All the models we tested are electric and use a nominal 1,500 watts (about the same as a standard electric space heater, Deitrick says), so we did not incorporate a comparison of power consumption in our tests. But there are other things to consider when shopping for a fireplace insert, including size, cost, installation, and—not least—overall aesthetics.
Size: Tested inserts range in size from 24 inches to 36 inches wide, so you’ll want one proportionate to your space or that fits comfortably in your unused fireplace.
Price: The models we tested range in price from about $230 to over $900. But we didn’t see a correlation between price and performance: Our top-scoring models include both the least and the most expensive models we tested.
Installation: The installation of most built-in models requires some “not insignificant effort,” Deitrick says. They can be installed in existing fireplace openings, attached to framing studs (a minimum of 8 inches is recommended between the top of the unit and a TV or mantel), or in the case of the first three featured above, inserted into manufacturers’ consoles. All the models we tested can be plugged into a common 120-volt electrical outlet, but you may need an electrician to add or move power to the particular spot where you wish to locate your fireplace.
It’s safe to say that choosing an electric fireplace in lieu of the real thing is a matter of personal preference. If you’re a purist, these products aren’t for you. If, however, you like the idea of approximating the look and feel of a warm fire, you’ll want to consider the overall appearance of the models we recommend: how real the logs look and how they are configured, how the flames are projected, whether flames flicker realistically, and/or whether a model features sound. Here’s a live look at the fireplaces that scored at the top of our ratings.
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