COVID-19
by Andy Cotnam on 18 March
‘Dear Valued Clients,Please be aware that due to the events surrounding COVID-19, product sh...
Modern electric fireplaces have improved significantly making them increasingly popular. Below are the pro's and cons of choosing a modern electric fireplace over a gas fireplace.
Electric Fireplace |
Gas Fireplace |
|
Cost to buy | Much cheaper, starting as low a a few hundred dollars, but $1-3k for a good one. | Start at $2k but can range up to $5k |
Location | Can be mounted virtually anywhere you have an electric outlet, no venting required. | Requires both venting to the outside, typically an exterior wall and be able to run a gas line to the location. Professional installation or inspection is required in Canada. |
Cost to operate | With flame but no heat can cost as low as 0.3-3 cents per hour, new LED models are especially low cost. With heat about 7-20 cents per hour depending on settings and KW output. | Typically 10-40 cents per hour to operate but depending on the BTU's may be capable of heating much larger area's. |
Efficiency | 100% efficient, no heat lost through the vent. | 70-90% efficient, heat lost through the vent. |
Heat | Controlled by thermostat and usually remote control. Decorative flame can be selected without heat. Ideal for smaller rooms. | Controlled by thermostat and usually remote control. Decorative flame cannot be selected without heat. Ideal for larger rooms. |
Time of year | Because they can be used with decorative flame without heat, can be used all year round. | Best for colder months. |
Easy to move | Very easy to move. | Very difficult to move. Best done by a professional. |
Maintenance | With new LED fireplaces virtually none. Light bulbs may need replacing every 2-3 years. | Safety and maintenance inspections are recommended annually. |
Safety | Do no generate carbon monoxide and typically have cooler surfaces. | May require child safety screens to prevent children from touching hot glass or metal surfaces. Carbon monoxide detectors are becoming mandatory in many provinces. |
FireplaceDirect.ca is the online division of Advanced Prefabs, a Family owned business proudly serving the people of Eastern Ontario since 1952. We are proudly Canadian and with an enviable reputation for expert advice and...
‘Dear Valued Clients,Please be aware that due to the events surrounding COVID-19, product shipments may be delayed due to supply chain challenges b...
Follow these 3 simple steps:1) Select your fireplace2) Add it to your shopping cart 3) Checkout and pay securely by credit ...