Recessed electric heater units combine zone heating with a modern fireplace look. This guide compares five popular in-wall electric fireplaces that offer recessed installation, adjustable heat levels, flame effects, and smart controls to help you choose the best fit for living rooms, basements, or bedrooms.
| Model | Size / Wattage | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Touchstone Sideline 36″ | 36″ / 1500W | Multiple ember/flame options, log & crystal choices |
| BETELNUT 50″ | 50″ / 750/1500W | Ultra-thin, 12 color flame & crystal/log media |
| Westinghouse 60″ | 60″ / 750/1500W | 144 color combinations, Alexa & Google compatible |
| R.W.FLAME 50″ | 50″ / 750/1500W | Thinnest profile (3.86″), low noise |
| RealSmart 30″ | 30″ / 1500W | Multiple install options, slim profile |
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Touchstone Smart Fireplace The Sideline 36″
The Touchstone Sideline 36″ is designed for recessed in-wall mounting and aims to replicate a traditional fireplace with realistic flames. It offers 30 ember/flame combinations and five flame intensity settings to create varied ambiance. The unit supports log or crystal media, or a safe mix of both for different looks.
Installation notes state the Sideline can be attached to framing studs and is ventless. The sides and back remain cool to the touch during operation. It includes a 6-foot cord for plug-in use and is also hard-wire ready. The heater draws up to 12 amps and may require a 15- or 20-amp circuit depending on other loads.
BETELNUT 50″ Wall Mounted And Recessed Fireplace
The BETELNUT 50″ offers a slim tempered glass front and is suitable for both wall-mounted and recessed installs. It features 12 static colors plus color cycling for flames and fuel bed, with adjustable flame speed and brightness.
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Heating is offered in 750W and 1500W modes, and the unit includes a timer and thermostat range of 62°F–82°F. BETELNUT provides both crystal and carbon log media. The manufacturer suggests suitability for rooms up to about 400 sq ft and highlights concentrated heat output from the upper mid-front area.
Westinghouse 60 Inch Electric Fireplace Heater
The Westinghouse 60″ unit is engineered for both wall-mount and in-wall recessed installations with dimensions tailored to common openings. It offers extensive customization with up to 144 color combinations for flames and embers, five brightness levels, and five flame speeds.
Operational features include interchangeable bed sets (faux log, camphor wood, crystals), built-in thermostat adjustable between 62°F and 82°F, and dual heating modes at 750W/1500W. The unit is compatible with Alexa and Google Home for voice control integration where supported.
R.W.FLAME 50″ Recessed And Wall Mounted Fireplace
R.W.FLAME emphasizes a compact profile with a thickness of 3.86 inches, allowing fit in shallower wall cavities and 2×6 stud applications. Controls include touch screen and remote, and it provides 12 flame and LED bed colors, five flame speeds, and five brightness levels.
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This model supports energy-saving operation with selectable 750W & 1500W modes and is rated for supplemental zone heating up to approximately 400 square feet. The redesign also relocates power entry for a cleaner installation footprint and highlights low noise operation.
RealSmart 30″ Recessed Heater Insert
The RealSmart 30″ insert offers three installation options: fully recessed, partially recessed, or wall-mounted. Its slim profile is promoted for modern spaces and a high screen ratio for a broad viewing area.
Feature-wise it includes 12 flame colors, 12 bed colors, five speed and brightness levels, and a 1500W heater with a remote and timer. The unit advertises low noise and a minimal frame for a contemporary look while serving as both a decorative and functional electric heater.
Buying Guide: How To Choose A Recessed Electric Heater Fireplace
Recessed electric fireplace heaters combine visual ambiance with supplemental zone heating. Use the criteria below to compare models across performance, installation, and smart features.
Heating Performance And Coverage
- Wattage Options: Most units offer 750W and 1500W modes. 1500W is typical for heating up to ~400 sq ft depending on insulation and ceiling height.
- Thermostat And Controls: Built-in thermostats maintain a set temperature more efficiently than fixed high/low settings.
- Heat Distribution: Check where heat vents are located; top/front vents concentrate warmth forward while side vents may disperse more broadly.
Installation Requirements
- Recessed Cavity Depth: Measure wall cavity and stud depth; ultra-thin models (approx. 3.8″–6″) fit in shallower walls or 2×6 framing.
- Hardwire vs Plug-In: Plug-in units require accessible outlets; hardwire-ready units allow a cleaner recessed install but may need an electrician.
- Ventless Operation: Most electric inserts are ventless; ensure surrounding clearances per manufacturer guidance and consider TV placement above the unit.
Visual Effects And Media
- Flame Color And Brightness: More color combinations and adjustable brightness let you tailor ambiance to season and mood.
- Fuel Bed Options: Logs, crystals, driftwood, and embers change the look; interchangeable beds increase flexibility.
- Flame Speed And Animation: Multiple speeds and dynamic modes simulate a more natural flame motion.
Smart Features And Controls
- Remote And Touch Controls: Standard for convenience; touch panels can be used as primary interface when mounted in-wall.
- Voice And App Integration: Models compatible with Alexa/Google enable voice commands and routine automations.
- Timers & Memory: Timers and memory for last-used settings improve daily usability and energy savings.
Safety And Noise
- Cool-Touch Exterior: Important when installed near furniture or in homes with children and pets.
- Overheat Protection: Automatic shutoff minimizes fire risk in case of blockage or malfunction.
- Operational Noise: Lower fan noise contributes to comfort in bedrooms or home offices; check decibel claims or user feedback.
Design, Size & Room Fit
- Unit Width vs. Opening: Ensure the fireplace front and back dimensions match your framing opening for a clean recessed fit.
- Frame Finish And Bezel: Minimal frames provide a contemporary look; some units offer optional surrounds for flush integration.
- Viewing Area Ratio: Higher screen-to-frame ratio yields a more immersive flame view relative to overall unit size.
Energy Use And Operating Costs
- Dual Power Modes: Using 750W mode or flame-only settings reduces energy use when full heat is unnecessary.
- Thermostat Cycling: Efficient thermostats maintain temperature with less runtime compared to on/off fixed modes.
- Supplemental Heating Strategy: Use recessed electric heaters for targeted spaces rather than whole-home heating to manage energy costs.
Comparison Perspectives
- Performance-Focused Buyers: Prioritize models with reliable 1500W output, built-in thermostat, and efficient heat dispersion (check placement of vents).
- Design-Focused Buyers: Choose units with extensive color combos, interchangeable fuel beds, and minimal bezels for a visual centerpiece.
- Installation-Conscious Buyers: For shallow cavities or retrofit installs, select ultra-thin units or those explicitly rated for 2×6 studs and multiple installation methods.
- Smart Home Integrators: Look for Alexa/Google support or WiFi-enabled units to include the fireplace in routines and voice controls.
Using the above criteria helps match a recessed electric heater fireplace to room size, installation constraints, and desired features such as smart control, low profile design, or advanced flame realism.
Tips for Getting the Best HVAC Prices
- Prioritize Quality Over Cost
The most critical factor in any HVAC project is the quality of the installation. Don’t compromise on contractor expertise just to save money. - Check for Rebates
Always research current rebates and incentives — they can significantly reduce your overall cost. - Compare Multiple Quotes
Request at least three estimates before making your choice. You can click here to get three free quotes from local professionals. These quotes include available rebates and tax credits and automatically exclude unqualified contractors. - Negotiate Smartly
Once you've chosen a contractor, use the proven strategies from our guide — How Homeowners Can Negotiate with HVAC Dealers — to get the best possible final price.