In the past, adding a fireplace meant heavy construction and plenty of maintenance. Now, electric fireplaces have made it simple. They can be installed in new builds or used to upgrade an old firebox with very little hassle. With just some planning, you can achieve the clean look of a recessed unit or enjoy the convenience of a wall fireplace, all while skipping the soot, smoke, and gas lines.
Not sure which unit to buy? Start with our complete guide to choosing the right electric fireplace.
Below, you’ll find a step-by-step guide to help you through the installation.
1. Pick the Perfect Spot and Measure Carefully
Start by choosing the wall or existing firebox where your new fireplace will live. Many electric fireplaces don’t need clearance from combustible materials, but always double-check the manufacturer’s guidelines.
If you’re updating an existing firebox, measure the interior dimensions—height, width, and depth—as well as the opening. This ensures a seamless fit and helps you decide whether to add trims, a mantel, or a hearth for a finished look.
2. Prep the Area
Before you bring in your new fireplace, make sure the space is ready. Clear away anything that might get in the way and double-check the wall or firebox is clean and open. If you’re cutting into a wall, pause to look for any wiring, pipes, or vents hiding behind it. And if you’re working with an older firebox, give it a good clean so your new insert has a fresh start.
3. Plan the Electrical Setup
Getting power to your fireplace is usually pretty simple, but you’ll want to think it through before you start. Many units can plug straight into a standard outlet, which makes things easy. Others need their own circuit to handle the load. And if you’d rather not see any cords at all, the cleanest option is to have an electrician hardwire it for you.
4. Build Out if Needed
For recessed installations, you may need a contractor to frame out a portion of your wall to house the fireplace. If you’ve chosen a wall-mounted unit, skip the construction—just make sure the surface is sturdy and ready to support the weight.
5. Assemble the Unit
Unbox your fireplace and follow the manufacturer’s directions for assembly. This usually means attaching the firebox to the frame and adding trim, decorative mantels, or other finishing details.
6. Mount or Insert the Fireplace
If you’re going with a wall fireplace, use the mounting hardware that comes with the unit and make sure it’s anchored solidly. For recessed or built-in models, ease the fireplace into the opening and hook up the power. Bigger units can be a little tricky to handle on your own, so it’s worth asking someone to help keep everything steady and level.
7. Test Everything
Before you finish the installation, turn on your new electric fireplace to check that the flames, lighting, and heater are working properly. It’s much easier to make adjustments now than after everything is sealed in place.
8. Add Finishing Touches
After the fireplace is in place and working, it’s time to make it feel like it belongs. Some people frame it with simple trim, while others go bigger with molding or a mantel. However you finish it, this step is what makes the fireplace shift from “new appliance” to a centerpiece that feels like it’s always been part of the room.
9. Keep the Manual Handy
Once your fireplace is in place, don’t forget about the manual. It’s easy to misplace, but keeping it handy means you’ll always have the answers for care, quick fixes, and how to get the most from all the features.
If you’re considering inserts, don’t miss our buyer’s guide to fireplace inserts.
Enjoy the Warmth
Installing a built-in electric fireplace is one of the easiest ways to add both comfort and style to your home. Whether you go for a recessed look or a modern wall fireplace, you’ll love the instant ambiance it creates—no chimney, no ash, and no hassle.
Discover the perfect design for your space.
Outdoor spaces count too—see our guide to outdoor electric fireplaces.