10 Best Electric Fireplace Insert No Heat 2025 in the United States

The R.W.FLAME 36 inch electric fireplace is a sleek and modern option designed for wall mounting, fitting well within standard wall studs (2x4 or 2x6). Its ultra-thin depth of just under 4 inches makes it less bulky than older models, which is great if you want a flush, minimal look. The flame effect is highly customizable, offering 12 different colors and flame bed styles along with adjustable brightness and speed, controlled either by a remote or a touch screen. This gives you plenty of options to create a cozy, realistic ambiance without needing actual heat.

It has heating capability (up to 1500 watts) suitable for around 400 square feet, but it also functions well without heat, adding versatility. Safety features like ETL certification and auto-shutoff if it gets too hot provide peace of mind. The design includes a sleek black painted metal finish that fits modern interiors nicely. One minor drawback is that installation requires a proper wall opening between 31 and 35 inches wide, so some wall modification might be needed. While the flame effects are impressive for the price, they don’t perfectly mimic real flames, which could matter if you’re after maximum realism. The noise level is low, which is a plus for quiet environments.

This model is ideal for anyone looking for a stylish, energy-efficient fireplace insert to visually enhance a living room or common area without relying on heat. It’s especially useful if you want remote operation and customizable lighting effects. For those needing the fireplace mainly for heating large spaces or seeking ultra-realistic flame effects, other options might be more suitable.

The Dimplex Revillusion 30 Inch Built-in Electric Firebox stands out for its highly realistic flame effect thanks to the Revillusion technology, which simulates natural dancing flames around handcrafted faux logs with a herringbone brick background. Its dimensions (about 31 inches wide and 12 inches deep) suit built-in installations in living rooms or bedrooms, and the included plug kit offers flexible setup options—either plug into a standard outlet or hardwire for a seamless look.

Featuring a ceramic heater that can warm spaces up to 1,000 square feet, you can also turn off the heat and enjoy just the flame effect, making it versatile for year-round ambiance. The metal construction with a painted finish gives it a sturdy yet attractive appearance. Installation is straightforward with no venting or special tools needed, which is a plus if you want a clean, built-in look without remodeling. Controls include a remote for easy adjustments.

The unit weighs nearly 85 pounds, so it requires careful handling during installation. While the heating power might be modest for larger rooms, this is less of a concern if you mainly want the visual flame effect. This firebox is well suited for anyone looking for a stylish, realistic electric fireplace insert that offers beautiful flames with or without heat, and fits well in built-in setups without complicated installation.

The Dimplex Revillusion 36 Inch Built-in Electric Firebox is designed to bring the cozy look of a real fire to your indoor space without the hassle of venting or gas lines. Its standout feature is the Revillusion flame technology that creates realistic flames dancing around handcrafted faux logs, set against a natural concrete background for added authenticity. Measuring about 37 inches wide and 26.6 inches tall, it fits well for built-in installation, either centered or in a corner, and comes with a front glass panel that enhances the visual appeal.

Installation is straightforward and flexible—you can either plug it into a regular outlet using the included 120V plug kit or hardwire it for a cleaner look. Controls are convenient with a multi-function remote, so you can adjust the flames or heat without leaving your seat. The model offers a ceramic heater capable of warming up to 1,000 square feet, and since the heater can be turned off, it suits both people wanting ambiance only or some warmth.

The unit is solid and fairly heavy at about 94 pounds, made with durable metal and finished in a painted concrete style that looks modern and industrial. It’s vent-free, so it’s safe and easy to maintain indoors. The overall depth is under 5 inches, which helps save space but might limit how much the insert stands out from the wall. This built-in model is ideal for adding the charm of fire without real flames or complicated installation.