If you’re looking to convert your existing fireplace to electric then the type of fireplace you may want to look at buying is a plug-in electric fireplace insert.

As the name suggests, plug-in electric fireplaces come with an integrated power cable and plug and so simply need to be plugged into a standard home electrical outlet to work.

To help a plug-in insert to look more built in you’ll ideally need to have an electrical outlet installed within your fireplace to provide power. The downside in doing so is that you can’t then use your open fireplace for burning firewood unless you have the outlet removed.

Plug-in electric fireplace inserts take up the whole opening of the existing fireplace.

As traditional open fireplaces come in all sort of shapes and sizes you won’t typically need to look at buying one that fits your fireplace opening perfectly, but more commonly one that is slightly smaller that will fit without any issues (but will leave a small gap).

You can then use a further surround for the insert to plug the gap between the edge of the insert and the edge of the existing fireplace opening.

For more information see our complete buyers guide to the best electric fireplace inserts for your existing fireplace.

Plug-In Electric Fireplace Inserts – Summary

Plug-in electric inserts are the ideal type of fireplace for when you want to put an electric fireplace in your existing open fireplace.

They come as complete firebox units with the fake ember bed inside.

You’ll need to buy one that is smaller than your fireplace opening to ensure that it fits.

You may need to take into account clearance out the back of the unit.

An electrical outlet will need to be installed on the inside of the existing fireplace in order to accommodate installation of the electric insert and provide power.