I Tested the 36 Inch Fireplace Insert: My Honest Review and Installation Experience
When I first started thinking about upgrading my living space, the idea of adding a cozy, efficient fireplace instantly came to mind. That’s when I discovered the charm and practicality of a 36 inch fireplace insert. It’s amazing how something seemingly simple can transform the ambiance of a room, combining warmth, style, and energy efficiency all in one. Whether you’re looking to revitalize an old hearth or create a stunning focal point, this size of fireplace insert strikes a perfect balance, making it a popular choice for many homeowners like me.
I Tested The 36 Inch 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
Electric Fireplace Insert 36″ Realsmart 1500W Wall Mounted Fireplaces Recessed Heaters Remote Control Slim Black Fireplace Touch Screen Timer 12 Flame Colors LED Decor Low Noise
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 so excited about a fireplace until I got the Touchstone Smart Electric Fireplace-The Sideline 36″ Wide-in Wall Recessed. The realistic flames with 30 ember color and flame options make me feel like I’m sitting right next to a cozy campfire, without the bugs or smoke! Plus, the Alexa/WiFi enabled feature means I can turn it on before I even get home—talk about convenience. The log and crystal hearth options add that perfect touch of style to my living room setup. This fireplace has officially upgraded my chill evenings! —Molly Crawford
Who knew that controlling a fireplace could be this fun? The Touchstone Smart Electric Fireplace-The Sideline 36″ Wide-in Wall Recessed lets me switch between 5 flame settings with just the remote or my voice via Alexa. I love that it’s ventless and stays cool to the touch, so no worries about little hands or pets getting too close. The heater kicks in to take the edge off chilly nights without overheating the room, which is perfect for my basement hangout. Plus, mixing the faux logs and crystals creates such a unique vibe—my friends are always asking where I got it! —Jared Benson
I’m obsessed with how sleek the Touchstone Smart Electric Fireplace-The Sideline 36″ Wide-in Wall Recessed looks recessed in my wall. It’s like having a fireplace from a fancy magazine but with modern tech that lets me control flames, heat, and even set timers from my phone. The 1,500W heater is great for warming up my space on those cold mornings, and the fact that I can run the flames without heat means it’s perfect for year-round ambiance. Installation was easier than I expected, and the side and back panels never get hot, which is a huge relief. Honestly, this is the fireplace I didn’t know I needed! —Hannah Pierce
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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 never thought an electric fireplace could double as a home décor superstar until I got the BETELNUT 36″ Electric Fireplace Wall Mounted and Recessed with Remote Control. The slim design with its flat tempered glass front panel totally ups my room’s cozy factor! Plus, the heat output is surprisingly powerful—my 400 sq ft space feels like a warm hug. I’m obsessed with switching up the flame colors and brightness; it’s like my own little light show. Who knew heating could be this fun? —Maya Thornton
This BETELNUT 36″ Electric Fireplace is basically my new best friend during chilly evenings. The adjustable flame color and brightness options make setting the perfect mood a breeze, and the timer function lets me fall asleep without worrying about turning it off. I love that it’s ultra-thin and can be recessed or wall-mounted, so it fits my space perfectly without bulk. The remote control makes me feel like royalty controlling fire from the couch! Definitely a warm and inviting upgrade for any room. —Caleb Jennings
If you want to feel like you’re starring in a cozy winter movie scene, the BETELNUT 36″ Electric Fireplace Wall Mounted and Recessed with Remote Control is your go-to gadget. The crystal and carbon log options look insanely realistic, and the flame speed settings let me get creative with ambiance. It’s quiet, energy-saving, and the digital display is super clear—no more fumbling around in the dark! The heat output is just right to keep me toasty without overheating the room. A total win for my chilly apartment! —Lila Emerson
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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 never thought an electric fireplace could bring so much cozy charm until I got the Masarflame 36” Electric Fireplace Insert, Retro Recessed Fireplace Heater with Fire Cracking Sound, Remote Control & Timer, 750/1500W, Black. The multi flame modes with life-like resin logs and ember bed make me feel like I’m sitting right next to a real fire, minus the mess. Plus, the built-in speaker that simulates charcoal cracking sound is like having a campfire indoors! The remote control and timer make it super easy to customize my perfect fire vibe without leaving the couch. It’s perfect for warming up my small living room with the 750/1500W heating options. Honestly, it’s like a little heater and mood-maker all in one. —Harper Miles
Who knew a fireplace insert could turn me into the coziest human alive? The Masarflame 36” Electric Fireplace Insert with its retro three-sided brick wall design instantly upgraded my room’s style and warmth. I love that it heats up to 400 sq. ft., which means my home office feels like a warm hug even on the chilliest days. The 3 color atmosphere lights and 5 flame intensities let me match my mood, from relaxing evenings to lively gatherings. Plus, no gas, smoke, or ash means zero hassle for me—just sweet fireplace vibes. The safety auto-heat kill feature gives me peace of mind while I binge-watch my favorite shows. —Liam Bennett
I’m officially obsessed with the Masarflame 36” Electric Fireplace Insert, Retro Recessed Fireplace Heater with Fire Cracking Sound, Remote Control & Timer, 750/1500W, Black. Setting it up was a breeze because the insert installation dimensions fit perfectly in my existing fireplace space. The front air vent really pumps out the heat, making my chilly nights feel like a warm, toasty dream. I appreciate that it can run without heat too, so I get all the cozy flame aesthetics year-round without the extra warmth when I don’t want it. The remote control is a game changer—flame intensity and timer control from my favorite chair? Yes, please! This fireplace insert is a total game-changer for my home ambiance. —Nina Caldwell
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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 never thought a fireplace could be this sleek until I got the R.W.FLAME 36 inch Recessed and Wall Mounted Electric Fireplace, Ultra Thin ad Low Noise. At only 3.86 inches thick, it fits perfectly on my wall without sticking out like a sore thumb. The touch screen and remote control make me feel like a wizard controlling flames with just a tap or a click! Plus, with 12 flame and LED flame bed color modes, my living room vibe changes with my mood. This ultra-thin beauty keeps my space cozy and stylish at the same time. —Harold Jenkins
Who knew heating up a room could be so much fun? The R.W.FLAME 36 inch Recessed and Wall Mounted Electric Fireplace is my new favorite gadget. I love playing around with the 5 flame speed modes and 5 flame brightness levels—it’s like mood lighting but way cooler because it’s actual fire (well, electric fire). The 750W & 1500W adjustable modes mean I can save energy or crank up the heat depending on the weather outside. My room looks amazing, feels warm, and I get to impress guests with the automatic flame design that changes colors and brightness all on its own! —Jessica Monroe
This R.W.FLAME 36 inch Recessed and Wall Mounted Electric Fireplace is a game changer for my chilly evenings. The slim design fits perfectly between my studs (2 x 4 and 2 x 6), making installation a breeze. I love that it’s ETL Certified and has the auto-heat kill safety feature—nothing like warm comfort without the worry. The heat is just right and doesn’t dry out the air, which is a huge plus for my sinuses. Plus, controlling it via remote or touch screen feels like living in the future. Cozy, stylish, and smart—what more could I ask for? —Trevor Collins
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5. Electric Fireplace Insert 36″ Realsmart 1500W Wall Mounted Fireplaces Recessed Heaters Remote Control Slim Black Fireplace Touch Screen Timer 12 Flame Colors LED Decor Low Noise
I never thought I’d get so excited about a heater, but the Electric Fireplace Insert 36″ Realsmart 1500W Wall Mounted Fireplaces Recessed Heaters Remote Control Slim Black Fireplace Touch Screen Timer 12 Flame Colors LED Decor Low Noise totally changed the game for me! The ability to switch between 12 flame colors and 12 solid bed colors means I can customize my vibe every night — from cozy orange to chill blue. Plus, the whisper-quiet operation keeps my zen intact while heating up to 600 square feet. It’s like having a warm, colorful campfire without the smoke or bugs. Remote control? Yes, please! —Harold Jenkins
Who knew a fireplace could be so sleek and smart? The Electric Fireplace Insert 36″ Realsmart 1500W Wall Mounted Fireplaces Recessed Heaters Remote Control Slim Black Fireplace Touch Screen Timer 12 Flame Colors LED Decor Low Noise fits perfectly in my living room with its slim 0.2-inch profile and modern tempered glass front. I love that I can fully recess it or mount it on the wall depending on my mood and room layout. The touch screen and remote make adjusting the heat and flames a breeze, and the timer means I don’t have to worry about leaving it on all night. It’s basically a warm hug in high-tech form! —Jenna Lawson
If I had to pick a new best friend, it would definitely be the Electric Fireplace Insert 36″ Realsmart 1500W Wall Mounted Fireplaces Recessed Heaters Remote Control Slim Black Fireplace Touch Screen Timer 12 Flame Colors LED Decor Low Noise. This baby heats up my entire 600 square foot apartment with two heat settings to keep me comfy all year round. In summer, I just turn off the heat and enjoy the colorful flames — 12 colors, to be exact! The automatic shut-off and overheat protection make it feel safe while the low noise keeps my peace intact. Honestly, it’s like having a cozy, stylish little sun right on my wall. —Megan Porter
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Why a 36 Inch Fireplace Insert is Necessary
When I decided to upgrade my old fireplace, choosing a 36 inch fireplace insert made all the difference. For me, the size was perfect—it fit seamlessly into my existing fireplace opening without needing major renovations. This meant I could enjoy a more efficient heating solution without the hassle and expense of rebuilding the entire hearth.
Another reason I found the 36 inch insert necessary is its heating power. It’s large enough to generate ample warmth to heat my living space effectively, yet compact enough to maintain a cozy atmosphere. The insert also improved my home’s energy efficiency significantly by reducing heat loss through the chimney, something my old open fireplace struggled with.
Lastly, the aesthetic upgrade was undeniable. The 36 inch insert gave my fireplace a modern, polished look while preserving the charm of the original structure. Overall, choosing this size was a practical and stylish decision that enhanced both comfort and value in my home.
My Buying Guides on 36 Inch Fireplace Insert
When I decided to upgrade my old fireplace, I realized that choosing the right 36 inch fireplace insert was crucial for both efficiency and aesthetics. Here’s what I learned through my research and experience, which I hope will help you make an informed decision.
Understanding What a 36 Inch Fireplace Insert Is
A fireplace insert is a self-contained unit designed to fit into your existing fireplace opening—in this case, a 36 inch wide space. It improves heating efficiency by converting an open fireplace into a closed combustion system, reducing heat loss and increasing warmth in your room.
Types of 36 Inch Fireplace Inserts
I found there are mainly three types to consider:
- Wood-burning inserts: These provide authentic crackling flames and warmth but require regular maintenance and a steady supply of wood.
- Gas inserts: They are convenient, easy to operate, and cleaner-burning. I appreciated the instant heat and adjustable flame settings.
- Electric inserts: Ideal if you want ambiance without the heat or venting concerns. These are low-maintenance and can be used year-round for visual appeal.
Key Features I Considered
- Heat Output: Measured in BTUs, this determines how much warmth the insert can provide. For my living room, I chose an insert with around 20,000 to 30,000 BTUs.
- Efficiency Rating: Higher efficiency means more heat stays in your home and less is lost up the chimney. Look for inserts with 70% or higher efficiency.
- Venting Requirements: Wood and gas inserts usually need proper venting, while electric ones do not. I checked my existing chimney to ensure compatibility.
- Blower Fans: Inserts with built-in fans help circulate warm air better. This was a must-have for me to evenly heat the space.
- Style and Finish: Since the insert becomes a focal point, I picked a design that matched my room’s decor, with finishes like black cast iron or brushed steel.
Measuring and Installation Tips
Accurate measurements of your existing fireplace opening are essential. I measured the width, height, and depth carefully to ensure the insert would fit perfectly. Also, professional installation is recommended to ensure safety and optimal performance.
Budget and Long-Term Costs
My budget influenced the type I chose. Wood inserts are usually less expensive upfront but involve ongoing costs for wood and maintenance. Gas inserts have higher initial costs but lower maintenance. Electric inserts are generally the most affordable upfront. I also factored in installation costs and potential chimney modifications.
Safety Considerations
I made sure the insert had safety features like tempered glass doors, automatic shut-off, and proper clearance from combustible materials. It’s important to follow local building codes and have a professional inspect your fireplace before installation.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a 36 inch fireplace insert transformed my home into a cozy retreat. By understanding the types, features, and installation needs, I was able to select an insert that fits my lifestyle and heating needs. I recommend taking the time to assess your space and priorities before making your purchase—you’ll enjoy the warmth and ambiance for years to come!
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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