Electric Fireplace Installation

Installing an electric fireplace is simple. No chimney or venting needed. In this article we explain 3 installation types: wall mounted, built-in, and insert.

Wall Mounted Electric Fireplace Installation

Wall mounting is one of the easiest ways to install an electric fireplace. It is similar to mounting a flat screen TV and doesn't require any extensive remodeling.

Wall-mounted electric fireplaces usually come with mounting brackets making the installation an easy DIY project. Depending on the weight of the fireplace, you might need a second person to help you lift it. 

For more detailed instructions, refer to this article:  How to Install a Wall Mounted Electric Fireplace

Here is a video example showing how to install a wall mounted electric fireplace by Touchstone.

Touchstone Wall Mounted Electric Fireplace Installation Video:

Built-in Electric Fireplace Installation

When it comes to built-in installation of electric fireplaces, there are two scenarios:

 1. Full or partial recess into a 2"x 4" or 2"x 6" wall.

You can simply cut out an opening in your 2"x 4" or 2"x 6 "wall and either fully or partially recess the fireplace into the niche. This will all depend on the depth of the fireplace you chose. 

Many built-in electric fireplaces are slim enough to fit into 2"x 6" walls. There are a few extra slim models that can fit into 2"x4" walls. Alternatively, you can partially recess a deeper unit, some of them even have trim kits that make partial installation look more finished. Like Touchstone Sideline Elite Pro for example. It is a deeper fireplace that can be partially recessed into a 2"x4" wall and the gap can be covered with a trim kit (sold separately). 

Here is a video showing a basic installation of a built-in electric fireplace.

Recessed Installation of Touchstone Electric Fireplace Video:

 2. Build out a wall

For electric fireplaces that are deeper than 4 or 6 inches, you would need to frame a bump-out and then insert the fireplace into it. This method is slightly more time consuming but the end result is worth.

With electric fireplaces you don't need as much depth as with gas for example, so you are not wasting the precious floor space. However, the difference in depth creates a beautiful focal point. 

For more detailed instructions, refer to this article:  How to Install a Built-in Electric Fireplace

Here is a video that demonstrates it perfectly.

DIY Electric Fireplace Build Video:

Electric Fireplace Insert Installation

Electric fireplace inserts can be installed one of two ways: 

 1. Build out a wall

This installation method is exactly the same as installing a deeper built-in electric fireplace. Please refer to the previous section for more information.

Here is a video showing how this can be done.

DIY Electric Fireplace Inserts Installation Video:

 2. Insert into an existing fireplace opening.

Electric fireplaces inserts are designed to fit into existing fireplace openings. This installation method is pretty simple. Make sure you either have a power outlet inside of your fireplace opening or you can hardwire your insert. Then slide in the insert in the fireplace opening and cover the gaps with trim. Many inserts come with trim to cover the gaps or you can make your own.

For more detailed instructions, refer to this article:  How to Install an Electric Fireplace Insert

Final Thoughts

This was a quick overview of different installation options of electric fireplaces. For more detailed instructions follow these links:

How to Install a Wall Mounted Electric Fireplace

How to Install a Built-in Electric Fireplace

How to Install an Electric Fireplace Insert

Also, keep in mind that electric fireplaces can also be safely built into furniture. This means you can insert them into a kitchen island, TV stand or anything else you have in mind. 

Drop us a comment if you have any questions about electric fireplace installation and share your ideas. How are you installing your electric fireplace?