Electric Fireplace Installation Cost: Complete 2026 Budget Guide
The total cost to install an electric fireplace can range from a relatively simple plug-in setup to a major custom remodeling project. A wall-mounted fireplace may require little more than secure mounting and nearby electrical access, while a recessed fireplace, traditional insert or floor-to-ceiling media wall may require an electrician, framing contractor, drywall installer and finish specialist.
For that reason, there is no single electric fireplace installation price that applies to every home.
As a general planning guide, a basic wall-mounted project may cost hundreds of dollars beyond the fireplace itself, while professionally recessed and built-in projects commonly move into the low thousands. A custom media wall with stone, cabinetry, lighting or a multi-sided fireplace can cost several thousand dollars or considerably more.
The most accurate way to establish your budget is to separate the project into six categories:
- The electric fireplace unit
- Electrical work
- Framing and construction
- Drywall and wall finishing
- Decorative materials
- Professional labor, permits and design services
This guide explains each expense so you can choose the right fireplace and avoid unexpected costs after construction begins.
How Much Does Electric Fireplace Installation Cost?
Electric fireplace installation costs vary primarily according to the fireplace format and the amount of construction required around it.
| Project type | General planning range | Typical work involved |
|---|---|---|
| Plug-in or freestanding setup | Minimal installation cost beyond the unit | Placement, assembly and connection to an approved outlet |
| Basic wall-mounted fireplace | Approximately $500–$2,500+ including the unit | Mounting, wall reinforcement, outlet work and cord concealment |
| Recessed electric fireplace | Approximately $1,500–$3,000+ including the unit | Framing, electrical work, drywall, trim and paint |
| Existing fireplace conversion | Highly dependent on the opening and existing utilities | Insert installation, electrical access, trim and possible masonry changes |
| Custom built-in fireplace | Approximately $2,000–$10,000+ | Custom framing, electrical work, mantel, surround, hearth and finishing |
| Custom media wall | Several thousand dollars to a fully custom construction budget | Fireplace, television integration, framing, wiring, finishes, cabinetry and lighting |
These are broad planning ranges rather than guaranteed quotes. Your actual cost will depend on the fireplace model, project location, local labor rates, wall construction, electrical access and selected finish materials.
The critical distinction is whether an estimate covers only the fireplace and basic installation or the complete finished wall surrounding it.
The Electric Fireplace Is Only One Part of the Project Cost
Homeowners sometimes begin by comparing fireplace prices without accounting for the cost of creating the finished installation.
A more accurate formula is:
Total project cost = fireplace unit + electrical work + framing + wall finishing + decorative materials + labor + permits or design costs.
For a straightforward wall-mounted installation, the fireplace may represent most of the budget. For a luxury media wall, the stone, cabinetry, electrical relocation and construction labor may collectively cost more than the fireplace itself.
This is why two homeowners purchasing similarly priced electric fireplaces can end up with completely different total project costs.
Electric Fireplace Cost by Installation Type
Freestanding or Plug-In Electric Fireplace Cost
A freestanding or plug-in electric fireplace generally has the lowest installation cost. These units may be placed in the room and connected to a compatible existing outlet without permanent wall construction.
Potential expenses include:
- The fireplace or fireplace mantel package
- Furniture-style assembly
- Minor wall anchoring
- Installation of a suitable nearby outlet
When a correctly positioned electrical outlet already exists, there may be little professional installation expense beyond delivery and assembly.
This format offers affordability and flexibility, but it normally does not create the seamless architectural appearance of a recessed or fully built-in fireplace.
Wall-Mounted Electric Fireplace Cost
Wall-mounted electric fireplaces are installed against the face of a wall in a way that is similar to mounting a television or large decorative panel.
A basic project may include:
- Secure mounting hardware
- Wall anchors or structural blocking
- Locating wall studs
- Installing or relocating an outlet
- Concealing the power cord
- Repairing and painting minor wall damage
The project becomes more expensive when the wall needs reinforcement, the power cord must be completely hidden or electrical service must be added at the fireplace location.
Some electric fireplaces allow both wall-mounted and partially recessed installation. Verify the permitted installation configurations in the exact model manual before deciding how the fireplace will be positioned.
Recessed Electric Fireplace Installation Cost
A recessed electric fireplace is set partially or fully into the wall so that the front of the unit sits close to the finished wall surface.
This installation commonly requires:
- Opening an existing wall or building a new framed wall
- Creating the manufacturer-specified rough opening
- Providing the required wall depth
- Routing electrical service
- Installing drywall or another approved finishing substrate
- Applying trim, joint compound and paint
- Maintaining required ventilation and service access
Published cost guides commonly place professionally installed recessed fireplaces around $1,500 to $3,000 or more when the unit and standard installation are included. Larger premium fireplaces and custom finishes can move the project well above that range.
Browse Resideterra’s built-in electric fireplaces to compare models designed for integrated installations.
Built-In Electric Fireplace Cost
The terms recessed and built-in are sometimes used interchangeably, but a complete built-in project may involve substantially more work than simply recessing a thin fireplace into a wall.
A full built-in installation may include:
- A newly framed fireplace wall
- A traditional mantel and surround
- A hearth
- Tile, stone or slab materials
- Custom millwork
- Integrated shelving
- Lighting
- Television mounting and concealed wiring
Depending on the scope, custom built-in projects can range from a few thousand dollars to $10,000 or more. The upper end usually reflects extensive carpentry, premium finish materials and a complete architectural transformation rather than the fireplace installation alone.
Homeowners deciding between installation formats should read our guide to electric fireplace inserts versus built-in fireplaces.
Electric Fireplace Insert Installation Cost
An electric fireplace insert can be installed inside an existing fireplace opening or incorporated into a traditional mantel and surround.
Potential costs include:
- The electric fireplace insert
- Accurate measurement of the existing opening
- Removal of old fireplace components
- Electrical access inside or near the opening
- A custom trim kit or filler panel
- Surround adjustments
- Masonry modifications
- Closing or modifying an existing gas connection
Using an existing opening may reduce the need to build a new wall. However, an uneven masonry opening, limited depth or missing electrical access may create additional labor.
Measure the opening at multiple points because older masonry fireplaces are not always perfectly square. Verify the width, height and depth against the manufacturer’s installation requirements before ordering.
Explore available electric fireplace inserts for traditional fireplace conversions and built-in projects.
Multi-Sided Electric Fireplace Installation Cost
A multi-sided electric fireplace can be viewed from the front and one or both sides. These models are frequently installed in room dividers, peninsula walls, corners and large open-concept spaces.
Installation may cost more because the project can require:
- A deeper or wider framed enclosure
- Finished surfaces on multiple sides
- More precise alignment
- Additional edge detailing
- Premium stone, tile or slab fabrication
- Greater coordination among trades
The fireplace price, framing depth and number of exposed viewing sides should all be confirmed before the wall is designed.
Electric Fireplace Media Wall Cost
A fireplace media wall combines an electric fireplace with a television and may also include shelving, cabinets, speakers, lighting and decorative wall finishes.
The complete budget may include:
- A premium linear electric fireplace
- Structural framing
- Electrical outlets for the fireplace and television
- Low-voltage wiring
- HDMI, ethernet or speaker wiring
- Television mounting hardware
- Drywall or cement board
- Paint, plaster, tile, stone or porcelain slab
- Custom cabinetry
- Floating shelves
- Accent lighting
- Finish carpentry
- Contractor and design labor
A relatively simple drywall media wall may remain within a moderate construction budget. A floor-to-ceiling stone wall with cabinetry and a large premium fireplace can become a major remodeling investment.
The term “electric fireplace installation cost” can therefore be misleading when a homeowner is actually budgeting for a complete custom media wall.
Browse Resideterra’s linear electric fireplaces to compare models suited to contemporary feature-wall installations.
What Makes Electric Fireplace Installation More Expensive?
Electrical Access
A correctly positioned existing outlet can simplify installation. Costs can increase when the project requires:
- A new outlet
- A dedicated circuit
- Hardwiring
- A longer wiring run
- Opening and repairing finished walls
- Electrical panel modifications
- Upgrading outdated wiring
Current cost guides estimate approximately $150 to $350 for a new outlet and roughly $250 to $900 for a new electrical circuit, although local electrician pricing may differ significantly.
Do not assume that an existing outlet is automatically appropriate for the selected fireplace. The electrician should review the model’s voltage, amperage, wattage and circuit requirements.
120V Versus 240V Installation
Electric fireplaces may be designed for 120-volt operation, 240-volt operation or a configurable connection that supports both. The exact electrical requirements vary by model.
A 120V fireplace may sometimes connect to a standard approved household circuit. A 240V configuration normally requires appropriate dedicated wiring and professional electrical work.
Some premium models may produce different heating output depending on how they are connected. However, voltage capability and performance should never be generalized across an entire brand or collection.
Select the exact fireplace before the electrician finalizes the circuit.
Both Modern Flames and Dimplex provide model-specific installation manuals and specification documents. Those documents—not a generic installation article—should control the final electrical and framing plan.
Wall Depth and Framing Requirements
A slim fireplace may fit inside a standard or slightly modified wall. A deeper firebox, traditional fireplace or multi-sided model may require a newly framed projection into the room.
Wall-depth costs can include:
- Lumber or metal framing
- Modification of existing studs
- Headers or additional support
- Drywall on multiple surfaces
- Baseboard and flooring adjustments
- Relocation of outlets, switches or ducts
Before choosing a model, determine how far the finished fireplace wall can extend into the room without disrupting walkways or furniture placement.
Fireplace Size and Weight
A larger fireplace generally costs more to purchase and may also require more labor to transport, position and install.
Long linear fireplaces can require:
- Multiple installers
- A larger rough opening
- More framing material
- More drywall or finish material
- Greater precision during leveling and alignment
The fireplace width should also be proportionate to the wall and television. Choosing the correct size before construction helps prevent expensive revisions later.
Finish Materials
The finish surrounding the fireplace can have a major effect on the total project cost.
Common options include:
- Painted drywall
- Venetian plaster
- Wood slat panels
- Ceramic or porcelain tile
- Large-format porcelain slabs
- Manufactured stone veneer
- Natural stone slabs
- Custom cabinetry and millwork
Painted drywall is normally one of the most economical finishes. Large-format slab materials and natural stone may require templating, fabrication, specialized installation and additional structural planning.
Television Integration
Installing a television above an electric fireplace can add costs that are not technically part of the fireplace installation.
These may include:
- A recessed television outlet
- Low-voltage cable routing
- Wall blocking for the mounting bracket
- An in-wall media box
- Speaker or network wiring
- Television mounting labor
- Planning around the fireplace heat outlet
Confirm the fireplace’s heat-discharge location and required clearances before determining the final television height. Never rely on a universal fireplace-to-television spacing rule when the manufacturer provides model-specific instructions.
Existing Fireplace Modifications
Converting a wood-burning or gas fireplace to electric can involve work beyond installing the new insert.
Additional expenses may include:
- Removal of an old insert
- Professional disconnection or capping of a gas line
- Chimney sealing or modification
- Masonry repair
- Cleaning the existing firebox
- Creating electrical access
- Fabricating custom trim
Any gas-line work should be completed by a qualified professional according to local requirements.
Local Labor Rates and Permits
Electrician, carpenter, drywall and finish-trade rates vary by region. The same installation may cost substantially more in a high-cost metropolitan area than in a lower-cost market.
Local authorities may also require an electrical or building permit, particularly when a new circuit, structural framing or major wall construction is involved.
Ask the selected trades who is responsible for permits, inspections and code compliance before work begins.
Fireplace Unit Cost Versus Installation Cost
The price of the fireplace is not always the best predictor of the total project budget.
Consider two premium fireplaces that cost approximately the same amount. One may be a shallow front-facing model that fits into a relatively simple framed wall. The other may be a deeper three-sided unit requiring additional framing, multiple finished surfaces and more complicated slab fabrication.
The second project could cost substantially more even though the fireplace units were similarly priced.
When comparing models, review:
- Overall dimensions
- Viewing dimensions
- Required rough opening
- Firebox depth
- Front-facing or multi-sided configuration
- Required voltage
- Plug-in or hardwired connection
- Heater outlet location
- Clearance requirements
- Included trim
- Required finishing materials
- Future service access
Choosing the model based only on fireplace price can result in unexpected construction costs after the project has already started.
Example Electric Fireplace Project Budgets
The examples below illustrate how project scope changes the budget. They are not fixed quotes and do not represent every home or labor market.
Example 1: Basic Bedroom Wall-Mounted Fireplace
A homeowner mounts a slim electric fireplace on an existing bedroom wall near a suitable outlet.
The budget may include:
- The fireplace
- Wall mounting labor
- Minor wall reinforcement
- Basic cord concealment
- Touch-up painting
This is generally one of the least expensive permanent installation paths because it requires little framing or finish work.
Example 2: Recessed Living-Room Fireplace
A homeowner recesses a linear fireplace into a newly framed bump-out wall.
The budget may include:
- The fireplace
- Framing lumber
- Electrical work
- Drywall installation
- Joint compound and sanding
- Paint
- Contractor labor
This project commonly enters the low-thousands range because multiple trades may be involved even when the finish is relatively simple.
Example 3: Existing Traditional Fireplace Conversion
A homeowner installs an electric firebox inside an unused masonry fireplace.
The budget may include:
- The insert
- Removal of old fireplace components
- Electrical service inside the opening
- Custom filler panels or trim
- Minor masonry or surround repair
The existing opening may reduce framing expenses, but electrical access and custom fitment determine whether the project remains simple.
Example 4: Modern Fireplace Media Wall
A homeowner builds a full-height drywall feature wall with a linear fireplace and television.
The budget may include:
- A premium linear fireplace
- Framing
- Fireplace electrical service
- Television and low-voltage wiring
- Drywall and paint
- Television mounting
- Contractor labor
The project becomes more expensive if it also includes cabinetry, shelving, speakers or specialty finishes.
Example 5: Luxury Three-Sided Feature Wall
A homeowner uses a premium multi-sided fireplace as part of a room divider finished in large-format stone or porcelain slab.
The budget may include:
- A large multi-sided fireplace
- Custom-depth framing
- Dedicated electrical work
- Multiple finished wall surfaces
- Slab templating and fabrication
- Specialized material installation
- Architectural detailing
- General contractor coordination
This is a custom construction project and may exceed broad national fireplace-installation averages by a significant margin.
Can You Install an Electric Fireplace Yourself?
Some plug-in and wall-mounted electric fireplaces may be suitable for experienced homeowners who can safely follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
A simple DIY project might involve:
- Assembling a freestanding mantel package
- Positioning a plug-in insert
- Mounting an approved wall-mounted fireplace
- Connecting the unit to an existing suitable outlet
Professional help is more appropriate when the project involves:
- Hardwiring
- A new electrical circuit
- 240V service
- Opening or modifying a wall
- Structural framing
- Heavy stone or slab materials
- Gas-line disconnection
- A multi-sided fireplace
- Uncertainty about local codes
Even when you plan to perform some finish work yourself, electrical work should be handled according to local licensing and code requirements.
Do You Need an Electrician to Install an Electric Fireplace?
You may not need an electrician for a simple plug-in fireplace when an approved, correctly positioned outlet and suitable circuit are already available.
An electrician should generally review the project when:
- The fireplace must be hardwired
- A new outlet is required
- The unit needs a dedicated circuit
- The installation uses 240V service
- The existing circuit capacity is uncertain
- The wiring is outdated
- The fireplace and television wiring must be coordinated
- The power connection will be concealed inside a wall
The selected fireplace manual should be provided to the electrician before the electrical plan is finalized.
Do Electric Fireplaces Require Venting or a Chimney?
Electric fireplaces do not burn wood or gas, so they do not require a combustion chimney, gas exhaust vent or traditional flue.
This generally makes them easier and less expensive to install than many gas or wood-burning fireplaces.
However, the absence of a chimney does not eliminate all installation requirements. The project must still account for:
- Electrical service
- Manufacturer clearances
- Heater airflow
- Framing dimensions
- Wall-finish requirements
- Service access
- Local electrical and building codes
Never block the fireplace’s heat outlet or required ventilation areas with trim, stone, cabinetry or a television.
How to Reduce Electric Fireplace Installation Costs
The best way to control the budget is to make the important decisions before construction starts.
- Select the exact fireplace first. Do not frame a generic opening and assume the preferred model will fit later.
- Download the installation manual. Give it to the electrician, contractor and finish installer.
- Confirm the wall depth. Determine whether the unit fits inside the existing wall or requires a framed projection.
- Use existing electrical access when appropriate. A long wiring run or panel modification can add cost.
- Choose a simpler wall finish. Painted drywall generally costs less than custom stone, slab or cabinetry.
- Coordinate the trades. Framing, electrical work and finish installation should follow the same approved dimensions.
- Plan the television before wiring. Confirm television height, power, low-voltage routing and heat clearances early.
- Avoid switching fireplace models mid-project. A different model may require a new opening, depth or electrical connection.
- Measure existing openings carefully. Record width, height and depth at multiple points.
- Preserve service access. A fully sealed installation may create costly problems if the unit later needs inspection or service.
How to Budget for a Modern Flames Installation
Modern Flames electric fireplaces are available in several installation formats, so the total project cost can vary significantly between series.
Modern Flames Redstone
The Modern Flames Redstone Series is particularly relevant for traditional built-in installations and existing fireplace conversions.
The budget may need to account for:
- Fitment inside the opening
- Electrical access
- Trim around the firebox
- Minor surround modifications
Modern Flames Spectrum Slimline
The Spectrum Slimline Series is designed for a contemporary linear appearance and may support wall-mounted or integrated applications depending on the model.
A simple installation will cost less than a full feature wall using the same fireplace.
Modern Flames Landscape Pro
The Modern Flames Landscape Pro Series is commonly considered for premium linear installations.
The final project cost depends on the fireplace width, installation depth, wall finish and whether the fireplace is incorporated into a television wall.
Modern Flames Orion
The Modern Flames Orion Series includes both traditional and linear formats with highly immersive flame presentations.
An Orion Traditional installation inside a prepared opening will have a different budget from a large Orion linear or multi-view feature wall.
Read our complete Modern Flames Orion review for a closer look at the series.
How to Budget for a Dimplex Installation
Resideterra’s Dimplex electric fireplace collection includes premium linear models suited to recessed walls, media walls and multi-sided installations.
Dimplex Ignite models may support different installation and electrical configurations depending on the exact product.
When budgeting for a Dimplex installation, confirm:
- The model width and depth
- The required framing opening
- Front-facing or multi-sided configuration
- 120V or 240V electrical requirements
- Hardwired or approved plug-kit installation
- Required clearances
- The placement of the heat outlet
- Finish-material limitations
Dimplex provides model-specific product resources, manuals and specification documents. Review the relevant documents before construction begins.
Homeowners comparing Resideterra’s two fireplace brands can also read Modern Flames vs. Dimplex electric fireplaces.
Is an Electric Fireplace Worth the Installation Cost?
An electric fireplace can be worth the investment when it delivers the design, ambiance and supplemental heating benefits you want without requiring a combustion chimney or gas line.
Potential advantages include:
- No wood storage
- No ash or soot cleanup
- No traditional combustion chimney
- No gas line for standard electric-only operation
- Flexible installation locations
- Supplemental room heating on equipped models
- Flame operation without heat on many models
- Customizable flame and ember-bed effects
- Lower routine maintenance than many combustion fireplaces
The value depends on selecting the correct product and budgeting for the complete finished installation—not only the fireplace unit.
A properly planned electric fireplace can become a long-term architectural feature rather than an appliance that appears added to the wall as an afterthought.
Electric Fireplace Budget Checklist
Complete this checklist before ordering your fireplace or authorizing construction:
- The exact fireplace model has been selected.
- The overall dimensions have been verified.
- The visible viewing dimensions have been reviewed.
- The required framing opening has been confirmed.
- The available wall depth has been measured.
- The desired viewing configuration has been selected.
- The voltage has been confirmed.
- The circuit and wiring requirements have been reviewed.
- The heat outlet location has been identified.
- Television placement and clearances have been reviewed.
- The wall-finish material has been selected.
- Electrical, framing and finishing labor have been estimated.
- Potential permits have been discussed.
- The installation manual has been shared with all relevant trades.
- The total fireplace and construction budget has been approved.
Final Takeaway
The cost to install an electric fireplace depends much more on the complete project scope than on a single national average.
A plug-in or basic wall-mounted fireplace may require little construction. A recessed fireplace may involve electrical work, framing, drywall and paint. A premium media wall or multi-sided installation can become a substantial remodeling project involving several trades and high-end finish materials.
The most important step is to select the exact fireplace before framing, electrical work or finish-material fabrication begins.
Browse all electric fireplaces at Resideterra, including premium models from Modern Flames and Dimplex.
For help comparing fireplace dimensions, installation formats and product specifications before ordering, contact the Resideterra team or call 1-888-989-1337.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to install an electric fireplace?
A simple plug-in fireplace may require little additional installation expense. Wall-mounted projects commonly cost hundreds to a few thousand dollars including the unit, while recessed and built-in installations may cost several thousand dollars. Custom media walls and architectural fireplace features can cost substantially more.
How much does a built-in electric fireplace cost to install?
A professionally installed recessed fireplace commonly starts in the low thousands when the unit, electrical work, framing and standard finishing are included. A complete custom built-in with a mantel, stone, cabinetry or other architectural finishes may range from several thousand dollars to $10,000 or more.
Is it expensive to recess an electric fireplace?
Recessing an electric fireplace costs more than simply mounting one on the wall because the project may require framing, electrical work, drywall, trim and painting. The price depends on whether the existing wall can accommodate the unit or a new bump-out wall must be constructed.
How much does an electric fireplace media wall cost?
A media wall can cost several thousand dollars depending on its size and finishes. Painted drywall is generally more affordable, while natural stone, large-format slabs, cabinetry, lighting and concealed audiovisual wiring can significantly increase the budget.
Do you need an electrician to install an electric fireplace?
An electrician may not be necessary for a simple plug-in model connected to an appropriate existing outlet. An electrician should generally be involved when the project requires hardwiring, a new outlet, a dedicated circuit, 240V service or concealed in-wall electrical work.
Can you install an electric fireplace yourself?
Some freestanding, plug-in and approved wall-mounted fireplaces may be installed by capable homeowners following the manufacturer’s instructions. Built-in, hardwired, multi-sided and custom-finished installations are normally better suited to qualified professionals.
Does an electric fireplace need a dedicated circuit?
Some electric fireplaces require or recommend a dedicated circuit, while others may operate from an approved existing circuit. Requirements vary by model, voltage and heating output. Review the exact installation manual and consult a qualified electrician.
Is an electric fireplace cheaper to install than a gas fireplace?
Electric fireplaces are generally less expensive and less complex to install because they do not require a gas line or combustion venting. However, a custom electric fireplace media wall with premium finishes can still become a significant construction project.
Do you need a permit to install an electric fireplace?
Permit requirements depend on the location and scope of the work. A basic plug-in unit may not require a permit, while a new circuit, structural framing or major remodeling project may require electrical or building approval.
Should I buy the electric fireplace before hiring the contractor?
You should select the exact fireplace model before the contractor finalizes framing and before the electrician completes the wiring plan. The unit’s dimensions, wall depth, voltage, clearances and heat-outlet location affect the entire installation.
