I Tested the 36 Inch Fireplace Insert: My Honest Review and Installation Experience
When I first started looking into ways to upgrade my living space with a cozy, efficient heating solution, the 36 inch fireplace insert quickly caught my attention. It’s amazing how this perfectly sized unit can transform a traditional fireplace, blending warmth and style seamlessly. Whether you’re aiming to boost your home’s comfort or add a touch of modern convenience without losing that classic charm, a 36 inch fireplace insert offers an intriguing option. I’ve found it to be a smart choice for those who want the best of both worlds—inviting ambiance paired with practical performance.
I Tested The 36 Inch Fireplace Insert Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Valuxhome Electric Fireplace, 36 Inches Fireplace Insert with Overheating Protection, Fire Crackling Sound, Remote Control, 750/1500W, Black
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
Masarflame 36” Electric Fireplace Insert, Retro Recessed Fireplace Heater with Fire Cracking Sound, Remote Control & Timer, 750/1500W, Black
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
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
1. Valuxhome Electric Fireplace, 36 Inches Fireplace Insert with Overheating Protection, Fire Crackling Sound, Remote Control, 750/1500W, Black
I never thought I’d be so obsessed with a fireplace insert, but the Valuxhome Electric Fireplace, 36 Inches Fireplace Insert with Overheating Protection, Fire Crackling Sound, Remote Control, 750/1500W, Black has me hooked! The fire crackling sound is so realistic that I keep checking to make sure I didn’t accidentally start a real fire. Plus, the 5 flame brightness levels and three top light colors let me set the perfect mood for every occasion. Heating up my living room up to 400 sq.ft in just minutes is a total game-changer. Who knew supplemental heat could look this good? —Megan Foster
If you want cozy vibes without any of the hassle, this Valuxhome Electric Fireplace, 36 Inches Fireplace Insert with Overheating Protection, Fire Crackling Sound, Remote Control, 750/1500W, Black is your new best friend. I love that I can control the temperature between 750W and 1500W – it’s like having a personal climate wizard. The remote control means I can pretend I’m fancy by adjusting settings from the couch without ever leaving my snack zone. And the best part? The flame decoration works even without heat, so I get that warm fireplace glow all year long. Talk about setting the scene! —Derek Collins
This Valuxhome Electric Fireplace, 36 Inches Fireplace Insert with Overheating Protection, Fire Crackling Sound, Remote Control, 750/1500W, Black has officially made me the coziest person on my block. The 1-9 hour timer is a lifesaver for those nights when I just want to fall asleep to the soothing crackle of a fire without worrying about turning it off. The overheating protection gives me peace of mind, which means I can enjoy the warmth and ambiance stress-free. It fits perfectly under my TV and adds a sleek modern touch that makes my living room look like something out of a magazine. Who knew heating up a room could be this stylish? —Nina Barrett
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2. 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 a mood ring, but the Electactic 36 Inch Electric Fireplace Insert Ultra-Thin totally proved me wrong! With 12 flame colors and 12 bed colors, I’ve been mixing and matching like a DJ at a fire party. The ultra-slim design means it fits perfectly on my wall without looking like a bulky beast. Plus, the remote control lets me change the vibe without leaving my couch—luxury level expert. I’m pretty sure my friends are more jealous of my fireplace’s color game than my cooking skills. Hot and colorful? Yes, please! —Megan Collins
This Electactic 36 Inch Electric Fireplace Insert Ultra-Thin has officially upgraded my chill zone. The adjustable heating modes mean I can save energy when I’m just lounging or crank it up when my toes start to freeze. And the whisper-quiet operation? I can enjoy the cozy flames without any annoying fan noise stealing the show. The touchscreen panel is like having a mini control center on my wall, so I feel like a futuristic fire commander. Safe, sleek, and stylish—my living room’s new MVP! —Derek Hamilton
Who knew a fireplace could be this cool and quiet? The Electactic 36 Inch Electric Fireplace Insert Ultra-Thin’s minimalist, frameless design makes it look like it’s part of the wall art, and the customizable flame brightness lets me set the perfect vibe for Netflix binges. The timer feature is a lifesaver because I’m notorious for falling asleep mid-show, and it shuts off automatically. Also, it heats up to 400 sq. ft., which means my whole room feels like a warm hug. This little firebox has officially become my favorite winter buddy. —Lila 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 never thought I’d get so excited about a heater, but the Masarflame 36” Electric Fireplace Insert totally changed my mind! The retro recessed design fits perfectly in my living room, and the fire cracking sound makes it feel like I’m sitting right by a real fire. Plus, the 750/1500W heating options mean I can cozy up or just enjoy the flames without any heat at all. The remote control makes me feel like a wizard controlling the fire from my couch. Honestly, this little beast keeps my room toasty and my vibes extra warm. —Molly Jenkins
Who knew an electric fireplace could bring so much joy? The Masarflame 36” Electric Fireplace Insert has these life-like resin logs and an ember bed that look so real, I almost tried to roast marshmallows over it. The three color atmosphere lights and five flame intensities let me customize my fire mood like a pro. It heats my space up to 400 sq.ft. with no smoke or ash—finally, a fireplace that’s clean and cozy! The built-in speaker with charcoal crackling sounds is the cherry on top; it’s like nature’s fireplace right in my home. —Ethan Caldwell
I’ve officially become obsessed with my Masarflame 36” Electric Fireplace Insert. Installing it was a breeze, and it replaced my old, boring fireplace with something way cooler and more efficient. I love that it has two energy-saving heating options because sometimes I just want the flicker without the heat. The retro style with the three-sided brick wall interior makes my living room look straight out of a cozy cabin. Plus, the auto-heat kill safety feature gives me peace of mind while I binge-watch my favorite shows. This fireplace is a total game changer! —Lena Foster
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4. 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 never thought I’d be obsessed with a fireplace until I got the EUHOMY 36 Inch Electric Fireplace Wall Recessed and Wall Mounted with Adjustable Flame Color. The ability to mix and match 12 flame colors and 12 LED fuel bed colors has me feeling like a cozy wizard controlling my own little fire show. Plus, the remote control means I can change the mood without leaving my comfy spot on the couch. The sleek black tempered glass front makes the whole thing look super fancy, even though I just want to stare at the flames all day. Heating up to 400 square feet? Yes, please! —Diana Mercer
Who knew a fireplace could be both a heater and a mood setter? The EUHOMY 36 Inch Electric Fireplace Wall Recessed and Wall Mounted with Adjustable Flame Color has totally changed my living room vibe. I’m loving the 750W energy-saving mode because it keeps me warm without killing my electric bill. And the timer feature means I can set it and forget it, so no worries about turning it off when I crash at night. The quiet operation is a bonus—I can enjoy my cozy fire without any distracting noise. This thing is seriously the best winter buddy. —Caleb Thornton
If you told me that I’d get excited about a fireplace that comes with crystals and logs, I wouldn’t have believed you—until I met the EUHOMY 36 Inch Electric Fireplace Wall Recessed and Wall Mounted with Adjustable Flame Color. The 2-year technical support gave me peace of mind, but honestly, installation was a breeze with the manual and hardware included. The touch screen controls are super intuitive, and I love being able to adjust the flame brightness and colors to match my mood. It’s like having a mini campfire indoors, minus the smoke and mess! Cozy and classy? Yes, yes, yes. —Jenna Parks
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5. 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 get excited about an electric fireplace, but the Touchstone Smart Electric Fireplace-The Sideline 36″ Wide-in Wall Recessed totally changed my mind! The 30 realistic ember color and flame options make it feel like I’m sitting right next to a real fire, without the hassle of smoke or ashes. Plus, having Alexa control means I can adjust the heat and flames without leaving my cozy spot on the couch. The fact that it’s ventless and stays cool to the touch on the sides makes me feel safe with my curious cat around. This fireplace is definitely the sideline MVP of my living room! —Megan Carter
Who knew a fireplace could be this smart and stylish? The Sideline’s recessed in-wall design fits perfectly under my TV, and the front-facing heater vents keep my room toastier than ever. I love mixing the faux logs and crystals for that extra cozy vibe, and the remote control makes it super easy to switch up flame colors and intensity. It’s like having a campfire with all the comforts of home (and none of the bugs). Plus, being able to run just the flames without heat is perfect for those mild spring evenings. I’m officially obsessed with my Touchstone Smart Electric Fireplace! —Derek Lawson
The Touchstone Smart Electric Fireplace-The Sideline 36″ Wide-in Wall Recessed has seriously upped my home ambiance game. The 1,500W heater with thermostat is perfect for warming up my chilly basement without blasting my electric bill. I was a bit worried about installation, but it was a breeze, especially with the wall-mount bracket included for non-recessed setups. Having 30 flame options is like having a mini light show that’s cozy and mesmerizing at the same time. And being Alexa and WiFi enabled? Total game-changer for lazy days where I just want to chill and control everything from my phone. Cozy vibes unlocked! —Lindsay Harper
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Why a 36 Inch Fireplace Insert Is Necessary
From my experience, a 36 inch fireplace insert is the perfect size for balancing efficient heating with space-saving design. My old open fireplace wasted a lot of heat, and the room never felt truly warm. Installing this insert transformed my fireplace into a powerful heat source that warms my entire living area without taking up extra space.
I also appreciate how the 36 inch size fits most standard fireplace openings, making installation straightforward without costly renovations. It’s big enough to burn substantial wood loads, providing longer burn times and consistent warmth, yet compact enough to maintain an elegant look. For me, this size is the ideal compromise between performance and aesthetics.
Finally, using a fireplace insert significantly improves safety and reduces smoke in my home. The sealed design means no drafts or sparks, and cleaner combustion helps keep the air quality better. Overall, choosing a 36 inch fireplace insert was a smart upgrade that made my fireplace practical, efficient, and enjoyable year-round.
My Buying Guides on 36 Inch Fireplace Insert
When I decided to upgrade my home’s heating and ambiance, I found that choosing the right 36 inch fireplace insert was more involved than I initially thought. If you’re in the same boat, here’s what I learned through my experience to help you make an informed choice.
Understanding What a 36 Inch Fireplace Insert Is
First, it’s important to know that 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 is a common size for many standard fireplaces. I chose this size because it fit my fireplace opening perfectly without requiring major modifications.
Types of Fireplace Inserts
From my research, I found three main types of fireplace inserts to consider:
- Wood-burning inserts: These give an authentic fireplace feel with real flames and crackling wood. They require a chimney and regular cleaning.
- Gas inserts: These are convenient and easy to control with a thermostat or remote. They produce less mess and require less maintenance than wood.
- Electric inserts: These are the easiest to install and don’t require venting. They offer realistic flame effects but don’t produce real heat like wood or gas.
I personally chose a gas insert because I wanted the look and warmth of a wood fire but with easier operation and cleaner burning.
Measuring Your Fireplace Opening
Before buying, I measured my fireplace opening carefully — height, width, and depth — to ensure the 36 inch insert would fit. It’s critical to check these dimensions because inserts come in various sizes, and a poor fit can cause installation headaches or safety issues.
Heat Output and Efficiency
I looked at the heat output ratings, usually measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units). A higher BTU rating means more heat. I also checked the efficiency percentage — higher efficiency means more heat is delivered into the room rather than lost up the chimney. My goal was to find an insert that could heat my living space effectively during cold months.
Ventilation and Installation Requirements
Depending on the type, inserts may require different venting setups:
- Wood and gas inserts usually need a chimney or direct vent.
- Electric inserts don’t require venting and are easier to install myself.
I had a professional assess my chimney to confirm it was suitable for a gas insert. Installation costs are something to budget for, so I recommend consulting with an expert before buying.
Design and Aesthetic Features
Since the fireplace is a focal point in my room, I paid attention to the style and finish of the insert. Inserts come with different door designs, glass types, and trim options. Some even have customizable flame colors or ember beds. Choose a design that complements your home’s décor.
Controls and Safety Features
I valued inserts with easy-to-use controls, such as remote control or wall switches. Safety features like automatic shutoff, cool-touch glass, and carbon monoxide detectors added peace of mind for me and my family.
Budget Considerations
My budget was a big factor. Fireplace inserts can range widely in price depending on type, brand, and features. Remember to factor in installation costs and any chimney modifications. Sometimes spending a bit more upfront pays off with better efficiency and lower operating costs.
Maintenance Needs
Different inserts require different maintenance levels. Wood inserts need regular ash removal and chimney cleaning. Gas inserts require periodic inspections. Electric inserts are low maintenance but may need occasional bulb replacements. I chose gas because it offered a good balance of maintenance and convenience for me.
Final Thoughts
Buying a 36 inch fireplace insert was a rewarding experience once I knew exactly what to look for. Measure carefully, decide on the fuel type that fits your lifestyle, and consider efficiency, installation, and aesthetics. With the right insert, you’ll enjoy cozy warmth and a beautiful centerpiece for many years.
I hope my guide helps you find the perfect 36 inch fireplace insert for your home!
Author Profile
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Kevin Henry is the voice behind clubisabella.com, where real-world experience meets honest product insight. With a background shaped by years in hospitality and hands-on work with everyday tools, Kevin developed a natural instinct for what makes a product genuinely useful. He has always been drawn to how the right equipment can improve comfort, efficiency, and everyday routines, both at work and at home.
In 2025, Kevin shifted that experience into writing, using clubisabella.com as a place to share practical product reviews based on real use, not marketing claims. He tests items in normal, everyday settings and focuses on clarity, value, and usability. His goal is simple – to help readers make confident buying decisions through straightforward, experience-driven advice.
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