Electric fireplaces continue to dominate home renovation trends in 2025. As more homeowners move toward clean, no-vent heating solutions, two installation styles stand out: wall-mounted electric fireplaces and recessed (flush-mounted) electric fireplaces.
Both create a modern focal point. Both are simple to operate. Both work in homes, condos, apartments, and commercial spaces.
But the experience—and the installation—are very different.
This guide begins by defining each type clearly, explaining how they’re built, and showing how installation and design differ.
A wall-mounted electric fireplace is a unit designed to sit directly on the surface of a wall—similar to how a TV mounts. It does not require opening the wall, building a cavity, or modifying framing.
Most models hang on included brackets, while some offer the option of recessing a few inches for a semi-flush look.
They are simple, budget-friendly, and flexible. You can install one in minutes, and if you remodel or move, you can take it with you. The projection from the wall is intentional—many designers now use it as a modern statement.
A recessed electric fireplace, also called a flush-mount or built-in electric fireplace, sits inside the wall for a flush, integrated architectural look.
Instead of hanging on the surface, the unit slides into a framed cavity, similar to how built-in appliances or shelving are installed.
They want a clean, modern, built-in look with no visible depth. Designers prefer recessed models when creating contemporary linear designs, floating shelves, and TV/media walls. The result looks luxurious and permanent.
Below is a clear comparison table outlining the core differences homeowners notice first.
| Feature | Wall-Mounted | Recessed |
|---|---|---|
| Installation Level | Easiest (DIY) | Moderate–Advanced (construction required) |
| Wall Projection | Visible (4–6") | Fully flush |
| Aesthetic Style | Modern but slightly bold | Clean, minimalist, architectural |
| Best for | Rentals, apartments, simple upgrades | Renovations, custom walls, long-term homes |
| Electrical | Standard outlet | Outlet or hardwire |
| Flexibility | Portable | Permanent |
Both types use the same flame technologies:
However, recessed installations tend to enhance realism visually, because:
Installation is one of the biggest dividing lines between the two styles.
This is the fastest and simplest method.
Difficulty: ★☆☆☆☆
Time Required: 15–45 minutes
This requires more planning but results in a built-in, luxury look.
When pairing with a TV:
Difficulty: ★★★☆☆
Time Required: 2–6 hours (DIY) or 1–2 days (professional installation)
| Scenario | Best Option | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Renting | Wall-Mounted | No construction, removable |
| Apartment | Wall-Mounted | No structural modification |
| Condo (owned) | Either | Depends on freedom to modify walls |
| New Build | Recessed | Clean architectural finish |
| Remodeling | Recessed | Ideal time to build a media wall |
| Bedrooms | Wall-Mounted | Simpler, safer mounting |
| Large living rooms | Recessed | Better visual presence |
Both can work safely when mounted with proper clearances, but placement varies:
Wall-Mounted
Recessed
Choosing between a wall-mounted or recessed electric fireplace often comes down to how each option shapes your room visually, how much space you have, and what you want the finished area to feel like. Below is a complete aesthetic and cost comparison to help you picture both options in your home.
Wall-mounted units sit fully on the wall surface, similar to a floating TV or art piece. They naturally draw attention forward, making them perfect for:
Their glass fronts, LED ember beds, and color-changing flames create a sleek, eye-level display. Because they protrude slightly (usually 4–6 inches), they have a pronounced silhouette that visually “floats” off the wall.
Best aesthetic benefits:
✔ Quick visual upgrade
✔ Strong vertical or horizontal presence
✔ Ideal for simple, clean modern spaces
✔ Creates a mounted-art look without major construction
Recessed (or “flush-mount”) electric fireplaces are designed to disappear into the architecture of the wall, creating a smooth, fully integrated finish.
This style is ideal for:
Because the firebox is inserted inside a niche, the face sits nearly flush with the drywall, stone, or tile. This produces a custom-built luxury effect, similar to high-end gas linear fireplaces.
Best aesthetic benefits:
✔ Seamless architectural integration
✔ Perfect for media walls with stone, shiplap, or custom millwork
✔ No protrusion — clean, flush, and premium
✔ Ideal for modern linear designs
Because they don’t require wall recessing or framing, wall-mounted models allow:
The minor wall projection (a few inches) rarely interferes with furniture, but consideration should be given to placement under a TV, along narrow hallways, or behind doors.
Space advantages:
✔ No structural alteration
✔ Ideal for condos, offices, bedrooms
✔ Works on virtually any solid wall
If you want your fireplace to feel like part of the architecture, recessed wins. Because the unit sits inside the wall cavity, it:
Recessed designs also help achieve the popular "fireplace + TV" stacked look, especially in linear layouts of 50"–100"+.
Space advantages:
✔ Perfect for custom feature walls
✔ Ideal in new construction
✔ No forward projection
✔ Integrates well with shelving or cabinetry
Installation is extremely simple:
Great for renters and homeowners who want zero wall reconstruction.
Installation Quick Facts:
To recess a fireplace, you typically need to:
This takes more time but results in a high-end, built-in aesthetic.
Installation Quick Facts:
Unit price:
$250 – $1,200 (depending on size and brand)
Installation cost:
$0 – $150 (DIY or basic handyman help)
Total typical cost:
$250 – $1,350
Why cheaper?
No framing, no electrician, no custom wall finishing.
Unit price:
$350 – $2,500+ (premium linear models)
Construction & labor:
$300 – $2,000+
(depends on framing, electrical, finishing material)
Electrician:
$150 – $500 (if hardwiring)
Total typical cost:
$800 – $5,000+
Why more expensive?
Custom framing, electrical setups, drywall or stone finishing, and longer labor hours.
Power. Most wall-mounted and recessed electric fireplaces run on 120 V and draw 12–15 A on high heat. A dedicated 15–20 A circuit helps prevent nuisance trips.
Clearances. Follow the model manual for top, bottom, and side clearances. If a TV goes above, confirm the maker’s minimum spacing and any mantel/deflector notes.
Recess depth. Check framing depth and stud layout before you buy. Ultra-slim units can recess into 2×4 walls; deeper models may need a 2×6 chase or a bump-out.
Vent & airflow. These are vent-free, but they still need intake/exhaust paths. Never block the heater grille.
Wiring approach. Wall-mounted: plug-in is fine; hide the cord with a listed cover or in-wall power kit. Recessed: many models allow hardwiring—use a qualified electrician and follow local code.
Finishes. Tile, plaster, shiplap, or stone all work. Keep combustibles outside the listed hot zone around the heater outlet.
Condos/apartments. Electric is usually HOA-friendly. Get approval for hardwiring or wall mods before you cut.
- Pick the install style: quick and rental-friendly (wall-mounted) or flush, built-in look (recessed/flush-mount).
- Match width to wall: 40–50″ (nooks), 55–65″ (living walls), 70–80″+ (feature walls).
- Heat use case: 1.5–2.0 kW for 150–300 sq ft zone heat; want ambience only—choose flame-only mode.
- Flame tech & media: multi-color flame, ember bed, logs or crystals.
- Controls: remote, wall switch, or Wi-Fi/app; timer and thermostat options.
- Depth & framing (recessed): confirm cut-out W×H×D and mounting tabs; check for pipes/wires.
- TV plan: verify top heat outlet, spacing, and mantel requirements per manual.
Latitude 45" Ultra Slim Built-in Electric Fireplace
Slim depth for 2×4 framing, modern linear proportions, and flame-only mode for year-round ambience.
Latitude 55" Ultra Slim Built-in Electric Fireplace
Great center-wall size for living rooms. Multi-color flame and ember bed with clean, built-in trim.
Latitude 65" Ultra Slim Built-in Electric Fireplace
Statement-width linear for feature walls and media builds. Pair crystals for contemporary or logs for transitional.
Latitude II 48-in Smart Wall Mount Electric Fireplace
Mount like a TV and plug in. Smart control, vivid flame colors, compact width for accent walls.
Latitude II 58-in Smart Wall Mount Electric Fireplace
Balanced proportion for living rooms and suites. Simple install with flexible media options.
Latitude II 78-in Smart Wall Mount Electric Fireplace (Original)
Go wide for gallery walls. High wow-factor with minimal effort in modern, airy spaces.
- Small room, fast install: wall-mount 48–58″ Latitude II; use a listed cord cover.
- Media wall project: recess 55–65″ Latitude Ultra Slim into a 2×4 chase; consider hardwiring.
- Big modern feature: wall-mount 78″ Latitude II for a long flame ribbon and strong presence.
- Measure twice: confirm stud layout, cut-out dims, and TV spacing before ordering.
- Plan the circuit: frequent heat use benefits from a dedicated 15–20 A line.
- Mind airflow: keep intake/exhaust grilles clear of drapes or cabinetry.
- Finish last: frame and power first, test the unit, then set tile/stone/shiplap.
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