Having options is a good thing. It does, however, demand some research on the part of the consumer. If you’re a fireplace enthusiast, but have decided against the rigors of chopping wood, sweeping ashes, and managing the flames, gas and electric fireplaces are both contenders for your attention. With each presenting their own benefits, how do you know what’s right for you?
We’re happy to help you navigate the options. Our years of experience in a wide range of chimney and fireplace services have given us insight into what works for homeowners, and we’re tenaciously committed to finding solutions that serve the individual customer. There are a few foundational things to know about what gas and electric fireplaces have to offer. As you weigh your priorities, don’t hesitate to reach out to learn more.
Exploring Electrification: What Is It?
For the reasons above, many homes and regions are shifting toward electrification – replacing gas appliances (such as fireplaces) with electric ones. The result has been a burst of innovation in the electric fireplace market. Manufacturers are improving designs in fireplaces across the board, but electric ones have enjoyed some of the most notable improvements – more realistic flame technology, energy-efficient heating elements, and a greater range of feature options.
The trend toward electrification is driving down costs and improving the performance of electric units. And, as more homes embrace electric options, the availability of renewable resources (like solar or wind) grows, making them an even more sustainable choice. For many, electric simply fits, making an electric fireplace a step toward aligning home heating sources with long-term environmental goals.
Gas Fireplaces: Flickering Flames, Powerful Warmth & Worry-Free Convenience
Gas fireplaces have been a long-standing popular choice (although modern engineering has expanded their benefits). They give the best of both worlds: aesthetics of a traditional fire, convenience of modern technology. They burn gas, which is piped into the unit to create a controlled, adjustable flame.
Why might gas win your heart?
- Authenticity. I mean, live flames. Is there anything like the mesmerizing glow and ambient heat they provide? Gas flames can vary in intensity and size, which can usually be adjusted with a remote control.
- Instant warmth. No need to wait – flip a switch and enjoy the heat! Gas also gives a robust output of heat.
- Low maintenance. This is a huge draw. No logs to haul, kindling to stay, soot to clean. Schedule your annual inspection, and you’ve already ticked the box on the major maintenance requirement.
- Efficiency. Gas performs well here, giving steady heat from minimal fuel. There’s little waste, making it an economical choice.
But make sure you consider…
- Installation. While our team can make this pretty hassle-free on your part, installing a gas fireplace will require a gas line and some other considerations that make electric simpler in most cases.
- Gas utility dependence. Your gas fireplace relies on the fuel delivery system, so if there’s a supply issue your use of your fireplace will be interrupted. Gas is also a non-renewable resource, which is a consideration for some.
Electric Fireplaces: Unparalleled Ease, Convenience & Clean Living
Electric fireplaces have enjoyed a surge in popularity recently, especially as focus on energy efficiency and sustainability has increased. Simplicity? Sleek modern appeal? There are a number of perks to going electric.
Some of the perks include:
- Plug-and-play possibilities. If you have an outlet, your ‘fuel’ supply is already taken care of. No venting or chimney required. This can make the process of installing your fireplace much less complex and more wallet-friendly.
- Zero emissions. Since electric fireplaces don’t burn anything, they don’t emit fumes, carbon dioxide, or pollutants. There’s no risk of compromising indoor air quality, and they’re a sustainable choice.
- Safety and control. The risks of a gas leak are slight for a well-installed and maintained gas fireplace, but nill with electric. Electric units also boast safety features like automatic shutoff timers and cool-to-the-touch surfaces.
- Heat-free ambiance. If your room is at a comfortable heat, you can still enjoy a visual fireplace effect. Electric fireplaces are versatile!
But be sure to consider…
- Limited heating capability. Electric is great for smaller rooms, but gas packs more heating power. If you’re looking for strong supplemental heating over a large space, an electric fireplace may not meet your needs.
- Artificial flame. Electric fireplace can create a pleasing visual effect, but the flames themselves aren’t real. They can be quite convincing, but don’t offer the same level of realism as the open flames produced by gas or wood.
Environmental Friendliness: Which Is More Sustainable?
Both gas and electric fireplaces are friendly alternatives to wood burning when it comes to pollutants. However, electric fireplaces do take an edge when it comes to sustainability. Gas fireplaces, despite their efficiency, do rely on fossil fuels and contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. Natural gas is a cleaner option than burning coal or oil, but it’s still a non-renewable resource.
Electric fireplaces are powered by electricity – this means that they’re as green as the source of that electricity. In places where the grid is powered by renewable energy sources, electric fireplaces are a great choice if minimizing your environmental impact is a top priority. Even if your local grid does rely on fossil fuels, electric fireplaces are relatively cleaner as they don’t put out pollutants during operation.
Finding a Fireplace To Fit Your Needs: Let Us Help
Gas and electric fireplaces both offer clear advantages. If you want a real fire with immediate warmth and a larger heat output, gas might be the ticket. If you want ease of installation, sustainability, and flexibility, an electric fireplace will be hard to beat. And with electrification moving the market forward, you’ll be pleased to find these options stronger than they’ve ever been.
Whatever you choose, a new or upgraded fireplace can enhance the warmth, comfort, and style of your home. Give us a call or reach out to us online to find out what’s involved in making cozy, efficient ambiance the flip of a switch away.