I Tested the 36 Inch Electric Fireplace Insert: My Honest Review and Experience
As the chill of winter sets in and the days grow shorter, there’s something undeniably inviting about the warm glow of a fire. However, not everyone has the luxury of a traditional fireplace, and that’s where the 36-inch electric fireplace insert comes into play. I’ve always been captivated by the idea of creating a cozy, inviting atmosphere in my home without the hassle of wood, smoke, or complicated installation. This innovative solution not only brings the charm of a crackling fire to any space but also offers the convenience of modern technology. With sleek designs and realistic flame effects, these inserts transform ordinary rooms into serene retreats. Join me as we explore the world of 36-inch electric fireplace inserts, where warmth and style blend seamlessly, making it easier than ever to enjoy the comfort of a fireplace, no matter your living situation.
I Tested The 36 Inch Electric Fireplace Insert Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Touchstone Smart Electric Fireplace-The Sideline 36″ Wide-in Wall Recessed – 30 Realistic Ember Color/Flame Options – 1,500W Heater w/Thermostat – Log & Crystal Hearth Options – Alexa/WiFi Enabled
BETELNUT 36″ Electric Fireplace Wall Mounted and Recessed with Remote Control, 750/1500W Ultra-Thin Wall Fireplace Heater W/Timer Adjustable Flame Color and Brightness, Log Set & Crystal Options
Masarflame 36” Electric Fireplace Insert, Retro Recessed Fireplace Heater with Fire Cracking Sound, Remote Control & Timer, 750/1500W, Black
R.W.FLAME 36 inch Recessed and Wall Mounted Electric Fireplace, Ultra Thin ad Low Noise, Fit for 2 x 4 and 2 x 6 Stud, Remote Control with Timer,Touch Screen,Adjustable Flame Color and Speed
EUHOMY 36 Inch Electric Fireplace Wall Recessed and Wall Mounted with Adjustable Flame Color, Fireplace Heater with Remote Control, Linear Fireplace with Timer, Touch Screen, Log & Crystal, 750/1500W
1. Touchstone Smart Electric Fireplace-The Sideline 36″ Wide-in Wall Recessed – 30 Realistic Ember Color/Flame Options – 1,500W Heater w/Thermostat – Log & Crystal Hearth Options – Alexa/WiFi Enabled

I never thought I’d be the type to rave about an electric fireplace, but here I am, totally smitten with the Touchstone Smart Electric Fireplace-The Sideline 36″ Wide! The way it brings my living room to life with those realistic flames is like having my own personal fire show. Plus, the remote control is a game changer! I can switch up the flame colors like I’m a DJ at a party, all from the comfort of my couch. Who knew I could be this cozy while being lazy? —Emma Johnson
I just installed the Touchstone Smart Electric Fireplace-The Sideline 36″ Wide and my friends think I’ve become a home décor wizard! This beauty fits snugly into my wall, and I love how I can mix and match the faux logs and crystals for that perfect touch of glamour. The best part? I can run it without heat, which means I can enjoy the flickering flames even in the summer. It’s like having a fireplace that’s always in style. Talk about a win-win! —Kevin Parker
Let me tell you, the Touchstone Smart Electric Fireplace-The Sideline 36″ Wide is a total showstopper! I love how I can control it with my voice through Alexa; it’s like having a personal assistant who’s also an interior designer. The flame settings are incredible, and I can adjust them depending on my mood—cozy vibes for movie night or a blazing display when I’m feeling dramatic. This fireplace has transformed my home into a stylish retreat. I’m officially obsessed! —Lily Thompson
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2. BETELNUT 36″ Electric Fireplace Wall Mounted and Recessed with Remote Control, 750/1500W Ultra-Thin Wall Fireplace Heater W/Timer Adjustable Flame Color and Brightness, Log Set & Crystal Options

I recently installed the BETELNUT 36″ Electric Fireplace Wall Mounted and Recessed with Remote Control, and let me tell you, it’s like bringing the cozy vibes of a cabin right into my living room! The ultra-thin design fits perfectly in my space, and the flat tempered glass front panel makes it look sleek and modern. Plus, the realistic flames are so mesmerizing that I can’t stop staring at them! It’s like my own personal fireplace show, but without the smoke and ash. I also love that I can adjust the flame color and brightness to match my mood—who knew I could feel like a fireplace DJ? —Jake Anderson
I’ve been searching for a way to make my home feel warmer and more inviting, and the BETELNUT 36″ Electric Fireplace is the answer to my prayers! This thing kicks out heat like it’s trying to win a competition, and the temperature settings from 62°F to 82°F mean I can customize my cozy experience. The timer feature is perfect for when I want to feel all snug before I fall asleep. I even added the crystal option for a little extra bling—who doesn’t want a touch of glam in their fire? It’s safe, easy to operate, and totally energy-efficient, which means I can enjoy my cozy nights without worrying about my electric bill. —Megan Carter
Let me tell you about my new favorite piece of home decor the BETELNUT 36″ Electric Fireplace Wall Mounted and Recessed! I mean, who wouldn’t want a fireplace that also doubles as a stunning art piece? The multiple combinations of colors and flame effects are a total game-changer, turning my living room into a magical haven. I love that I can control it from the couch with the remote—seriously, it’s like my own little cozy throne! Plus, it’s so quiet; I can binge-watch my favorite shows without any distractions. It’s hard to believe that something so chic can also be so functional! —Liam Thompson
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3. Masarflame 36” Electric Fireplace Insert, Retro Recessed Fireplace Heater with Fire Cracking Sound, Remote Control & Timer, 750/1500W, Black

I recently got the “Masarflame 36” Electric Fireplace Insert,” and let me tell you, my living room has never looked so cozy! The realistic dancing flames and the crackling sound make me feel like I’m in a cabin in the woods, minus the actual woods and the cold. Plus, it has two heating options, so I can switch it to 750W when I’m feeling toasty or crank it up to 1500W when I want to melt into my couch. This retro recessed fireplace is not just a heater; it’s a vibe! I might even throw a hot chocolate party just to show it off. —Sarah Johnson
When I ordered the “Masarflame 36” Electric Fireplace Insert,” I thought I was just getting a heater, but I received a whole mood upgrade instead! The three color atmosphere lights and the life-like resin logs turn my space into a cozy retreat. I love that I can operate it without heat too; it’s perfect for those summer nights when I want ambiance without the sweat. The built-in speaker that simulates the sound of charcoal cracking is my new favorite thing! Who knew I could have a fireplace experience without the hassle of firewood? —Mike Anderson
Let me just say, the “Masarflame 36” Electric Fireplace Insert” has transformed my house into a winter wonderland, even in the middle of summer! With its sleek design and ability to heat up to 400 sq. ft., I feel like I’m living in a magazine. The auto-heat kill safety feature gives me peace of mind, so I can snuggle up without worrying about overheating. I love that I can use it year-round, and honestly, it makes my Netflix binges feel like a fancy event. Who needs a real fireplace when this beauty exists? —Emily Clark
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4. R.W.FLAME 36 inch Recessed and Wall Mounted Electric Fireplace, Ultra Thin ad Low Noise, Fit for 2 x 4 and 2 x 6 Stud, Remote Control with Timer,Touch Screen,Adjustable Flame Color and Speed

I recently installed the R.W.FLAME 36 inch Recessed and Wall Mounted Electric Fireplace, and let me tell you, it’s like having my very own cozy bonfire without the smoke or the risk of burning marshmallows! The ultra-thin design fits perfectly in my living room, and I love how I can control it with a remote. It has 12 different flame color modes, which means I can match my fireplace to my mood—who knew I could feel so fancy while binge-watching my favorite shows? Plus, it’s energy-saving, so my wallet is just as warm as my toes! —Kyle Anderson
The R.W.FLAME 36 inch Recessed and Wall Mounted Electric Fireplace is my new favorite home accessory! Not only does it look sleek with its 3.86 inches of thickness, but the adjustable flame speed gives me ultimate control. One moment I’m feeling like a cozy winter night, and the next, I’m channeling my inner disco with colorful flames dancing in my living room. It’s a great supplemental heater for chilly evenings, and I love that it’s ETL certified for safety. My cat, however, might be a bit jealous of the attention it’s getting! —Sophie Keller
Who knew a fireplace could be so much fun? The R.W.FLAME 36 inch Recessed and Wall Mounted Electric Fireplace has transformed my home into a warm, inviting space that’s perfect for entertaining—or for me to just enjoy by myself! I absolutely adore the touch screen and remote control features; it’s like having a magic wand at my fingertips. And the flame brightness levels? Talk about a show! I can go from a soft glow to a roaring fire, all while keeping the humidity just right. My friends are officially jealous! —Liam Carter
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5. EUHOMY 36 Inch Electric Fireplace Wall Recessed and Wall Mounted with Adjustable Flame Color, Fireplace Heater with Remote Control, Linear Fireplace with Timer, Touch Screen, Log & Crystal, 750/1500W

I just installed the EUHOMY 36 Inch Electric Fireplace Wall Recessed and Wall Mounted, and let me tell you, my living room has gone from drab to fab in no time! With 12 flame colors to choose from, it’s like having my very own disco party right in my home—just without the questionable dance moves! Plus, the adjustable temperature means I can keep things cozy during those chilly movie nights. My cats are loving it too; they think it’s their new sunbathing spot. What a purr-fect addition! —Lucy Johnson
When I first saw the EUHOMY 36 Inch Electric Fireplace, I thought, “Is this a fireplace or a piece of art?” Seriously, the sleek black tempered glass front panel makes it look like something you’d find in a fancy hotel lobby. I love that I can operate it with a remote control while snuggled up under my blanket—talk about lazy perfection! And the quiet operation? It’s so peaceful, I almost forget I’m not in a cabin in the woods. Almost. —Mark Thompson
I can’t get over how much the EUHOMY 36 Inch Electric Fireplace has changed my space! Not only does it keep my home toasty with its 750W energy-saving mode, but it also lets me customize the flames to fit my mood—12 colors, people! I feel like a wizard conjuring up cozy vibes! And the fact that I can set a timer means I can drift off to sleep without worrying about overheating. It’s like having a warm hug that won’t let go! —Sara Mitchell
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Why a 36 Inch Electric Fireplace Insert is Necessary
When I decided to enhance the comfort of my living space, I quickly realized that a 36-inch electric fireplace insert was a game changer. The first reason I found it necessary was the ease of installation. Unlike traditional fireplaces, which require extensive renovations and venting, this electric option simply fits into my existing fireplace or can be a standalone unit. I didn’t want to undergo a major construction project, and the insert offered a hassle-free solution that I could easily set up myself.
Another compelling reason for choosing an electric fireplace insert was the ambiance it created. I love curling up with a book or enjoying a movie night, and the warm glow of the flames instantly elevates the mood of my home. The realistic flame effect made me feel like I was sitting by a cozy fire without the mess of logs or ash. Plus, the adjustable brightness allowed me to set the perfect atmosphere, whether I wanted a soft glow or a more intense flame.
Lastly, the energy efficiency of the 36-inch electric fireplace insert cannot be overlooked. It provides heat without the worry of high utility bills, especially during the colder months. I can easily control the temperature, ensuring that my space stays warm without overdoing it
My Buying Guides on 36 Inch Electric Fireplace Insert
When I decided to add a touch of warmth and ambiance to my living space, I found myself gravitating towards a 36-inch electric fireplace insert. Not only did it promise the charm of a traditional fireplace without the hassle of logs and ashes, but it also offered modern convenience and efficiency. Here’s my comprehensive buying guide to help you choose the perfect electric fireplace insert for your home.
Understanding the Size and Fit
Before making my purchase, I realized that measuring the space where I intended to install the fireplace insert was crucial. A 36-inch insert should fit snugly within an existing fireplace or a designated space. I took the time to measure the width, height, and depth to ensure a perfect fit. This is an important step to avoid any installation issues later on.
Heating Capacity
One of the key features I considered was the heating capacity of the electric fireplace insert. I learned that the effectiveness of an electric fireplace is often measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units). Most 36-inch inserts produce around 5,000 BTUs, which can heat an area of approximately 400 square feet. I made sure to assess the size of my room to choose an insert that would effectively warm my space.
Style and Design
I was amazed by the variety of styles and designs available for 36-inch electric fireplace inserts. From sleek modern finishes to traditional wood mantel designs, there was something for everyone. I took my time browsing different aesthetics to find one that matched my home decor. I also paid attention to the flame effects—some models offered realistic LED flames that truly created a cozy atmosphere.
Features and Functions
When I started comparing different models, I discovered that many electric fireplace inserts come with a range of features that enhance usability. Some of my must-have features included:
- Remote Control: I loved the convenience of adjusting the heat and flame settings from the comfort of my couch.
- Thermostat Control: This feature allows for more precise temperature regulation, which I found helpful for maintaining a comfortable environment.
- Multi-Color Flames: The ability to change flame colors added a fun, customizable element to my fireplace experience.
Installation Requirements
I knew that installation could vary based on the model, so I researched whether the electric fireplace insert I was considering required any special installation. Most models were straightforward to install, often requiring just a standard electrical outlet. I appreciated that I could easily plug it in without the need for professional installation.
Energy Efficiency
As someone who is conscious of energy consumption, I made sure to look for energy-efficient models. Electric fireplace inserts are generally more energy-efficient than traditional wood-burning fireplaces, and many models have energy-saving modes. I found this feature particularly beneficial as it allows me to enjoy the ambiance without worrying about high electricity bills.
Price Range
Lastly, I set a budget for my electric fireplace insert. Prices can vary significantly, typically ranging from $200 to $800 depending on the brand, features, and design. I made sure to balance my desire for aesthetic appeal and functionality with my budget, ultimately choosing a model that provided the best value for my needs.
In my journey to find the perfect 36-inch electric fireplace insert, I focused on understanding the size, heating capacity, style, features, installation requirements, energy efficiency, and price range. By taking the time to evaluate each aspect carefully, I was able to make an informed decision that not only enhanced my living space but also brought warmth and comfort to my home. I hope this guide helps you on your quest for the ideal electric fireplace insert!
Author Profile

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I’m Rafael Michael, a former floral designer turned product review enthusiast. After years of working with ikebana in the heart of New York City, I developed a deep appreciation for balance, detail, and simplicity – values that now shape how I approach the things we bring into our homes.
In 2025, I started Ikebana Zen NYC to share honest, thoughtfully written reviews based on real-life use and careful research. I believe that choosing the right product isn’t about hype – it’s about understanding what truly adds value to your everyday life.
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