How to Install an Electric Fireplace Insert

Do you have a wood-burning fireplace that’s seen better days? Did you know that restoring it to a cozy, inviting centerpiece doesn’t have to break the bank or involve complicated, messy construction? With a SimpliFire electric fireplace insert from Heat & Glo, you can update your neglected wood-burning fireplace in under an hour without the need for gas lines or venting. Read on to see exactly how it’s done!

SimpliFire electric fireplace inserts come in 25”, 30” and 35” sizes. Before ordering your SimpliFire electric insert, measure the height, width and depth of your existing fireplace opening. Whether you plan on ordering online or working with a hearth professional, these dimensions are needed to ensure you select a properly sized insert. The table below (also available in our product brochure) will guide you to the right size insert for your fireplace opening.

Once you establish what size insert you’ll need, you may notice gaps between the insert and fireplace opening. A fireplace surround (sold separately) fills these gaps. Choose from two sizes of surrounds, configurable with three or four sides.

The last critical consideration is your electrical connection. A 15 AMP, 120 Volt, 60 Hz circuit with a properly grounded outlet is required. Your SimpliFire insert comes with a power cord equipped with a standard NEMA-5-15P plug. Work with an electrician to get a receptacle placed in your existing fireplace for the cleanest look. You can also route the power cord through the bottom corner of the surround to a nearby outlet, if you prefer.

To begin, gather the following tools so they’re readily accessible:

• Tape measure
• Gloves
• Phillips screwdriver
• Level

For the how-to illustrated below, we installed a 30” SimpliFire fireplace insert into an existing masonry fireplace, using a small surround and optional 30” Mission door front to finish the look.

Seal out all drafts with non-fibrous installation materials to prevent debris or water from falling from the chimney to fireplace and close or seal the chimney flue and damper to prevent rain infiltration.

Unbox your fireplace and remove the decorative front, which is shipped attached to the fireplace via two sets of shipping brackets located on the sides and rear of fireplace.

Remove surround and hardware from packaging. For a three-sided configuration (as shown here) remove the surround bottom. Then slide the surround over the appliance from the top and attach with provided screws.

Position the appliance within the opening of the fireplace, plugging it into the power receptacle if it’s located inside the existing fireplace as it is here. (If outlet is located outside the fireplace, the cord can be routed through the bottom corner of the surround to a nearby outlet.)

Level with the included leveling backets or use shims, if necessary. The fireplace should slide into the opening until the surround contacts the wall. Note any gaps between the surround and the wall and check for level. Continue making adjustments to the leveling brackets or shims if needed until the fireplace is flush and level.

Install the front (pictured below is our optional Mission door front) by aligning hooks on the back of the front with the slots on the decorative front of the appliance and lowering the hooks into the slots, allowing bottom front magnets to engage to the fireplace.

Fire it up using the multi-function remote (included) or manual buttons found at the top of the fireplace.

You’re now set to enjoy your electric fireplace insert! We know that DIY isn’t for everyone. If you’d like help with your fireplace remodel, request a consultation and let a local pro do the job for you.