Gas Vs. Electric: Which Fireplace Is Best For Your Home
Choosing between gas and electric fireplaces can be tricky. We will present their pros and cons to help you decide what is best for your home.
It is no wonder that many homeowners choose to install a fireplace. In recent years, higher efficiency and lower prices have made fireplace installations a popular addition to American environments.
While it is possible to add a new wood-burning fireplace to an existing home, the most affordable options are usually gas or electric.
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Gas fireplaces generate heat with a natural flame, while electric fireplaces involve a heating element (much like a space heater) that creates the illusion of flames with flashing lights or video.
Gas fireplaces vs. electric fireplaces
Installation
Gas fireplaces generally cost more to buy and install than their electric counterparts. If you don't have a natural gas line, you will need to add one (which may not be an option where you live) or connect a propane supply.
Electric fireplaces require standard electrical plugs, but you may need a new line or, for larger units, a dedicated circuit. The need for a 110 or 220-volt outlet depends on the fireplace.
Gas fireplaces also have more requirements regarding their location indoors. Vented gas fireplaces must allow external exhaust, usually against an exterior wall or inserted into an existing masonry chimney.
Ventless gas fireplaces are not legal in all states, so check local codes before purchasing. Electric fireplaces don't need ventilation because they don't produce carbon monoxide.
It is possible to install a gas fireplace yourself, although you will need to hire a plumber to run the plumbing. We can't say this strongly enough: leave this task to a professional. If something goes wrong, the consequences can be catastrophic and deadly.
DIY electric fireplace installation depends on size and style. A permanent wall unit will likely require framing and drywall, but installing a freestanding electric fireplace couldn't be easier. Just plug it in and go!
Operating costs
Both gas and electric models have relatively low operating costs. Which one will be more affordable depends on the prices of local utilities.
Check your current bill for the exact numbers for your area, but the national average cost of electricity is about 13 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh), while the national average cost of natural gas is $ 1.22 per term ( or 100,000 Btu).
This means that a 1.5-kilowatt electric fireplace, generating about 5,000 Btu, will cost 19.5 cents an hour to run. By comparison, a 25,000 Btu gas fireplace will cost 30.5 cents an hour to run on natural gas. With propane, the operating cost will be between two and three times that amount.
It should be noted that this is not an exact comparison. The hypothetical gas fireplace produces approximately three times more heat than the electric model.
The efficiency of a given model can also affect these numbers. Ventless electric gas fireplaces, for example, do not lose heat by sending hot air outside.
Maintenance
Modern gas or electric fireplaces need little maintenance. You may want to clean the front of the glass from time to time with a manufacturer's suggested cleaner, especially on electric models with LCD screens.
With a vented gas fireplace, the chimney sweeps about once a year.
Safety
Both types of fireplaces produce heat and should be considered as potential fire hazards. But it only takes a little care to keep your fireplace safe and secure.
Make sure your fireplace is installed correctly and use common sense. Do not store flammable items near the fireplace and watch children and pets to make sure they do not get too close. Gas fireplaces, in particular, can be hot to the touch.
Gas fireplaces also produce carbon monoxide (CO). Non-vented fireplaces burn especially cleanly, allowing them to be vented indoors. If the fireplace vent goes through a wall on the first floor, be sure not to store items outside that will obstruct the flow of air around the vent.
And of course, make sure you have a CO detector in your home. If you have a gas line and don't already have a CO detector, you need to get one ASAP!
Finding the Right Fireplace for Your Needs
Choosing between a gas and electric fireplace depends on your home's setup, budget, and heating needs.
Gas fireplaces provide a more authentic flame and greater heat output, making them ideal for those who want a traditional look and feel.
However, they come with higher installation and maintenance costs. On the other hand, electric fireplaces offer a simple and flexible solution that is easy to install and maintain, making them perfect for homes without existing gas lines or for those who prioritize convenience.
Weighing the pros and cons of each option will help you select the fireplace that best suits your lifestyle, ensuring warmth and comfort in your living space for years to come.
We hope you enjoy watching this video about the differences between gas and electric fireplaces:
Source: Embers Fireplaces & Outdoor Living
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Last update on 2024-11-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
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