Best Electric Fireplace Inserts for Wood-Burning Fireplaces
Transform a wood-burning fireplace into a convenient, maintenance-free focal point with electric inserts. The following five products offer realistic flames, adjustable heat, and simple installation to fit standard openings. Each option supports year-round ambiance with or without heat, reducing dust, smoke, and the need for a traditional chimney. Below is a quick overview of the selected models.
| Brand | Model | Heat (W) | Approx. Opening Fit | Special Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Legend Flame | EF290 23″ W | 750 / 1500 | Standard 23″ opening or cabinet | Crackling logs with ember bed |
| PuraFlame | Western Electric 33″ | 750 / 1500 | 33″ wide openings | Three-sided interior brick look |
| Riseon | Infrared 24″ Log Heater | 1500 | Most standard openings | 5 flame colors, timer, remote |
| PuraFlame | 24″ Free Standing Log Set | 750 / 1500 | Openings around 24″ | 6 flame colors, 5 brightness levels |
| Legend Flame | EF263 30″ W | 750 / 1500 | 30″ openings | 9 mood-light settings |
The following sections highlight five carefully chosen models. Each entry describes size compatibility, flame realism, heating capability, and practical considerations so you can compare at a glance and select a model that fits your fireplace opening and preferred ambience.
LegendFlame 23″ W Free Standing Electric Fireplace EF290
This 23″ model fits smaller or medium openings and doubles as a freestanding unit for various configurations. It features a realistic resin log ember bed with a dramatic flame display that remains striking even when the heater is off, thanks to energy-saving LEDs. The unit provides supplemental heat up to about 400 square feet and uses a standard 120V polarized plug. It is designed for easy installation—simply place it into an opening without complex framing. While effective for ambience and secondary heating, it is not a primary heat source.
PuraFlame Western Electric Fireplace Insert
With a broad 33″ width, this insert is suited for larger openings and includes a three-sided brick interior and clean glass trim. It offers three flame intensities with or without heat, delivering an authentic wood-fire vibe while maintaining low maintenance and high energy efficiency thanks to LED technology. The unit supports up to 1500W heat and comes with remote control for convenient operation. Before ordering, verify that your opening dimensions accommodate the 33″ width and the deeper housing.
Riseon Electric Fireplace Logs With Infrared Remote
This model emphasizes adjustable flame brightness and independent flame and heat controls. It uses infrared heating up to 1500W and includes a remote for convenient programming. A notable feature is the ability to run the flame effect without heat, making it ideal for year-round ambiance. A compact footprint and quiet operation (low noise) suit bedrooms or living spaces where a subtle sound or fan noise is a consideration. The device includes overheating protection for safety.
PuraFlame 24″ Free Standing Electric Fireplace Log Set
Designed for easy fit into most existing openings, this 24″ log set features six flame colors and five brightness levels, plus a crackling sound to emulate a real wood fire. The 750/1500W heater can supplement room heating or be used without heat for ambience. It connects to standard 120V power with a polarized plug, making it a versatile choice for retrofit installations or cabinet retreats where surface space is limited.
LegendFlame Carl 30″ W Electric Fireplace Insert
The Carl 30″ model provides a larger viewing area and enhanced flame realism with nine mood-light settings. It offers the same dual heating options (750W and 1500W) and can be used with or without the heater, making it suitable for both dramatic winter evenings and year-round ambience. Its three-sided brick interior and sleek trim reduce maintenance while keeping a modern aesthetic in larger openings.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
- Opening compatibility: Measure width, height, and depth of your fireplace opening. The six models above span from 23″ to 33″ wide, with some designed for freestanding use and others for built-in inserts. Ensure the chosen model fits without extensive modification.
- Heat vs. ambience: Most units offer two heat settings (often 750W and 1500W) to supplement a room, but they are generally not primary heat sources. Decide whether primary warmth or visual flame realism is the priority.
- Flame realism and controls: Look for multi-color flame options, ember beds, and log realism. Remote controls and independent flame/heat controls add convenience for seasonal use.
- Installation and maintenance: Installations vary from simple placement into an opening to more integrated mounting. Consider whether you prefer plug-in operation or dedicated circuit wiring, and whether the unit requires any ventilation clearance.
- Frame finish and interior design: A three-sided brick interior or glass front trim can influence room aesthetics. Choose a style that complements your mantel, cabinetry, and existing decor.
- Energy efficiency and safety: LED flame technology reduces energy use, and features like overheating protection, auto shutoff timers, and quiet operation support long-term use in living spaces and bedrooms.
These options provide flexible ways to modernize a wood-burning fireplace with safer, cleaner, and more convenient electric inserts. Each model balances flame realism, opening fit, and heat capacity to offer year-round ambiance without the upkeep of a traditional wood fire.