Electric Fireplace vs. Gas Fireplace

Any element of your home, no matter how small, can be important, but the big aspects tend to be where we spend the most time on our decisions. A fireplace is one of those larger elements that can affect not just the feel but also the look of the major space in your home. There are plenty of fireplace options, and it’s easy to get overwhelmed with the possibilities, especially when you haven’t made a decision like this before. Let’s start with the basic determination between the major fireplace types: electric fireplaces vs gas fireplaces. We’ll go over electric and gas fireplace pros and cons to help you make the informed decision that matches your needs.

Electric Fireplace Pros and Cons

When looking into the comparison of electric fireplaces vs gas fireplaces, one of the major benefits of an electric fireplace is energy efficiency. Electric fireplaces are designed specifically to provide a more effective heating method with a comparable visual effect to other options, making them more efficient and long-lasting than traditional wood-burning and gas alternative fireplaces. The fuel source and output combine with the safer nature of the design as major benefits to electric fireplaces. Because of their efficiency, electric fireplaces are typically less expensive both initially and in general running and upkeep than other types of fireplaces. Easy installation, temperature control, and maintenance are other pros to going with the electric fireplace. 

However, electric fireplaces, even the very nicest, cannot exactly replicate the traditional wood-burning fireplace in terms of look and feel (and even smell and sound). Without real flames and burning wood, there is no cracking, popping, or the full cozy ambiance that is typically expected with a fireplace. In comparing electric fireplaces vs gas fireplaces, even gas fireplaces tend to seem or feel more “real” than electric ones. Also, like any appliance involving electricity, electric fireplaces can be affected by power outages, so this cannot be a reliable, fool-proof power source. You also cannot rely on the typical electric fireplace as a heating source for the full home; these fireplaces work better to effectively heat smaller spaces. 

Gas Fireplace Pros and Cons

Gas fireplaces provide seamless installation, quick burning, and other pros, especially when compared to traditional fireplaces, but there are some standout qualities even when only considering gas fireplaces vs electric fireplaces. One benefit of a gas fireplace is the venting option; it can go through an existing chimney, making for not only convenient installation, but also a safe air cycle. Burning your gas fireplace exhausts all the combustion gasses and the water vapor that comes in from outside air through the vent. Heating with a gas fireplace is fast and effective without creating ash or waste, and usually all you need is a yearly maintenance inspection and a regular supply of gas to keep your fireplace running easily whenever the need arises.

While gas fireplaces are a great option with a lot of benefits, there are also some cons to consider with electric fireplaces vs gas fireplaces. Gas fireplaces heat up more quickly but they also lose heat rapidly, and the gas is usually more expensive than electricity or traditional fire materials. Also, just as with the electric fireplace, you miss the fire’s crackles and pops when you go with fake fire logs. 

Keep Placement in Mind

Now that we’ve gone over electric and gas fireplace pros and cons, you may have a better idea of what would be the best fit for your space. As you consider, remember that not all fireplaces are created equal, and some will be better for a given area than others. If you’re looking for a quick fireplace to throw into a space and get up and running right away, a gas fireplace would be a lot easier to vent through an existing chimney than you having to go in and install a wood-burning or even a larger electric fireplace. If you have a huge living space that you want to keep warm, that won’t take the same type of fireplace as if you were looking for a small fireplace for your porch. Looking at electric fireplaces vs gas fireplaces really depends on where you’re looking to put the fireplace.

Electric Fireplaces vs Gas Fireplaces: You Don’t Have to Decide Alone

Are you getting overwhelmed with electric and gas fireplace pros and cons? Don’t worry. Determining what fireplace you should put in your space is a big decision, and it’s one that you don’t need to make by yourself. You have access to expert assistance with Fireside BBQ & Appliances. We’ve proudly served the Southern California area for over 40 years, helping people find the best appliances, barbecues, and more for their spaces inside and out. Reach out to get personalized support from a knowledgeable staff member to help you make your choice.