Best Built-in Electric Fireplace Options for Your Home
Built-in electric fireplaces offer a versatile, maintenance-free way to add warmth and ambiance to living rooms, bedrooms, and entertainment spaces. The following selections emphasize realistic flame displays, adjustable heat output, and smart features for modern homes. Each option showcases different installation styles—from in-wall recessed to slim flush mounts—so you can choose a model that fits your space and aesthetic without venting or extensive remodeling. Use this guide to compare size, heat, lighting, and connectivity across top-rated built-in fireplaces.
| Product | Brand | Size (in) | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Modern Flames Redstone 36-Inch Built-in Electric Fireplace | Modern Flames | 36 | Hybrid-FX flames, 10 colors, RGB lighting, up/down lighting, 5000 BTU/hr |
| Westinghouse 50 Inch Electric Fireplace Heater | Westinghouse | 50 | 144 color combos, 5 brightness levels, 5 flame speeds, thermostat |
| Touchstone Sideline 50-Inch In-Wall Recessed | Touchstone | 50 | 5 flame settings, remote, ventless in-wall install |
| Dimplex Slim 50 Inch Built-in | DIMPLEX | 50 | 4″ depth, Multi-Fire SL tech, acrylic ember bed |
| Touchstone Sideline Infinity Pro 3-Sided 84″ | Touchstone | 84 | WiFi app, 6 flame colors, 13-color down lighting, crackle sound |
Modern Flames Redstone 36-Inch Built-in Electric Fireplace
The Modern Flames Redstone RS-3626 uses Hybrid-FX Flame Technology to deliver a high-definition flame with up-lighting and down-lighting. With 10 flame color options, you can tailor the mood to match any season or décor. The unit also provides practical warmth, heating up to 5,000 BTU per hour, making it suitable for supplemental heat in living rooms or dens. Its built-in design allows flush integration into walls, keeping sightlines clean and modern. The combination of vibrant color options and a strong heat output makes it a versatile centerpiece for contemporary interiors.
- Hybrid-FX Flame Technology with 10 flame colors and RGB lighting
- Up-lighting and down-lighting for enhanced flame depth
- Heats up to 5,000 BTU/hour for supplemental warmth
- 36-inch built-in footprint for wide, immersive viewing
Westinghouse 50 Inch Electric Fireplace Heater
Westinghouse’s 50-inch model blends aesthetic flame realism with flexible heat options. It offers up to 144 flame/ember color combinations and five independent brightness levels, along with five flame speeds for fine-tuning. The unit ships with interchangeable faux log and Camphor wood/crystal ember bed sets, enhancing the fireplace’s decorative appeal. It fits most standard openings and supports both wall-mount and in-wall recessed installations, making it a versatile option for renovations. The built-in thermostat supports a comfortable range from 62°F to 82°F, helping maintain consistent warmth when the heater is on.
- Up to 144 flame color combinations; 5 brightness levels
- 5 flame speeds; interchangeable log and ember bed sets
- Fits 49″ x 15″ x 6″ openings; 50″ x 15.75″ front
- Thermostat adjustable from 62°F to 82°F; 750W/1500W heater
Touchstone Sideline 50-Inch In-Wall Recessed
Touchstone’s Sideline 50-Inch In-Wall Recessed model emphasizes a traditional fireplace look with modern control. It offers five flame settings that produce a soft ember glow up to a blazing flame, controlled by a remote or built-in touch controls. The unit is designed for safe attachment to framing studs, stays cool to the touch on the sides and back while the heater operates, and is ventless. The 6-foot power cord supports standard 110-120V outlets, with a maximum draw of about 12 amps—potentially on a 15-amp circuit, and requiring professional advice for hard-wiring in some installations.
- Five flame settings and remote control
- Ventless, in-wall recessed installation; safe to touch on sides/back
- Includes 6-foot power cord; 12-amp draw; hard-wire ready
- Recommended spacing around top if mounting under a TV or mantel
Dimplex Slim 50 Inch Built-in
The Dimplex Slim Electric Fireplace emphasizes a very shallow 4-inch depth, allowing flush installation into standard framing or with the included mounting bracket. Its Multi-Fire SL Technology creates multi-layered flame depth for a realistic look, while color-selectable flames (Yellow, Orange, Blue, Mixed) let you tailor the mood. The included acrylic crystal ember bed adds a sparkling, reflective effect that enhances the flame illusion. This model is designed to be visually striking while occupying minimal wall space, making it ideal for rooms with tight clearances.
- Slim 4-inch depth; flush-in framing or wall mount
- Multi-Fire SL Technology for depth perception
- Changeable flame color: Yellow, Orange, Blue, Mixed
- Includes acrylic crystal ember bed for added sparkle
Touchstone Sideline Infinity Pro 3-Sided 84″ WiFi-Enabled
The Sideline Infinity Pro presents a 3-sided view with expansive 84 inches of flame display and robust smart features. Operation is accessible via touchscreen, remote, or smartphone app, enabling precise control of flame color, brightness, speed, and heat. Installation versatility includes four options: three-sided, left-visible, right-visible, or front-only, with plug-in or hard-wire capability. It also includes premium features like built-in crackle sound and elevated ember media, creating an immersive, authentic fireplace experience that suits large living areas or open floor plans.
- Four installation options: 3-sided, left-visible, right-visible, front-only
- WiFi app control; touchscreen and remote included
- Six flame colors and thirteen-color down lighting
- 1,500W heater; built-in crackle sound for realism
Buying Guide
Size and Fit
Measure the intended opening and wall depth before selecting a model. Built-in and in-wall designs require flush depth and mounting space, while ultra-slim models fit shallower cavities. Consider the length of the unit relative to the wall or mantel, especially for large rooms that benefit from a wider display (such as 50–84 inches) versus compact 36-inch options.
Heating Power and Efficiency
Electric fireplaces typically offer 750W to 1500W of heating, translating to roughly 2,000–5,000 BTU/hour. Choose a unit with thermostat control to maintain a steady temperature and consider whether you’ll use heat as primary or supplemental warming. If you live in a milder climate, a visually striking flame may be enough without relying on the heater.
Flame Realism and Lighting
Flame quality varies by technology and color options. Some models offer multiple flame colors and ember bed variations, while others emphasize depth with multi-layered flame effects. If you want dramatic ambience, prefer units with customizable lighting (up-lighting and down-lighting) and additional ember bed features.
Installation Style and Installation Ease
Decide between in-wall recessed, built-in flush, or slim-wall mount configurations. In-wall installations require professional framing and electrical hookup; built-in units maximize integration with cabinetry or entertainment centers. Slim designs are ideal for spaces with limited depth, while wider multi-panel units suit large living areas.
Smart Controls and Connectivity
Many modern models offer remote control, touchscreen interfaces, and smartphone apps. Some units integrate with voice assistants (Alexa/Google Home) or WiFi for remote operation. If smart home compatibility matters, verify compatibility and setup steps before purchase.
Safety, Maintenance, and Longevity
Look for cool-to-touch exteriors when the heater is on, ventless operation with safe electrical ratings, and durable ember media. Regular cleaning of the heating element and flame bed will help preserve realism. Check warranty terms for coverage on electronics and flame modules to ensure long-term reliability.