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Are electric fireplace inserts a good idea?

Are electric fireplace inserts a good idea?

Can you put an electric fireplace insert in a wood-burning fireplace?

Revised April 15, 2024

Absolutely! An electric fireplace insert offers an excellent way to transform your old wood-burning fireplace into a convenient and cozy feature. This article provides key insights on how and why to convert your wood fireplace to electric.

First, rest your mind at ease. Gone are the days of the ‘tinsel and red lightbulb’ trying to pass for a flame. Because today, many quality electric inserts have realistic flames that could fool an old wood burner.

Now, here's why converting your old wood-burning fireplace to an electrical insert may make sense for you:

How to convert a wood-burning fireplace into an electric insert

You may want to refer to this comprehensive guide on electric fireplace installation, but here is a quick recap:

  • Preparing your wood-burning fireplace: Clean the existing fireplace box thoroughly.
  • Electrical outlet installation: Hire an electrician to install a dedicated 120-volt outlet inside your fireplace.
  • Choose your electric insert: Find an insert that matches your fireplace size and desired style.
  • Insert and secure: Place the insert inside your wood-burning fireplace and plug it in.
  • Finishing (optional): Consider a surround panel to cover gaps around the insert for a seamless look.

How to Choose the Best Electric Insert for Your Home

What is the best electric fireplace insert, you ask? At first, you may be baffled by the vast choices in units, sizes, styles, and options. In addition, you can easily buy them online at a big box store or a specialty fireplace dealer. By all means, do your research, but the “you get what you pay for” rule applies.

For that reason, visiting a specialty store with units on display is always best. Your local friendly fireplace store, WE LOVE FIRE®, can answer all your questions. You can also get comfortable with your future electric fireplace that best suits your lifestyle. 

Below is a list of fireplace and grill stores that service Ohio (OH)

Erlanger, KY

TateBuilder's Supply, LLC
3511 Dixie Highway
Erlanger, KY 41018

TateBuilder's Supply, LLC LogoVisit Store Page

Canfield, OH

Youngstown Propane, Inc.
4445 Boardman-Canfield Rd.
Canfield, OH 44406

Youngstown Propane, Inc. LogoVisit Store Page

Columbus, OH

Blackburns Chimney Sweeps
4644 Kenny Road
Columbus, OH 43220

Columbus, OH

Aspen Fireplace & Patio
5156 Sinclair Rd.
Columbus, OH 43229

Aspen Fireplace & Patio LogoVisit Store Page

North Canton, OH

Custom Fireplace Shop
5537 Whipple Ave NW
North Canton, OH 44720

Custom Fireplace Shop LogoVisit Store Page

North Ridgeville, OH

Heat Exchange Hearth & Patio Shoppe
34205 Lorain Road
North Ridgeville, OH 44039

Heat Exchange Hearth & Patio Shoppe LogoVisit Store Page

North Royalton, OH

Country Stove Co.
6669 Royalton Road
North Royalton, OH 44133

Country Stove Co. LogoVisit Store Page

Painesville, OH


1270 Mentor Ave
Painesville, OH 44077

St. Henry, OH

Buschur's Refrigeration, Inc.
541 N Eastern Avenue
St. Henry, OH 45883

Buschur's Refrigeration, Inc. LogoVisit Store Page
For more information, contact your local fireplace and grill store..
Electric, Frequently Asked Questions
1 comment

Written by

Joseph G. Bodden is a Wisconsin native and is semi-retired after 40+ years in marketing, sales and technical customer service work. Over 23 of those years have been in the fireplace industry, as the Hearth Division Manager in an organization that operates two retail shops. During that time, Bodden was certified by the National Fireplace Institute in wood & gas technologies. He was also selected several times by Hearth & Home magazine as a judge for the annual VESTA awards that recognize manufacturers creativity and innovation in product design and technology. One thing that Joe particularly finds fulfilling is explaining fairly complex subjects to fireplace customers and steering them to specific products that will satisfy their objectives. There’s nothing like unsolicited positive feedback from a happy customer! Bodden continues to live in north central Wisconsin with his bride of 47 years. He enjoys the outdoors, playing guitar and spending time with their grandson and five granddaughters.

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1 Response

  1. Maria
    We just bought a 50 year old home in north central FL. It has a wood buring fireplace. During the home inspection it was noted the chimney was dirty and I should have it inspected and cleaned by a chimney sweep. They came and it was dirty, so they completed a level 2 cleaning (not sure what that means). The are saying my lining needs to be replaced, if I want to continue to burn wood. It has a 40" opening and brick lining. I am thinking of putting in an electric insert and calling it a day. Of course, my husband wants to burn wood. I want to change the mantle and all of the exterior visual components because they are outdated. We really wanted it to be open to the other side also, since it is the dining room and it would be a beautiful focal point. The chimney sweep guy was telling me it could cost $10,000 to $60,000 to make this work, depending on wood, gas or electric. What are your thoughts? I can send you photos, if you like. Thanks for any input. Maria Brandvold 305-699-7451
    Reply
    November 11, 2022

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