Welcome, curious reader! If you’re looking to convert a gas fireplace to electric, but still haven’t decided if it’s the right choice? You are in the right place.
With our years of experience in installations, repairs, and replacements of all things fireplace, we have seen a fair share of projects. And with all this experience, we can help you decide what option is the best for your home.
Now, let’s not delay any further, and let’s get right into the benefits, process, types, and so much more.
Benefits of Converting a Gas Fireplace to Electric
The benefits of converting a gas fireplace to an electric one are many. Here are just a few that are the most common:
- Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings: While at first, an electric option can seem more expensive, the over time benefit shows, especially on your bills. The cost of gas is always going up, while electricity stays quite consistent. Furthermore, electric models convert nearly 100% of their energy into heat. So you'll only pay for the exact amount you use.
- Improved Safety: Safety is a HUGE advantage when you convert a gas fireplace to electric. With this type of model, you won't worry about gas leaks, carbon monoxide, or open flames. This knowledge is especially valuable when you have pets or children.
- Easier Installation: Compared to natural gas lines, electric fireplace inserts are easy to install and upkeep, especially since they don't require annual cleanings. Most units are simple plug (install) and play.
Check Out This Gas Heater We Installed!
The Cons Of Conversion
Now that we know the pros, its time to get into the (not-so) gritty cons to convert a gas fireplace to electric:
- Higher Initial Installation Costs: If you don't have the cash up front, the initial cost of to convert a gas fireplace to electric can be pretty steep. Depending on your home's setup, you may even need a dedicated circuit, which increases costs even more.
- Needs Electricity: Unlike gas options, these ones are controlled by your power grid. This can be tough for those of you living in rural or stormy areas, where you can be more prone to power failures.
- Reducded Heating Capacity: While electric fireplaces can be hot, nothing beats the heat of real flames! If you're really up north near the border, the heat from an electric option may not be enough for you.
While these downsides may seem large, if you are in Texas like us, nearly none of these should matter! That’s great!
Should You Get A Different Type Of Fireplace? Types Explained.
When shopping for something new, options are always overwhelming. Each type offers unique benefits and drawbacks that can either be perfect (or problematic). Let’s take a quick look at the main 3 traditional fireplaces:
- Electric: As said above, these offer plug-and-play convenience, zero emissions, remote controls, LEDS, and so many more modern features.
- Gas: Gas is our secondary contender, they deliver reliable heat at the switch of a button, like wood, they offer a traditional look AND can operate during power outages.
- Wood: This is the classic, the first type to ever be created. You can't beat this one if you're looking for a vintage or chic look.
Is Converting Your Gas Fireplace the Right Choice for Your Home?
So, should you convert a gas fireplace to electric? As with almost anything in life, it depends! The pros of electric fireplace are numerous, but the cons can be quite heavy, depending on the person.
But with how advanced technology has become, with LED’s, fake heating, and so much more. You can almost guarantee that an electric fireplace is a better investment than a wood burning fireplace in the long run.
Need more help deciding? Our friendly staff is always here to help you make the right choice for your home. Contact us at the form below, or call us today for free estimates & same day services for electric fireplace installation near me.
