Are electric fireplaces expensive to operate?
Of all the misconceptions about electric fireplaces, this is the most confusing for many people. In our part of the world, most homes are now heated with natural gas. Homeowners have been told for years that it is much more energy-efficient and economical to heat their homes with natural gas than with electricity. So how can an electric fireplace possibly be less expensive to operate than a gas fireplace?
Are electric fireplaces expensive to operate without heaters turned on?
The flames on electric fireplaces are created with LED’s, which we all know by now are extremely efficient and cost-effective. So, when the flames are on without the heater being turned on, an electric fireplace is using less than $0.01 per hour of electricity. Are electric fireplaces expensive to operate without heaters turned on? No! By comparison, a gas fireplace needs to consume a fair bit of fuel in order to create an attractive flame. Even though natural gas is affordable, it’s the quantity that’s being used that adds up. For most users, it will cost more to run a gas fireplace than an electric one.
Are electric fireplaces expensive to operate with heaters turned on?
It is the heater on an electric fireplace that consumes the most electricity. In our area currently, it’s about $0.19 per hour. Even so, that’s still less expensive than using a gas fireplace. The heater on an electric fireplace may be turned on or off without affecting the flames. If the electric fireplace has a built-in thermostat, the heater will turn on and off automatically to keep the room at a predetermined temperature. An electric fireplace is also equipped with a blower to circulate the heat into the room, and no heat is lost in venting because there is no vent. This makes it a very efficient zone heater. Are electric fireplaces expensive to operate with heaters turned on? No! By comparison, a gas fireplace is far less flexible – when it’s on, it’s hot. Plus some of that heat is lost in the venting.
Are electric fireplaces expensive to operate or maintain?
There is virtually no maintenance with electric fireplaces. There are no longer lightbulbs to change because the flames are all LED. There is no combustion inside, so there is no fogging of the glass. Because there is no combustion, there is no risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, and no need for annual maintenance. If an electric fireplace needs to be serviced, the parts and labour are generally far less expensive than a replacement fireplace. Are electric fireplaces expensive to operate or maintain? No!
If you’ve been avoiding electric fireplaces because you thought there were expensive to operate, it’s time to take a closer look. Napoleon has developed an Electric Cost Calculator, to help you understand the costs of operating an electric fireplace in your area. Pick your model, plug in the electricity cost for your area, and see for yourself.
Stylish Fireplaces & Interiors specializes in electric fireplaces and custom designs. Their Toronto-area showroom features over 50 fireplaces for side-by-side comparison. Expert staff can advise on installation and technical issues, while their in-house design consultant has over 25 years of experience to advise on your feature wall.