Wall-mounted Vs Electric Fireplace Inserts; What’s the Difference? 

When buying an electric fireplace for your home, one of the most important factors you should consider is its installation. If you already have an existing fireplace that you want to convert to electric, you probably know the best type of installation for you. However, if you’ve not made your decision yet; you might be torn between a wall-mounted and a fireplace insert. 

So, how do you make your final decision? More importantly, what’s the difference between a wall-mounted and an electric fireplace insert? 

Well, let us take a closer look at these options to help you choose the best type of electric fireplace for your home! 

What is an electric fireplace insert? 

As the name implies, an electric fireplace insert is designed to be installed into an existing fireplace, a wall, or pre-existing cabinetry. There are 3 main types of electric fireplace inserts; log sets, plug-in, and built-in. 

Unlike electric fireplaces that simply slide into place, built-in models require you to create a wall in the wall to match the exact dimensions of the unit. More notably, they’re usually hard-wired into your home’s electrical circuit. Also, built-in units are a very popular choice for converting gas and wood-burning fireplaces to electric. 

On the other hand, installing plug-in electric fireplace inserts is relatively easy due to their plug-and-play design. However, just like built-in units, you have to insert them into a prepared wall. Alternatively, you can slide them into a specially built-opening or into an existing gas- or wood-burning fireplace. 

Lastly, log set electric fireplace inserts have the same convenient plug-&-play design, but do not need a perfect fit like built-in models. Instead, they’re designed to slide into existing wood-burning fireplace openings, making them the easiest type of fireplace insert to install. However, you should remember to close the flue and cap off any gas lines that may be connected to your old fireplace. 

What is a wall-mounted electric fireplace?

Unlike fireplace inserts, wall-mounted electric fireplaces are installed right on the wall, just like hanging a picture. Therefore, you don’t have to prepare a hole in the wall or even worry about retrofitting. 

While there are various types of wall-mounted fireplaces, most units are linear electric fireplaces. Thanks to their ability to be installed anywhere on the wall, even in places you would never have a traditional fireplace. 

Major Differences; Wall-Mounted Vs Electric Fireplace Inserts

Although wall-mounted and fireplace inserts are similar in several ways, they’re distinct and designed for different applications. Some of their notable differences include; 

• Aesthetics

Both wall-mounted and electric fireplace inserts come in various design options to suit different preferences and styles. However, fireplace inserts are usually designed to imitate the look of traditional fireplaces, with options for realistic flames or decorative logs. In contrast, wall-mounted electric fireplaces are available in different contemporary designs. Moreover, they may include options for multiple flame colors, media bed materials (like logs or crystals), and backlighting to deliver a customized aesthetic. 

• Flexibility 

Fireplace inserts are typically fixed within an existing fireplace opening. As a result, they are less versatile in terms of placement, especially when they’re installed in an existing fireplace opening. 

In comparison, wall-mounted electric fireplaces offer more flexibility since you can mount them on any suitable wall. On top of that, they’re ideal for use in various rooms including living rooms, bedrooms, and sometimes bathrooms. 

• Heating 

Both wall-mounted and electric fireplace inserts heat well and uniformly. However, the exact heat output of each unit depends on its BTU capabilities and wattage rating. All in all, most electric fireplaces are designed to heat an area of about 400 – 800 sq ft with ease. 

• Installation

As already mentioned, electric fireplace inserts are usually installed in an existing fireplace opening, either in a prefabricated or masonry fireplace. For that, they’re relatively easy to install since you only need to slide them right into an existing fireplace opening. 

However, wall-mounted electric fireplaces are independent units that should be mounted directly onto a wall. So, while you can install them without major modifications, you’ll need a mounting bracket, screws, and other accessories to mount them onto a wall. On the bright side, these units don’t need an existing fireplace, meaning you can install them anywhere in your home. 

Can Wall-mount electric fireplaces be built in?

Wall-mounted electric fireplaces cannot be recessed or built into a wall as they’re designed to be hung on the wall. Although you can do a minor renovation to recess your wall-mounted fireplace slightly, it’s not recommended as it can void the warranty or cause damage to the unit. Also, installing a wall-mounted fireplace built-in can create a fire hazard. 

Secondly, the clearance requirements for built-in fireplace inserts and wall-mounted fireplaces are different.

Lastly, most wall-mounted fireplace comes with a built-in surround. Therefore if you were to recess the unit into a wall, the surround will protrude from the wall, which is not aesthetically pleasing. 

Conclusion: Which is better; Wall-mounted vs electric fireplace inserts?

Wall-mounted electric fireplaces are becoming an increasingly popular option among homeowners who prefer a more contemporary interior. However, if you have an existing gas or wood-burning fireplace opening in your home that you want to convert to electric, fireplace inserts are the better option. All in all, choosing between a wall-mounted electric fireplace and fireplace inserts is usually a matter of personal preference.