Built-in electric fireplaces can be installed in both new-construction and retrofit projects. Depending on the model, an electric fireplace insert may be recessed into a framed wall, hardwired into the home’s electrical system, plugged into an appropriate outlet or installed inside an existing fireplace opening.

The exact process depends on the fireplace. Rough-opening dimensions, mounting points, electrical requirements, clearances and heater-vent locations vary by model, so always use the installation manual for the specific fireplace you purchased.

This guide explains the general process for built-in, recessed, wall-mounted and existing-fireplace installations.

Electric fireplace installation at a glance: Choose the exact fireplace before framing, follow its rough-opening dimensions, prepare the electrical connection, test the fireplace before enclosing it, secure it at the specified mounting points and keep all heater vents and service panels accessible.

Person sitting on a sofa in a living room with linear electric fireplace.

1. Choose the Location & Measure

Select the exact fireplace model before constructing the opening. Fireplaces advertised at the same nominal width can have different appliance dimensions, viewing areas, framing requirements and installation depths.

Record the model’s:

  • Overall width, height and depth
  • Rough-opening or framing dimensions
  • Finished-opening dimensions
  • Viewing-area dimensions
  • Trim dimensions
  • Heater-intake and outlet locations
  • Electrical-connection location
  • Required mantel, television and combustible-material clearances

When installing an electric fireplace insert in an existing fireplace, measure the opening at several points. Record the front width, rear width, height and available depth because masonry fireboxes may narrow toward the back.

Confirm that the location:

  • Supports the approved mounting method
  • Has enough wall or enclosure depth
  • Allows the heater vents to remain open
  • Can accommodate the required power connection
  • Provides any required service access
  • Does not conflict with plumbing, wiring or ductwork

Some electric fireplaces permit zero clearance at specific sides of the appliance, but clearance requirements vary by model, surface and installation method. Always follow the fireplace’s installation manual.

2. Prepare the Space

Clear the area where the fireplace will be installed. Make sure there are no obstacles or hazards in the vicinity. Don't forget to assess the inside of the wall you will cut into. Ensure that you will not disturb any plumbing, electrical, or other elements. 

If you are retrofitting, be sure to thoroughly clean the fireplace.

3. Check Electrical Requirements

Determine the power requirements before framing or finishing the wall. Depending on the model, a built-in electric fireplace may:

  • Plug into an appropriate 120-volt outlet
  • Be hardwired at 120 volts
  • Be hardwired at 240 volts
  • Support either 120- or 240-volt installation
  • Require or recommend a dedicated circuit

Check the fireplace’s voltage, wattage, amperage, circuit and connection requirements. Plan the outlet or junction-box location so the plug and wiring will not be pinched behind the appliance.

A qualified electrician should handle:

  • New outlets
  • Hardwired connections
  • Dedicated circuits
  • 240-volt connections
  • Circuit or breaker changes
  • Wiring that does not meet the fireplace requirements

Do not use an extension cord or power strip unless the fireplace manufacturer expressly allows it.

This protects electric fireplace heater installation and electric fireplace power requirements while making the answer more useful.

4. Complete Construction

Built-in fireplaces are generally recessed into the wall to some degree. If you are adding a fireplace rather than retrofitting, you will want to have a contractor build this out for you. 

If you are mounting your fireplace, no construction is necessary.

5. Assemble the Fireplace

Follow the manufacturer's instructions to assemble the fireplace unit. This typically involves attaching the firebox to the frame and connecting any additional components, such as a mantel or trim.

6. Mounting a Wall-Mounted Electric Fireplace

A wall-mounted electric fireplace is typically installed by securing the manufacturer’s mounting bracket to wall studs or structural blocking, leveling the bracket and then hanging and securing the fireplace with the supplied hardware.

  • Confirm that surface mounting is approved for the model.
  • Locate wall studs or install the required structural blocking.
  • Position and level the mounting bracket.
  • Use the specified fasteners.
  • Plan the outlet and power-cord location.
  • Lift the fireplace onto the bracket.
  • Install any secondary safety screws.
  • Confirm that the unit is level and cannot pull away from the wall.

Do not turn this into a separate wall-mount guide. Approximately 150–200 words is enough to preserve relevance without diluting the built-in focus.

7. Install the Recessed Fireplace or Insert

To install a recessed electric fireplace, guide the tested appliance into the framed opening, protect the cord or wiring from pinching, level the fireplace and secure it using the mounting flanges, tabs or brackets identified in its manual. Do not block the heater intake, heat outlet, removable trim or service panels.

8. Test the Fireplace

Before finishing the installation, test the fireplace to ensure that it functions properly. Check that the following work as intended.

  • Flame display
  • Heater
  • Fan
  • Thermostat
  • Remote
  • App or smart controls
  • Ember-bed lighting
  • Unusual noises
  • Unrestricted air intake and output

9. Finishing Touches

Once you're confident that the fireplace is installed correctly and operates safely, you can complete any finishing touches, such as adding trim or decorative elements around the fireplace.

10. User Manual

Keep the fireplace's user manual in a readily accessible location for reference, especially regarding maintenance and troubleshooting.

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Corner electric fireplace in a white living room with large windows and a winter scape view.

Electric Fireplace Installation FAQs

Can an electric fireplace be installed in a wall?

Yes, if the fireplace is specifically approved for built-in or recessed installation. Follow the manufacturer’s rough-opening dimensions, mounting instructions, electrical requirements, and clearances. A surface-mount-only fireplace should not be enclosed inside a wall.

How do you install a recessed electric fireplace?

To install a recessed electric fireplace, prepare an opening based on the model’s framing diagram, complete the required electrical work, test the fireplace, place it inside the opening, level it, and secure it using the designated mounting flanges or brackets. Keep all heater vents and service panels accessible.

How do you install an electric fireplace insert?

Measure the intended opening, confirm the insert fits, prepare the approved electrical connection, and test the appliance before positioning it. Slide the insert into the opening, level and secure it as directed, and install the manufacturer-approved trim or surround without blocking airflow.

Can you put an electric fireplace insert in an existing fireplace?

Yes. Many electric fireplace inserts are designed for existing wood-burning or gas fireplace openings. The firebox should be clean, dry, structurally sound, and large enough for the insert. Address chimney leaks, dampness, loose masonry, and active gas connections before installation.

Does an electric fireplace need to be vented?

An electric fireplace does not need a chimney or combustion vent because it does not burn fuel. Heater-equipped models still require unobstructed air-intake and heat-outlet openings. Framing, trim, furniture, and décor should never block those openings.

Does an electric fireplace need a dedicated circuit?

Some electric fireplaces require or recommend a dedicated circuit, while others may use an appropriate existing circuit. The answer depends on the fireplace’s voltage, wattage, amperage, manufacturer instructions, and the other appliances connected to the circuit. Consult an electrician when the available capacity is uncertain.

Can you install an electric fireplace below a TV?

Often, yes, provided the fireplace’s heat outlet remains unobstructed and all fireplace, mantel, and television clearances are followed. There is no universal distance that applies to every installation, so check the instructions for both the fireplace and television.

Should you test an electric fireplace before installing it?

Yes. Test the flame display, heater, fan, thermostat, remote, lighting, and smart features before permanently enclosing the fireplace or adding finish materials. Testing early makes product or electrical issues easier to address.

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