Quick Overview: This guide compares top in-wall electric fireplace heaters suited for recessed or wall-mounted installation. Features covered include installation type, heat output, flame customization, smart controls, and recommended room coverage. Below is a summary table of the five selected models reviewed in detail.
| Model | Primary Features | Heat Modes |
|---|---|---|
| Touchstone Sideline 50″ | Recessed in-wall, 30 flame options, Alexa/WiFi ready, log & crystal media | 1500W, thermostat |
| Touchstone Sideline Elite 50″ | In-wall design, 60 color combinations, smart device control, log/driftwood/crystals | 1500W, thermostat 68–88°F |
| R.W.FLAME 50″ | Ultra-thin 3.86″ profile, 12 flame colors, touch screen + remote | 750W/1500W |
| Westinghouse 50″ | Up to 144 color combinations, interchangeable log/crystal beds, Alexa/Google compatible | 750W/1500W, built-in thermostat |
| Manastin 50″ | Ultra-thin 3.94″, wide thermostat range 60–99°F, timer and 12 color options | 750W/1500W, 5000 BTU output |
Content Navigation
- Touchstone Smart Fireplace — The Sideline 50″ Wide
- Touchstone Sideline Elite Smart 50” WiFi-Enabled
- R.W.FLAME 50 inch Recessed And Wall Mounted
- Westinghouse 50 Inch Electric Fireplace Heater
- Manastin 50 Inch In-Wall Recessed Electric Fireplace
- Buying Guide: How To Choose An In-Wall Electric Fireplace Heater
Touchstone Smart Fireplace — The Sideline 50″ Wide
The Touchstone Sideline is designed for recessed in-wall mounting and offers a realistic flame display intended to mimic a traditional fireplace. The unit includes 30 ember color and flame options and five flame intensity settings to tailor the visual effect. It supports both log and crystal media and permits mixing them safely.
Installation notes: the Sideline is ventless and mounts to framing studs with cool-to-the-touch sides and back during operation. It can be hardwired or plugged in via a 6-foot cord. Electrical draw peaks at 12 amps, so circuit planning is recommended.
Heating and operation: this model provides a supplemental 1500W heater with a thermostat. The unit can run flames-only without heat for ambiance in warmer months. Controls include a remote and on-unit switches; it is marketed as Alexa/WiFi enabled (verify smart integration during setup).
Touchstone Sideline Elite Smart 50” WiFi-Enabled
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The Sideline Elite is an evolution of the Touchstone series focused on color customization and smart features. It offers 60 color combinations and independent media color control for logs, crystals, and driftwood options. The minimal black frame is intended for a sleek, modern appearance when installed recessed in-wall.
Key capabilities include a built-in thermostat adjustable from 68°F to 88°F, memory of flame settings, 3 flame speeds, and five flame/fire bed intensity levels. The unit supports both plug-in and hardwire installation and is designed for in-wall recessed mounting with included installation instructions.
Smart and convenience features allow operation via remote, wall switch, or smart device. Note that compatibility details and required hubs or skills should be reviewed before smart setup.
R.W.FLAME 50 inch Recessed And Wall Mounted
The R.W.FLAME 50-inch model emphasizes a compact profile with a 3.86-inch depth, making it suitable for narrow stud bays (fits 2×6 construction). It supports recessed, semi-recessed, or wall-mounted installation methods.
Lighting and controls: the unit provides 12 flame and LED ember bed colors, 5 flame speeds, and 5 brightness levels. Control options include a touch screen and remote. An automatic flame mode cycles color and brightness for dynamic effects.
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Heating: it offers selectable 750W and 1500W modes for energy saving or higher output and is marketed for supplemental heating up to approximately 400 sq ft. The thinner profile can simplify placement where wall depth is limited.
Westinghouse 50 Inch Electric Fireplace Heater
Westinghouse’s 50-inch in-wall model focuses on customization and smart home compatibility. The unit supports up to 144 color combinations for flame and ember displays, five brightness levels, and five flame speeds. Interchangeable faux log and crystal ember beds allow different visual styles.
Installation and dimensions: designed for standard wall-mounting or in-wall recessed flush installation, with specified fit dimensions for openings. Heat delivery uses two power modes (750W/1500W) plus a built-in thermostat adjustable between 62°F and 82°F to maintain target temperatures.
Smart features include compatibility with Alexa and Google Home. Confirm voice command requirements and network setup for your environment before purchase.
Manastin 50 Inch In-Wall Recessed Electric Fireplace
The Manastin 50-inch model emphasizes temperature control and ultra-thin integration with walls. It measures approximately 3.94 inches deep and offers both wall-mount and recessed installation options with supporting documentation and video guidance.
Heating and control: this unit advertises a wider thermostat range from 60°F to 99°F and a 5000 BTU output for supplemental heating up to roughly 400 sq ft. It supports 750W and 1500W heating modes, 12 adjustable flame colors, timer scheduling, and both touch and remote control operation.
User-focused features include a 1–12 hour timer and the ability to run flames without heat. The higher thermostat range may be beneficial where stronger localized warmth is desired.
Buying Guide: How To Choose An In-Wall Electric Fireplace Heater
Selecting the right in-wall electric fireplace involves combining installation constraints, heating needs, aesthetic preferences, and smart-home compatibility. Below are key considerations and comparison perspectives to guide decisions.
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Installation And Wall Depth
- Recessed vs. Wall Mount: Recessed models require a cavity in the wall and typically provide a flush, built-in look. Wall-mounted or semi-recessed units hang on the surface and are simpler to retrofit.
- Wall Depth and Stud Size: Ultra-thin models (≈3.2–3.9 inches) fit 2×6 stud walls and are better for shallow cavities. Confirm stud spacing and header clearance before purchasing.
- Power Options: Some units plug into standard outlets while others are hardwire-ready. Hardwiring provides a cleaner look but may require electrician services.
Heating Capacity And Efficiency
- Wattage and Coverage: Most in-wall units offer 750W/1500W settings for zonal heating up to roughly 400 sq ft. Consider the size of the room and whether the fireplace is intended for ambiance or primary heating.
- Thermostat Control: Built-in thermostats help maintain a target temperature and reduce cycling; thermostat range varies by model and affects maximum delivered warmth.
- Supplemental Heating Role: Electric fireplaces are suited for supplemental heating and may be paired with central HVAC rather than replacing it in cold climates.
Flame Realism And Customization
- Color & Brightness Options: Models range from a dozen color options to dozens or even hundreds of combinations. More options increase visual flexibility for different rooms and moods.
- Media Choices: Interchangeable logs, crystals, or driftwood give different looks; verify whether the unit ships with media sets or if they are sold separately.
- Flame Motion: Multiple speeds and automatic modes produce either subtle or dynamic flame motion; this affects the perceived realism.
Controls, Smart Features, And Convenience
- Remote, Touch, And App Control: Confirm whether the unit includes a remote, touch panel, or app/voice integration. Smart connectivity may require network compatibility or specific hubs.
- Timer And Memory: Timers and memory for last-used settings enhance convenience for overnight or routine use.
- Voice Assistant Compatibility: If Alexa/Google integration is important, verify supported commands and setup steps.
Safety And Certification
- ETL/UL Certifications: Look for recognized safety certifications to ensure electrical and thermal safety standards are met.
- Overheat Protection & Cool Touch: Features like auto-shutoff, overheat protection, and cool cabinet surfaces reduce risk in homes with pets or children.
- Ventless Operation: Most in-wall electric fireplaces are ventless. For recessed installs, ensure clearances from combustible materials and consider manufacturer recommendations for TV placement above the unit.
Design, Dimensions, And Room Fit
- Front-Facing Dimensions vs. Recessed Depth: Confirm overall front dimensions for visual fit and the required cutout/recessed dimensions for flush installation.
- Viewing Area: Larger viewing windows offer more presence; frame thickness affects the perceived built-in look.
- Room Aesthetics: Choose media and color settings that complement room decor—warmer amber tones for traditional rooms, multi-color options for contemporary spaces.
Comparative Perspective: Function vs. Form
- High Customization Models: If visual flexibility is a priority, models with extensive color combinations and interchangeable media (e.g., Sideline Elite, Westinghouse) offer more styling options.
- Shallow Wall Spaces: Ultra-thin units (R.W.FLAME, Manastin, Vitesse) are better when wall cavity depth is limited.
- Smart Home Integration: For voice control and app scheduling, verify the level of smart feature support and whether a hub or subscription is necessary.
- Heating Priority: If stronger localized heat is needed, prioritize units with wider thermostat ranges or documented BTU outputs; however, note that these remain supplemental heaters.
Practical Tips Before You Buy
- Measure the intended wall cavity and front-facing space precisely and compare with the manufacturer’s cutout dimensions.
- Check whether the product includes all media pieces and mounting hardware; consider professional installation for hardwiring or recessed work.
- Verify warranty terms and what is covered for electronics, heating elements, and finish.
- Read setup instructions for clearances from TVs or mantels—many manufacturers recommend a minimum gap above the unit.