Installing an electric fireplace is usually simpler than installing a gas or wood-burning fireplace because most models do not require venting, a chimney, or a gas line. But the right installation process depends on the type of fireplace you choose. 

A freestanding mantel fireplace may only need assembly and a nearby outlet. A recessed electric fireplace may require framing, drywall, and electrical work. An electric fireplace insert needs to fit properly inside an existing fireplace opening. 

This guide walks through the most common electric fireplace installation types so you can plan the right project for your space. 

Before You Install an Electric Fireplace

Neutral living room with shiplap bump out and recessed linear electric fireplace.

Before you begin, confirm a few key details: 

  • Read the product manual. Clearance, mounting, framing, and electrical requirements vary by model.  
  • Know your installation type. Freestanding, mantel, wall-mounted, recessed, insert, and log set fireplaces all install differently.  
  • Check the power source. Some models plug into a standard outlet, while others may need hardwiring or a dedicated circuit.  
  • Measure carefully. Confirm the fireplace dimensions, wall space, firebox opening, and surrounding clearances.  
  • Plan for professional help when needed. Hire a licensed electrician for hardwiring, new outlets, dedicated circuits, or uncertain electrical conditions.  

A little planning upfront helps make installation smoother and prevents surprises once the fireplace arrives. 

Easiest Electric Fireplaces to Install 

Man installing a mantel and electric fireplace in a bright, minimalist living room.

Freestanding electric fireplaces, electric fireplace mantel packages, and electric log sets are usually the simplest options to install. They are a good fit for bedrooms, apartments, offices, living rooms, and existing fireplaces that need a quick refresh. 

Basic Installation Steps 

  • Choose a flat, stable location.  
  • Confirm clearance requirements in the product manual.  
  • Assemble any included mantel, legs, trim, or decorative parts.  
  • Place the fireplace or log set in position.  
  • Plug the unit directly into an appropriate outlet.  
  • Test the flame effect, heater, remote, and controls.  

These fireplaces are often the best choice when you want the look and feel of a fireplace without opening a wall or planning a larger remodel. 

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How To Install a Wall-Mounted Electric Fireplace

Modern linear electric fireplace in a floor to ceiling bump out covered with teal tile in a herringbone pattern.

A wall-mounted electric fireplace creates a sleek, modern focal point without taking up floor space. This is the option many shoppers mean when searching for a hanging wall fireplace or wall mounted electric fireplace installation. 

Basic Installation Steps 

  • Choose the wall location.  
  • Use a stud finder to locate wall studs.  
  • Confirm clearances from furniture, flooring, ceilings, mantels, and TVs.  
  • Mark the mounting bracket location.  
  • Secure the bracket according to the manual.  
  • Lift the fireplace onto the bracket with help.  
  • Confirm the unit is level and secure.  
  • Plug in the fireplace or connect power according to the product instructions.  
  • Install any glass, trim, or decorative media.  
  • Test the flame, heat, remote, and controls.  

Wall-mounted electric fireplaces are often straightforward, but larger models can be heavy. Plan for two people during lifting and mounting. If you want the cord hidden, talk with an electrician about adding an outlet behind the fireplace or hardwiring the unit if the model allows it. 

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How To Install a Recessed Electric Fireplace 

Man installing a linear electric fireplace in an old world style bedroom in neutral colors.

A recessed electric fireplace is installed into the wall for a clean, built-in appearance. This style is popular for media walls, remodels, basements, bedrooms, and modern living rooms. 

Because recessed installation can involve framing, drywall, and electrical work, it requires more planning than a basic wall mount. 

Basic Installation Steps 

  • Review the product manual and rough opening dimensions.  
  • Choose the location and confirm the wall has enough depth.  
  • Check for studs, wiring, plumbing, or ductwork.  
  • Frame the opening to the manufacturer’s required dimensions.  
  • Prepare the electrical connection.  
  • Insert the fireplace into the framed opening.  
  • Secure the unit according to the manual.  
  • Finish the surrounding wall with drywall, trim, tile, stone, or cabinetry.  
  • Add decorative media, glass, or trim.  
  • Test the fireplace before completing final finish work.  

Not every electric fireplace can be recessed. Some are wall-mount only, while others allow partial or full recessed installation. Always confirm the approved installation method before cutting into a wall. 

How To Install an Electric Fireplace Insert 

Electric fireplace inserts are designed to fit into an existing fireplace opening or compatible mantel cabinet. They are a popular choice for homeowners who want to update a wood-burning fireplace with a cleaner, lower-maintenance option. 

Basic Installation Steps 

  • Measure the existing fireplace opening.  
  • Compare the opening dimensions with the insert specifications.  
  • Clean out ash, debris, and loose material from the firebox.  
  • Confirm the firebox is dry and in good condition.  
  • Check whether there is a safe power source nearby.  
  • Slide the electric fireplace insert into the opening.  
  • Add trim or surround pieces if included.  
  • Secure the insert if required by the manufacturer.  
  • Plug in or connect power according to the product instructions.  
  • Test the flame effect, heater, remote, and thermostat.  

When installing an electric fireplace insert in an old wood-burning fireplace, cord placement matters. The cord should not be pinched, hidden unsafely, or routed through a walkway. If there is no safe outlet nearby, have an electrician add one. 

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Can You Install an Electric Fireplace Yourself? 

Some electric fireplaces are DIY-friendly, especially plug-in freestanding fireplaces, mantel packages, electric log sets, and certain inserts. These projects usually involve basic assembly, careful measuring, and safe placement. 

Professional help is recommended when the project involves: 

  • Hardwiring  
  • A new outlet  
  • A dedicated circuit  
  • Recessed wall installation  
  • Framing or drywall work  
  • Stone, tile, or custom cabinetry  
  • Gas line disconnection  
  • A large or heavy fireplace  
  • Any uncertainty about the home’s electrical setup  

For anything involving electrical changes, hire a licensed electrician. That helps ensure the fireplace is installed safely and correctly. 

Common Electric Fireplace Installation Mistakes to Avoid 

Modern minimalist living room with big windows and an electric fireplace with marble surround in a natural wood bump out.

Avoid these common issues before you start: 

  • Buying before measuring the wall, mantel, or fireplace opening.  
  • Ignoring clearance requirements from the product manual.  
  • Using an extension cord as a permanent power solution.  
  • Hiding cords behind walls, under rugs, or anywhere they cannot be safely accessed.  
  • Choosing a recessed look with a model that is not approved for recessed installation.  
  • Mounting a heavy fireplace without securing it properly to the wall structure.  
  • Finishing the wall before testing the fireplace.  

The best rule of thumb: measure first, read the manual, and confirm the power plan before installation day. 

Which Electric Fireplace Type Is Easiest to Install?

Fireplace Type 

Installation Difficulty 

Best For 

Freestanding Electric Fireplace 

Easiest 

Flexible placement and minimal setup 

Electric Fireplace Mantel Package 

Easy 

A finished fireplace look without wall construction 

Electric Log Set 

Easy 

Existing fireplaces needing a quick refresh 

Electric Fireplace Insert 

Moderate 

Updating an existing fireplace opening 

Wall-Mounted Electric Fireplace 

Moderate 

Modern wall focal points 

Recessed Electric Fireplace 

Most Involved 

Built-in media walls and custom remodels 


Installing an electric fireplace can be simple or more involved depending on the fireplace type. A freestanding unit or mantel package may only need assembly and placement, while a recessed fireplace or hardwired model may require professional support. 

Start by choosing the right fireplace for your room, then confirm the measurements, clearances, and power requirements before installation begins. 

Cozy living room corner with bump out fireplace with linear electric unit with two arm chairs in front.

Need help choosing the right model? Talk with an Electric Fireplaces Direct expert. 

FAQs 

How Do You Install an Electric Fireplace? 

Start by choosing the right fireplace type, reviewing the product manual, confirming measurements and clearances, and checking the power source. Freestanding and mantel fireplaces are usually the simplest to install, while recessed and hardwired fireplaces may require professional help. 

Can I Install an Electric Fireplace Myself? 

Yes, some electric fireplaces are DIY-friendly. Plug-in freestanding fireplaces, mantel packages, electric log sets, and some inserts can often be installed with basic assembly and careful placement. Hire a professional for hardwiring, new outlets, recessed installation, or any electrical uncertainty. 

How Do You Install an Electric Fireplace Insert? 

Measure the existing fireplace opening, compare it with the insert specifications, clean the firebox, confirm there is a safe power source nearby, slide the insert into place, secure any trim, and test the unit. 

Can You Put an Electric Fireplace in an Existing Fireplace? 

Yes. Many existing wood-burning fireplaces can be updated with an electric fireplace insert or electric log set. The best choice depends on the size and condition of the firebox and whether there is a safe power source nearby. 

Do I Need an Electrician For an Electric Fireplace? 

You may not need an electrician for a simple plug-in model near an appropriate outlet. You should hire a licensed electrician for hardwired models, new outlets, dedicated circuits, recessed installations, or any project where the electrical setup is uncertain. 

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