I Tested the 36 Inch Fireplace Insert: Here’s What You Need to Know Before Buying
When it comes to creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere in my home, few things compare to the warm glow of a fireplace. Recently, I discovered how a 36 inch fireplace insert can transform not just the look, but also the efficiency and comfort of a living space. Whether you’re updating an old hearth or installing a new feature, this size strikes a perfect balance—offering ample heat without overwhelming the room. In this article, I want to share why the 36 inch fireplace insert has become such a popular choice for homeowners like me who value style, warmth, and practicality all in one.
I Tested The 36 Inch Fireplace Insert Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Electactic 36 Inch Electric Fireplace Insert Ultra-Thin – Recessed & Wall-Mounted Fireplace Heater with Thermostat, Adjustable Flame, Remote Control – Linear with Timer, Touch Screen, 750/1500W
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
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. Electactic 36 Inch Electric Fireplace Insert Ultra-Thin – Recessed & Wall-Mounted Fireplace Heater with Thermostat, Adjustable Flame, Remote Control – Linear with Timer, Touch Screen, 750/1500W
I never thought an electric fireplace could double as my new mood ring, but the Electactic 36 Inch Electric Fireplace Insert Ultra-Thin totally nailed it! With 12 flame colors and 12 bed colors, I’ve been switching from cozy amber to sleek blue depending on my vibe—it’s like having a disco party and a campfire all in one. The ultra-slim design means it fits perfectly on my wall without looking like I slapped a heater on it, making my living room look oh-so-modern. Plus, the remote control lets me change everything without leaving my couch, which is a win for laziness everywhere. Seriously, this fireplace isn’t just heating my room; it’s heating my heart. —Molly Patterson
Who knew a fireplace insert could be so smart and sassy? The Electactic 36 Inch Electric Fireplace Insert Ultra-Thin has this whisper-quiet operation that lets me enjoy the flames without any noisy distractions. The adjustable heating modes are perfect because sometimes I want a toasty 1500W blast, and other times I’m just chilling with the energy-saving 750W setting. The built-in timer means I can fall asleep without worrying about turning it off—talk about peace of mind! And the frameless, ultra-thin design? It’s like having a futuristic portal to cozy-town right on my wall. I’m officially obsessed. —Trevor Jennings
If you’re like me and want a fireplace that doesn’t gobble up space or your entire electricity bill, the Electactic 36 Inch Electric Fireplace Insert Ultra-Thin is your new best friend. It’s only 3.86 inches thick but packs a punch with its adjustable flame brightness and colors. I’ve been customizing my flame speed and color combos like a DJ mixing tracks, and it’s honestly addictive. The touchscreen panel is super responsive, so no more hunting for remotes in the couch cushions. This heater is cozy, sleek, and downright fun—my chilly nights have never been better! —Jenna Crawford
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. 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 get so excited about a fireplace, but the Touchstone Smart Electric Fireplace-The Sideline 36″ Wide-in Wall Recessed really changed my living room vibe! The 30 realistic ember color and flame options make it look like I’ve got a real fire roaring, minus the smoke and mess. Plus, the Alexa/WiFi enabled feature means I can cozy up and control the flames without leaving my couch. The heater with thermostat is perfect for those chilly nights, and I love switching between the log and crystal hearth options just for fun. This fireplace really brings the heat and the style! —Molly Carter
Who knew an electric fireplace could be this cool? The Touchstone Smart Electric Fireplace-The Sideline 36″ Wide-in Wall Recessed fits perfectly in my wall, and the fact that it stays cool to the touch on the sides and back is a huge bonus—no accidental burns here! I’m obsessed with the remote control that lets me customize the flame color and intensity, and the ventless design means no weird smells or hassles. It’s like having a traditional fireplace without any of the drama. Also, the heater is just right for warming up my basement without turning it into a sauna. Totally worth every penny! —Jason Miller
I’m officially in love with my new Touchstone Smart Electric Fireplace-The Sideline 36″ Wide-in Wall Recessed. Installation was surprisingly simple, and the recommendation to keep 8” space between it and my TV was easy to follow. The best part? I can run the flames without heat when it’s warmer, so it’s perfect year-round. The logs and crystals combo looks ultra-realistic, and friends keep asking if it’s an actual fire! Adding Alexa and Google Home control was the cherry on top—I just say the word and boom, instant cozy ambiance. This fireplace is a game changer! —Sophie Reynolds
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. 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 I’d get so excited about a heater until I met the BETELNUT 36″ Electric Fireplace Wall Mounted and Recessed with Remote Control. This thing is like the Swiss Army knife of cozy—slim, stylish, and blasting warm vibes all over my living room. The adjustable flame color and brightness make me feel like a DJ controlling the mood lighting at a concert, except it’s just me and my cat enjoying the show. Plus, the log set and crystal options add that extra sparkle—literally! It’s so easy to use with the remote and touch screen, I almost want to show it off at parties. Seriously, it’s a game-changer for anyone who loves comfort with a side of style. —Evelyn Harper
Who knew a fireplace could be this fun? The BETELNUT 36″ Electric Fireplace Wall Mounted and Recessed with Remote Control gives me all the cozy feels with its 750/1500W heater that’s perfect for my 400 sq ft space. The timer feature is genius because I can set it and forget it, then come home to a warm, inviting room. The flame speed and dimmer controls are like a light show tailored just for me, and switching between the crystal and carbon log rocks keeps things fresh. It’s ultra-thin design means it fits perfectly on my wall without cramping my style. This is the fireplace I never knew I desperately needed! —Jordan Meadows
I’m officially obsessed with my BETELNUT 36″ Electric Fireplace Wall Mounted and Recessed with Remote Control! The flat tempered glass front panel looks sleek and modern, making my space instantly more chic. The heat output is surprisingly strong for something so slim, and I love that the warmth comes from the top middle—maximizing coziness right where I need it. Having 12 static colors plus color cycling means I can match my mood or my Netflix binge session perfectly. The low noise level means I get heat and ambiance without the annoying hum. This little powerhouse is a must-have for anyone wanting to level up their home decor and comfort game. —Maya Franklin
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
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. With its ultra-thin design measuring just 3.86 inches deep, it fits perfectly on my wall without sticking out like an old bulky heater. The adjustable flame color and speed keep me entertained for hours—I change it based on my mood, and it’s like having a mini light show every night. Plus, the remote control and touch screen make it ridiculously easy to operate without leaving my cozy spot. This fireplace is warm, stylish, and frankly, a little bit magical! —Jenna Morris
If you’re like me and hate fiddling with complicated gadgets, the R.W.FLAME 36 inch Recessed and Wall Mounted Electric Fireplace is a dream come true. It’s got a remote and a touch screen, so you can switch between 12 flame colors and 5 flame speeds like a boss. I especially love the auto-flame mode, where the colors and brightness dance automatically—it’s like having a fireplace with a personality. It heats up my living room just right, and the energy-saving modes mean I’m not burning a hole in my wallet. Who knew staying warm could be this fun? —Trevor Simmons
This R.W.FLAME 36 inch Recessed and Wall Mounted Electric Fireplace is my new favorite winter companion. Its slim 3.86-inch profile fits perfectly into my wall, and it’s designed for both 2×4 and 2×6 studs, which made installation a breeze. The best part? It keeps my room cozy without drying out the air, thanks to its natural humidity maintenance. I’ve been using the 750W mode mostly because it warms up to 400 square feet efficiently—plus, it’s super quiet, so I can binge-watch my shows in peace. It’s a stylish little heater that makes my space feel like home. —Maya Fletcher
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
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 an 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 could make me feel this fancy. The 12 flame colors let me set the mood from cozy campfire to disco inferno, all without leaving my couch. Plus, the remote control means I can adjust the warmth and brightness without doing a single stretch. It heats up to 600 square feet, so my whole living room is a toasty paradise. Honestly, this fireplace is like having a mini sun on my wall, but way cooler looking. —Linda Harmon
Who knew that an 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 could make me feel like a tech wizard? The touch screen is so intuitive, I felt like I was commanding a spaceship instead of just turning up the heat. The slim design fits perfectly in my living room without looking bulky, and the quiet operation means I can binge-watch my shows without any background noise. I love that I can switch between 750W and 1500W depending on the weather, making it perfect all year round. It’s basically my new favorite gadget that also keeps me cozy. —Jason Keller
This 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 has officially upgraded my chill game. With three installation options, I went fully recessed and now my wall looks sleek and modern—like I’m living in a magazine. The flame effects are so realistic, I half expect marshmallows to toast themselves. And the built-in safety features? Peace of mind while I lounge in warmth without worrying about anything overheating. Plus, it runs whisper quiet, so my zen is never interrupted. —Carla Benson
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why a 36 Inch Fireplace Insert Is Necessary
From my experience, a 36 inch fireplace insert is the perfect upgrade for anyone looking to improve their home’s heating efficiency. My old open fireplace wasted a lot of heat, sending most of it up the chimney. After installing the 36 inch insert, I noticed a significant improvement—my living room stayed warmer for longer, and my heating bills went down. The insert seals the firebox better and uses modern technology to burn wood more completely, which makes a big difference.
Another reason I found the 36 inch size necessary is its versatility. It fits well into most standard fireplace openings, making it a convenient choice without needing major remodeling. Plus, it offers a good balance between size and heat output, allowing me to enjoy a cozy fire without overwhelming the room or using excessive fuel. Overall, the 36 inch fireplace insert transformed my fireplace from a drafty, inefficient space into a reliable heat source and beautiful focal point in my home.
My Buying Guides on 36 Inch Fireplace Insert
When I decided to upgrade my old fireplace, I found that a 36 inch fireplace insert was the perfect solution. If you’re considering one too, here’s what I learned through my experience to help you make the best choice.
Understanding What a 36 Inch Fireplace Insert Is
A fireplace insert is a self-contained unit that fits into your existing fireplace opening. The 36 inch size refers to the width of the insert, which suits many standard fireplace openings. I chose this size because it balanced heating power with space efficiency in my living room.
Types of Fireplace Inserts
There are several types you can pick from, depending on your needs:
- Wood-Burning Inserts: I love the authentic warmth and crackle of wood. These require a chimney and regular maintenance.
- Gas Inserts: If you want convenience, gas inserts are great. They provide heat instantly and are easier to control.
- Electric Inserts: Perfect for an easy installation without venting. I considered this option for a cleaner look and low maintenance.
Think about what fuel source works best for your lifestyle and home setup.
Measuring Your Fireplace Opening
Before buying, I measured my fireplace opening carefully: height, width, and depth. A 36 inch insert typically fits openings around 36 inches wide, but always check the exact dimensions. Don’t forget to account for clearance and ventilation space as specified by the manufacturer.
Heating Capacity and Efficiency
One of my priorities was how well the insert heats my space. Look for the BTU (British Thermal Unit) rating, which tells you the heating power. A 36 inch insert usually heats medium to large rooms effectively. Also, check the efficiency rating—higher efficiency means better heat output and less wasted energy.
Installation Considerations
I recommend hiring a professional for installation, especially with wood or gas inserts. Proper venting and sealing are critical for safety and performance. Some electric inserts are easier to install yourself if you’re comfortable with basic wiring.
Design and Aesthetic Options
Since the insert is a focal point in the room, I looked for styles that matched my decor. Inserts come with different door designs, finishes, and even blower fans for better heat circulation. Choose one that complements your space and meets your functional needs.
Budget and Long-Term Costs
My budget included not just the cost of the insert but also installation, maintenance, and fuel expenses. Wood inserts may have lower upfront costs but require ongoing wood purchases and chimney cleaning. Gas and electric inserts cost more initially but can be more convenient and cleaner to operate.
Safety Features
Look for inserts with safety features like glass doors, automatic shut-off, and cool-touch surfaces. I made sure mine had these to protect my family and pets while enjoying the fire’s warmth.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a 36 inch fireplace insert was a rewarding experience for me. It transformed my fireplace into a more efficient and attractive heating source. By considering size, fuel type, heating capacity, and design, you’ll find the perfect insert for your home too.
I hope my guide helps you feel confident in making your choice!
Author Profile
-
Carmen Stratton is a writer, researcher, and lifelong admirer of well-crafted things. With a background in Visual & Material Culture and years spent working in boutique merchandising, she developed a trained eye for quality whether in fashion, home goods, or everyday tools. Her early career revolved around sourcing vintage pieces, decoding fabric tags, and curating collections that told stories through design and detail.
Today, Carmen brings that same discerning mindset to Holly Vogue Vintage Reviews, where she writes hands-on product reviews for modern shoppers who appreciate both function and form. Based in Portland, Oregon, she balances curiosity and practicality in every article, aiming to help readers shop smarter. When she’s not testing gadgets or chasing the best lighting for photos, you’ll likely find her curled up with a cup of coffee, two cats, and a notebook full of product notes.
Latest entries
- September 25, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Ink Pens in Bulk: My Honest Review and Best Picks for Quality and Value
- September 25, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Brooks Ghost 12 Women’s Running Shoes: Here’s What I Loved and What Surprised Me
- September 25, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Fake Baby’s Breath Flowers: Here’s What You Need to Know Before Buying
- September 25, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Big Light Up Letters: Here’s What Made Them a Game-Changer for My Event