Electric log heater fireplace inserts provide the ambiance of a real fire without smoke, ash, or venting. This guide compares popular freestanding and insert-style log sets that fit existing openings and small rooms. Below is a quick summary of the selected models to help you scan features at a glance.
| Product | Brand | Heating Modes | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| 21 Inches Electric Fireplace Insert Log Heater Set | Electactic | 750W / 1500W | Adjustable flame brightness & flicker speed, remote |
| LegendFlame 23″ Free Standing Electric Fireplace Log Set (EF290) | Legend Flame | 750W / 1500W | LED flames, realistic resin logs, crackling sound |
| duraflame® Electric Log Set 1,000 Sq Ft Infrared Heater | Duraflame | Infrared heater (spec’d for up to 1,000 sq ft) | LED flames, crackling sound, remote, timer |
| PuraFlame 24″ Free Standing Electric Fireplace Log Set | PuraFlame | 750W / 1500W | 6 flame colors, brightness levels, crackling sound |
| Duraflame 20″ Electric Fireplace Log Set Insert + Fire Crackler | Duraflame | Infrared (4,600 BTU spec) for up to 400 sq ft | Bundle with crackler, realistic ember bed, remote |
21 Inches Electric Fireplace Insert Log Heater Set
Brand: Electactic
This freestanding 21-inch insert offers two heat settings (750W/1500W) and an adjustable flame with five brightness and flicker-speed levels. Safety features include overheat protection and an auto-shutoff. The unit is designed to remain cool to the touch and includes a remote control for changing flame and heat settings from across the room.
- Flame Effects: Five brightness and flicker-speed options to tailor ambiance.
- Heat Control: Low and high modes for supplemental warmth.
- Safety: Overheat protection and cool-touch housing.
- Installation: Freestanding—no venting or permanent installation required.
LegendFlame 23″ W Free Standing Electric Fireplace Log Set (EF290)
Brand: Legend Flame
The 23″ LegendFlame EF290 is sized to fit a variety of openings and cabinets. It uses energy-efficient LED lighting for year-round flame effects that work with or without heat. The realistic resin logs and ember bed aim to replicate a traditional fire’s look. The manufacturer states the unit can provide supplemental heat for spaces up to about 400 square feet.
- Size & Fit: 23″ W x 20″ H x 10″ D—fits small to medium openings.
- Energy: LED flame technology reduces energy draw compared to incandescent systems.
- Use Cases: Flame-only mode for ambiance during warm months; heat mode for cooler weather.
- Installation: Simple drop-in freestanding placement with a standard 120V plug.
duraflame® Electric Log Set 1,000 Sq Ft Infrared Heater
Brand: Duraflame
This Duraflame model is marketed for supplemental heating up to 1,000 square feet using infrared technology. Features include LED flame visuals, a crackling sound effect, and a remote control that adjusts flame speed, brightness, timer, and sound volume. The insert is intended for use in existing fireplaces or as a freestanding unit in larger openings.
- Heating Technology: Infrared heating for perceived warmth without circulating dust.
- Controls: Remote includes timer and sound/brightness options for convenience.
- Ambiance: LED flames and crackling sound for a more lifelike experience.
- Application: Suitable for larger rooms or open-concept areas when matched to capacity claims.
PuraFlame 24″ Free Standing Electric Fireplace Log Set
Brand: PuraFlame
The PuraFlame 24″ insert emphasizes customizable flame appearance with six flame colors and five brightness levels. It includes crackling sound and offers 750W and 1500W heating modes. The log set is designed to fit most existing fireplace openings and provide supplemental heat to rooms up to around 400 square feet per manufacturer notes.
- Visual Options: Multiple flame colors let you shift ambience beyond standard orange flames.
- Heating Modes: Two power levels for flexible zone heating.
- Ease Of Use: Plug-and-play freestanding design with remote control.
- Limitations: Marketed as supplemental, not a primary home heating source.
Duraflame 20″ Electric Fireplace Log Set Insert + Fire Crackler Combo
Brand: Duraflame
This bundle pairs a 20″ Duraflame infrared log set with a separate fire crackler sound machine. The heater is specified to provide supplemental zone heat rated in BTUs and intended for rooms up to around 400 square feet. The design focuses on replicating a traditional fireplace with realistic logs, an ember bed, and remote control operation.
- Bundle Advantage: Includes a dedicated crackling sound device for enhanced realism.
- Output: Infrared heating aimed at spot heating or single-room comfort.
- Fit: Compact 20″ width suitable for smaller openings and existing fireplaces.
- User Controls: Remote control for heat, flame, and timer functions.
Buying Guide: Choosing The Right Electric Log Heater Insert
When selecting an electric log heater insert, consider the following categories to match product capabilities with your space and use case.
1. Heating Capacity And Coverage
Match Heater Output To Room Size: Manufacturers often provide suggested room coverage (e.g., up to 400 sq ft or 1,000 sq ft). Use these figures as guidance for supplemental heating rather than whole-home solutions.
Heating Types: Typical options include fan-forced ceramic heaters, infrared/quartz, or convection systems. Infrared models warm objects and people directly, which can feel efficient in open spaces; fan heaters distribute warm air faster in enclosed rooms.
2. Flame Realism And Ambience
LED Vs. Traditional Lighting: LED flames are energy-efficient and operate with or without heat. Look for multi-brightness settings, flicker control, or color options if ambiance customization matters.
Sound Effects: Crackling sound modules add realism. Some units include adjustable sound volume or separate sound machines in bundles.
3. Size, Fit, And Installation
Measure Opening Dimensions: Freestanding inserts typically come in fixed widths (20″, 21″, 23″, 24″). Measure your existing fireplace opening or intended placement area to confirm fit before purchase.
Installation Ease: Most models are plug-and-play freestanding inserts requiring no venting. Confirm cord length and plug type for your installation location.
4. Controls And Convenience
Remote Control: Remotes commonly adjust heater settings, flame brightness, timer, and sound. Check whether remotes include full thermostat control or only preset modes.
Timers And Thermostats: Built-in timers allow automatic shutoff. Thermostatic control helps maintain a set temperature and prevents unnecessary energy use.
5. Safety Features
Overheat Protection & Auto Shutoff: Important for unattended use and households with children or pets. Cool-touch exteriors reduce burn risk on contact.
Certifications: Look for safety marks like ETL or UL to confirm third-party testing for electrical safety.
6. Energy Efficiency And Operating Cost
Wattage Considerations: Common heat settings are 750W and 1500W. Running at lower wattage reduces energy draw. Use flame-only mode for ambiance without heat to minimize electricity use.
Supplemental Use: Electric log inserts are intended for zone heating to lower central thermostat demand, which can reduce overall energy consumption when used strategically.
7. Materials And Aesthetics
Log Material: Resin logs and cast ember beds vary in realism. Inspect photos and product descriptions for texture, color depth, and ember lighting design.
Finish Options: Frame color, trim styles, and visible depth affect how natural the unit looks in your fireplace opening or living area.
8. Sound, Vibration, And Fan Noise
Fan Noise Levels: Fan-forced units may generate background noise. If you plan to use the insert in a quiet room, check user feedback on noise or choose infrared models that rely less on fans.
Sound Effects: Crackling audio is often optional. Confirm whether sound operates independently of heat and if volume is adjustable.
9. Maintenance And Durability
Cleaning: Electric inserts are low maintenance but may require dusting and occasional vacuuming of vents. Avoid covering vents to maintain airflow and safety.
Expected Lifespan: LED flame components and heating elements have differing lifespans. Review warranty details for coverage of flame modules and heaters.
10. Additional Comparison Perspectives
Performance In Different Room Types: Infrared models can be preferable in spaces with higher ceilings or open floor plans because they warm objects directly. Fan-based heaters may be faster in small enclosed rooms.
Ambience vs. Heat Priority: If ambiance is the priority, choose flame-rich units with multi-color LEDs and sound effects. If heat is primary, compare wattage, heating type, and thermostat capabilities.
Fit vs. Feature Tradeoffs: Larger inserts offer more visual impact but require larger openings. Smaller units fit more spaces but may have fewer aesthetic features or lower heat output.
Use the key considerations above to compare models by matching room size, desired ambiance, and safety needs. Refer to product specifications for exact measurements, wattage, and included accessories before finalizing a purchase.