An electric fireplace is one of the easiest ways to add warmth and a focal point to a room. There's no chimney, no gas line and no venting, and most models run flames with or without heat, so you can enjoy them all year. But with built-in, wall mount, insert and 3-sided designs in sizes from under 30" to 100", choosing the right one can feel overwhelming.
This guide walks you through the six decisions that matter most, so you can buy once and get it right.
1. Choose your installation type
Start with how the fireplace will sit in your wall. This narrows your options more than anything else.
- Wall mount (hang-on-the-wall): The simplest option. Hang it like a TV and plug it in. Ideal for renters, quick upgrades and rooms where you don't want to open up a wall. Example: Evolution Linear by Fire & Ice.
- Built-in (recessed): The fireplace sits inside a framed opening so the front is flush with your wall. This is the clean, modern media-wall look. You'll need to frame a rough opening to the size in the manual. Examples: Amantii Symmetry Bespoke, Panorama Slim.
- Insert: Designed to slot into an existing wood-burning or gas fireplace opening. A great way to modernise an old fireplace without renovation. Examples: Amantii TRD Bespoke, Fire & Ice Classic Edition.
- 3-sided: Glass on the front and both sides, so the flame can be seen from more of the room. Perfect for corners, room dividers and statement walls. Example: Amantii Tru-View Bespoke.
2. Get the size right
The most common mistake is choosing a fireplace that looks too small once it's on the wall. A few rules of thumb:
- Measure the wall, not just the space. Linear fireplaces look best when they leave comfortable breathing room on each side rather than filling the wall edge to edge.
- Going under a TV? Many people choose a fireplace close to the width of their TV, or slightly wider, so the two read as one feature.
- Check the rough opening, not the advertised size. A "60-inch" fireplace is a model name. The exact frame and rough opening dimensions are in the spec sheet, and those are what your builder needs.
- Check depth. Slim built-in models can be as little as 4" deep and suit standard stud walls. Deeper models (around 12") give a fuller, more realistic flame bed but need more cavity space.
3. Understand heat output
Most electric fireplaces are designed for supplemental or "zone" heating, warming the room you're in rather than the whole house. Many Amantii models produce up to around 5,000 BTU, which the manufacturer rates for roughly 400 to 500 sq. ft. Check each product's spec sheet for its exact rating.
Because the flame and heater work independently, you can run the flames on their own in warmer months for ambiance only.
4. Plug-in or hardwired?
Many electric fireplaces simply plug into a standard 120V outlet. Many built-in models can also be hardwired for a cleaner install with no visible cord, and some can be wired to a wall thermostat. If you're hardwiring, building it into a wall or installing outdoors, we recommend using a licensed electrician and following the manufacturer's manual and local electrical codes.
5. Indoor, outdoor, or both?
Some electric fireplaces are rated for indoor or outdoor installation, making them a great option for covered patios and alfresco areas. Others are indoor only. Always check the rating on the product page, follow the outdoor installation instructions exactly, and use a protective cover where the manufacturer requires one.
6. Know what's in the box
Media (the logs, fire glass or stones in the flame bed) makes a huge difference to the final look, and what's included varies by model:
- Some fireplaces come with fire glass or a log set included.
- Log sets are no longer included with most Amantii Bespoke models and are sold separately as add-ons, from 10-piece birch or oak sets to larger driftwood and split-log kits.
- Many models let you mix media, such as logs over fire glass, and change flame and ember-bed colours from the remote or app.
Order your media kit with your fireplace so everything arrives together.
Quick comparison: which Amantii fits your home?
| Model | Best for | Style | From |
|---|---|---|---|
| Evolution Linear (Fire & Ice) | Plug-in, no renovation | Wall hanging | $999 |
| Classic Edition (Fire & Ice) | Upgrading an old fireplace on a budget | Traditional insert | $999 |
| Symmetry Bespoke | Modern media walls | Built-in linear | $2,299 |
| TRD Bespoke | Premium traditional look | Insert | $2,299 |
| Tru-View Bespoke | Corners, room dividers, statement walls | 3-sided glass | $3,399 |
Prices are starting prices for the smallest size and may change. See each product page for current pricing.
Frequently asked questions
Do electric fireplaces need venting or a chimney?
No. Electric fireplaces produce no combustion, so there's no chimney, flue, gas line or venting required.
Can I put a TV above an electric fireplace?
Many people do, and front-heating models are designed with this in mind. Always check the clearances in the installation manual for your specific model.
Can I run the flames without heat?
Yes. Most models let you run the flame effect with the heater off, so you can enjoy the look all year.
Do they come with a warranty?
Yes. Coverage varies by model. For example, Amantii's Bespoke range carries a 5-year manufacturer warranty. Check the product page for your model's warranty.
Need help choosing?
As an authorized Amantii dealer, we're happy to help you pick the right fireplace, size and media for your space. Call or text (844) 697-7395, email support@mantra-one.com, or browse our full fireplace collection.
