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.