When comparing electric vs. gas fireplaces in terms of cost efficiency, the better option depends on your priorities: installation cost, operating cost, heat output, and long-term use. Here’s a direct breakdown:
⚡️ Electric Fireplaces – Cost Efficiency Breakdown
✅ Pros (Cost-Efficient If…)
-
Low installation costs: $300–$1,500 (just plug in or minimal setup).
-
No venting or gas line required.
-
100% energy efficient: All electricity becomes heat (no vent loss).
-
Low maintenance: No chimney cleaning or pilot light.
💸 Cons (Operating Cost)
-
Higher cost per BTU: Electricity is more expensive per unit of heat than natural gas.
-
Not ideal for whole-home heating — best for ambiance or supplemental room heating.
🔢 Typical Electric Cost:
-
If using 1,500 watts:
→ ~$0.20–$0.30 per hour in Arizona (at ~13¢–18¢ per kWh)
→ ~$1.60–$2.40 for 8 hours/day
→ ~$48–$72/month
🔥 Gas Fireplaces – Cost Efficiency Breakdown
✅ Pros (Cost-Efficient If…)
-
Lower cost per BTU: Natural gas is often 3–5x cheaper than electricity for heat.
-
Better for zone heating: More effective in heating medium to large spaces.
-
Real flame experience.
💸 Cons (Higher Upfront Cost)
-
Installation cost: $2,500–$5,000+ (needs a gas line and ventilation).
-
Ongoing maintenance: Annual inspections, vent/chimney cleaning.
-
Not 100% efficient: Vented gas fireplaces lose some heat up the flue (unless using a ventless model).
🔢 Typical Gas Cost:
-
At $1.50 per therm, and ~30,000 BTU/hr:
→ ~$0.45 per hour
→ ~$3.60/day for 8 hours
→ ~$108/month
(This is still cheaper per BTU than electric, but depends on usage time and gas rates.)
🔄 Cost-Efficiency Summary Table
| Factor | Electric | Gas |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront Cost | Low ($300–$1,500) | High ($2,500–$5,000+) |
| Install Complexity | Easy (plug-in or mount) | Requires gas + venting |
| Operating Cost (monthly) | ~$50–$75 (light use) | ~$75–$150+ (heavier use) |
| Efficiency | 100% (no vent loss) | 70%–90% (unless ventless) |
| Heat Output | Low/moderate (~5,000 BTU) | High (20,000–40,000+ BTU) |
| Maintenance | Minimal | Annual inspection needed |
🏡 Best Choice Depends On Your Needs:
-
Choose electric if:
-
You want quick setup and lower upfront cost
-
You’ll only use it occasionally or for ambiance
-
You’re in a smaller space or apartment
-
-
Choose gas if:
-
You plan to use it often for real heating
-
You already have a gas line and venting
-
You value flame realism and strong output
-
Are Gas Or Electric Fireplaces Considered More Of A Fire Hazard?
When it comes to fire safety, electric fireplaces are generally considered less of a fire hazard than gas fireplaces. However, both types are relatively safe when installed and maintained correctly. Here’s how they compare:
🔥 Gas Fireplaces – Higher Fire Hazard Risk
⚠️ Why They’re Riskier:
-
Real flame and combustion involved.
-
Can cause carbon monoxide buildup if improperly vented.
-
Gas leaks can be a serious hazard.
-
Flammable materials nearby (like drapes or furniture) can ignite.
-
Pilot lights or burner malfunctions can spark issues.
🔧 Risk Factors:
-
Poor installation or DIY gas line connections.
-
Lack of annual inspections.
-
Blocked or deteriorated flue/chimney.
✅ How to Stay Safe:
-
Install a carbon monoxide detector near the unit.
-
Have the fireplace inspected yearly by a licensed technician.
-
Ensure proper venting and clearance from combustibles.
⚡ Electric Fireplaces – Lower Fire Hazard Risk
✅ Why They’re Safer:
-
No combustion or real flame.
-
No gas line, no emissions, no chimney needed.
-
Surface stays cooler than traditional fireplaces.
⚠️ But Still Has Risks:
-
Electrical overloads (e.g., poor-quality extension cords).
-
Overheating due to blocked vents or dust buildup.
-
Cheap or faulty units may lack auto-shutoff or overheat protection.
✅ How to Stay Safe:
-
Plug directly into a dedicated outlet (no extension cords).
-
Choose UL-listed or CSA-certified units with safety shutoffs.
-
Clean the vents and avoid covering the heater.
-
Don’t leave it on when unattended for long periods.
🔍 Summary: Fire Hazard Risk Comparison
| Risk Factor | Electric Fireplace | Gas Fireplace |
|---|---|---|
| Open flame | ❌ None | ✅ Yes |
| CO risk | ❌ None | ✅ Yes (if poorly vented) |
| Explosion/gas leak | ❌ None | ✅ Possible (rare, serious) |
| Overheating | ⚠️ Rare (electrical) | ⚠️ Possible |
| Needs ventilation | ❌ No | ✅ Yes (unless ventless) |
| Maintenance required | ⚠️ Minimal | ✅ Annual recommended |
| Overall fire hazard | 🔽 Lower | 🔼 Higher |
🏁 Bottom Line:
-
Electric fireplaces are typically safer and pose less of a fire hazard.
-
Gas fireplaces carry more risk but are still safe when professionally installed, vented, and maintained regularly.
[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
GAS FIREPLACE INSTALLATION PHOENIX & CHANDLER, ARIZONA
If you live in Chandler, or surrounding cities in the Phoenix, Arizona area and want a gas fireplace installed; Diversified Builder, Inc. can help! We offer indoor and outdoor fireplace installation in Phoenix & Chandler, Arizona. We also install commercial and residential brick veneers. Contact us Today!





