How Much Does It Cost To Run A Gas Fireplace

The energy consumption of a gas fireplace is measured in British Thermal Units (BTU). Therefore, one BTU is the total amount of energy needed to boost the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit. If a fireplace comes with a BTU rating of 30,000, adding in the cost of gas at 90 cents per therm, multiply the two figures, then divide by 100,000 to estimate your monthly costs.

For example, the average monthly cost to run a gas fireplace in Arizona is $15.62, according to EIA.gov. If you are searching for “how much does it cost to run a gas fireplace“, this post will break down all the variables affecting overall costs.

Gas Fireplace Costs

Here are a few of the factors affecting overall costs to run a gas fireplace:

• The Price Of Gas
• Electricity Comparison
• Central Heat Comparison
• Gas Fireplace Installation Cost

The Price Of Gas

The price of gas is one of the biggest factors affecting the cost of owning and running a gas fireplace. Of course, location is crucial is determining how much you’ll have to spend. Season and market conditions will undoubtedly come into play, as well. With gas prices currently soaring across the nation, gas fireplaces will be more costly to operate for the foreseeable future.

Electricity Comparison

First, determine how much electricity costs per therm so that you can accurate compare the gas fireplace operating costs to the cost of electric heat. Electricity costs are determined by kilowatt hours. One kilowatt is equivalent to 3,413 BTUs. The easiest way to figure out your cost is to multiply the kilowatt-hour cost of electricity by 100,000, then divide that number by 3,413. It sounds complicated, but it’s very important for homeowners on a budget to estimate costs ahead of installation.

Central Heat Comparison

Comparing gas fireplace operation costs to the cost of a gas central heating system will require various considerations. The fuel cost will remain the same since both appliances use the same source. The biggest difference, though, comes from the heat output and efficiency of the two appliances. For example, a gas furnace will consume much more fuel than a gas fireplace. It will also produce more heat than the fireplace at the same time. So, while the operating costs for a gas furnace are higher, it is more efficient for a larger area than a gas fireplace.

Gas Fireplace Installation Cost

Gas fireplaces are an enticing and energy-efficient way of heating up a room in your home. Gas fireplaces are installed easier than wood-burning alternatives and usually cost less to run, which makes them great retrofit for homeowners who desire a fireplace in a room that doesn’t have one existing. Installing a stone gas fireplace to a room that doesn’t already have one typically costs around $6,550 for a pre-built fireplace, its installation, and finish work.

Fireplace Cost Comparisons

Gas fireplaces and inserts aren’t the only choices for installing a fireplace in your home. Wood-burning and electric fireplaces are also alternatives to think about:

Gas Fireplace Benefits

Here are three of the many benefits of installing a gas fireplace:

• Fireplace appearance
• Energy-efficient 
• Required maintenance

It’s nearly impossible to mistake either a gas or electric fireplace for any sort of traditional wood-burning unit, but there is a wide range of designs that both models can come in. If you are looking for the closest look to an authentic fireplace, you can’t beat a gas model. A gas fireplace will actually produce the flame and come as close as possible to replicating a wood-burning fireplace.

Energy efficiency may be the biggest difference one can find between gas and electric versus wood-burning fireplaces. Depending on the size and model, the energy efficiency can vary widely. Most gas fireplaces come in around 70-90% in terms of converting energy to heat. The typical operating cost of a gas model is $60, per year.

We know the typical costs of the unit and the expense of installation, but what about general maintenance? Well, the good news is you will likely save money when opting for a gas fireplace over the traditional offerings. Gas fireplaces require considerably less general maintenance for homeowners. Check valves from time to time, just to make sure they are running properly. Electric fireplaces require no regular maintenance at all.