An electric fireplace insert must be of the right dimensions in order to fit inside the opening and firebox of an existing fireplace.

Electric inserts typically have a:

• Front area that sits outside of the existing fireplace and covers the sides and top of the existing fireplace opening. This is often finished off with a trim.
• Back area that sits within the firebox of the existing fireplace once installed.

To measure for an electric fireplace insert take dimensions of the existing fireplace including the height, width and depth. Choose an electric insert that has a back area just smaller than these dimensions for the most optimal fit.

If the electric insert is too big for the existing fireplace then it won’t fit in though the opening.

If the electric fireplace insert is too small then the front (trim) area won’t cover the sides.

If the electric insert is too deep then the insert won’t fit snug inside the firebox and stick out when installed.

For example, as our existing fireplace has obscure dimensions, we chose an electric fireplace insert based on the width of the existing fireplace.

This ensured that our electric insert could fit nicely inside this fireplace and cover the sides with the trim.

The top of the fireplace isn’t covered by the insert but we’ll use a back panel to cover this area over.

There’s enough clearance out the back of the insert when installed for air circulation and the heater air inlet isn’t blocked.