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how expensive is it to run a gas fireplace

by Ena Barrows Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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  • Small 10,000 BTU gas fireplace costs $0.15 per hour to run. That’s $108 per month (absolute max. cost, gas fireplace running 24/7).
  • Standard 20,000 BTU gas fireplace costs $0.29 per hour to run. That’s $208.8 per month (absolute max. ...
  • Big 40,000 BTU gas fireplaces cost $0.58 per hour to run. That’s $417.6 per month (absolute max. ...

The average price of natural gas in the US in 2020 was around $11 per thousand cubic feet 1, equating to about $1.06 per therm. That means that a 38,000 BTU gas fireplace costs approximately $0.40 an hour to run.

Full Answer

How much does it cost to run my gas fireplace?

The average cost to run a gas fireplace is $0.70 per hour, and propane fireplaces cost $2.30 per hour. It costs $125 to annually maintain a gas fireplace and another $225 to install an electrical outlet for the fireplace. The average gas fireplace costs $2,000 to build between labor, materials, and add-ons. How Does a Gaslight Fireplace Work? 1.

How much to put in a gas fireplace?

Additional Considerations and Costs

  • Home value. Fireplaces can add value to a home. ...
  • Energy efficiency. Overall energy-efficient values reduce the HVAC system costs. ...
  • Taxes. The federal government supports a 30 percent tax credit for the most energy-efficient gas fireplaces. ...
  • Permits. Permits are required in some regions when installing fireplaces and new or extended gas lines. ...

Does a gas fireplace increase the value of a home?

The increase in your home value will not plateau with just one fireplace. The more fireplaces you add, the more value you get. However, this does not mean you overdo it. It is estimated that 40% of homeowners are willing to pay more for a fireplace. So long as it can be functional, more gas fireplaces will then be good for your home value.

Are gas fireplaces expensive to run?

It is most likely cheaper to run a gas fireplace than a furnace because of the radiant heat released and the possibility of zone heating. It is also easier to maintain a consistent temperature with a gas fireplace, which lowers costs.

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Do gas fireplaces cost a lot to run?

A standard 20,000 BTU gas fireplace will use about 20 cubic feet of natural gas per hour. Given that price of natural gas is about $1.09 per 100 cubic feet, running a standard-sized gas fireplace will cost about $0.22/hour at 100% heating output. In short: Gas fireplaces are quite inexpensive to run.

Does gas fireplace use a lot of gas?

An average 40,000BTU gas fireplace on full heat will use approximately 10 Therms of energy per day. Depending on the age of a gas fireplace and its maximum heat output, a gas fireplace can use a relatively large amounts of gas if used at max settings for a number of hours per day.

Is it cheaper to run a gas fireplace or the furnace?

Operating a furnace for one hour at 75,000 -100,000 Btu cost a homeowner $1.12 - $1.49 based on last month's national average natural gas rate. By comparison, a natural gas fireplace running at 30,000 Btu per hour cost only 45 cents.

Is it OK to run gas fireplace all day?

You can run a vented gas fireplace all day with little concern for anything other than gas usage.

How much does it cost to run a gas fireplace for 1 hour?

The average price of natural gas in the US in 2020 was around $11 per thousand cubic feet 1, equating to about $1.06 per therm. That means that a 38,000 BTU gas fireplace costs approximately $0.40 an hour to run.

Do gas fireplaces waste energy?

More than 100 million homes in North America are built with wood or gas burning fireplaces and nearly all of them can contribute to energy loss. The primary culprit in energy loss is the fireplace's damper.

Can I run my gas fireplace overnight?

An overall rule for safe gas fireplace usage is to not let your fireplace—no matter which style—operate throughout the night. Unmonitored gas fireplaces can lead to dangerous, often fatal, outcomes. The two most concerning outcomes of leaving a gas fireplace on for too long are a house fire or a gas leak.

Is a gas fireplace worth it?

So, are gas fireplaces really worth getting? Gas fireplaces are very energy efficient. Because they allow for you to have full control over how much fuel is being used, you can save money on heating bills. They can also be turned off completely with a simple flip of a switch, unlike wood burning fireplaces.

Does gas fireplace warm house?

Gas fireplaces have a wide range of heat output, from about 7,000 to 60,000 Btus. Use this formula to determine which models generate enough heat to warm your room. The formula assumes that your house is well insulated and has tight windows, and that you like the temperature set at 72 degrees F.

Is a gas fireplace cheaper than electric heat?

This means that a 1.5 kilowatt electric fireplace generating about 5,000 Btu will cost 19.5 cents per hour to operate. By comparison, a 25,000 Btu gas fireplace will cost 30.5 cents per hour to run on natural gas.

How many hours can you run a gas fireplace?

But, how many hours can you leave a gas fireplace on? Generally speaking, gas fireplaces that are fully vented (aka direct vent) and have a sealed glass front can be left on for many hours. But models that are vent-free and have front doors that can be opened should only be left on for a maximum of 2 hours at a time.

How much does it cost to run a gas fireplace pilot light?

How much does it cost to run a gas fireplace pilot light? According to Anderson Fireplace, gas pilot lights use about 1,000 BTUs per hour. Based on the average cost of natural gas, this comes out to about $7 to $10 per month.

How much does a fireplace cost?

It can cost $100 to $350. A clear-view or two-window fireplace can cost $300 to $700 more. These fireplaces are designed to be placed in the middle of the room, and the cost will be dependent on the style. Those building a fireplace will need to consider the finishing options such as the masonry trim, mantel, and hearth.

How much does it cost to clean a gas fireplace?

An annual check will cost about $100 to $150. A gas fireplace cleaning could cost $80 to $150, depending on the job.

How much does it cost to have a chimney inspection?

A chimney inspection will be mandatory before a gas fireplace can be installed and can cost $100 to $200. A professional will be able to clean your chimney and let you know if your chimney can accommodate a gas fireplace.

How much does it cost to build an artificial log fireplace?

Artificial logs can cost $100 to $1,000, depending on the quality and range. These logs will be made from ceramic or a refractory cement mixture designed to withstand high heat. Most gas fireplaces may already come with logs, while others do not.

Do you need a gas line for a fireplace?

It does mean that you will need a natural gas line in your home fireplace. These can be installed into a previously traditional fireplace and is generally cheaper this way. Cost breakdowns are essential to consider in the different variations of gaslight fireplaces.

Is a gas fireplace good?

Gaslight fireplaces are a very nice feature to have in the home. They can provide an ambiance that sometimes can not be achieved with an electric fireplace. They also have benefits for those that might live in areas that are at risk for power outages. However, gaslight fireplaces are not without worry. Some people worry about the cost of running ...

Is gaslight better than a real fireplace?

It will save cost on energy by up to 25 percent. There are no sparks, ashes, or soot to be overly concerned. They are easier to light than a real fireplace. Due to no fumes or particles released into the breathing space, gaslight fireplaces are much safer.

How much does it cost to run a gas fireplace?

The other great thing about gas fireplaces is that they are pretty cheap to run, and natural gas about the least costly power source available. The amount of gas a fireplace uses depends on the model, but is often measured in the arcane-sounding British Thermal Units.

Is it cheaper to run a gas fireplace or a furnace?

A gas fireplace and a gas furnace use the same fuel source, but that doesn’t mean they cost the same to run as both efficiency and heat output are part of the equation.

How much does it cost to run a gas fireplace per hour?

So, in figures, how much does a gas fireplace cost to run? The BTU rating of gas fireplaces varies widely depending on make and model. Let’s say, for example, that a gas fireplace uses about 38,000 BTU/h when fully on. That means it is going to use (38,000 ÷ 100,000) 0.38 therms an hour.

How many hours can you run a gas fireplace?

It won’t harm a gas fireplace if you have it on 24/7 so long as it is properly vented. However, there are some risks. While a properly sealed and vented gas fire should not cause a threat, there is always a chance, however slim, that a fault will lead it to emit carbon monoxide into the living area.

Do gas fireplaces give off heat?

Although log sets give little heat, both inserts and built-ins are good providers of warmth. They give radiant heat and suck in cold air. In fact, glass-fronted gas fires built into a wall or hearth are a very efficient way of heating a room and rival furnaces in their ability to convert power into heat.

Can a gas fireplace heat a whole house?

A gas fireplace is not designed to heat a whole house. While some variants are very good at heating a room, even a large one, heating a whole house is not feasible. Even if you designed a unit with the capacity for large-scale heating, it would need some sort of distribution system to get to every room.

What is the most efficient gas fireplace?

In terms of heating efficiency, the ultimate gas fireplaces have to be ventless models that require no connection to the exterior. Instead, they use a catalytic converter, similar to the one in your car engine, to remove harmful emissions.

How to compare gas fireplace to electric heat?

To compare the cost of operating a gas fireplace to the cost of electric heat, you must first determine how much electricity costs per therm so that you can compare the two appliances directly. The cost of electricity is typically given in kilowatt hours, and one kilowatt hour is equivalent to 3,413 BTUs. To convert the cost of electricity to therms, multiply the kilowatt-hour cost of electricity by 100,000, then divide the result by 3,413.

What is the difference between a gas fireplace and a gas furnace?

The differences lie in the heat output and efficiency of the appliances. Gas furnaces typically consume much more fuel and produce much more heat than a gas fireplace , but they are also usually significantly more efficient, so more of their energy consumption is converted to usable heat.

What is a BTU on a gas fireplace?

One BTU is the amount of energy required to raise the temperature of one pound of water by 1 degree Fahrenheit.

Is a forced air central furnace better than a gas fireplace?

Therefore, although the per-hour cost of operating a gas furnace will be higher than the cost of operating a gas fireplace, a forced-air central furnace will be better able to efficiently heat a larger space. Advertisement.

How much does it cost to run a gas fireplace?

With that said, the average cost to run a natural gas fireplace is approximately $0.70/hour or about $60/year, while propane costs approximately $2.30/hour.

How much does a vented fireplace cost?

By itself, a vented fireplace can range from $1,000 to $10,000 or more depending on size, shape, and features. This doesn’t include the cost of venting pipe, which will add to overall installation costs due to material as well as specialized labor. According to Home Advisor, the average installed cost of a vented fireplace is between $3,500 ...

What is the difference between gas fireplace and electric fireplace?

Gas Fireplace Alternatives. While gas fireplaces are certainly the most popular option on the market today, they’re far from the only option available. Wood fireplaces remain popular for those looking for higher heat outputs to lower energy bills, while electric fireplaces offer an excellent way to add warmth and beauty to a home ...

How much does it cost to install a ventless system?

On average, a vent-free installation will cost between $2,000 and $3,500, making this a more cost-effective option for those remodeling on a budget.

How much does a fireplace add to the value of a home?

On average, a fireplace can return upwards of 90 percent of your investment, and eight out of 10 realtors see fireplaces adding between $1,000 and $5,000 to a home’s value according to a 2016 survey.

Is it cheaper to install a fireplace or remodel?

One detail to consider is that fireplace installation will oftentimes be cheaper on a new installation versus a remodel. This is due to the fact that it will be easier for installers to frame out the fireplace and access walls, attic space, or a roof to install venting on new construction.

How much propane does a fireplace use?

That means whether or not you turn on the main burner, the fireplace is using a therm, or gallon of propane, every 3-4 days. Make sure you factor that into your calculations.

What is natural gas?

Natural Gas is typically piped right into the house from the street. There are really two types of gas fireplaces – decorative appliances and heat producing appliances. Decorative appliances are usually referred to as gas log sets and are designed to go into an existing masonry fireplace.

What is a gas insert?

The second type – a heat producing type – is a gas insert or gas fireplace. A gas insert is a metal box which installed into your masonry fireplace. A gas fireplace is built around new construction and there is no masonry chimney. Both are metal boxes with solid glass front that do not open and have a pipe that either goes out the side ...

How much heat is lost in a glass insert?

About 20-30% of the heat is lost through the exhaust. The glass gets extremely hot and radiates a tremendous amount of heat back into the room. Most inserts also come equipped with fans which will force the warm air into the room at a faster rate.

Do you have to remove the damper on a fireplace in Massachusetts?

In Massachusetts we have to remove the damper and then the fireplace will have a set of operable glass doors which must be open when the fireplace is in use. In other states you do not always need to have the damper removed or glass doors.

How to calculate monthly cost of gas fireplace?

To determine the monthly cost to run a gas fireplace you would then multiply the hourly operating cost by the hours used during the month . It should be noted that there may be a minimal electrical cost associated with the blowers used by gas fireplaces.

What is the most important choice when choosing a gas fireplace system?

Deciding what is economically responsible for your home and family is going to be the most important choice when you pick a gas fireplace system. While it’s important to pick something that benefits your life, don’t let initial gas fireplace installation costs be a deterring factor when it comes to your heating source.

How does a vent free fireplace work?

While a vent-free fireplace is one of the most efficient gas fireplace models, the hot air they emit per hour will immediately rise to the top of the room before it circulates to the rest of your living space. This means that you must first heat the space above you before you will feel the heat at ground level.

What is a direct vent fireplace?

A better alternative in larger spaces that require more heat circulation might be a direct vent fireplace. Direct vent fireplaces are designed to radiate heat at the ground level, avoiding the expense of heating the space above. Now, we know that was a lot to process.

Do you have to worry about gas fireplace installation?

If you already have a gas fireplace installed in your home, then you don’t have to worry about the additional cost of a gas fireplace installation. However, if this is the first time you’re shopping for a gas fireplace, then you’ll also have to consider the initial installation costs before running your brand new gas fireplace.

Is a gas fireplace better than a wood burning fireplace?

If you’re looking for a cost-effective, but cozy home heating solution for your family, there is nothing better than a gas fireplace. Gas fireplaces offer plenty of warmth without all of the mess and maintenance of their traditional wood-burning counterparts.

Is it cheaper to install a gas fireplace or wood stove?

Ultimately, it’s not more expensive to install a gas fireplace compared to a traditional wood-burning fireplace or wood stove. While there are installation costs to consider, the annual cost to run a gas fireplace is pretty cost-effective.

How do I run a wood burning fireplace?

Wood-burning fireplaces can take a lot of your time – and for many of us, time is money. To run a wood fireplace, you’ll need to procure the logs – that means go out and cut them, buy them, or pay to have them delivered to your home. Also, you must store the logs and have to lug the logs inside the house. Then, you have to clean the ashes and wood chips out of the firebox when you’re finished using it.

Can you use gas in a fireplace?

When you operate a gas-driven fireplace, you know that you’ve got a highly efficient heat source. You can easily control how much heat gets generated, and you can be assured that all the gas you bring into your fireplace will be used and burned cleanly. With wood logs, the burn can be inefficient, particularly if the wood isn’t properly dried.

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1.How Much Does It Cost To Run A Gas Fireplace? (Per …

Url:https://learnmetrics.com/how-much-does-it-cost-to-run-a-gas-fireplace/

8 hours ago It depends on the setup you have and the type of fireplace, but plan for the worst-case scenario. Budget for approximately $0.70 per hour when using natural gas or $2.30 per hour when using propane. Since gas prices can and do vary, this cost will follow the trend of gas prices.

2.How Much Does It Cost To Run A Gas Fireplace? (Find …

Url:https://upgradedhome.com/how-much-does-it-cost-to-run-a-gas-fireplace/

31 hours ago The cost of operating a gas fireplace depends, of course, on the cost of gas, and that cost varies considerably by location, season and market conditions. For example, in March of 2015, the average cost of natural gas in Alabama was $1.16 per therm -- well above the national average -- while in Illinois, the average cost was 72 cents per therm -- far below the national average.

3.Videos of How Expensive Is It to Run A Gas Fireplace

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5 hours ago I have 15 foot ceilings (with a ceiling fan), but share some interior walls with neighbors so probably have less heat loss than the average home and I have never had a gas bill over $65 in the winter, and I keep it at 70 degrees as a minimum. When I turn the fireplace on my whole place can get up to 73 degrees in under 30 minutes.

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