Comparison: Best 18 Inch Electric Fireplace Insert (Updated | Dec 19th)
Transform your living space with the perfect blend of warmth and style! But with so many options, how do you choose? We’ve done the heavy lifting for you, testing and comparing the top models to bring you this comprehensive guide. Whether you’re looking for realistic flames, energy efficiency, or smart features, we’ll help you find the ideal fireplace to elevate your home’s comfort and aesthetic appeal.
Editor’s Choice
Best for a specific purpose
- Best for efficient heating choice: PRETZI 18″ Electric Fireplace Insert
- Best for smart app control: ROVSUN 18″ Electric Fireplace Inserts with APP & Remote Control
- Best for vivid 3d flames: ROVSUN 18″ Electric Fireplace Inserts with Remote Control
- Best for flexible installation: Giantex 18″ Electric Fireplace Insert Heater
- Best for premium infrared heat: ClassicFlame 18″ Infrared Quartz Electric Fireplace Insert with Safer Plug
- Best for simple remote control: Tangkula 18 Inches Electric Fireplace Insert
- Best for ultra quiet operation: 18″ Electric Fireplace Insert
- Best for colorful flame options: COSTWAY Electric Fireplace Insert 18-inch Wide
- Best for compact recessed design: ORALNER 18″ Electric Fireplace Insert
- Best for customizable ambiance: Tangkula 18 Inch Electric Fireplace Heater
Product Comparison: Best 18 Inch Electric Fireplace Insert
Efficient Heating Choice
PRETZI 18″ Electric Fireplace Insert, Recessed Fireplace Heater with 8H Timer, Remote & Control Panel, Fireplace Insert for TV Stand with Adjustable LED Realistic Flame, 750/1500W
PRETZI
The PRETZI 18″ Electric Fireplace Insert offers a perfect blend of functionality and aesthetics for any room. This recessed fireplace heater efficiently covers 400 square feet, making it ideal for bedrooms, living rooms, or offices. Its standout feature is the realistic LED flame effect with 5 adjustable brightness levels and speed settings, creating a cozy ambiance with or without heat. The built-in thermostat offers 750W/1500W heat options, while the 1-8 hour timer allows for customized operation. Safety is paramount with UL Lab-certified overheat protection that automatically shuts off the unit when needed. The quiet operation ensures it won’t disturb your activities. Installation is straightforward with the included manual and hardware, and responsive customer support provides peace of mind for any issues that might arise.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Realistic flame effects
- Efficient heating coverage
- Multiple heat settings
- Built-in timer function
- Safety overheat protection
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Limited color options
- No app control
Smart App Control
ROVSUN 18″ Electric Fireplace Inserts with APP & Remote Control, 1400W Recessed Stove Heater with 8H Timer, 6 Flame Colors, 5 Brightness for Indoor Use, ETL
ROVSUN
The ROVSUN 18″ Electric Fireplace Insert with APP & Remote Control brings modern convenience to home heating. This 1400W recessed stove heater offers a temperature range from 62°F to 82°F, with heat distributed from the top middle front area. What sets this model apart is its multiple control methods, including a smart mobile app that allows you to adjust settings from anywhere in your home. The fireplace features stunningly realistic flame effects with 6 different colors and 5 brightness settings, creating the perfect ambiance for any occasion. Safety features include ETL certification, overheat protection, and automatic shutoff when tilted more than 45 degrees. The low noise design (under 45 decibels) combined with the 8H timer function ensures peaceful operation while providing consistent warmth throughout your space.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Smart app control
- Multiple flame colors
- Advanced safety features
- Tilt protection mechanism
- Quiet operation
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- App may have connectivity issues
- Higher power consumption
Vivid 3D Flames
ROVSUN 18″ Electric Fireplace Inserts with Remote Control, 1400W Recessed Stove Heater with 8H Timer, 6 Flame Colors, 5 Brightness for Indoor Use, ETL
ROVSUN
The ROVSUN 18″ Electric Fireplace Insert with Remote Control delivers powerful heating and visual appeal to any space. This 1400W recessed stove heater efficiently warms rooms with a temperature range of 62°F to 82°F, while maintaining optimal air humidity. The standout feature is the realistic 3D flame effect, created by high-performance LED lights that offer 6 different flame colors and 5 brightness settings to match your mood or decor. Control is simple with the included remote and control panel, allowing you to adjust temperature and settings from your comfortable position. Safety is prioritized with ETL certification, overheat protection, and automatic shutoff when tilted beyond 45 degrees. The quiet operation (below 45 decibels) and 8H timer function ensure this fireplace provides warmth without disrupting your daily activities or sleep.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Powerful heating performance
- Vibrant 3D flame effects
- Simple remote operation
- Multiple safety protections
- Affordable price point
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- No smart app integration
- Basic control panel design
Flexible Installation
Giantex 18″ Electric Fireplace Insert Heater, Wall Recessed/Mounted Fire Places Electric Fireplace with Remote, 2 Modes Heat, 9H Timer, 5 Brightness, 750/1500W Freestanding Fireplace
Giantex
The Giantex 18″ Electric Fireplace Insert offers a perfect blend of warmth and ambiance for any room. With adjustable temperature settings from 62℉ to 95℉ and two heat modes (750W and 1500W), you can customize your comfort level. The five flame brightness settings create a realistic fireplace experience, and you can enjoy the flame effect without heat during warmer months. Safety features include ETL certification and overheat protection. Installation is versatile, allowing for wall mounting or insertion into cabinets. The included remote control and timer function (up to 8 hours) add convenience to this energy-efficient heating solution.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Multiple heat settings
- Adjustable flame brightness
- Timer function included
- Remote control operation
- ETL certified safety
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Limited heating coverage
- Installation requires measuring
- Remote batteries not included
Premium Infrared Heat
ClassicFlame 18″ Infrared Quartz Electric Fireplace Insert with Safer Plug
ClassicFlame
The ClassicFlame 18″ Infrared Quartz Electric Fireplace Insert combines innovative technology with timeless design. Its infrared quartz heat maintains natural humidity while providing supplemental warmth for up to 1,000 square feet. The 5,200 BTU heater efficiently heats your space without drying out the air. The patent-pending Safer Plug technology monitors plug temperature to prevent electrical hazards, ensuring peace of mind. The flame effect can be operated independently from heat, allowing you to enjoy the ambiance year-round. This 18-inch insert fits seamlessly into existing fireplaces or can be used as a standalone unit, making it a versatile addition to any home.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Infrared quartz technology
- Maintains air humidity
- Safer Plug technology
- Large heating coverage
- Year-round flame effect
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Higher price point
- Limited flame customization
- Requires clearance space
Simple Remote Control
Tangkula 18 Inches Electric Fireplace Insert, Recessed 1400 W Electric Fireplace w/Adjustable Flame & Heat, Built-in Timer & Thermostat, Control Panel & Remote and Overheat Protection, Black
Tangkula
The Tangkula 18 Inches Electric Fireplace Insert offers both style and functionality for your living space. With 3-level flame brightness settings and realistic 3D flames, it creates an authentic fireplace atmosphere. The 1400W heater produces 5,000 BTU, effectively warming rooms up to 400 square feet. Temperature can be adjusted from 62°F to 82°F with the built-in thermostat. Control options include touch buttons and a remote control with a 26-foot range. Safety features include overheat protection. The fireplace can be installed freestanding or inserted into a TV stand or cabinet, with detailed instructions provided for easy setup.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Realistic 3D flames
- Multiple control options
- Built-in thermostat
- Overheat protection
- Flexible installation
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Limited heating area
- Shorter timer duration
- Fewer flame settings
Ultra Quiet Operation
18″ Electric Fireplace Insert, Recessed Fireplace Heater with Low Noise, Remote Control with Timer, Touch Screen, Adjustable Flame Brightness, 18.6″ L *17.7″ H
Vabches
The Vabches 18″ Electric Fireplace Insert offers a perfect blend of warmth and ambiance for any room. With dimensions of 18.46″L X 5.17″D X 17.64″H, this recessed fireplace heater features a stunning 3D flame technology with three adjustable brightness settings, creating a realistic dancing flame effect. The unit can heat up to 400 sq.ft with adjustable temperature settings from 62°F to 82°F. The wireless remote control allows convenient operation from anywhere in the room. The sleek black finish and tempered glass construction complement any decor, making it an ideal addition to your living room, bedroom, or office space.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Realistic 3D flame effect
- Remote control convenience
- Energy efficient heating
- Independent flame operation
- Modern sleek design
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Limited to 400 sq.ft coverage
- Installation requires recessed space
Colorful Flame Options
COSTWAY Electric Fireplace Insert 18-inch Wide, 750W/1500W Fireplace with Remote Control, 7 Realistic Flame Colors, 5 Adjustable Brightness, 8H Timer and Overheat Protection
COSTWAY
The COSTWAY 18-inch Electric Fireplace Insert combines functionality with versatility to enhance your living space. With seven vibrant flame colors and five brightness levels, you can customize the ambiance to match any mood or decor. The fireplace offers two heating options (750W/1500W) and can efficiently warm up to 400 sq.ft with 5100 BTU heat output. The included remote control allows you to adjust settings from up to 10 feet away, including the 1-8 hour timer. Safety features include child lock, overheat protection, and ETL certification. The compact design makes it perfect for TV stands or small spaces needing both warmth and style.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Multiple flame colors
- Two heat settings
- Remote control included
- ETL certified safety
- Quiet operation
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Limited to 400 sq.ft
- Requires specific opening dimensions
Compact Recessed Design
ORALNER 18″ Electric Fireplace Insert, Recessed Fireplace Heater w/ 3 LED Flame Effects, Remote Control & 6H Timer, Indoor Fireplace Insert for TV Stand, 1400W, Black (18 INCHES)
ORALNER
The ORALNER 18″ Electric Fireplace Insert offers both style and functionality for your home. This recessed fireplace heater features realistic dancing flames with three adjustable brightness levels, creating an elegant and soothing atmosphere in any room. The high-efficiency heating system provides 5,000 BTU of warmth, perfect for cold months. The unit can be installed under your TV, in an entertainment center, or even in RVs and campers. The included remote control with a 6-hour timer allows for convenient operation and automatic shut-off. Whether you need supplemental heat or just want to add ambiance, this fireplace insert is a versatile addition to any space.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Realistic flame effects
- 6-hour timer function
- Multiple installation options
- High-efficiency heating
- Year-round ambiance option
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Limited to 5,000 BTU
- Requires precise measurements
Customizable Ambiance
Tangkula 18 Inch Electric Fireplace Heater, Recessed Fireplace Insert with 7-Color Dimmable Flame, 750W/1500W Heating, 8H Timer, Overheat Protection & Remote Control
Tangkula
The Tangkula 18 Inch Electric Fireplace Heater combines customizable aesthetics with powerful heating capabilities. This recessed insert features seven flame colors with five adjustable brightness and speed levels, allowing you to create the perfect ambiance for any occasion. The built-in thermostat offers 750W/1500W heating options with 5100 BTU output, efficiently warming spaces up to 400 sq.ft. Control the fireplace effortlessly using the intuitive panel or remote control, which includes an 8-hour timer and child lock for safety. The unit operates quietly and includes overheat protection with ETL certification. Use the flame-only mode for year-round decoration or activate both flame and heat during colder weather.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- 7-color flame options
- Powerful heating output
- 8-hour timer function
- Child lock safety feature
- Two operating modes
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Limited to 400 sq.ft
- Requires recessed installation
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Buying Guide
FAQs
What should I look for in an 18-inch electric fireplace insert?
Consider the heating capacity, measured in BTUs, to ensure it can warm your space effectively. Look for adjustable flame settings and brightness controls for customization. Check for energy efficiency and safety features like overheat protection.
How do electric fireplace inserts compare to traditional wood-burning ones?
Electric inserts are easier to install and maintain, requiring no venting or chimney cleaning. They offer more precise temperature control and are often more energy-efficient. However, they lack the authentic smell and crackling sound of a real fire.
Are 18-inch electric fireplace inserts suitable for small rooms?
Yes, 18-inch inserts are ideal for small to medium-sized rooms up to 400 square feet. Their compact size allows for easy installation in existing fireplaces or wall units. Always check the heating capacity to match your room size.
What features should I prioritize for the best value?
Look for models with realistic flame effects and LED lighting for longevity. A remote control and programmable timer add convenience. Energy-saving modes and adjustable thermostats enhance efficiency and value.
How difficult is the installation process?
Most 18-inch electric inserts are designed for easy, plug-and-play installation. They can be inserted into existing mantels or wall cavities with minimal effort. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and ensure proper clearance around the unit.
Do these inserts require regular maintenance?
Electric fireplace inserts require minimal maintenance compared to traditional options. Periodic dusting of the exterior and checking the fan for debris is usually sufficient. LED lights and heating elements are long-lasting and rarely need replacement.
Can I use an 18-inch insert without the heat function?
Yes, most models allow you to enjoy the flame effects without activating the heat. This is perfect for creating ambiance during warmer months. Simply turn off the heating element using the control panel or remote.
What safety features should I check for?
Ensure the insert has overheat protection to prevent accidents. Cool-touch exteriors are important for homes with children or pets. Look for certifications like UL or ETL listing to guarantee safety standards.