Just make sure to inspect the wiring for any damage and replace the bulbs as needed to keep an electric fireplace working. Since these units use electricity to generate heat and light, you don't need to worry about harmful emissions or cleaning a ventilation system. These units produce noxious fumes like carbon monoxide if theyre faulty, improperly installed, or improperly maintained. While gas fireplaces are safer than wood-burning ones, electric fireplaces tend to be even safer. });
We are no longer supporting IE (Internet Explorer), Gas Fireplaces vs. Electric Fireplaces: Installation, Gas Fireplaces vs. Electric Fireplaces: Operating Costs, Gas Fireplaces vs. Electric Fireplaces: Maintenance, Gas Fireplaces vs. Electric Fireplaces: Safety, Lawn-Cutting Dos and Donts to Avoid Grass Damage. This includes the glass doors that usually protect the flames. This will add costs to the project, and the tank itself will take up space, so in order to hide it within the fireplaces design, you may need to change the scope of the project. A small gas exhaust pipefor running and venting the unit can range from $200 and $500, including installation. Or replacing the heating element if it fails, but this generally happens at the end of the fireplaces life anyway. Electric fireplaces can be portable, meaning you can move them around with you as you need them, or they can be wall mounted, for a better appearance. Otherwise, you may need to incorporate a smaller propane tank into the design. The following is a table showing the different factors that will influence the overall price tag for your gas fireplace: This means that the cost of your fireplace will be anywhere between $2,750 and $7,300 after everything is done. The gas fireplace can last for about the same amount of time, between 15 and 25 years. These types of fireplaces require a home that has access to natural gas, though. jQuery("#full-column-link-1").click(function () {
Electric fireplaces generally do not waste energy and use less energy than gas units overall. About once every three to five years, you may also need to replace any burn-out bulbs. If you own a larger home, the gas option would be better to heat your space. However, if getting the best-looking flame is what you most desire, you may need to invest in a higher-end option. window.location.href= '/thank-you-fireplace-cleaning/';
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. Gas fireplaces tend to look more like a traditional fireplace, including having real flames. You do not lose any heat up the flue or chimney, as you would with a wood-burning fireplace. 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. The outlet will need to be 110V or 220V depending on the model. The prices listed here are accurate as of publication on January, 31, 2023. You can install them yourself, especially if you choose an option that plugs into your wall outlets. Whether it takes a 110- or 220-volt outlet depends on the fireplace. While you are not going to mistake either gas or electric fireplaces for a traditional wood-burning model, both come in a range of beautiful designs that can complement many rooms. Just keep in mind that gas fireplaces typically need to be professionally installed, so you may end up paying between $2,750 to $7,300 for a built-in gas fireplace that will last about 25 years. Ameriwood Home Farmington Electric Fireplace and TV Console, Ameriwood Home Lamont Mantel Electric Fireplace, BOSSIN 50 inch Ultra-Thin and Silent Linear Wall-Mounted Electric Fireplace, SEI Furniture Merrimack Faux Stone Convertible Electric Corner Fireplace, Southern Enterprises Grantham Faux Stone Corner Electric Media Fireplace, Vitesse 50 inch Wall Mounted and Recessed Electric Fireplace, Duluth Forge DFS-400R-2GR Dual Fuel Ventless Gas Fireplace-32,000 BTU, Duluth Forge Dual Fuel Vent Free Insert-15,000 BTU, Duluth Forge FDF300T Dual Fuel Ventless Gas Fireplace-26,000 BTU, Empire Boulevard 48-In Vent-Free Linear IP Natural Gas Fireplace, Peterson Real Fyre 24-inch Live Oak Log Set With Vented Burner and Gas Connection Kit. Given that electric fireplaces do not have ventilation systems and they do not produce soot, creosote, or other emissions during use, it's much easier and less time consuming to clean and care for an electric fireplace. The main benefit of an electric fireplace is that it doesn't produce soot, creosote, or debris as a byproduct of heating and lighting. While they are generally considered safe, the glass doors that house the unit can become hot enough to burn if they are touched. jQuery("#full-column-link-1-mobile").click(function () {
If you have an existing gas line, then hooking it up to the gas fireplace will only cost about $150 to $300, though a new line will cost about $300 to $800. However, the average cost to install a gas central heating system is around 5,250, compared with 3,790 to install an electric heating system. Gas fireplaces become hot very quickly. Instead, many people are opting for gas or electric fireplaces, which are easier to install, more affordable, and have very few maintenance requirements. Costs associated with running a gas fireplace include: Electric fireplaces cost between $250 to $6,200 for the unit and installation, depending on the type: Installing an electric fireplace costs $150 to $300 on average, but you may also have to pay for wiring installation. While the basic structure and requirements for a gas and electric fireplace are similar, there are also quite a few differences between the two. However, electric fireplaces may be better for the environment in some areas, especially if your electricity is drawn from a renewable power source, like wind or solar energy. Can take longer to feel the heat produced. Some do have controllable flames and temperature, which often makes them a better option for those living in warmer climates. Gas fireplace manufacturers regularly claim that the running costs for their units are about 17 cents per hour with much higher heat output than electric fireplaces. Additional fees include the cost of electricity, wiring, and a dedicated 120-volt outlet near the fireplace. Most options come with a simulated flame that you can turn on and off, separate from the heat settings. Answered, Has the potential for a gas leak or carbon monoxide issuesHeats more effectively than an electric fireplaceTends to cost more to install, run and maintainUses a real flame that can heat the surrounding areas to high temperatures, Both have an expected lifespan of about 20 yearsDo not require the installation of a firebox or chimneyIncrease your homes resale valueLow maintenance options, Easier to install than a gas fireplaceGenerally, it has a fake flame display that can look cheesyMore inexpensive than gasNeeds almost no maintenanceProduces less heat overall compared to gas and is slow to heat a room. Gas fireplaces use fuel to create flames, and they provide more heat to the glass closure around them. https://frontierfireplace.com/faqs/how-long-will-gas-fireplace-last/#:~:text=The%20normal%20life%20expectancy%20for,somewhere%20between%2015%2D25%20years. Gas fireplaces are very energy-efficient and clean-burning. 335 Fruitland Rd, Stoney Creek, ON L8E 5M8. If you do not have an outlet there, it is a simple process to have one installed, and then the unit can be placed. If you have a gas line and dont already have a CO detector, you need to get one ASAP! Consult your local electrician, plumber, or professional fireplace installation service to get exact costs or more precise estimates. window.open(
Therefore, while an electric fireplace may be initially more affordable, a gas fireplace can possibly save money in the long run. Gas fireplaces require less daily cleaning than traditional wood-burning fireplaces but need more maintenance than electric fireplaces. Gas fireplaces are better for heating and generating authentic flames, which may be more appealing to homebuyers than plug-in electric fireplaces. window.location.href= '/napoleon-thank-you/';
I use Abundance Plus every day to learn from expert homesteaders and become more self-sufficient. An electric fireplace is great for those on a budget, but it does not heat larger spaces as well as a gas fireplace can. Read more. While most electric fireplaces do not heat a room as fast as a gas fireplace, they are cheaper to run compared to other types of fireplaces. And most of the time, you can improve the lifespan of a household product if you maintain and upkeep it properly. Sandi Schwartz, Napoleon Grandville VF36-2N 37 Natural Gas Fireplace on Amazon for $1,540, PuraFlame Klaus Electric Fireplace Insert at Amazon for $469.99, 15 Things You Should Never Burn in the Fireplace. However, it can be argued that because you can lower your thermostat with the gas fireplace running so efficiently, the difference in cost is made up because your energy bill is lowered. These units are easy and affordable to install because they don't require a ventilation system. This annualized increased cost is for a few different reasons, including: It costs an average household about $60 a year for a gas fireplace and about $25 a year for an electric fireplace. After a lot of learning lessons, Ive developed some tips and tricks to properly take care of fireplaces. If you need a new electrical outlet installed, you may need to pay an additional $200 to $750 for this service. As with electric fireplaces, all you need to calculate the monthly cost of your gas fireplace is your hourly cost and the number of hours you use it per month. Gas fireplace units cost between $2,000 to $7,500, with prices depending on the specific style and features. Both electric and gas fireplaces are easier to install than traditional wood-burning fireplaces. If something goes wrong, the fallout can be catastrophic and deadly. To stay running, gas fireplaces usually cost $0.18 an hour to operate. Finally, you should strongly consider installing a carbon monoxide detector if you do not have one already. Hands down, the electric fireplace is much safer than the gas fireplace. A fireplace is a welcome addition to any home, especially if you live in an area that has to endure cold, bitter winter weather. Instead of flames, they project an image of a burning log. Wall-mounted units may require a professional carpenter or general contractor to move any studs and mount the unit to the wall. The unit cost of gas heating is cheaper than electric, at 10p/kWh, vs 34p/kWh for electricity. As you may have noticed earlier, it costs more to install the gas fireplace because of the additional needs of a gas fireplace, including the gas and a ventilation site. It's also important to keep the fireplace and vents clean. Natural gas is commonly measured by the cubic foot, and homeowners are billed by the thousands of cubic feet (MCF) or hundreds of cubic feet (CCF). Depending on the model you purchase and its quality, this image can be either convincing or artificial in its appearance. An electric fireplace does not produce flames in the same way but still produces heat. By Sandi Schwartz | Published Jan 31, 2023 8:06 PM. Although gas leaks are rare, it is important to check the fireplace since natural gas is highly flammable and long-term exposure can lead to health concerns. Just make sure to replace the bulbs every three to five years if necessary, or the fireplace lighting will not function properly. Again, costs vary based on the particular style of unit: Freestanding electric fireplace - $250 to $650 Dual-sided electric fireplace - up to $6,200 When it comes to furnaces, these are usually the best option. On the other hand, electric fireplaces only cost about $0.04 an hour. While they may aesthetically look different, they work similarly. Gas fireplaces replicate the ambiance of a campfire or wood-burning fireplace because they produce a flame and emit more intense heat. The only thing you need to worry about with an electric fireplace is replacing the light bulb if it goes out. Gas Fireplace Monthly Cost. There are very few maintenance tasks you need to address with a gas fireplace. If you do not already have a chimney and firebox1 in your home, the simplest solution is to add either a gas or electric fireplace. A gas-burning fireplace has a reputation for being much cleaner and more convenient than a traditional wood-burning fireplace for which the homeowner has to collect (and often chop) wood, deal with ash and soot removal, and manage any safety issues related to creosote buildup. After installation, a gas fireplace will typically last for about 15 to 25 years before it needs to be replaced. Both gas and electric fireplaces are much easier to install than a wood-burning fireplace. While electric fireplaces do not have the same risk of harmful emissions, an electrical fire can start if the wiring is damaged. });
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However, which looks better depends on your preference for real flames. And we wanted to clear up any possible confusion you may have if you come across information on these other two types of gas fireplaces. Adding an aesthetically pleasing fireplace can add to the resale value of your home. Our Recommendation: Napoleon Grandville VF36-2N 37 Natural Gas Fireplace on Amazon for $1,540. However, even some savvy do-it-yourself types may feel comfortable taking on this challenge. While its possible to add a new wood-burning fireplace to an existing home, the more affordable options are usually gas or electric. Infrared heaters, like the kind used in deluxe fireplaces like MagikFlame, are also 100 percent fuel efficient. Electric fireplace vs gas fireplace. On average, electric units cost anywhere from $250 to $6,200. They cost more upfront to install and cost about $350 annually to run. Building a masonry fireplace costs $3,500 to $5,600. A pre-built gas fireplace can range from $900 to $3,000 for the unit itself. That means you may want a supplemental . They cost more upfront to install and cost about $350 annually to run. Instead of flames, electric heater fireplaces project an image of a burning log. The electric fireplaces on the market today look much more reminiscent of real flames compared to the electric fireplaces of the past. Electric fireplaces are very efficient, losing only 1% of their heat, compared to 75% of lost heat through the chimney with gas logs or wood-burning fireplaces.
The ventless electric fireplace heats up to 400 square feet with realistic glowing logs, dancing flames, and a snapping fire, and it comes with a convenient remote control. jQuery("#full-column-link-3-mobile").click(function () {
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