage of these products.

Besides being extremely effective it’s also a modern unit, which can be a great piece of decoration. It measures 36” in width and boasts a flat design, allowing it to seamlessly blend into any modern home.

There are 2 heat velocities to select from, so you won’t be too hot or too cold. The timer permits you to set it to function for periods between 30 minutes and 7.5 hours. If you prefer it without warmth, you can always turn it off and enjoy the show delivered by the moving flames. The truthful blazing is exceptional, as you’d never know the difference between this and a real one. The remote makes operation a breeze, considering that you can set the unit even from a distance. You can choose between using the faux fire logs or the crystals, depending on what aspect you aim to obtain.

Touchstone 80014 Specifications Sheet
Size (H x D x W): 36” x 5.5” x 21.4”	Vent Type: Vent-free
Flame Colors:	Timer: 30 min. - 7.5 hr.
Temperature Range: Low-High	Material: Metal, Tempered glass
Highlights: Thermostat included, Remote control	Warranty: 1 year

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4. PuraFlame 30”

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Next in line, we have this generous-sized fireplace insertion that can be easily accommodated into your home. Performance-wise, it is quite similar to the Touchstone 80014 since it boasts a similar heating power of 5,120 BTUs, and has basically the same area coverage. It measures 30” wide, 23” high, and 7” deep and it can be mounted in mere minutes. Made of metal and covered with tempered glass, it brings a nice touch to your home through the interior brick wall that increases its level of elegance. It is an energy-reducing, modern firebox, with a convenient multi-function remote. It will offer high efficiency and performance due to the 750 watts, and 120 voltage output.

This model comes with three variations of intensity and illumination. Moreover, the realistic resin logs offer the ideal comfortable indoor environment. It can warm spaces up to 400 square feet, even so, it can blaze just for decor, without delivering warmth. This way, despite the season, you’ll enjoy a pleasant atmosphere. A very interesting aspect is the cracking sound it makes, actually 6 different sounds that replicate the sound of burning firewood. There are 2 temperature modes, a low and a high one. The company ensures the unit for one year, so within this year, you can benefit from adjustments or even replacement, if necessary.

PuraFlame 30” Specifications Sheet
Size (H x D x W): 30” x 7” x 23”	Vent Type: Vent-free
Flame Colors:	Timer:
Temperature Range: Low-High	Material: Metal, Tempered glass
Highlights: 6 crackling sounds, Remote control	Warranty: 1 year

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5. Duraflame Electric Log DFI021ARU

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For truthful flame effects, this log can surely help you out. Duraflame operates with a 4,600 BTU heating element that can heat areas up to 400 square feet. It’s an energy-efficient choice that won’t add too much to your energy bills due to the low wattage and the thermostat that allows you to set the desired temperature level. It spreads infrared heat, which is the most efficient in heating objects and bodies around it. The design doesn’t resemble the previous models, this one consisting only of the bronze log holder, without the actual casing and tempered glass. This means that you will have to place it inside a pre-existing fireplace.

The flame intensity can be set to one of the 5 levels available, and you can also opt for either pulsating or steady movements. Safety is another relevant aspect so it’s important to know there are no real flames or other harmful elements. It also stays cool when touching it, thus kids and pets are safe, too. For extra security, the heater will turn off by itself to avoid overheating. In the package, you’ll also find a remote control for easy accessibility.

Duraflame DFI021ARU Specifications Sheet
Size (H x D x W): 20.5” x 8.66” x 12”	Vent Type: Vent-free
Flame Colors:	Timer:
Temperature Range: Low-High	Material: Bronze
Highlights: Overheat protection, Adjustable thermostat, Steady or pulsing light, Press controls, Remote control	Warranty: N/A

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6. R.W.FLAME 36”

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It comes with 2 heat settings, while the power can be set from 750W up to 1500W. Thanks to LED technology, it doesn’t require too much electricity to create a blazing show. Moreover, the auxiliary zone heating capacity reaches up to 400 square feet, so it can successfully pair as a room heater. You will surely be surprised by its functionality features and multi-operating modes. This model comes with a lot of details that will contribute to its efficiency. It provides 5 illumination levels and 5 speeds for the flames, so you can choose the one that will seem the most comfortable for you. It also includes 5 color choices to complete the aesthetic performance.

The Sleep mode is useful if you choose to place it in the bedroom, as it will turn all the lights off to create a soothing atmosphere. You will also enjoy the handiness of a timer that can be set from 1 to 8 hours. Using it is entirely safe because it is ETL approved and comes with an auto-heat kill safety feature to avert overheating. The Infrared technology will properly keep the humidity, avoiding dryness in the location. Considering the warranty details, the product is backed by a 1-year warranty, while customer support is always available.

R.W.FLAME 36” Specifications Sheet
Size (H x D x W): 36” x 9” x 27”	Vent Type: Vent-free
Flame Colors: 5	Timer: 1 hr. – 8 hr.
Temperature Range: Low-High	Material: Metal, Tempered glass, Interior brick wall
Highlights: 5 burning logs colors, Sleep mode, LCD readings, Remote control	Warranty: 1 year

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7. Homedex 50-Inch Fireplace Insert

While it might not be the most silent entry we reviewed, it’s definitely one of the most spectacular. We say this because of the ultra-realistic flame effect its LED lights provide. You can even switch between 5 flame brightness levels so that the light produced won’t bother you or be too dim. Additionally, there are 9 flame colors to pick from and liven up the room’s décor in an instant.

Since it’s a 5,000 BTU model, this fireplace insert works best for rooms of up to 400 square feet in size. The temperature range put at your disposal spans from 60 to 97 degrees Fahrenheit, letting you customize thermal comfort as you deem fit. You can even pick between two heat settings depending on what you prefer at any given moment, namely the Low heat setting that uses 750 watts, and the High heat setting that uses 1,500 watts.

It features a 12-hour countdown timer that you can use to save on running costs. Due to it, the vent-free fireplace won’t run for longer than you need it to. We especially like that it’s built with the user’s safety in mind, all thanks to the automatic shut-off when the possibility of overheating is detected. What we weren’t big fans of was the fact that the working frequency of certain remotes is very close to that of the insert’s remote, meaning that you might end up trying to change the channel on the TV and actually changing the flame setting of the fireplace.

Homedex 50-Inch Fireplace Insert Specifications Sheet
Size (H x D x W): 19” x 5-1/8” x 50”	Vent Type: Vent-free
Flame Colors:	Timer:
Temperature Range: 60°F - 97°F	Material: Metal, Tempered Glass
Highlights: 9 multi-color flame settings	Warranty: 60 days

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8. Dimplex DFI2310

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We can say that this model costs too much, considering it supplies only the basic features. It’s an insertion that can fit mantles measuring around 25” x 21” x 12” and you can install it as it is or you can purchase a protection cover to recess it inside a fireplace. It will evenly distribute warmth to cover spaces up to 400 square inches.

For more realistic blazing, it features handcrafted logs that increase that reality-alike effect, offering a cozy, intimate environment. It has only 2 brightness settings and no color choices. It’s also very quiet so it won’t bother you while performing your favorite activities. There is no timer setting, so you can just turn it on and pick one of the two heat levels. You’ll be pleased to know it comes with a 1-year assurance, in case there are any potential inconveniences.

Dimplex DFI2310 Specifications Sheet
Size (H x D x W): 23.25” x 10.75” x 19.75”	Vent Type: Vent-free
Flame Colors:	Timer:
Temperature Range: Low-High	Material: Metal, Tempered glass
Highlights: Can be wall-mounted or floor-standing, Remote control	Warranty: 1 year

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9. Giantex HW51075

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This next model is the ideal pick for various locations, including RVs, because it doesn’t require to be mounted solely on a mantle, as it can also be positioned on a tabletop. It looks very stylish, so it will be a great decoration no matter where you decide to place it. It features two heat settings, a 750W one that works with 2,559 BTUs, and a 1,500W one powered 5,118 BTUs. Nevertheless, you can use it just for décor, as it can function without generating warmth.

Furthermore, you can select from 5 levels of brightness and 3 colors so you can create a pleasant environment all year round. The timer allows you to set functioning periods up to 8 hours. For extra convenience, it works with a remote control and has a safety cut-off device, to assure safety. Additionally, the glass front is detachable, allowing for easy cleaning and maintenance.

Giantex HW51075 Specifications Sheet
Size (H x D x W): 28.5” x 5.7” x 21”	Vent Type: Vent-free
Flame Colors: 3	Timer: Up to 8 hr.
Temperature Range: Low-High	Material: Metal, Tempered glass
Highlights: Elegant ring pull, Remote control, Push buttons	Warranty: N/A

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10. Valuxhome Armanni 36”

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If you can’t fit a regular-size fireplace into your home, this 20” tall model is a handy alternative. It will bring you two heat setting options, and the front air vent provides extra heating up to 400 square feet. Its 120 voltage power and up to 1,500 wattage power will provide high efficiency. The unit operates with and without heat, too, so it’s another convenience worth considering.

There are 3 flame colors to pick from, and you can even mix them. The touchscreen panel with an LCD is enhanced with high-quality glass to offer protection. More to say, this model features an auto over-heat protection switch for safety and it also comes with a remote control to easily turn it on and off and set the timer from 1 up to 9 hours. Enjoy a pleasant indoor environment and also save energy with this innovative product. Let’s not forget the 1-year warranty that will be a real aid in case of any trouble.

Valuxhome Armanni 36” Specifications Sheet
Size (H x D x W): 36” x 5.5” x 21.65”	Vent Type: Vent-free
Flame Colors: 3	Timer: 1 hr. – 9 hr.
Temperature Range: 62°F - 86°F	Material: Metal, Tempered glass
Highlights: LCD readings, Remote control	Warranty: 1 year

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11. Best Choice Products SKY1826

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This is a basic fireplace insert that can be easily fitted in any home as it has average dimensions. The heater displays a moving fire image via its glass window, letting its luminosity to be adjusted to one of the 5 levels. You don’t have to turn the heat on to see the picture; it can be also displayed without having the heater turned on. Other than that, you don’t have many options in regards to the settings. It doesn’t even come with a timer or a thermostat to set the temperature.

Furthermore, the unit is energy-saving, featuring two modes, low and high. More to say, it comes with a remote control that ensures easy accessibility despite your location. Another important aspect is that you can safely use it, especially that it’s CSA certified. Another major disadvantage is the warranty that only lasts for 60 days after the purchase.

Best Choice Products SKY1826 Specifications Sheet
Size (H x D x W): 28.5” x 6” x 21”	Vent Type: Vent-free
Flame Colors:	Timer:
Temperature Range: N/A	Material: Metal, Tempered glass
Highlights: Elegant ring pull, Remote control	Warranty: 60 days

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Frequently Asked Questions

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Conclusion

No matter which of the models you have finally selected, their main purpose is to keep you warm but also to offer a cozy indoor environment. The fact that you won’t have to deal anymore with gas-powered devices and that you will manage to significantly enhance the décor of your home are just some of the reasons why you should get a fireplace insert.

Best Overall: Classic Flame 36EB220-GRT

This fireplace looks amazing, and this will be the first detail that will convince you to purchase it. Next, you will be impressed with how powerful it is. It can easily heat a large-sized room of 800 sq. ft. or you can simply use it as a decorative piece. The burning logs look very realistic and the adjustable flame intensity makes you feel like you are standing in front of a mansion fireplace. The elegant glass screen has a hidden LCD that shows the temperature and the flame brightness level, making it easier for you to control the ambiance.

Editor’s Choice: Real Flame 4099

This model first gained our attention with its appealing design. It’s very small, but this doesn’t mean that it’s less effective and spreading heat, as it can cover large areas of 1,000 sq. ft. The housing is made of powder-coated steel so it’s highly resistant to increased temperatures. The flames’ intensity can be adjusted so you get to create the perfect ambiance. You can safely use the timer to create a schedule or you can leave it working all day without the worry it might get too hot because it has overload protection incorporated.

Best Fireplace Insert for the Money: Duraflame Electric Log DFI021ARU

You will enjoy a great deal if you pick this fireplace insert that doesn’t involve huge expenses. It’s a very powerful one, able to heat 400 sq. ft. in less than 30 minutes, so it won’t increase your electricity bills. The bottom part, the one that holds the logs, is made of bronze, so it has a stylish appearance from the start. The logs “burn” in an intense red hue, providing a realistic feel of fire. You can choose either the static or the pulsing flame to create dancing movements. Plus, using the fireplace is safe as it has overload protection that turns it off when needed.

Best Fireplace Insert for RV: Giantex HW51075

Your RV will certainly look classier and you will enjoy a cozier ambiance with this fireplace installed. We chose this one because it can be mounted in several ways, as it doesn’t exclusively require to be fixed on a wall. It’s very slim, not larger than a flat-screen TV, and it can be used with or without heat. Moreover, you can choose one of three available flame colors to make the RV look more entertaining. It mounts with ease and comes with a portable handle for effortless relocation.