Electric and gas fireplaces are a great alternative for those who don’t have a chimney or are seeking an alternative to a wood-burning fireplace. Fireplaces bring ambiance and warmth to a room and value to your home. Here some differences between electric and gas fireplaces that you should consider when making the decision:
Flames
Gas fireplaces work by producing a flame that resembles that of a traditional wood-burning fireplace. Contemporary fireplaces can add a lot of warmth to to your home, making it ideal for those living in colder climates.
While electric fireplaces don’t produce a flame, some models can provide the same amount of warmth as their gas counterparts. Electric fireplaces have controllable “flames” and temperatures, making it ideal for those living in warmer climates, but still want the coziness and aesthetic that a fireplace provides.
Cost
While gas fireplaces are cheaper in cost and installation than electric fireplaces, they add more to the resale value of your home. Gas fireplaces are inexpensive to run and provide a significant amount of warmth, which can greatly reduce your heating costs.
Electric fireplaces are cheaper in cost and installation compared to their gas-burning counterparts. While most electric fireplaces do not heat a room as fast as a gas fireplace, they are cheaper to run compared to other types of fireplaces.
Maintenance and Upkeep
Compared to wood fireplaces, gas fireplaces are fairly low maintenance. Gas fireplaces only require yearly maintenance. The vent should be inspected once a year for leaks and cleaned as needed. Because gas fireplaces are low maintenance, they are an ideal choice for those who want the warmth of a wood burning fireplace without the maintenance associated.
Electric fireplaces require little to no maintenance because they do not burn gas or require vents. This makes it the practical choice for those that wish to own a fireplace, but don’t want to keep up with regular maintenance.
If you are deciding on whether or not a gas or electric fireplace is right for you, contact The Energy House to schedule an appointment for one of our showrooms in San Carlos, CA, Gilroy, CA or Campbell, CA.