Look at the advantages of choosing an electric fireplace over gas!

Criteria Electric Fireplace Gas Fireplace
Price Start under $600. Usual range is $1200 to $3000. Start at $2000. Usual range is $3000 to $6000.
Cost to Operate About 0.3 to 3 cents per hour, without heat. About 19 cents per hour with heat on 100% of the time. Most people run heater less than 50% of time About 20 cents to 40 cents per hour, depending on BTUs.
Installation No venting required. Can go on any wall.
Most connect to standard 120V electrical outlet. Some may require hardwire connection. Some have optional 240V connection.		 Venting required. Must go on outside wall.
Gas line must be brought to site.
Portability Easily moved. Not easily moved.
Heat Controlled by thermostat.
Flame can stay on when heater is off.
Ideal for rooms up to 400 square feet.		 Controlled by thermostat.
Flame and heater go on and off together.
Ideal for rooms larger than 1000 square feet.
Efficiency 100% efficient.
No heat lost through venting.		 70% to 80% efficient.
20% to 30% heat lost through venting.
Maintenance No regular maintenance required. Annual safety inspections recommended.
Safety No flame to burn. Glass and metal will not get hot enough to burn on contact. (No safety screen required.) No Carbon Monoxide generated. Glass face at 200 degrees Celsius may burn on contact. Safety screen required.
Carbon Monoxide may be generated.
Usage Period Year-round. Limited to colder months.
Options Flames may change colour. Wide range of ember media available. Flames do not change colour. Ember media limited.

Bottom Line: An electric fireplace is your best option if:

  • you need to heat less than 400 to 1000 square feet, or you want no heat at all.
  • you want to minimize the cost to purchase, install, operate and maintain a fireplace.
  • you are environmentally conscious and focused on energy-efficiency.
  • you are concerned about the safety of children, seniors or pets around the fireplace.

Are you ready to see how an electric fireplace can add a stylish touch to your home or business? Visit or call us today.