Electric log sets with heaters turn an unused fireplace into a heating source and ambiance feature without mess or venting. Below is a quick comparison table of the top picks in this guide, followed by individual product overviews and a buying guide to help match features to your space and needs.
| Product | Heater Output / Coverage | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|
| Duraflame 20.5-inch Electric Log Set Heater | 4,600 BTU / ~400 sq ft | Realistic birch logs, ember bed, remote control |
| Duraflame Electric Log Set 1,000 Sq Ft Heater (Inset) | Infrared / Up To 1,000 sq ft | Free-standing insert, digital thermostat, remote |
| LegendFlame 25″ Free Standing Electric Fireplace Log Set | 750W/1500W / ~400 sq ft | Large 25″ size, LED flames, simple placement |
| PuraFlame 24″ Free Standing Electric Log Set Insert | 750W/1500W / ~400 sq ft | 6 flame colors, crackling sound, multiple brightness |
| 21″ Electactic Electric Fireplace Insert Log Heater Set | 750W/1500W / Small to medium rooms | Adjustable flame brightness and flicker speed, safety features |
Duraflame 20.5-inch Electric Log Set Heater
This Duraflame model offers a 4,600 BTU heater designed for supplemental zone heating up to approximately 400 square feet. The log set fits into an existing fireplace and removes the need for firewood or venting.
Key features include a realistic birch log set and ember bed that project rolling flame effects onto the back of the fireplace. The design emphasizes easy placement and reduced mess compared to traditional wood.
Use cases: homeowners who want to convert an existing masonry fireplace into a supplemental heating source and ambiance feature without reconstruction. The plug-in configuration aims for straightforward installation and remote convenience.
Duraflame Electric Log Set 1,000 Sq Ft Heater, Faux Logs Insert
This Duraflame insert is described to heat areas up to 1,000 square feet using infrared-style warming and a built-in digital thermostat. The free-standing design fits most existing fireplace openings.
Highlighted features include a money-saving supplemental heating approach, a convenient remote control for thermostat, flame speed, and brightness adjustments, and lifelike flame and log visuals to enhance décor while providing warmth.
Use cases: rooms where targeted heating reduces whole-home HVAC usage, and users who want remote control over temperature and flame effects. The infrared approach aims to deliver direct radiant warmth while preserving ambient flame visuals.
Duraflame Electric Log Set 1,000 Sq Ft Heater (Alternate Model)
This Duraflame variant also targets up to 1,000 sq ft of supplemental heating and emphasizes a realistic design. It is described as an insert with remote control functions and timer settings.
Features called out include lifelike flame visuals and logs, the ability to save energy by lowering the central thermostat, and a remote that controls flame effects, brightness, and timer functions once the unit thermostat is set.
Use cases: homeowners seeking a familiar brand with insert-style placement who want the flexibility to run flame effects independently of heat and use timers for scheduled operation.
LegendFlame 25″ Free Standing Electric Fireplace Log Set (EF484)
The LegendFlame EF484 is a 25″ wide free-standing log set intended for various openings and cabinet placements. It uses LED illumination to create rising flame effects from realistic resin logs and ember beds.
Notable specifications include 750W/1500W heater settings, LED flame operation with or without heat, and a polarized plug for standard 120V circuits. The manufacturer highlights simple installation—just place into the opening.
Use cases: larger fireplace openings or cabinet installations where a wider visual presence is preferred. The LED flame and ability to run without heat suit year-round ambiance needs while providing supplemental warmth when required.
PuraFlame 24″ Free Standing Electric Fireplace Log Set Insert
The PuraFlame 24″ insert emphasizes customization of ambiance with 6 flame colors and 5 brightness levels, plus crackling sound to simulate a wood fire. It fits most existing openings for easy plug-and-play use.
Heating modes include 750W and 1500W, claimed sufficient for up to about 400 square feet. The unit can be used with flames-only for ambiance or combined with heat for supplemental warmth, and includes remote control functionality.
Use cases: users who prioritize visual customization and sensory detail (color and sound) in addition to basic heating. The multiple flame colors and brightness settings allow matching mood and room lighting conditions.
21 Inches Electactic Electric Fireplace Insert Log Heater Set
The Electactic 21″ insert focuses on adjustable visual and safety features. It offers 5 adjustable flame brightness and flicker speed settings and two heat modes (750W/1500W) with overheat protection and auto shutoff.
Listed features emphasize safety and control, including cool-to-touch operation suitable for households with children or pets. The design aims to deliver both visual warmth and controlled supplemental heating for small to medium rooms.
Use cases: households prioritizing safety features and adjustable flame dynamics with straightforward plug-in installation and remote control for day-to-day convenience.
Buying Guide: How To Choose An Electric Log Set With Heater
This section explains the key considerations when selecting an electric log set with heater and compares perspectives to suit different needs.
Heating Output And Room Size
Electric log sets commonly offer two heat modes (often 750W and 1500W) or list BTU coverage like 4,600 BTU / ~400 sq ft or claims up to 1,000 sq ft. For open-plan living areas or large rooms, prioritize higher wattage or infrared-style units rated for larger coverage. For small rooms or supplemental heat zones, a 750W/1500W unit is typical and energy-efficient for short-term use.
Heat Type: Convection Versus Infrared
Convection heaters use a fan to circulate warm air and heat the room gradually. Infrared heaters provide radiant warmth that can feel more immediate and targeted. Infrared is often marketed for larger effective coverage at lower set temperatures, while convection can distribute heat more evenly in enclosed spaces.
Visual Realism And Ambiance Options
Consider the flame realism and customization: some models offer multiple flame colors, brightness levels, and crackling sounds. If year-round ambiance is important, choose units that permit flame-only operation without heat. LED-based systems run cooler and consume less energy for continuous display.
Installation And Fit
Most products listed are free-standing inserts designed to sit in existing fireplace openings or cabinets. Measure your opening width, depth, and clearance before purchasing. Larger models (e.g., 25″) are suited for wide openings; smaller 20–21″ units suit narrow openings or mantel inserts.
Controls And Convenience
Remote controls, digital thermostats, timers, and adjustable flame speed/brightness affect daily convenience. If you plan to operate the unit frequently from seating areas, prioritize models with responsive remotes and clear temperature control features.
Safety Features
Look for overheat protection, auto shutoff, cool-to-touch surfaces, and polarized plugs for 120V circuits. Safety features are especially important in homes with children or pets. Confirm whether the unit requires a dedicated circuit for continuous high-watt operation.
Energy Use And Operating Costs
Electric log sets are intended as supplemental heating, not primary heat sources. Running at 1500W consumes about 1.5 kW per hour; using a unit selectively to heat occupied rooms can reduce whole-home energy use. LED flame-only modes use far less electricity than the heater.
Noise And Fan Operation
Units with circulating blowers (convection) will produce fan noise; check product descriptions for blower type and user notes on operational sound. If quiet operation is important, prioritize models that advertise low-noise fans or infrared heating which can be quieter.
Durability And Materials
Resin or ceramic logs and LED flame modules vary in perceived realism and longevity. Resin logs are common for visual detail; ensure ventilation slots remain unobstructed and follow manufacturer cleaning instructions to maintain flame clarity and heater efficiency.
Comparison Perspectives
- Best For Maximum Coverage: Infrared-capable models that claim larger square footage—use when you need broader supplemental warmth.
- Best For Ambiance Customization: Models with multiple flame colors, brightness levels, and sound effects for sensory realism.
- Best For Safety-Conscious Homes: Units with overheat protection, cool-to-touch designs, and auto shutoff.
- Best For Simple Setup: Free-standing inserts that require no hard wiring—measure first to ensure fit.
Refer to product specifications, measured opening dimensions, and the intended role (ambiance vs supplemental heat) when choosing. Cross-compare flame customization, heat output, and safety features to match your household priorities.