How Much Does It Cost To Run An Electric Fireplace Per Hour?

🔌 Typical Cost Estimate:

• Most electric fireplaces use about 1,500 watts (1.5 kW) when the heater is on.

• Average U.S. electricity rate (as of 2025): around $0.15 per kWh.

💰 Cost Calculation:

1.5 kW × $0.15/kWh = $0.225/hour

So, about 23 cents per hour when heating is on.

🔥 Two Modes to Consider:

⚡ Example for Phoenix, AZ:

Phoenix utility rates vary but typically fall around $0.12 – $0.16/kWh, so your cost would likely be $0.18 to $0.24/hour when using heat.

Are Electric Fireplaces Easy To Install?

electric fireplaces are very easy to install, especially compared to gas or wood-burning models. Here’s what you should know:

🔌 Types of Electric Fireplaces & Installation Difficulty

🧰 What You Don’t Need:

• No chimney

• No venting or flue

• No gas line

• No permits (in most cases)

⚡ Electrical Notes:

• Most run on a standard 120V outlet.

• High-end models (recessed or whole-room heaters) may need a dedicated 240V circuit — check the specs.

• Avoid using extension cords for high-wattage models.

🏠 Ideal For:

• Apartments and condos

• Bedrooms, offices, or RVs

• Renters (many units are portable)

🚧 You Might Need Help If:

• You’re recessing it into a wall

• You’re hardwiring to a dedicated circuit

• You want a custom-built mantel or surround

Are Electric Fireplaces More Dangerous Than Gas Fireplaces?

Electric fireplaces are generally less dangerous than gas fireplaces when it comes to safety risks. Here’s a breakdown comparing both:

🔌 Electric Fireplaces: Safer in Most Cases

✅ Pros (Safety)

• No real flames: Just simulated fire via LED lights, so there’s no open flame.

• No combustion: No carbon monoxide (CO) risk.

• Cool-to-touch surfaces (in most models): Less burn risk.

• No venting required: No risk of flue blockages or backdrafting.

• Built-in safety features: Many include tip-over shutoff, overheat protection, or timers.

⚠️ Cons (Safety)

• Fire hazard if misused: Like any electrical appliance, poor wiring, overloads, or covering the unit can cause fire.

• Overheating: Can happen if vents are blocked or it’s left on too long.

🔥 Gas Fireplaces: Higher Risk Profile

✅ Pros

• Real flame: Creates more heat and ambiance for some users.

• Reliable during power outages: Doesn’t need electricity to run.

⚠️ Cons (Safety)

• Carbon monoxide risk: Requires a properly working flue and CO detectors.

• Gas leaks: Potentially fatal if unnoticed.

• Open flames: More burn risk, especially for pets or kids.

• Ventilation issues: Poor maintenance can lead to backdrafts or trapped fumes.

🏆 Conclusion:

• Electric fireplaces are safer overall—especially for apartments, elderly users, and homes with kids or pets.

• Gas fireplaces offer more heat and realism but come with higher safety risks and maintenance needs.

If safety is your main concern, electric is the safer bet. Let me know if you want a direct comparison chart or safety checklist for either type.