Once you’ve decided to install an electric fireplace in your home, the next step is choosing the right size. Just like a television or piece of furniture, it needs to fit the proportions of the room.
A fireplace that’s too small can look like an afterthought while one that’s too large can overwhelm the space. Choosing the right size looks intentional and complements the room aesthetics.
Sizing becomes even more important with a recessed installation. Finding out the fireplace doesn’t fit once installation has started can mean additional costs and timeline delays.
Our electric fireplace size guide will show you how to measure your space, which factors affect sizing, and what you need to know about installation so you can choose the right size and avoid installation setbacks.
Quick Electric Fireplace Size Guide
|
Size |
Recommended Wall Width |
Best Room Size |
Typical BTU Output |
Best For |
|
4–5 ft |
Up to 400 sq ft |
4,000–5,000 |
Bedrooms, offices, small living rooms |
|
|
5–6 ft |
400–500 sq ft |
4,500–5,000 |
Medium living rooms, dens, condos |
|
|
6–8 ft |
500–700 sq ft |
5,000–5,100 |
Standard living rooms, family rooms |
|
|
8–10 ft |
700–1,000 sq ft |
5,000–5,100 |
Open-concept spaces, large living rooms |
|
|
10+ ft |
1,000+ sq ft |
5,000–5,100 |
Great rooms, commercial spaces, feature walls |
What Size Electric Fireplace Do I Need? Gathering Your Measurements
If you’re asking, “What size electric fireplace do I need?” start by gathering your measurements. In most cases, you’ll need to measure the width, height, and depth of the installation space.
The following steps in our electric fireplace size guide show you exactly what and where to measure.
Wall Width
Wall width is a good starting point when choosing a fireplace size. Measure the wall from end to end or the section where the fireplace will go. Then find the center point.
As you compare different fireplace widths, use your center point to determine how much space the fireplace will have on either side. This can help you choose a size that looks proportional to the wall.
Ceiling Height
The next step in our electric fireplace size guide is to measure from the floor to the ceiling. If your ceiling is sloped or vaulted, make sure you’re measuring where the fireplace will actually go, not just the tallest point in the room.
Ceiling height is especially important if you plan to install a television or mantel above your fireplace. Manufacturers often specify minimum distances between an electric fireplace and anything installed above it, so keep this in mind as you compare fireplace sizes.
Wall Depth
Wall depth is especially important for recessed fireplace models. If you already have an existing opening, measure it from front to back. Make a note of plumbing, HVAC, or electrical components in or near the area.
If you don’t have an opening, don’t cut one just for the sake of measuring. Instead, have a contractor confirm your wall’s depth before choosing a recessed fireplace.
How to Choose Electric Fireplace Size
Now that you have your measurements, the next step in our electric fireplace size guide is looking at them alongside other sizing factors.
When determining how to choose electric fireplace size, you’ll want to consider whether there’s an existing opening, safety clearance requirements, heating capacity, and the room’s square footage. Here’s what to know.
How Big is the Current Opening, If One Exists?
When learning how to choose electric fireplace size, you’ll be working with one of two scenarios. Either you have an existing opening or a fully intact wall without one.
If it’s the latter, you have much more freedom to choose whatever size electric fireplace meets your needs.
If you already have an opening, its width, height, and depth will determine your options. If the fireplace you want is slightly smaller than the existing opening, a trim kit may be able to cover the remaining space for a more finished look.
Accounting For Clearance and Ventilation
Electric fireplaces don’t produce smoke, but they do produce heat. Proper clearance and ventilation help keep that heat from building up around the unit.
Clearance requirements vary by model, so check each manufacturer’s installation instructions before deciding on a fireplace. A fireplace can fit the opening and still require more space around the unit than you have available.
BTU Ratings For Different Sizes
BTU stands for British Thermal Unit and measures heat output. An electric fireplace’s BTU rating reflects how much heat it puts out.
But don’t assume a larger fireplace will put out more heat or that a smaller one can’t heat your space. Check the manufacturer’s recommended heating area for the specific model you’re considering instead of relying on its physical size.
Heating capacity is also something worth considering when comparing a gas vs electric fireplace.
Matching Size to Your Room’s Square Footage
When asking, “What size electric fireplace do I need?” your room’s square footage can help narrow down your options.
The chart at the beginning of our electric fireplace size guide includes our recommendations for fireplace widths based on room square footage. These recommendations aren’t set in stone, but they’re a good starting point.
Tip: If you don’t have a current opening, consider using painter’s tape to mark different fireplace sizes on the wall. This can help you visualize the finished project and choose the size that looks best in your room.
Picking the Right Installation Type
Now that you have an idea of size, it’s time to decide how to install your new fireplace. Some installation types are simpler and more flexible, while others create a more built-in look.
Here are three common installation types to consider.
Wall Mount
Rather than being built into the wall, a wall-mount electric fireplace attaches to the wall surface. It doesn’t require creating a recessed cavity and may simply plug into an outlet or be hardwired, depending on the model.
Wall-mounted electric fireplaces offer several advantages:
- Usually simpler to install than recessed models
- Requires little to no wall construction
- Works well in areas where a wall isn’t deep enough for a recessed unit
But there are a few possible setbacks to consider:
- Sticks out from the wall rather than sitting flush
- Cord and outlet placement can be an eyesore if not hardwired
Overall, wall mount options are great if you’re looking for fast installation and minimal construction. But if you’re after a seamless, built-in look, this may not be the option for you.
Recessed
A recessed electric fireplace is installed partially or fully inside the wall. People enjoy recessed units for several reasons:
- Cleaner, seamless appearance
- Takes up less space and doesn’t interrupt the walking flow of a room
- Works well with custom feature walls, mantels, surrounds, or built-ins
But there are a few potential downsides:
- More complicated installation, often requiring construction
- Wall depth and framing can limit which models work
A recessed electric fireplace is ideal if a seamless look is a priority. If you’re already remodeling, the added construction may be less of a concern. But if you don’t want to open up a wall, a recessed electric fireplace probably isn’t a match for your needs.
Corner
As the name suggests, a corner electric fireplace is designed to work with a corner layout, either where two walls meet or around an outside corner. Pros of corner fireplaces include:
- Works well when a traditional flat-wall fireplace doesn’t suit the space
- Makes use of corners that might otherwise go unused
- Can provide multiple viewing angles when installed in a corner that projects into the room
Corner fireplaces also come with a few tradeoffs:
- Don’t offer the traditional centered-fireplace look many homeowners want
- Can make furniture placement challenging depending on the room
For unconventional layouts or a unique focal point, corner electric fireplaces work well. But this style may not be for you if you want a traditional centered fireplace on a main wall.
Get an Electric Fireplace Size Recommendation Today
Choosing the right size electric fireplace is about more than width. Room dimensions, an existing opening, if applicable, and installation type all factor into the decision. That’s why an electric fireplace size guide like this can get you started.
But every space and installation is different, and sometimes you need a little extra guidance. Here at The Great Fire Company, we’re experts at helping customers make this exact decision. We’ll walk you through how to choose an electric fireplace size based on your available space, installation preferences, and style goals.
With a wide range of sizes and options available, our team can narrow down your choices and help you avoid costly sizing or installation mistakes.
Contact our team for a personalized recommendation and get your electric fireplace project underway.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are all electric fireplace the same size?
No. Electric fireplace vary in width, height, and depth depending on the brand, model, and style.
How much space do you need around an electric fireplace?
Clearance requirements vary by model and may differ above, below, behind, and beside the unit. Always follow the manufacturer’s installation requirements for safety and functionality.
What are the standard sizes for electric fireplaces?
While there’s no universal standard, common electric fireplace widths include 36, 42, 50, 60, and 72 inches, with some models available up to 120 inches.
How big should my fireplace be?
If you’re asking, “What size electric fireplace do I need?” start by going through this electric fireplace size guide step by step. Then consider your opening dimensions, room size, and heating needs.