Fireplace Inserts

Fireplace inserts are fireboxes designed to slide into an existing fireplace opening or a framed wall cavity, turning an open hearth into a cleaner, more efficient heat source. They suit homeowners with a drafty masonry fireplace, an unused opening, or a new feature wall. This collection holds more than 50 inserts, split between plug-in electric models and vented gas units.

Two Price Worlds: Electric and Gas Fireplace Inserts

The numbers in this collection tell the story. Roughly half of the inserts list below about $300, and most of those are electric. The upper quarter starts around $2,600 and reaches about $6,000 per listed item; that is where the gas and direct vent fireplace insert models sit. The cost of fireplace insert projects therefore depends less on size than on fuel, and gas units add installation, venting and gas-line work on top of the purchase price.

About three quarters of the range shows as in stock right now, most of it on the electric side.

Electric Fireplace Insert: Plug-In Heat Without a Chimney

An electric fireplace insert is a self-contained box with an LED flame effect, a fan heater and usually a remote. It plugs into a standard 120V outlet, so there is no gas line and no vent. Many models produce heat in the range of a typical plug-in space heater, and many can run the flame with the heat switched off.

Features that appear often in the product titles here include remote control, realistic log sets, crushed glass or crystal ember beds, adjustable flame color, timers, infrared quartz heating and Wi-Fi app control. A realistic electric fireplace insert usually comes down to layered flame depth, a log set with visible texture and a dimmable ember bed.

Electric Insert for a Wood Burning Fireplace

A popular conversion is placing an electric insert for wood burning fireplace openings into the old firebox. Measure the front width, rear width, height and depth of the opening, because masonry fireboxes usually taper toward the back. Choose an insert whose dimensions fit inside the smallest measurement, then fill the visible gap with the trim kit if the model includes one. Close the chimney damper to stop drafts, and run power to an outlet near the hearth if one does not exist.

Electric Fireplace Wall Insert and Recessed Models

A recessed or electric fireplace wall insert is built into a framed opening rather than a masonry hearth. It works for new feature walls, bedrooms and media walls. Framing must follow the dimensions and clearances listed by the manufacturer, and many recessed units are best on a dedicated circuit. If you prefer furniture to construction, a fireplace TV stand comes with the insert already housed in a console.

Gas and Direct Vent Fireplace Inserts

A gas insert gives real flame and stronger heat than an electric unit. Most gas inserts in this collection are direct vent: they draw combustion air from outside and exhaust through a sealed system, usually two flexible liners run up the existing chimney. The sealed glass front keeps room air separate from combustion, which is why direct vent models are a common choice for primary living spaces. Wall-mounted and recessed electric options live in our electric fireplaces collection.

Natural gas is the most common fuel here. Propane needs a different setup, and conversion between the two should be done by a qualified installer with the manufacturer's kit.

Wood Burning Fireplace Insert vs Electric vs Gas

• Wood burning fireplace insert: a closed, high-efficiency wood heater set inside a masonry fireplace. Strong heat and real logs, but it needs a chimney liner, regular sweeping and firewood storage.
• Gas insert: instant on and off, steady heat, little cleanup. Requires a gas line, venting and professional installation.
• Electric insert: lowest purchase price and simplest installation; flame effect year-round. Heat output is supplemental.

Installing Fireplace Insert Units Step by Step

1. Inspect the fireplace. For gas or wood inserts, have the chimney and firebox inspected for cracks and damage before installation.
2. Measure the opening. Record front and rear width, height and depth, and note the hearth depth in front.
3. Check codes and permits. Gas and wood inserts usually need a permit and must meet local codes. Electric inserts generally need only an outlet.
4. Plan venting and power. Direct vent gas inserts need liners sized per the manual. Electric inserts need a nearby grounded outlet.
5. Finish the face. Trim kits or surrounds close the gap between insert and opening. A new fireplace surround can update the look at the same time.

Installing electric fireplace insert models is often a short DIY job. Gas installs should always be done by a licensed professional. Browse every hearth option at fireplaces.

Fireplace Inserts FAQ

How much does a fireplace insert cost?

In this collection, electric inserts mostly list from about $150 to about $300, while gas inserts typically start around $2,600 and go to about $6,000 per item. Gas and wood units also involve installation and venting costs, so budget for professional labor.

Are electric fireplace heater insert logs realistic?

Modern electric fireplace log inserts use layered LED flames and molded log sets that look convincing at normal viewing distance. Models with adjustable flame color and brightness usually look more natural in a dim room.

Can I install a small electric fireplace insert myself?

Usually yes. A small electric fireplace insert slides into the opening and plugs into a standard outlet. Follow the manual for clearances and secure any trim kit so the insert cannot shift.

Do I need a chimney for a direct vent fireplace insert?

A direct vent insert normally uses the existing chimney as a chase for its sealed vent liners. The chimney itself does not carry exhaust; the liners do. Your installer will size the liners to the manufacturer's requirements.

What is the best fireplace insert for heating a room?

For heat output, gas and wood burning inserts are much stronger than electric. For simplicity and cost, electric is hard to beat. The best fireplace insert comes down to one question: do you need primary heat, or ambiance with supplemental warmth?.