Built-In Electric Fireplaces: Recessed & In-Wall

Choosing a built in electric fireplace

What is a built-in electric fireplace?

A built-in electric fireplace is a recessed unit that sits inside a framed opening in the wall, so the front ends up flush or close to flush with the drywall or stone. People also call these in-wall or recessed electric fireplaces. Because there's no fuel and no exhaust, you can put one on an interior wall, under a TV or in a media wall without planning a vent run.

This collection covers the recessed models from Amantii, Remii and Sierra Flame, plus the inserts that fit into an existing fireplace. The Amantii range includes the TRD traditional sizes, the Panorama Xtraslim, Slim and Deep series, the SYM series from 34 to 100 inches and the three-sided TRV and Tru-View units. Remii offers the 102745 family in XS, DE and XT depths and the Bay Slim line. Sierra Flame adds its INS-FM inserts with steel surrounds.

How deep a wall do I need for a recessed electric fireplace?

It depends on the series. The thinnest units are built for a standard 2-by-4 wall. The Amantii TRD Xtraslim models are about 4 1/8 inches deep and support mounted or recessed installation in a 2-by-4 wall, and the Panorama Xtraslim is about 4 inches deep. Deep and extra-tall series need more room behind the wall, often a framed bump-out. The manual gives the framing depth for each model.

Some models also support semi-flush mounting, where the unit sits partly in the wall and partly proud of it. That's a good option when the stud cavity is too shallow for a full recess. Whichever you pick, frame to the rough opening in the installation manual. The width and height on the product listing describe the unit itself, not the opening.

Related: Electric Fireplace Inserts · 3 Sided Electric Fireplaces · Outdoor Electric Fireplaces · Fireplace Accessories

How is a built-in electric fireplace wired?

Most built-in units are hardwire ready, and a few also have a plug. Check the listing and the manual for the circuit the model needs, and have a licensed electrician run it before the wall is closed up. Several Amantii models are also thermostat hard-wire ready, so you can add a wall thermostat during the same rough-in.

Plan the finish at the same time. Some units, like the Sierra Flame INS-FM inserts, include a surround, and the manual lists the clearances for combustible materials above and around the opening.