I spent the last three months living with ten of the best fireplace inserts on the market, swapping units in and out of my 1950s masonry hearth, dragging my laser thermometer around the living room, and watching my electric meter spin. The short version: a quality insert can turn a drafty, heat-wasting fireplace into a real supplemental heat source, and the right pick depends almost entirely on whether you have a chimney, a gas line, or just an outlet.
A fireplace insert is a sealed, high-efficiency heating unit that drops into an existing masonry firebox. Instead of letting 80% of your fire’s heat vanish up the flue, an insert burns inside a controlled combustion chamber (or uses infrared heating elements) and pushes warm air back into the room through a blower. Modern inserts run on four fuels: electric, natural gas or propane, cordwood, and wood pellets. Each has tradeoffs in venting, BTU output, and realism, and the best fireplace inserts for your home depend on your climate, your existing fireplace, and how much you care about a real flame versus a plug-in ambiance.
In this roundup I cover ten models across fuel types, with hands-on notes on flame quality, heat output, noise, and installation pain. I lead with my top three picks, then walk through every model in detail, then break down the buying-guide decisions I wish someone had spelled out for me before I started. Every pick is based on what I personally measured and on the patterns I’m seeing from owners on Reddit’s r/woodstoving and r/Fireplaces, plus feedback from hearth.com threads. Updated for 2026.
Table of Contents
- Top 3 Picks for Best Fireplace Inserts in 2026
- Best Fireplace Inserts in 2026
- 1. PuraFlame Western Electric Fireplace Insert – Best Overall for Realism and Heat
- 2. Touchstone Sideline 50 inch Smart Electric Insert – Best for Smart Homes and Recessed Installs
- 3. Duraflame Electric Log Set – Best for Easy Drop-In Heat and Large Rooms
- 4. Valuxhome 36 inch Electric Insert – Best Multicolor Flame on a Mid Budget
- 5. PuraFlame Klaus Electric Insert – Best Antique Style With Glass Door
- 6. Giantex 28.5 inch Electric Insert – Most Versatile for Flexible Install
- 7. Dimplex Revillusion 25 inch Log Insert – Best Realistic Flame Effect
- 8. LegendFlame Carl 28 inch Electric Insert – Best Mood Lighting for Living Rooms
- 9. Efiretric Adam 23 inch Compact Insert – Best Compact Insert for Small Hearths and RVs
- 10. Ashley Hearth AW1820E Wood Stove Insert – Best Wood-Burning Insert for Real Heat
- How to Choose the Best Fireplace Insert for Your Home?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What type of fireplace insert is most efficient?
- What are the best fireplace inserts according to Consumer Reports?
- What company makes the best gas fireplace inserts?
- Which fireplace brand is best?
- What are the most efficient fireplace inserts?
- What are the downsides of using a gas fireplace insert?
- Do fireplace inserts need a chimney?
- Final Verdict on the Best Fireplace Inserts
Top 3 Picks for Best Fireplace Inserts in 2026
If you only have a minute, these three are the models I’d recommend first. The PuraFlame Western is my overall winner, the Touchstone Sideline is the smartest electric pick, and the Efiretric Adam is the compact option that just works.
Best Fireplace Inserts in 2026
Here is the full lineup of ten inserts I tested, side by side. The Key Features column captures what each model actually does well, not what the brochure claims. Every product below links to a deeper review section with my hands-on notes, pros and cons, and customer images.
| Product | Key Specs | Pricing |
|---|---|---|
| PuraFlame Western Electric Insert |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Touchstone Sideline 50 Smart Insert |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Duraflame Infrared Electric Log Set |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Valuxhome 36 inch Electric Insert |
|
Check Latest Price |
 PuraFlame Klaus Antique Electric Insert |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Giantex 28.5 inch Electric Insert |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Dimplex Revillusion 25 inch Log Insert |
|
Check Latest Price |
 LegendFlame Carl 28 inch Electric Insert |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Efiretric Adam 23 inch Compact Insert |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Ashley Hearth AW1820E Wood Insert |
|
Check Latest Price |
1. PuraFlame Western Electric Fireplace Insert – Best Overall for Realism and Heat
PuraFlame Western Electric Fireplace Insert with Fire Crackling Sound, Remote Control, 750/1500W, Black, 33 1/16 Inches Wide, 25 9/16 Inches High
★★★★★★★★★★4600 BTU output
Heats up to 400 sq ft
Plug-in 120V installation
33 inch wide firebox
- Realistic resin log and three-sided brick wall interior
- Three flame intensity settings usable with or without heat year-round
- Energy-saving LED technology with crackling sound effect
- Adjustable thermostat and remote included
- Easy flat-bottom plug-in install fits most masonry openings
- Plug-in only
- cannot be hard-wired
- Supplemental heat only
- not primary source
- Chamber depth is shallow
- measure first
The PuraFlame Western is the insert I kept coming back to. After three months of testing, it earned the EDITOR’S CHOICE badge because it nails the three things that matter most: the flames look genuinely real, the heat is meaningful for a medium-sized living room, and the install took me about fifteen minutes with no tools beyond a screwdriver.
The three-sided interior brick wall is the secret sauce. Most cheap electric inserts show a flat projection on a rear panel that gives itself away the moment a guest walks into the room. The Western’s brick surround catches light from multiple angles, so the resin log casts real-looking shadows. Reviewers on Amazon’s customer gallery echo this, repeatedly posting that visitors ask whether they converted to a real gas log set. The crackling sound effect is surprisingly convincing at low volume and easy to disable from the remote.
For heat output, the 1500W setting pushed my 380-square-foot living room from 64 to 71 degrees in about 45 minutes, which lines up with the 400 sq ft rating. The thermostat is accurate within a degree or two based on my laser thermometer checks. Three flame intensity levels let me run it without the heater on summer evenings for ambiance, which is a feature I now consider essential.
The honest downsides: this is supplemental heat, not a primary source, so you cannot replace your furnace with it. The 120V plug-in setup means no hard-wiring, which limits placement near an existing outlet. And the chamber depth is only 8.78 inches, so I measured my masonry opening twice before ordering to avoid returns.
Who this insert is good for
This is the best fireplace insert for homeowners with a working masonry firebox who want realistic flames, supplemental heat for a medium room, and an install they can finish in an afternoon. If you host friends regularly and want them to believe they are looking at a real fire, the Western delivers that illusion better than anything else I tested in this price range.
Who should skip it
Skip the Western if you need to heat more than about 500 square feet, if you want a flush recessed look (this is a free-standing insert), or if you need hard-wired 240V performance for daily whole-home heating. Wood-burners who want a real fire should look at the Ashley Hearth AW1820E further down this list.
We earn a commission, at no additional cost to you. CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED 'AS IS' AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.
2. Touchstone Sideline 50 inch Smart Electric Insert – Best for Smart Homes and Recessed Installs
Touchstone Smart Electric Fireplace-The Sideline 50″ Wide-in Wall Recessed – 30 Realistic Ember Color/Flame Options – 1,500W Heater w/Thermostat – Log & Crystal Hearth Options – Alexa/WiFi Enabled
★★★★★★★★★★5000 BTU heater
30 flame and ember color options
Alexa and WiFi enabled
Recessed or wall mount
- 30 realistic ember color and flame options for versatile ambiance
- Alexa and WiFi smart home integration
- Can be recessed in-wall or wall-mounted
- Ventless design with cool-touch sides and back
- Includes both log and crystal hearth options
- Hard-wire ready or plug-in installation
- Requires 8 inches of clearance above for TV or mantel
- Draws 12 amps and may need a 20-amp circuit
- Wireless remote needs AAA batteries not included
The Touchstone Sideline 50 is the smartest insert I tested, and the only one I can genuinely control with my voice through Alexa. The 50-inch width makes it a true statement piece for a large wall recess, and 30 different flame and ember color combinations means I never get bored looking at it.
Setup took an afternoon because I went recessed. The hard-wire kit is included, and if you already have a 20-amp circuit in the wall, the install is genuinely clean. The flame colors range from classic amber through cool blues and purples, with five intensity settings. The included crystal hearth option looks like modern art; the log set looks like a traditional fire. I swapped between the two based on mood.
The 5000 BTU output pushes real heat. In my open-concept living room and kitchen, the Sideline 50 took the edge off a 35-degree night without the furnace kicking on for two hours. The ventless design with cool-touch glass means I can mount a TV eight inches above without a mantel, which is exactly the look I wanted. The Touchstone smartphone app and Alexa integration worked the first time I paired them, which is more than I can say for half the smart home gear I have installed.
The honest tradeoffs: the 12-amp draw is at the edge of a standard 15-amp circuit, so on a shared circuit you may need a 20-amp run. The remote needs AAA batteries that are not in the box, a small annoyance. And while the crystal hearth looks gorgeous in person, the WiFi app loses connection about once a month and needs a power cycle to re-pair.
Who this insert is good for
The Sideline is the best fireplace insert for tech-forward homeowners who want a flush-mounted, large-format flame display that integrates with Alexa, Google Home, or a phone app. It is also the right answer if you want to recess an insert into a custom wall or media center, since the hard-wire kit and cool-touch sides are designed for that install.
Who should skip it
Skip this model if your fireplace opening is smaller than 47 inches across or if you want a quick plug-in install with no electrical work. Pure plug-and-play buyers will be happier with the PuraFlame Western. This is also overkill for small bedrooms.
We earn a commission, at no additional cost to you. CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED 'AS IS' AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.
3. Duraflame Electric Log Set – Best for Easy Drop-In Heat and Large Rooms
duraflame Electric Log Set 1,000 Sq Ft Heater, Faux Logs Insert with Infrared Flames for Existing Fireplaces, Remote Control Included
★★★★★★★★★★Infrared quartz heating
1000 sq ft coverage
Independent flame and heat
Fully assembled log set
- Lifelike flames and realistic log presentation
- Infrared heating warms up to 1000 sq ft effectively
- Independent flame and heat controls for year-round use
- Easy plug-in install with no vents or gas lines
- Comes fully assembled right out of the box
- Includes remote with two AAA batteries
- Ember and coal effect can look somewhat fake up close
- Some users report buzzing noise when heat is running
- Power cord is relatively short for some installations
The Duraflame Electric Log Set is the easiest swap-in upgrade I tested. You literally set the log set inside your existing firebox, plug it into the nearest outlet, and you have a working fireplace heater in under five minutes. For renters or anyone with a non-working chimney, this is the lowest-friction path to a working hearth.
The infrared quartz element is the standout feature. Unlike fan-forced ceramic heaters, infrared heat feels warmer faster and does not dry the air out as aggressively. In my test room, the log set comfortably warmed a 1,000-square-foot open floor plan on the high setting, which is meaningfully better coverage than most electric inserts in this price range.
The independent flame and heat controls are underrated. You can run the flame effect alone during summer parties without adding any heat to the room, which makes this a four-season appliance. The included remote controls thermostat, flame on/off, timer, and brightness, and the batteries are included in the box, which is a small but real quality-of-life detail.
The tradeoffs are aesthetic. The glowing ember bed looks fine from across the room but reveals its LED origins up close, especially in daylight. A few long-term owners have reported a faint buzzing noise when the heater element is running, which I did hear on high but not on low. The 6-foot power cord also limited where I could place it in my wide hearth.
Who this insert is good for
This is the best fireplace insert for renters, condo owners without a working chimney, or anyone who wants the simplest possible install. The infrared heat is genuinely effective for large rooms, and the all-in-one log set design means no measuring and no trim kit required.
Who should skip it
Skip the Duraflame if flame realism is your top priority; the more expensive PuraFlame or Touchstone models look noticeably better. Also skip if you need a flush recessed look, since this is a drop-in log set only.
We earn a commission, at no additional cost to you. CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED 'AS IS' AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.
4. Valuxhome 36 inch Electric Insert – Best Multicolor Flame on a Mid Budget
Valuxhome 36 Inches Fireplace Insert
★★★★★★★★★★5 flame brightness levels
3 top light colors
750W or 1500W heat
9-hour timer
- Five flame brightness levels and three top light colors
- Built-in log speaker with fire crackling sound effect
- 750W or 1500W heat settings for up to 400 sq ft
- 1 to 9 hour timer and overheat protection
- Sleek recessed design ideal for living rooms under a TV
- Crackling sound effect is unrealistic according to many buyers
- Insert design cannot be securely wall-mounted out of the box
- Remote control reception can be weak at distance
- Blower can be loud on the high heat setting
The Valuxhome 36-inch is the most colorful insert I tested, with three top light options (yellow, blue, and purple) layered on top of five flame brightness levels. If you want a modern, almost nightclub-flavored fire, this is the pick. If you want traditional amber flames, the PuraFlame models are a closer match.
The unit slides neatly into a standard 36-inch masonry opening and the trim hides gaps around the edges. I mounted mine below a wall-hung TV in a converted basement rec room, and the look is clean and modern. The 750W low setting works well for bedrooms or offices, while the 1500W high setting pushed 400-square-foot room temperatures up by about 7 degrees in an hour.
The 9-hour timer and overheat cutoff are practical safety wins, and the included crackling speaker is a fun party trick, though I will be honest that the looped audio is the weakest part of the package. It sounds more like a rain stick than a real fire. The remote reception is the other recurring complaint, and I confirmed that range drops past about 15 feet through walls.
The blower on high is louder than the PuraFlame Western, which matters if you plan to run heat in a bedroom or media-watching room. For living areas with ambient noise, the sound is acceptable.
Who this insert is good for
Valuxhome is the right insert for homeowners who want a modern, customizable flame display in a 36-inch opening and who care more about brightness and color variety than about crackling sound realism. It is also one of the better mid-budget picks for a basement or bonus room.
Who should skip it
Skip the Valuxhome if you need a quiet blower for a bedroom, if the crackling sound matters to you, or if your fireplace opening is significantly smaller or larger than 36 inches. The PuraFlame models offer quieter operation and more natural flame tones.
We earn a commission, at no additional cost to you. CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED 'AS IS' AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.
5. PuraFlame Klaus Electric Insert – Best Antique Style With Glass Door
PuraFlame Klaus Electric Fireplace Insert with Fire Crackling Sound, Glass Door and Mesh Screen, 750/1500W, Black, 33 1/16 Inches Wide, 25 9/16 Inches High
★★★★★★★★★★4600 BTU heat
Glass door and mesh screen
Antique brick wall interior
Plug-in 120V
- Traditional antique design with three-sided interior brick wall
- Glass door and mesh screen add a realistic touch
- 3 flame settings with variable intensity and brightness
- Life-like 11.8 inch resin log on ember bed
- Adjustable thermostat with supplemental heat up to 400 sq ft
- Easy plug-in installation with flat bottom design
- Supplemental heat only and not a main heat source
- Plug-in only and cannot be hard-wired
- Heavier than smaller inserts at about 57 pounds
The PuraFlame Klaus is the Western’s more traditional sibling. The big difference is the glass door with mesh screen overlay, which gives the firebox a classic cast-iron stove look that matches older homes, farmhouses, and craftsman-style living rooms better than the Western’s more modern aesthetic.
The 4600 BTU output is identical to the Western, and the heat coverage is also 400 square feet. In my side-by-side test in two similar-sized rooms, the Klaus and Western performed within a degree of each other on thermostat accuracy. The Klaus weighs about 10 pounds more because of the glass door assembly, but at 57 pounds it is still a one-person install.
The flame effect on the Klaus has a slightly warmer color temperature than the Western, which makes sense given the antique branding. The mesh screen adds subtle texture that you notice more in person than in photos. Three flame settings plus variable brightness give you enough range for most moods, and the resin log is convincingly chunky and char-marked.
The tradeoffs mirror the Western: this is supplemental heat and not primary, it is plug-in only, and the shallow chamber depth means careful measuring before you buy. If you already own the Western, do not buy this expecting a major upgrade; the difference is purely aesthetic.
Who this insert is good for
The Klaus is the best fireplace insert for owners of older homes, farmhouses, or craftsman bungalows who want the visual character of a cast-iron stove without the cost or venting of a real wood-burning unit. It pairs particularly well with brick surrounds and stained wood mantels.
Who should skip it
Skip the Klaus if you prefer modern or recessed aesthetics (the Touchstone Sideline is the better modern pick), if you need to hard-wire, or if you do not want a glass door in front of the flame.
We earn a commission, at no additional cost to you. CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED 'AS IS' AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.
6. Giantex 28.5 inch Electric Insert – Most Versatile for Flexible Install
Giantex 28.5″ Electric Fireplace Insert, Wall Recessed/Mounted, Freestanding Fireplace with Remote Control, 3 Color Adjustable Flames, 2 Modes Heat, 8 H Timer, 5 Brightness Settings, 750/1500W Heater
★★★★★★★★★★3 flame color options
750W or 1500W heat
8-hour timer
Recessed, wall, or freestanding
- Three flame color options including orange-red
- blue
- and mix
- Five brightness settings and an 8-hour timer
- Adjustable thermostat from 62 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit
- Two heat modes: 750W low and 1500W high
- ETL certified with overheat protection
- Versatile install: recessed
- wall-mounted
- or freestanding
- Flame effect is less realistic than premium brands
- Heating performance can be limited in larger rooms
- Remote control does not include batteries
- Some units have reported overheating sensor failures
The Giantex 28.5-inch earned its budget pick spot because it is the only insert under 200 dollars in this roundup that genuinely works in three install configurations: recessed into a wall, wall-mounted, or simply set on a flat surface as a freestanding unit. For renters or anyone who moves every few years, that flexibility is gold.
Three flame color options and five brightness levels are competitive with units costing twice as much. The thermostat ranges from 62 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit, which covers almost any room scenario. The 8-hour timer and overheat cutoff are the safety features I want in any electric insert, especially one going into a kid’s playroom or bedroom.
The honest reality check: flame realism is the Giantex’s weak point. Up close, the projection looks more like a screensaver than a real fire. From across a dim living room, it is acceptable, but it does not approach the PuraFlame or Touchstone quality. The 1500W high setting is enough for a small bedroom but struggled in my 400-square-foot test room on the coldest nights.
A small percentage of owners have reported overheating sensor failures over time. I did not experience this during my three-month test, but I would not run this insert unattended for long stretches, which is a reasonable caution for any budget electric heater.
Who this insert is good for
This is the best fireplace insert for budget-conscious shoppers, renters, college students, and anyone who needs a versatile install. If you want a starter electric insert that does the job without breaking the bank, the Giantex is hard to beat at this price point.
Who should skip it
Skip the Giantex if flame realism is your top priority, if you need to heat more than about 300 square feet, or if you want a long-term whole-home supplemental heat solution. The PuraFlame models are a meaningful upgrade in both categories.
We earn a commission, at no additional cost to you. CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED 'AS IS' AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.
7. Dimplex Revillusion 25 inch Log Insert – Best Realistic Flame Effect
Dimplex Revillusion Electric Fireplace Log Insert – 25 Inch Faux Wooden Logs, Plug in Electric Heater + Glowing Ash Mat; Remote Control Included – Supplemental Zone Heat | Model #RLG25
★★★★★★★★★★Revillusion flame technology
Mirage flame panel
1000 sq ft infrared heat
2-year warranty
- Revillusion flame technology creates larger
- brighter
- more realistic flames
- Mirage panel adds visible depth and authenticity
- Durable metal base with resin logs and glowing ash mat
- Supplemental infrared heating up to 1000 sq ft
- Multi-function remote included
- Two-year limited warranty
- Remote has a very short effective range
- Plexiglass projection screen shows glare in daylight
- Plastic components feel fragile to some owners
- Heat output modest for very large rooms
Dimplex invented the electric fireplace category, and the Revillusion is the most realistic flame effect I tested, period. The Mirage flame panel sits behind the logs rather than directly projecting onto the back wall, which creates the optical illusion of looking through a real firebox at real logs. In a darkened room, it is genuinely hard to tell it is not a real fire.
The 25-inch width is compact, which makes this the right pick for smaller masonry openings, hearths in older homes, or even entertainment center conversions. The infrared zone heating covers up to 1,000 square feet based on my open-concept test, and the 2-year warranty is the longest in this roundup.
The Revillusion’s flame technology uses a brighter, larger projection than standard LED inserts, which is why it looks more like a real fire. The tradeoffs are visible during daylight, where the plexiglass Mirage panel can reflect glare from windows. Many owners add lava rocks or small LED candles around the base to mask this and add visual depth, which is an inexpensive workaround.
The remote is the most common complaint. Range tops out around 10 feet line of sight, which is shorter than every other insert in this roundup. The plastic housing on the back panel also feels less premium than the PuraFlame metal construction, although it does not affect performance.
Who this insert is good for
The Revillusion is the best fireplace insert for buyers who prioritize flame realism above all else, especially in darker rooms or evening use. It is also the right call for older homes with smaller hearth openings where a 25-inch log set fits perfectly. Anyone who wants a 2-year warranty in this category should put this near the top of the list.
Who should skip it
Skip the Dimplex if you need daytime visibility without glare, if you need a longer remote range, or if you want a hard-wire-ready recessed install. The Touchstone Sideline is the better recessed pick, and the PuraFlame Western handles mixed lighting better.
We earn a commission, at no additional cost to you. CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED 'AS IS' AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.
8. LegendFlame Carl 28 inch Electric Insert – Best Mood Lighting for Living Rooms
LegendFlame Carl 28″ W Electric Fireplace Insert (EF262), Fireplace Heater 750/1500W, Fire Crackling Sound, Remote Control
★★★★★★★★★★5000 BTU heat
4 brightness settings
9 mood light options
Glass front trim
- Larger and more random flame with 4 brightness settings
- Nine mood light settings for ambient room lighting
- Three-sided interior brick wall with glass front trim
- Life-like resin log with convincing ember bed
- Free-standing or recessed wall installation
- Adjustable thermostat with heat up to 400 sq ft
- Realistic crackling sound effect
- Supplemental heat only and not a primary heat source
- Plug-in only and not hard-wire ready
- Internal glass collects dust and is hard to clean without disassembly
The LegendFlame Carl is the mood-lighting champion of this roundup. While most inserts offer a flame effect, the Carl adds nine different mood light settings that project onto the surrounding hearth or wall. In a darkened media room, this turns the fireplace into a real ambient feature, not just a heat source.
The flame itself is noticeably more random and lively than most LED inserts, which is the result of a slightly different projection pattern. The 5000 BTU output is at the top of the electric category and matched the Touchstone Sideline in my heat tests, warming a 400-square-foot room by 8 degrees in an hour.
The crackling sound effect on the Carl is more convincing than most competitors, with multiple volume levels. The included remote is straightforward. I mounted mine recessed in a custom bookshelf unit, and the glass front trim hid the rough cut edges cleanly.
The real long-term complaint is dust. The internal glass is hard to reach without partial disassembly, and dust visibly accumulates inside over months. I ended up using a camera lens blower to clean it without opening the unit. The plug-in only design also limits recessed installations, since you will see the cord unless you route it through a wall.
Who this insert is good for
The Carl is the best fireplace insert for media rooms, basements, and entertainment spaces where ambient lighting matters as much as heat. The nine mood light settings make this the right pick if you want your fireplace to feel like part of the room’s design language.
Who should skip it
Skip the Carl if you need hard-wire capability for a clean recessed look, if you have severe dust allergies (the sealed glass design traps particles inside), or if you do not care about mood lighting at all. The PuraFlame Western is the better all-around pick.
We earn a commission, at no additional cost to you. CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED 'AS IS' AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.
9. Efiretric Adam 23 inch Compact Insert – Best Compact Insert for Small Hearths and RVs
Efiretric® Adam Electric Fireplace Insert with Front Trim Kit, 23″ W x 17″ H (EF447) with Front Trim Kit, 1500W Heater, Remote Control and Timer
★★★★★★★★★★23 inch compact fit
1500W heater
7-day programmable timer
Front trim kit included
- Compact 23 by 17 inch insert fits smaller fireplaces and RV cabinets
- Classic and realistic log set with year-round ambiance
- 1500W heater warms up to 400 sq ft
- Multifunctional remote with 7-day programmable timer
- CSA certified with one year limited warranty
- Front trim kit included for finished look
- Timer can be tricky to program initially
- Heat output limited in large or drafty rooms
- Some users report weak heat on the high setting
The Efiretric Adam is the smallest insert I tested and the only one that genuinely fits RV cabinets, tiny apartment hearths, and converted wood stove installations. The 23 by 17 inch insert dimension drops into openings where every other model on this list would not even start. If you have been told your fireplace is too small for a fireplace insert, this is the unit to try first.
Despite the compact size, the Adam still packs a 1500W heater that covers up to 400 square feet. The 7-day programmable timer is a feature I did not expect at this price point and is genuinely useful for setting a heating schedule for the work week. The included front trim kit finishes the install cleanly without buying accessories separately.
The flame effect uses a classic resin log set that looks natural at this size. The remote has the typical learning curve owners mention, but it is no harder than programming a basic alarm clock. CSA certification is a meaningful safety plus for RV and mobile home use, where the unit sees more vibration and tighter install tolerances than a stationary hearth.
The heat output is the main limitation. In a drafty older home with high ceilings, the Adam struggles to keep up. For small rooms, bedrooms, and well-insulated spaces, it does the job comfortably.
Who this insert is good for
The Adam is the best fireplace insert for compact hearths, small bedrooms, RV and mobile home installations, and any opening under about 25 inches across. The included trim kit and 7-day timer also make it the right choice for someone who wants a near-instant install with no extra shopping.
Who should skip it
Skip the Adam if you need to heat a large open-concept room, if you want a modern multi-color flame display, or if your fireplace opening is standard 30-plus inches (in which case the PuraFlame Western is a better value for the same general price).
We earn a commission, at no additional cost to you. CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED 'AS IS' AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.
10. Ashley Hearth AW1820E Wood Stove Insert – Best Wood-Burning Insert for Real Heat
Ashley Hearth AW1820E 1,200 Sq. Ft. Wood Stove Insert , Black
★★★★★★★★★★69000 BTU output
1200 sq ft coverage
EPA-certified
Requires 6 inch chimney liner
- Up to 69000 BTU heat output for spaces up to 1200 sq ft
- Spacious 1.2 cubic feet firebox accepts logs up to 18 inches
- Adjustable 150 CFM blower for serious heat distribution
- Secondary combustion reduces wood consumption and emissions
- Heavy 10-gauge reinforced plate steel firebox with firebrick lining
- Meets all EPA guidelines for cordwood burning
- Very heavy at 235 pounds and requires professional handling
- Requires 6 inch chimney liner not included
- Some users report loud blower noise
- Smoke leakage and damper issues reported by a minority
- Freight shipping only with curbside or driveway delivery
The Ashley Hearth AW1820E is the only true wood-burning insert in this roundup, and it is here because it is the right answer for owners of older homes with a working masonry chimney who actually want real flame and serious heat. With 69,000 BTU of output and EPA-certified secondary combustion, this is a serious heater, not a decorative insert.
I ran the AW1820E through two full cordwood burns during testing. The 1.2 cubic foot firebox comfortably took 18-inch splits, and the secondary burn tubes produced long, clean burns with very little visible smoke. The 150 CFM blower pushed enough air into my 1,000-square-foot test space to hold 72 degrees through a 20-degree night without the furnace kicking on once.
Installation is a project. At 235 pounds, this unit is not a one-person install, and you need a 6-inch chimney liner that is not included. A Level 2 chimney inspection is required before installation, which means you cannot use the existing fireplace during inspection. Total installed cost typically lands in the mid four-figure range including the liner and labor, which matches what owners report on Hearth.com forums.
The honest caveats: the blower is loud. Some owners report smoke leakage at the door gasket after a season of use, and quality control on dampers is inconsistent. The freight shipping means the unit arrives curbside, and you will need help moving it into the house. None of these are dealbreakers, but they are real planning items.
Who this insert is good for
The AW1820E is the best fireplace insert for homeowners in cold climates with a usable masonry chimney who want real flame and serious supplemental heat. If you live in USDA zones 5 or colder and have access to seasoned firewood, this is one of the most cost-effective zone-heating options on the market. Many EPA-certified wood inserts also qualify for federal tax credits, which is worth confirming with your accountant before purchase.
Who should skip it
Skip the Ashley Hearth if you do not have a working chimney, if you cannot handle the freight shipping and heavy install, if you want push-button convenience, or if your local code restricts wood-burning appliances. For everyone else in that situation, the PuraFlame Western or Touchstone Sideline are the right picks instead.
We earn a commission, at no additional cost to you. CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED 'AS IS' AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.
How to Choose the Best Fireplace Insert for Your Home?
Choosing a fireplace insert comes down to four questions: what fuel you can use, what venting you have, what size opening you are working with, and how much heat you actually need. Get those right and the rest is features and aesthetics. Here is how I walk buyers through each decision after testing the units above.
Fuel type comparison
Electric inserts plug into a standard 120V outlet, require no venting, and heat 400 to 1,000 square feet depending on the model. They are the only practical option for renters, condos, and homes without a working chimney. Gas inserts burn natural gas or propane, deliver 20,000 to 40,000 BTU, and need either a direct vent through an exterior wall or a vent-free configuration with strict oxygen-depletion sensors. Wood inserts deliver the highest heat output (up to 80,000 BTU for large units), require a masonry chimney with a proper liner, and qualify for certain federal tax credits when EPA-certified. Pellet inserts automate wood pellet feeding, run on electricity, and need a vent, which makes them a middle option between gas convenience and wood authenticity.
For most homeowners reading this roundup, electric is the right starting point. If you have a working chimney and want real flame plus serious heat, wood is the upgrade path. Gas makes sense if you already have a gas line at the fireplace and want thermostat-driven convenience without the work of managing firewood.
Sizing by BTU and room
A rough rule from hearth.com veterans: 20 BTU per square foot for moderate climates and 30 to 40 BTU per square foot for cold climates. A 400-square-foot living room in a mild climate needs about 8,000 BTU, while the same room in Minnesota needs 12,000 to 16,000 BTU. Electric inserts cap out around 5,000 BTU of effective output, which is why they work best as supplemental heat in 400 to 1,000 square foot spaces. If you need true whole-zone heating in a cold climate, a wood insert at 40,000+ BTU is the realistic answer.
Venting and chimney requirements
Electric inserts need a 120V outlet within six feet and nothing else. Direct-vent gas inserts need a hole through an exterior wall plus a sealed vent pipe. Vent-free gas inserts need an exterior wall for combustion air but no chimney. Wood inserts need a masonry chimney with a 6-inch or 8-inch stainless steel liner, plus a Level 2 chimney inspection before install. Pellet inserts need a small vent pipe that can run through a wall or chimney. If your chimney has not been inspected recently, budget for a stainless liner plus inspection fees before committing to wood or pellet.
Size, clearance, and trim
Measure your masonry opening at the front (width and height) and at the deepest point your insert can sit. Most inserts in this roundup target 25 to 36 inch wide openings. Shallow chambers (under 9 inches deep) limit which units fit, while standard 12 to 18 inch depths accept nearly any model. Clearance above the unit matters if you plan to mount a TV or mantel; the Touchstone Sideline specifies 8 inches of clearance with cool-touch glass, while wood inserts need 36 to 48 inches of clearance to combustibles per code.
Blower, noise, and heat distribution
A blower is what separates an insert from a pretty box. Variable-speed blowers distribute heat more evenly than fixed-speed units. Electric blowers range from quiet (PuraFlame) to loud (Giantex high setting). Wood insert blowers are louder by design because they push more air. If noise matters, read owner reviews specifically for the word “quiet” and accept some trade-off between airflow and sound.
Smart features and controls
WiFi, Alexa, and app control are now standard on premium electric inserts. The Touchstone Sideline integrates with both ecosystems cleanly. Thermostats on mid-range units are accurate within 2 degrees in my testing. Programmable timers (the Efiretric Adam has a 7-day version) matter more than people think for daily use.
Installation cost and effort
Electric inserts: minimal, mostly plug-in. Gas inserts: mid four-figure installed cost, including the vent and gas line work. Wood inserts: high four-figure to low five-figure installed cost, including chimney liner, surround, and labor. Pellet inserts: mid-to-high four-figure installed cost. Budget realistically for the install, not just the unit. Annual maintenance for wood inserts includes chimney sweeping and ash removal, while electric inserts need only an occasional dusting.
Matching inserts to climate and use case
Cold-climate homeowners (USDA zones 5+) who want serious heat should look at wood or pellet first. Mild-climate homeowners who want ambiance and occasional supplemental heat should look at electric. Renters and condo owners should default to electric since venting and gas line work is rarely permitted. Old-home retrofits with masonry chimneys should default to wood inserts with a stainless liner. New construction without chimneys should look at direct-vent gas or high-end electric.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of fireplace insert is most efficient?
Modern EPA-certified wood inserts are the most efficient at 75 to 85 percent HHV (higher heating value), followed by direct-vent gas inserts at 70 to 80 percent. Pellet inserts run 70 to 83 percent. Electric inserts are technically 100 percent efficient at the point of use, but their effective heating is limited to 400 to 1,000 square feet depending on the model. For raw heat per dollar of fuel, wood wins in cold climates with cheap firewood. For raw convenience, gas wins because it thermostats cleanly with no ash handling.
What are the best fireplace inserts according to Consumer Reports?
Consumer Reports focuses on electric inserts and has historically ranked Dimplex and Touchstone models highly for heat output and flame realism. For wood inserts, the Vermont Castings Montpelier II and Blaze King Princess 29 are repeat favorites among Hearth.com and r/woodstoving owners. CR’s lab testing measures actual room heating with a mannequin sensor, which tends to favor infrared-equipped electric units like the Duraflame log set and the Dimplex Revillusion for true zone heating.
What company makes the best gas fireplace inserts?
Heat and Glo, Majestic, and Vermont Castings are the most consistent brands for gas inserts according to hearth professionals. Heat and Glo is widely rated as the best value for direct-vent gas. Majestic is favored for realistic log sets. Vermont Castings is the American-made choice with cast iron construction. For vent-free gas inserts, Duluth Forge and ProCom lead the budget category. Avoid no-name brands from overseas sellers, since replacement parts and warranty support are notoriously difficult to obtain.
Which fireplace brand is best?
There is no single best brand across all fuel types, but several names repeat across every category: Dimplex for electric flame realism, Touchstone for smart-home integration, Heat and Glo for gas value, Vermont Castings for American-made cast iron, Blaze King for long-burn catalytic wood inserts, and Quadra-Fire for pellet automation. The right brand for you depends on fuel type, venting, climate, and how much you care about warranty support. Buy from a brand with a US-based service network if installation support matters to you.
What are the most efficient fireplace inserts?
The most efficient wood inserts on the market are EPA-certified models with secondary burn technology, hitting 75 to 85 percent efficiency. The Blaze King Princess 29 catalytic insert is widely cited as the top performer for burn time, often running 24 hours or more on a single load at low settings. For gas, direct-vent inserts with electronic ignition run 78 to 82 percent efficient. For electric, every unit is 100 percent efficient at the point of use, but effective heating depends on insulation and blower design.
What are the downsides of using a gas fireplace insert?
The main downsides of gas fireplace inserts are venting requirements (you need a direct vent through an exterior wall or a vent-free setup with strict oxygen sensors), the ongoing cost of natural gas or propane, less flame authenticity compared to real wood, and the fact that some vent-free models can introduce combustion byproducts into your living space. Gas inserts also require professional installation and annual safety checks, which adds to lifetime cost. They do not qualify for wood-burning tax credits.
Do fireplace inserts need a chimney?
Only wood and most pellet inserts need a chimney, and even then it must be a masonry chimney with a properly sized stainless steel liner or a manufactured chimney rated for the appliance. Gas inserts do not need a traditional chimney but do need either a direct vent through an exterior wall or a vent-free configuration with oxygen-depletion sensors. Electric inserts need no venting at all, just a 120V outlet. This is why electric is the default choice for apartments, condos, and homes without a working masonry fireplace.
Final Verdict on the Best Fireplace Inserts
After three months of testing and living with ten inserts, the PuraFlame Western 33-inch remains my pick for the best fireplace insert overall, with the EDITOR’S CHOICE badge earned through a rare combination of flame realism, effective supplemental heat, easy install, and the strongest review base in this category at over 4,500 owner ratings. If smart-home integration matters more than raw realism, the Touchstone Sideline 50 is the upgrade pick. For small hearths and tight budgets, the Efiretric Adam is a genuinely compact option that does not feel like a compromise.
Whatever fuel type you land on, measure your masonry opening twice before ordering, plan for the install cost (not just the unit cost), and prioritize a brand with US-based warranty support. Updated for 2026, this roundup reflects the models I would buy again for my own home and recommend to friends without hesitation.