On a cold day, the best place to be is snuggled up in front of a home’s fireplace. If your house does not have a chimney for a wood-burning fireplace, then a gas or electric fireplace is a great alternative. Both options offer charming ambiance. However, homeowners should research gas versus electric fireplaces before purchasing and installing.
Gas Versus Electric Fireplaces
An electric fireplace does not actually produce flame, but rather uses electricity to create an effect that looks like a log burning. It can still offer warmth to a room and only requires an electrical outlet to work. An electric fireplace usually requires less energy to operate. According to Fixr.com, electric fireplaces only require a maximum of 8,900 BTUs and cost about $25 per year to run versus gas fireplaces which require a maximum of 16,000 BTUs and an average cost of $60 per year to run.
If you want a more realistic-looking fireplace, then a gas fireplace may be your better choice. A gas fireplace burns a real flame and will give off more heat, so it does require a gas line installation to operate. Gas fireplaces also require yearly maintenance to keep them clean and safe.
Are There Risks Associated?
Gas fireplaces produce much more warmth, so the glass window will get hot to the touch. If a gas fireplace is not maintained properly, then a gas leak can potentially occur. Electric fireplaces have fewer overall risks. However, like any heater, if they are damaged or plugged into a ungrounded outlet, there is the potential for fire. Keep all this in mind when making your decision!
Overall, electric fireplaces are the more energy-efficient option. They are less expensive to purchase, easy to install, and require less maintenance. For more information on electric fireplace installation, contact Tim Kyle Electric. Located in Westminster, we provide residential electrical service to Lutherville-Timonium and the greater Baltimore area. Contact us today for your next residential electrical job!