60 Inch Electric Fireplace with Aluminum Discontinued? The Closest Current Alternatives

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Electric fireplaces with smart controls use electric resistance heat and a light-based flame effect, with some models adding app, voice, timer, or schedule features. Before you buy, check the unit’s dimensions, installation rules, heater settings, Wi-Fi requirements, and manual controls; a 1.5 kW heater running for two hours uses about 3 kWh. Treat it as supplemental heat, and confirm current compatibility and safety details with the manufacturer.

A fireplace can glow on a warm spring evening without heating the room at all. That small detail changes what an electric fireplace can do: the flame display and heater often work as separate functions, so you can get the flicker without the blast of warm air.

With electric fireplaces with smart controls, you may also be able to adjust settings from a phone, use a supported voice assistant, or set a schedule. But “smart” can mean different things from one model to the next. Some connect to Wi-Fi and an app; others rely on a remote or offer only a limited set of connected features.

This guide explains what they are, what their controls can and cannot do, and how to compare replacement options if the fireplace you had in mind is difficult to find. You’ll see how to check heat use, installation, Wi-Fi dependence, and fit before you buy. That way, you can choose a unit that suits your room and routine—not just one with a long feature list.

What Smart Controls Actually Add to an Electric Fireplace

Electric fireplaces with smart controls combine an electric heater and a light-based flame effect with one or more ways to manage settings, such as a phone app, voice assistant, remote, or built-in schedule. The smart features depend on the model: Wi-Fi may enable app access, while another unit may offer a timer and remote without connecting to your home network.

Inside, the flame display uses LEDs or other lighting to imitate moving fire, while an electric resistance element creates heat. The two functions often operate independently. For instance, you might switch on a blue or amber flame effect during a movie in July and leave the heater off, then use a scheduled heating session on a chilly morning.

Connected controls can make ordinary routines easier. You could set a living-room fireplace to start before you get home or lower its temperature without reaching behind a media cabinet. Voice commands may handle basic actions, though the supported commands vary; “turn it on” might work while a request to change flame color does not.

Check what “smart” means on the exact model before you commit. Look for the named app, supported voice platforms, required account or hub, and the functions that stop working if Wi-Fi drops. A fireplace that still responds to physical buttons or an included remote gives you a useful fallback if the router is restarting or an app has logged you out.

Smart control is a feature set, not a guarantee of universal compatibility. Confirm the supported platforms and manual controls for the specific unit you’re considering.

For example, if your evening routine already uses one voice assistant, a model that supports it may fit neatly into your home. If you don’t use voice commands, app scheduling or a physical thermostat could matter more. The best feature is the one you’ll actually use when the room is cold and your phone is across the sofa.

Separate Flame Ambience From Heat Before You Compare Models

Electric fireplaces create a flame effect with lighting and use an electric resistance heater for warmth; many let you run those functions separately. That separation matters because a flame display and a heater solve different problems: one changes the room’s appearance, while the other draws substantially more power and adds warmth. A realistic-looking display does not tell you how much heat the unit can deliver, and a powerful heater does not tell you whether its flame settings will suit your room.

Think about a bedroom in early autumn. You may want a soft orange glow while you read, but a heater running under a blanket or near curtains would be a poor choice. Flame-only operation gives you the visual effect without running the main heater, though the lights still use electricity. Confirm that the model supports this mode and that the display’s power draw is available if you want to estimate its cost.

Heating output depends on the appliance and the circuit that supplies it. Many units list a 1,500-watt setting, or 1.5 kilowatts. As a simple example, two hours at that full heater setting uses about 3 kilowatt-hours (kWh). Multiply the heater’s kilowatts by its hours of use and your electricity rate to estimate the energy charge; flame-only use should be counted separately if the manufacturer gives its power draw.

That calculation is a starting point, not a bill prediction. A thermostat that cycles the heater may reduce the time it actually draws full power, while a cold, drafty room may make it run for longer. Your local electricity rate also matters. A lower thermostat setting or a shorter scheduled session can reduce use, but may also mean the room takes longer to feel comfortable. Electric heat converts electricity into heat at the point of use, yet that does not by itself make the fireplace cheaper than another heating option; compare the energy rate and the heat you need.

Most electric fireplaces are intended for supplemental warmth in a room or nearby area, not as a whole-home heating system. Check the maker’s room-size guidance and rated output, and account for insulation, drafts, and room layout. A fireplace may take the chill off a small den while the central heating remains responsible for the rest of the house. Treating it as room comfort rather than a replacement for central heat helps set realistic expectations for both warmth and running cost.

When comparing a flame effect, note its colors, brightness levels, and whether the heater can remain off. When comparing warmth, focus on the heater rating, thermostat behavior, and the room you intend to heat. They answer different questions—and the tradeoff is often between a display you can enjoy for long periods and a heater whose runtime you may want to limit.

Check These Five Details Before You Replace an Unavailable Model

Compare dimensions, power, installation, controls, and smart-home compatibility before picking a replacement for a fireplace that appears difficult to find. Each detail affects a different part of the decision: dimensions determine whether it fits, installation determines whether it can be mounted as intended, electrical ratings shape the connection, and controls determine how practical it is to use. Product names can sound similar while the cutout size, mounting method, or app requirements differ enough to make one a poor fit.

1. Measure the opening and wall. Record width, height, and depth, including trim and any required clearance. Distinguish the visible glass width from the unit body and required cutout dimensions. A 60-inch display may look close to a 50-inch model in a product photo, but the smaller unit may leave an exposed gap and the larger one may not fit the opening.
2. Match the installation style. Confirm whether the unit supports recessed installation, surface mounting, an existing fireplace opening, or only one of those options. These methods place the unit differently and can require different wall depth, framing, and finish work. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for clearances and ventilation.
3. Compare electrical ratings. Several alternatives list 1,500 watts and a 110–120-volt supply, while a narrow-frame 78-inch option lists 750 or 1,500 watts at 120 volts. Similar numbers do not confirm that your planned connection is permitted. The lower setting may draw less power but provide less heat; the circuit and connection method still need to meet the product instructions and local requirements.
4. List the controls you need. Check for a remote, app, timer, thermostat, and voice support by name. A feature described as “smart” may not include every control you expect, and integrations may support only a subset of commands.
5. Verify the fallback. Find out whether buttons or a remote can operate the heater if the network or app is unavailable. A local control can keep the fireplace usable during an outage, while an app-dependent feature may not be available until the connection returns.

For context, a 60-inch fireplace brief lists a 1,500-watt heater, a 120-volt, 60-hertz supply, recessed or wall-mounted installation, and a remote. Potential substitutes in its comparison set include Touchstone Sideline 45-inch and 50-inch recessed models, each listed at 1,500 watts with Wi-Fi and Alexa control. Those are useful overlap points, not proof that either unit fits the same opening or supports the same installation details. Their narrower widths could leave a gap in a 60-inch opening, while recessed requirements may differ from the original unit’s.

A Touchstone Forte 40-inch option is also listed with 1,500 watts and Wi-Fi and Alexa control, with recessed, wall-mounted, or existing-opening installation described in the source material. A 78-inch narrow-frame model lists two heater levels—750 and 1,500 watts—and wall-mounted or recessed installation. The broader range of sizes and mounting approaches creates more choices, but each choice can bring different finishing work and electrical considerations. Before choosing any of them, confirm current specifications, cutout measurements, supported commands, and instructions directly with the manufacturer.

For instance, if your old unit occupied a 60-inch-wide recess, the 45-inch Sideline could leave a visible gap unless you plan a suitable finish around it. The broader 78-inch option could overrun the wall space. Shared wattage is not a fit guarantee. Measure first, then compare what the installation guide actually permits; a replacement that fits physically but requires a different wiring method may still be impractical.

Find Out What Still Works When Wi-Fi Goes Down

A smart fireplace may lose app or voice control when its network connection fails, even if its heater and flame display still work from a remote or physical buttons. The practical effect depends on which controls are local and which rely on the network: you might retain basic on/off operation but lose remote status checks, schedules, or voice commands. The exact behavior varies by model, so the manual and manufacturer’s support details matter more than the word “Wi-Fi” on the box.

Imagine your router restarting during a cold evening. If the fireplace has working onboard buttons, you can still switch on the heater from the room. If you rely only on the app, you may need to wait for the connection to return or use another control included with the unit. That difference matters most when the fireplace is recessed or its controls are hard to reach. Check the fallback before buying so you know whether a network outage is a minor inconvenience or leaves you without a convenient way to operate it.

Connectivity can involve more than the router. A model may require a specific app, a user account, a compatible 2.4 GHz network, or a hub. Voice control can depend on linking accounts and allowing the fireplace’s skill or service to access your smart-home system. Each requirement adds a setup step and another possible point of failure, so read the current setup guide to see what the product needs and which controls remain local.

Also check current compatibility rather than assuming support from a broad platform name. “Works with Alexa” may describe a set of basic commands, not every thermostat or flame setting. If you expect to adjust a particular feature by voice, confirm that exact command in the compatibility details. Integrations and software support can change over time, so look for the manufacturer’s current compatibility list and support policy before relying on a connected routine.

Privacy is another practical part of connected control. Review what data the app collects, whether the account is required for everyday operation, and how to remove the fireplace from an account if you move or replace your router. The tradeoff is convenience against account and network dependence: if you prefer fewer connected services, a reliable remote and a built-in weekly timer may serve you better than a feature-rich app.

For example, a household that sets a fixed weekday schedule may care more about reliable timers than voice commands. Someone who often forgets to turn off a heater may value an app status check—but remote monitoring is not a substitute for following the manual’s rules for unattended or overnight use. Pick controls that make your habits safer and easier, and keep a working manual option close at hand.

Plan Installation Around the Wall, Circuit, and Clearances

Install an electric fireplace according to its model instructions, electrical requirements, and local rules; recessed or hardwired units may need professional work. A wall-mounted design can seem like a simple weekend project, but the weight, mounting points, clearances, and power connection still shape what the installation involves. Thinking through these constraints before buying helps avoid a unit that fits the wall visually but cannot be safely connected or positioned there.

Start with the manual’s measurements for the opening, mounting height, combustible materials, and ventilation. A media wall packed with timber framing and a television may need a different layout from an open masonry fireplace. The required space around the heater outlet gives hot air a clear path; a curtain, rug, or sofa arm that drifts too close can block airflow or sit in that path. This can affect both safe operation and where the unit can go, so plan the surrounding furniture and finishes around the stated clearances.

Electrical supply deserves the same care. A 1,500-watt heater draws substantial power, and the product instructions determine the permitted outlet or wiring method. Do not assume that a nearby outlet, extension cord, or existing fireplace circuit is appropriate. Avoid extension cords unless the manufacturer explicitly allows one, and follow the manual’s directions for the intended connection. The rating is a reason to check the circuit, not a reason to infer that any standard-looking outlet is suitable.

If the work involves wiring, a new circuit, or structural changes to the wall, use a licensed professional and follow local permit and code requirements. Before any electrical work, turn off power at the breaker and verify the circuit is de-energized; use appropriate protective equipment. If you are not qualified to confirm that safely, have an electrician handle it.

Consider the room around the planned unit, too. A sleek recessed fireplace might look tidy below a television, but the heater outlet could send warm air toward electronics or decor if the manufacturer’s clearances are ignored. A surface-mounted option may be easier to position in an existing room, yet it takes up wall depth and still needs a secure mount. The choice trades a more integrated appearance for construction requirements, while surface mounting can reduce wall work but changes how far the unit projects into the room.

Here’s a practical example: you want to replace a wall-mounted unit with a recessed model. The existing wall cavity may be too shallow, and the current opening may expose framing that needs proper finishing. Compare the installation diagram with the actual wall before ordering, then have a qualified installer assess electrical or structural changes. The product manual sets the safe boundaries; a product photo cannot tell you whether your wall meets them.

Choose a Flame and Heating Setup That Fits Your Routine

The right fireplace setup depends on when you want ambience, when you need warmth, and how often you will use each function. Many models offer flame brightness or color choices, a heater thermostat, a timer, or preset schedules, but the feature list and available adjustments differ. Thinking about your routine first helps separate features that solve a real problem from settings that add complexity without changing how you use the unit.

Think about a living room used in two seasons. In January, you might set a short heating session before settling down, then let the thermostat cycle as the room warms. In May, the same unit might run flame-only for a low orange glow while you have friends over. If the heater can be switched off independently, one appliance can handle both situations, though flame-only mode still uses some electricity.

Schedules can help you avoid a fireplace running longer than you intended. A weekday timer could turn on the heater shortly before you usually use the room, while an automatic shutoff could end a session after a set period. The benefit is less need to remember each control by hand; the tradeoff is that a schedule may be inconvenient if your routine changes or if it depends on a network connection. Check whether it runs locally, how easy it is to adjust, and whether the controls make it clear when the heater is scheduled to operate.

Make a short list of the settings you would genuinely use: flame colors, brightness, thermostat, timer, and perhaps voice control. A model with many flame effects may not be a better choice if you always use one setting. On the other hand, several brightness levels can make a broad display feel less overpowering in a dim room. Prioritizing a few useful settings can make daily operation simpler and give you a clearer basis for comparing models.

For a concrete case, picture a small den where you watch films in the evening. A bright, fast-moving display could pull attention from the screen; a low-brightness amber setting may feel calmer. If the heater’s fan is audible during quiet scenes, check the manufacturer’s information or ask about its noise specification rather than assuming every unit runs silently. A heat setting that is comfortable but distracting may be less useful in that room than a quieter or shorter session.

Also think about who shares the space. A parent may want a timer and easy physical controls; someone with mobility limits may value app access from a chair. If pets or children are nearby, keep the heater outlet and hot surfaces in mind, follow the stated clearances, and use the safety features described by the manufacturer. Match the controls to the room’s real routine, weighing convenience against how easily everyone can operate the fireplace and follow its safety guidance.

Use a Simple Checklist to Make the Final Choice

A good replacement choice fits the opening, supports the controls you need, and has installation instructions you can follow. The easiest way to compare several candidates is to put your room requirements beside the product details, then investigate any gap before making a purchase. That comparison exposes tradeoffs early: a smaller unit may be easier to install but leave a visible gap, while a connected model may offer convenient scheduling but depend on an app or network.

For instance, if your old fireplace was a 60-inch recessed unit, start by measuring the finished opening, the available depth, and the surrounding wall. Then compare alternatives like the 45-inch or 50-inch Sideline and the 40-inch Forte against those measurements. Their listed heater power is 1,500 watts, but that shared rating says nothing about whether their frames will cover your opening or whether the wall can accept their installation method. Fit and mounting decide whether they can replace the old unit; wattage only helps you assess heat and electrical requirements.

The 78-inch narrow-frame option introduces a different tradeoff: its listed width is much larger, and its 750/1,500-watt settings may give you a lower heating level as well as the higher one. A wide display can suit a long media wall, while overwhelming a narrow room. The lower setting could be useful when less heat is wanted, but it does not establish the unit’s precise output or guarantee lower overall cost without knowing runtime and local rates. Verify its actual dimensions and installation clearances in current product documentation before treating the name as a precise measurement.

• Measure twice: record finished width, height, depth, and wall space around the unit.
• Confirm the install: match recessed, surface-mounted, or existing-opening instructions to your wall.
• Check the connection: compare voltage, wattage, outlet or wiring guidance, and local requirements.
• Verify smart features: confirm app, voice platform, hub, account, manual controls, and offline behavior.
• Plan the routine: decide whether you need flame-only operation, schedules, a timer, or temperature control.

Product information can change, and the source listings for these candidates should be treated as a starting point rather than a current guarantee. Check with the manufacturer for the latest specifications, dimensions, smart-home support, warranty, and availability. If an exact former model is hard to locate, that does not prove it has been discontinued; it simply makes it more useful to compare documented features than to chase a product name alone.

A useful final test is to explain your choice in one sentence: “This unit fits my opening, supports my preferred controls, and can provide the supplemental warmth I need.” If you cannot say that without guessing, pause and check the manual or ask the manufacturer. A little careful reading now beats discovering a mismatched cutout after the wall is open.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I control an electric fireplace with my phone or voice?

Only if the specific model supports an app or compatible voice assistant. Check the required network, account, hub, and supported commands; a product listing that says “smart” does not mean every setting works by voice.

Will a smart electric fireplace work without Wi-Fi?

It may still work from physical buttons or an included remote, but app and voice functions can stop when the network is down. Read the model’s manual to see which controls work locally and which need an internet connection or service.

Can I run the flames without turning on the heater?

Many electric fireplaces offer flame-only operation, but confirm this for the exact model before buying. The display still uses electricity, though it generally uses less than running the heater; check the manufacturer’s power information for a precise estimate.

How much does a smart electric fireplace cost to run?

Estimate heater use by multiplying kilowatts by hours and your electricity price per kWh. A 1.5 kW heater running for two hours uses about 3 kWh; your cost depends on your rate and how long the heater runs, including thermostat cycling.

Can an electric fireplace heat a whole room or home?

These units are generally intended as supplemental heat, though a particular model may suit a smaller room. Check its rated output and the manufacturer’s room-size guidance rather than assuming it can replace central heating.

Is it safe to leave a smart fireplace on overnight?

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for permitted use, clearances, and timers. Safety features and unattended-use guidance vary by model, and app access or remote monitoring does not replace the manual’s safety directions.

Does a recessed electric fireplace need professional installation?

Some installations need professional help, especially when they involve wiring or structural changes. A product manual and local electrical rules determine the permitted connection and clearances; use a licensed professional for electrical work and follow local permit requirements.

Conclusion

Choose a smart electric fireplace by checking fit, controls, heat, and installation in that order. The connected features can make a daily routine smoother, but they do not replace the product manual, a careful energy estimate, or a realistic look at your room.

Measure the wall, confirm what works offline, and decide whether you want warmth or simply the glow. Then let the room settle into that soft flicker—without guessing what sits behind the frame.