A warm, welcoming fireplace is the perfect addition to any home. But often, it’s not practical or affordable to install a traditional, wood-burning fireplace. Besides, gas and electric fireplaces are cheaper, safer, and easier to use.
So then, how do you choose between a gas vs electric fireplace?
The following guide compares these two options on several important points, including a detailed list of all their pros and cons. And, although we personally favour gas fireplaces over electric, you should evaluate this data for yourself to reach your own conclusion. Read on to discover which option is right for you.
Best at Producing Heat: Gas Fireplace
This is the biggest reason why we believe gas fireplaces are superior. Namely, they produce more heat, and distribute it more efficiently than electric fireplaces.
A gas fireplace will have no trouble heating a large room or even the entire house. In contrast, electric fireplaces can only heat one small room.
Lowest Cost: Electric Fireplace
One reason people choose electric fireplaces over gas fireplaces is the price. Specifically, electric fireplaces can be installed for an average price of around $1500 for parts and labour.
In comparison, gas fireplaces start in the $2,500 price range. And that’s just for the unit alone. If you need to install gas line hookups, an exhaust pipe, or other requisites, the total cost is around $3,500 minimum.
However, although electric fireplaces might seem like a good deal, remember that they are typically only able to heat one small room. Keep in mind that a space heater heats just as well as an electric fireplace but costs much less. So, in truth, an electric fireplace is little different than a space heater, and significantly more costly.
A gas fireplace, however, heats your home just as well as an authentic wood-burning fireplace or wood stove. Thus, if you are looking to heat more than just one room, it’s worth the price you pay.
Are you looking to install a fireplace in your house? Our team at Lambton ClimateCare would be happy to help. Contact our team today.
Easiest to Install: Electric Fireplace
Concerning ease of installation, electric fireplaces have a clear advantage. You can plug them into any outlet. And even permanent installation requires only cosmetic changes to your home.
As mentioned, though, gas fireplaces require access to gas lines and an exhaust pipe. This makes installation significantly more difficult and, sometimes, impossible. That is, the required work on your gas lines might conflict with local building codes or other regulations.
Easiest to Maintain: Electric Fireplace
Electric fireplaces require no maintenance, while gas fireplaces need very little maintenance. In short, the difference is so minimal that it shouldn’t weigh heavily on your decision.
Safest: Electric Fireplace
Electric fireplaces are typically to safer use. They use no flames and don’t get as hot as gas fireplaces.
Remember, though, this also means that they’re inadequate as a heat source. And, technically, it’s still possible for an electric fireplace to start a house fire.
Best For Appearance: Gas Fireplace
Most would agree that gas fireplaces look the nicest. Some of them perfectly mimic the look of wood-burning fireplaces with real flames around convincing log replicas. Others have very unique designs, combining live flames and glass in limitless varieties.
Electric fireplaces have no flames and tend to look quite artificial.
Best For the Environment: Debatable
The best option for the environment is, ultimately, situation-specific. For example, gas burns clean but is a non-renewable resource.
However, electricity may be harvested using non-sustainable means, too. Furthermore, burning gas and electricity usage both release some CO2 into the atmosphere.
Gas vs Electric Fireplace: The Bottom Line
When comparing a gas vs electric fireplace, here’s the bottom line: A gas fireplace requires a sizeable investment, but it typically turns out to be the better option for most families.
However, if you still have questions, we’re here to help. To learn more about the benefits of a gas fireplace, or to have one installed, contact our team at Lambton ClimateCare today.
