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Are you building a new fireplace or updating your existing design?
Want to save $1,000s and the hassles of installing a custom-built unit?
Then installing a builder’s box (built-in) fireplace insert could be your solution.
What’s In This Buying Guide
What Is A “Builders Box” Fireplace?
Builders box fireplace inserts are self-contained fireplace units designed to be installed into an existing fireplace opening by a trained installer or by a skilled do-it-yourself homeowner.
Most units are electric or natural gas. Many are ventless and can be operated with or without heat, allowing you to enjoy them all year long.
There are dozens of builders box fireplaces on the market today. They are mostly sold via online vendors like Amazon.com and in most home supply stores (Home Depot, Lowes).
Priced in-between a standalone fireplace insert and a custom-made or build-to-order manufactured fireplace, builder’s box inserts cost from $250 for a small electric unit up to more than $1,000 for a high-end modern ventless unit with artificial flame effects.
What To Look For In a Builders Box Fireplace
Typical Builder’s Box Insert
Aside from what you would look for in any fireplace insert, the additional feature to look for in a builder’s box includes the ability to do a turnkey installation.
The unit should come with all parts, installation frames, trim pieces, and gas/electrical connections so that installation into an existing fireplace mantle or opening is easy.
Remember, you may be paying a professional installer to install your firebox, and time is money.
Top 5 Builders Box Fireplace Inserts
Note: some links below are Amazon.com affiliate links (learn more)
Using our rating system, we’ve selected the following five builder’s box inserts as our top picks this year.
We’ve picked inserts for electric, wood-burning, and gas installations, in several sizes.
1. Classic Flame 36″ 110V Builders Box Traditional 36EB110-GRT
If you want the benefits of a fireplace without the hassles associated with traditional log fireplaces, then this is the unit for you.
This popular Classic Flame model offers a variety of installation options, allowing for different styles. The fact that you can operate it with or without heat also makes it ideal for use throughout the year.
With its traditional log design and black matte finish, the Classic Flame 36EB110-GRT matches most home decors as well as offers a source of heat for average-sized rooms, when the weather turns cold.
Best Features
1. Great style
The all-black matte finish gives the fireplace a very attractive look. Combine this with the realistic-looking Flame, and you have a fireplace that adds to any room’s style and decor.
2. Two power connection options
The product comes with a 3-prong plug that can be plugged into a 120V 3-Prong wall socket. Alternatively, the fireplace can be hardwired, although you will need the services of a professional electrician to do it. An integrated junction box is included along with the unit for those who choose to hardwire.
3. LED indicators
LED indicators found on the fireplace insert to display a digital thermostat that lets you control the amount of heat emitted; an electric timer for automatic shut off (you can set the timer anywhere between 5 minutes and 9 hours); a power-on indicator, and five brightness settings.
Other Features and Specifications
– A maximum of 4600 BTU heat output at 1400 Watts.
– Measurements: 36 inches D x 24 inches H x 7.62 inches Thick.
– Highly realistic flame technology provides one of the best natural flame effects in the business.
– A multifunction remote control is included with the unit. With it, you can control functions such as brightness, heat, and timer.
– Variable brightness settings.
Customer Reviews and Ratings
Generally, most customers are pleased with their purchase and rate the product 5 stars.
Here’s a sample of what customers are saying about the Classic Flame Traditional firebox:
- Timothy McCoy, October
Concerns
One of the most common complaints among customers is that the heat is not enough for a large room. The heating feature works best in an average-sized room. If you are planning to buy it primarily as a source of heat for a large room, you may want to rethink your options.
Summary
The Classic Flame Builders Box Traditional 36EB110-GRT is a classy, efficient, and beautiful fireplace insert. Classic Flame is known for its realistic flame effects, and this one delivers whether you want the heat or not. Everything from appearance to function and ease of use scores highly.
This unit is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a traditional-looking alternative to more complicated and energy-sapping fireplaces.
2. Classic Flame 36″ Builders Box Contemporary 36EB221-GRC
Not many fireplaces can achieve a sleek modern look like this fireplace insert does for anywhere close to the price.
The 220V 36″ Builders Box Contemporary 36EB221-GRC will transform any room with its modern finish and unique flame and lighting features.
Best Features
1. Great contemporary style
The black outer finish gives this builder’s box a great modern look. It is ideal for homes where a modern look is required.
2. Easy installation
A flange is provided surrounding the insert to allow for easy flush installation with a wall. Installation is easy, though you may need help from an electrician with the hard wiring. An integrated junction box is available for that purpose.
3. Heat on/off feature
You may not always want the heat from a fireplace ruining an already hot summer evening. Whenever you want to enjoy the sight of the fireplace without the heat, you can simply turn it off. When the leaves start to fall again, turn the heat back on to create a warm cozy space.
4. Electronic timer function
You can set the fireplace to shut itself off after a specified amount of time using the electronic timer. You can set it to run from 30 minutes up to 9 hours.
5. Lots of color options
One of the best features of the Builders Box Contemporary 36EB221-GRC is the combined effect of the down-lights and up-lights.
Have fun playing with the nine color options, seeing which color combinations work best for your room. You can change each set of colors independently, for example, when guests are coming over for a party.
One customer suggested setting the color to blue for both up-light and down-lights to create an amazing aquarium effect (see image).
Other Features and Specifications
– Thirty-six inches wide x 24 inches high x 7.62 inches deep.
– Maximum heat output of 8900 BTU at 220V. This means that the fireplace can easily warm up a large room. The manufacturer recommends it for any room measuring up to 800 square feet (20ft x 40 ft).
– You can choose which media to have in the fireplace. Options available include crushed glass or white and clear rocks.
– Multifunction remote control.
– LED indicators on the unit.
Customer Reviews and Rating
Here’s a sample of what customers are saying about this Classic Flame firebox:
– Danae Green, December
Concerns
This unit must be hard wired, which usually requires using a professional electrician. There is no 3-prong plug for plugging into a 110V outlet.
Summary
Overall, this is one of the best contemporary fireplace inserts you’ll find anywhere for anything close to this price.
With its sleek style, high maximum heat output, and so many settings variations, this Classic Flame builders box unit will work in almost any modern room setting.
Whether you want to cozy up in your living room, install it in your bedroom, or even in your entertainment center, you will not be disappointed.
3. AKDY 28 inches Black Electric Firebox
One thing you immediately notice about AKDY fireplace units is how realistic they look. You can even see soot on the fake logs.
The Flame looks very authentic. It recreates the same cozy effect of a real wood fireplace while at the same time providing a substantial amount of heat for most sized rooms.
Best Features
1. Black finish with flat-panel glass
Customer Installation Courtesy Amazon.com (click to enlarge)
The matte black finish of the insert adds to its authenticity. It is bound to look good wherever you install it. The flat panel glass gives it a classy look that balances the traditional feel of the fake logs and Flame.
2. Easy installation
All you need to enjoy this electric fireplace heater is an existing fireplace opening. You simply insert it into the recessed space, plug it in into a 120V plug, and you are good to go.
If there is no fireplace, you can get a small cabinet made for the insert. Add a few books to the side shelves of the cabinet to enhance that cozy feeling.
3. High heat output
The maximum heat output of this model is 4436 BTU. This is enough to warm up a room measuring up to 400 square feet.
Other Features and Specifications
– A width of 28 inches, height 20 inches, and depth 11.5 inches.
– 5,118 BTU, more than enough for a 400 sq ft room
– Variable heat settings. You can change the heat within the six levels available.
– A multi-function remote control included.
– Unlike many models, this unit operates very quietly. You won’t even notice the soft sound, which makes it great for bedrooms and places where you watch TV or listen to music.
– You can use it with and without the heat function. You don’t have to turn off its beautiful effect when summer arrives, simply turn down the heat or turn it off completely.
– A unique brick panel inside that makes the fireplace look almost real and tastefully traditional.
Customer Rating
Here’s a sample of what customers are saying about this AKDY builder’s box insert:
It is quiet, looks great, and gives you more heat for the price point.
– PENNNOVELBOY, November
Concerns
A common concern among customers is the remote control, which some say is a bit low quality and fails to function at times.
Summary
This AKDY unit lives up to the hype it gets in customer reviews. Some prefer it over comparable Dimplex units.
Until you buy it and install it in a room, you won’t believe how much of a difference it can make. It also proves important in winter and at night when you need a little more heat for your room.
4. 32 Inch Dual-Fuel Gas Firebox Log Combo FBD3211R
For those who don’t find the heat output or appearance of electric fireplaces inserts enough, this is a great natural gas fireplace insert.
This is a dual-fuel firebox, meaning that it can use either propane or natural gas. A big advantage of natural gas units is that they produce a lot more heat than electric inserts.
Like most electric inserts, this unit is ventless, which means it can be installed in almost any setting.
Best Features
1. Easy installation
Many customers praised the easy and quick installation of the 32″ Dual Fuel Firebox and Log Combo. The manual is easy to follow, and all accessories required during installation come with the unit.
If you have a recess ready, you won’t need to call a professional installer ($100/hour and up). Keep this in mind when comparing this unit against competing, cheaper units that require an installer.
2. Remote control
A remote, which comes with the unit, can be used to control the heat output of the unit. You can set what room temperature you are comfortable with. The remote also has an on/off function.
3. High heat output
Electric inserts range between 4600 and 9000 BTUs in terms of heat output. The 32″ Dual Fuel Firebox and Log Combo fireplace goes way above this to deliver a maximum heat output of 32,000 BTU. This will heat a very large room in no time.
Other Features and Specifications
– Dimensions: 36.4 inches width, 33.3 inches height, and 18.4 inches depth.
– A 24 inches 9 log set is included.
– You can either install the fireplace in a wall recess or customize it with a mantel.
Customer Reviews and Rating
Here’s a sample of what customers are saying about this unit:
The firebox/log combo set was everything I expected. It is well made and arrived on time and in excellent condition.
– RC, February
Concerns
A common concern among customers is the lack of electronic ignition. The pilot light is slightly annoying, but most people get used to it after a short time.
Summary
If you need to use your fireplace as a primary source of heat, then you should seriously consider this unit. The 32″ Dual Fuel Firebox and Log Combo fireplace are worth its price. It delivers on every front, including heat output, appearance, and ease of use.
5. Pleasant Hearth Fenwick Fireplace Insert FN-5700
This fireplace is as traditional as it can get.
For one, it is a wood-burning fireplace.
Second, its appearance (dark finish and oil rubbed bronze) is very high quality. It has an antique look that works well for traditional decor, but also in modern settings (see image below).
If you want nothing but the real thing, then this is the fireplace insert to go for. It requires some work installing, but it’s a great deal for such a high-quality product.
Best Features
1. Appearance
The first thing you will notice is the classic dark finish on the exterior. The oil-rubbed bronze finish blends well with any masonry fireplace.
Add to that, the prairie style glass doors and you have a very unique and beautiful fireplace.
Also included with the unit is a safety smoked tempered glass and high-quality rigid mesh panels.
2. Easy of installation and operation
The manufacturer says this is one of the easiest fireplace inserts to install. In three easy steps, you are good to go.
The premium hinges and easy catch magnets also make swinging the doors open/shut a breeze.
3. Unique & flexible style
The style of this wood-burning fireplace insert works in both traditional and modern settings (see image).
The combined effect of the prairie doors, the dark bronze finish, and the brick face make it an easy choice for most living room and bedroom styles. This is the fireplace most people expect to see.
4. Good insulation
The glass doors are important in ensuring that heat does not escape from your house through the chimney when you are not using the fireplace.
5. Sturdy design
This fireplace is not the lightest. Its heavy feel is due to the strong and sturdy materials used. This makes it durable and ideal for a wood-burning masonry fireplace.
Other Features and Specifications
– A two-inch riser bar is included in the unit but not assembled into it. You can opt to install it in the unit or leave it out.
– The manufacturer cautions that this insert is only for use in masonry fireplaces and not prefabricated ones.
– When fully assembled, the unit measures 37.5 inches in width, 30 inches in height and 1.5 inches in depth.
Customer Reviews and Rating
This is an extremely popular product with a proven track record. Here are a couple of representative customer reviews:
– Amazon Customer, October
– GatewayRH, November
Concerns
Though installation is easy, it can be a bit tricky. Some customers recommend that you watch Youtube videos to get an idea of how to do it. The manual that comes with the unit has easy to understand instructions, however.
Summary
If you are looking for a fireplace that will heat a large room and offer true wood-burning flames, the Pleasant Hearth Fenwick is our top choice. Not only will it warm your room, but it will also become the central focal point of your room’s decor.
Builder boxes allow you to place a firebox in your new construction project. Thanks for sharing.