Read on to learn more about the costs of electric and gas fireplaces, and how both options compare with installation, maintenance, energy efficiency, safety, heating capacity, and aesthetics. window.location.href= '/thank-you-fireplace-cleaning/';
If you are interested in putting in a new fireplace, but aren't sure about which is best between gas and electric, then this guide is a great resource to help you get a better understanding of the benefits and drawbacks of each. Either way, its no surprise that many homeowners opt to install a fireplace. The most significant reason for the cost being less is that you do not need to have a professional install any gas lines or extra electrical, most of the time. Installation of the Fireplace Both gas and electric units are easier to install than a wood-burning fireplace, but gas versions require a line and vent, unless you purchase a ventless gas fireplace. When it comes to energy-efficiency, you may find a wide range depending on size and model. We even cover this in more detail next! iIf a full replacement is needed, a built-in fireplace conversion costs between $5,250 and $10,000, while a . Some models have features such as LED lighting, videos of burning wood, or even hologram imaging. Expert advice from Bob Vila, the most trusted name in home improvement, home remodeling, home repair, and DIY. This is for an average climate that experiences seasonal changes. Electric resistant heaters such as baseboard units convert 100 percent of the fuel they use into heat. Can take longer to feel the heat produced. We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Simply plug the power cord into an available outlet and turn on the fireplace for instant heat and light from the simulated fire. Gas fireplaces have more options available, but they tend to be pricier to install than electric fireplaces. What is cheaper: gas or electric? This is even more true if the home they are being installed in does not have a gas line, as installing a gas line is very expensive. The national average cost of electricity is about 16 cents per kWh, while the national average cost of natural gas is $24.60 per thousand cubic feet. A pre-built gas fireplace can range from $900 to $3,000 for the unit itself. Humans respond to fire on a primal level. Of the two, gas fireplaces have the more realistic look because the gas produces a flame you can see and heat you can feel. Electric Fireplace Electric fireplaces are the most accessible fireplaces on the market. DIY electric fireplace installation depends on the size and style. Some homeowners are even converting wood-burning fire features to gas or electric. Gas fireplaces are one instance where gas is not cheaper to operate; it takes more gas than electricity to make the same amount of low-grade heat, so your bill will be higher for gas.. However, the installation of the fireplace can cost an additional $1,500 to $3,000. On paper, gas fireplaces are less energy efficient than electrical fireplaces, losing between 10 and 50 percent of the heat they produce vs. the 100 percent efficiency of heat conversion for electric units. The metal heat vent gets hot, but not hot enough to harm the skin if touched. Gas fireplaces use between 7,000 and 16,000 BTUs, are between 70 and 90% efficient at converting energy to heat, and cost around $60 a year to run. Electric fireplaces are cheaper in cost and installation compared to their gas-burning counterparts. As you can tell, there are quite a few differences between gas and electric fireplaces. '/air-conditioners/', '_self');
Get Local Cost Electric Fireplace PROS Inexpensive Fast and easy installation Cheaper to run There are quite a few different ways a gas fireplace can be categorized, and so to clear up any confusion, we have broken down the three categories into which your gas fireplace may fall. However, even some savvy do-it-yourself types may feel comfortable taking on this challenge. '/air-conditioner-repair/', '_self');
After a lot of learning lessons, Ive developed some tips and tricks to properly take care of fireplaces. Both gas and electric fireplaces are much easier to install than a wood-burning fireplace. Timothy Dale is a home repair expert and writer with over a decade of hands-on construction and home improvement experience. The gas fireplace is more difficult to install because it requires the following: All of this means you will need a professional to do the work of installing a gas fireplace properly. Gas fireplaces are lower-maintenance than wood-burning fireplaces but will require some attention annually. We outline these differences below so that you can make a more informed decision about which one will work better in your home. Even if theyre not something you use on a regular basis, its so nice to cozy up on the couch on a cold day next to the fireplace. Keep in mind that a wall-mounted or recessed model will be more difficult to install and may require that you hire a professional to do the installation. jQuery("#full-column-link-3-mobile").click(function () {
Gas fireplace units cost between $2,000 to $7,500, with prices depending on the specific style and features. While older homes typically have traditional wood-burning fireplaces, new construction homes often have gas or electric fireplaces instead since they are less expensive to install, cleaner, easier to maintain, and more efficient. Yes, Heres What To Do, Why is Fire Blue (& Is It Hotter)? When you are looking for a new fireplace, it's necessary to consider the key benefits and drawbacks of both gas and electric fireplaces in order to find the best option for your home. A gas and electric fireplace have similar average lifespans because they require little maintenance throughout their life. As we have mentioned previously, the gas fireplace does a better job of heating the room or your whole house if you need it. Both gas and electric models have relatively low operating costs. Electric fireplaces simply plug into where they will be used. While electric fireplaces do not have the same risk of harmful emissions, an electrical fire can start if the wiring is damaged. An electric fireplace is great for those on a budget, but it does not heat larger spaces as well as a gas fireplace can. Gas fireplaces use fuel to create flames, and they provide more heat to the glass closure around them. However, as per the calculated estimates, it will cost around $0.49 to run your gas fireplace for an hour, whereas if you run it for 8 hours, it will cost you $4.41 a day and $132 for a whole month. The cost for an electric fireplace is about $300 to $1,000. It can be difficult to understand if a gas or electric fireplace will fit you and your homes needs. And the efficiency is higher than an electric fireplace. If you use your gas fireplace regularly, make sure to keep it clean and have it inspected once a year for any problems. This PuraFlame model is the top pick in our guide to the best electric fireplaces. These units need to be professionally installed and typically require a new gas line to hook up the fireplace, which can increase the cost of the installation. But the gas will still flow during a power outage, keeping your home warm if needed. You may want to clean the glass front from time to time with a cleaner suggested by the manufacturer, especially on electric models with LCD screens. Since there are no real flames in electric fireplaces, it doesnt get hot enough to cause safety issues around the glass. It's also important to keep the fireplace and vents clean. The most significant reason for the cost being less is that you do not need to have a professional install any gas lines or extra electrical, most of the time. Read more. Electric fireplaces can look very realistic. No matter which option you decide on, we have compiled some of our top choices for both electric and gas options. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Pinterest Twitter YouTube, By using HomeAdvisor, you agree to our Terms & Conditions, Copyright 1999 - 2023 HomeAdvisor, Inc. All Rights Reserved, Copyright 1999 - 2023HomeAdvisor, Inc. All Rights Reserved, Professionally installing a gas fireplace costs, fireplace flue repair contractors near you, Hiring a local fireplace installation expert, Wrought Iron Installations Beautify Your Home, Snazzy Stuff to Mount on Your Wall Other Than Art, How To Install Wall Veneer to Upgrade Any Space, The Cost and Value of Interior Barn Doors, The Simpsons Living Room in 6 Interior Design Styles, Home Sales Decline Amid High Prices and Low Supply. });
A gas fireplace requires that the gas line be run to the area, and a small vent is needed for most models. Just wipe the fireplace down every so often to keep it free of dust, dirt, and debris. While they may aesthetically look different, they work similarly. There are benefits to both gas and electric fireplaces, and depending on your wants, the space in your home, and your budget, you can find a fireplace that meets your needs. By using Fixr.com you agree to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy. The average electric fireplace can heat a room by a little less than three and a half degrees every hour. It's also important to avoid touching the front panel on the fireplace when it is on to prevent burns. Both varieties of fireplaces provide heat, but it varies. You have to be patient as electric fireplaces will not instantly fill a room with warm air or radiant heat like a gas fireplace will. While an electric fireplace is safer and easier to install than the gas option, gas fireplaces offer a superior look and aesthetic for your home. We also want to make clear that these fireplaces are starkly different from a wood-burning fireplace. Photos: AleksandarNakic / iStock / Getty Images Plus / Getty Images, pashapixel / iStock / Getty Images Plus / Getty Images, YvanDube / iStock / Getty Images Plus / Getty Images. Total gas fireplace costs can run from $2,750-$7,300, while electric models costs between $700-$2,250, on average. Next, ventless gas fireplaces are attractive and provide adequate heat, but may trigger allergies and asthma symptoms. You can install them yourself, especially if you choose an option that plugs into your wall outlets. Electric fireplaces don't have the same authentic look, but they do come with visual features, like LED lighting, videos of burning wood, and even hologram imaging. Fireplacetips.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. These fireplaces are relatively easy to clean and maintain, as long as you regularly inspect the fireplace and gas lines for leaks. window.open(
Our Recommendation: Napoleon Grandville VF36-2N 37 Natural Gas Fireplace on Amazon for $1,540. These types of fireplaces require a home that has access to natural gas, though. With a gas-burning fireplace, heat can fill a room within seconds after pushing a button. This change can increase the value of a home and make it more appealing. Instead of flames, they project an image of a burning log. But what are your options if your home doesnt already have a chimney? The national average cost for a gas fireplace, including installation, is $2,500 to $7,000, depending on the model, location, and condition. They also use cleaner sources of energy so they dont produce as many harmful emissions. Hiring a local fireplace installation expert should help mitigate that risk. Whether it be the crackling sound, mesmerizing flicker of flames, or warmth they provide, many people love the cozy and soothing ambiance of fireplaces. 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