Why We Chose Electric Over Gas For Our DIY Fireplace

Adding a fireplace to your living room is such a cozy upgrade, but when you’re DIYing you’ve got a surprising number of insert choices ranging from gas to electric. Both have their own advantages and drawbacks, and the choice you make will affect everything from your budget to how well your home stays warm.

Whether you’re aiming for energy efficiency or just want something that adds to the overall look of your space, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of both electric and gas fireplaces to figure out which one is the best fit for your DIY project.

We’ve built two electric fireplace surrounds now so we’re clearly electric fans, but let’s dive into what went into the choice!

Electric vs Gas Fireplaces

Electric Fireplaces: Pros and Cons

Electric fireplaces have gained popularity recently due to their modern designs and how easy they are to install. They’re a great option for when you want to enhance your space without the hassle of venting or installing gas lines. Let’s be honest, gas appliances are a bit scary, right?

Pros of Electric Fireplaces

Ease of Installation: Electric fireplaces are one of the simplest options to install. Most units can be plugged into a standard outlet, making them a perfect choice for DIY fireplace installation. There’s no need for venting, which means you can place them in virtually any room.

We used the Touchstone Home 40″ Steel Mesh Front fireplace when building our Cottage-Style Overgrouted Fireplace.

Energy Efficiency: Electric fireplaces convert almost all the energy they use into heat, making them highly energy-efficient. You can also adjust the heat settings, making them more versatile than traditional gas models.
Low Maintenance: Unlike gas fireplaces, electric models require little to no maintenance. There’s no need to worry about cleaning chimney flues or gas lines, which sounds yucky.
Safety: Electric fireplaces don’t produce real flames, which reduces the risk of accidental burns or fires. This was a big consideration for us as parents of toddlers and a couple clumsy dogs.

Cons of Electric Fireplaces

Lower Heat Output: While electric fireplaces are energy-efficient, they typically don’t produce as much heat as gas fireplaces. If you’re relying on your fireplace to warm large rooms, this may not be the best option. Real talk: this doesn’t bother us as Floridians.
Lack of Real Flame Ambiance: For some homeowners, the aesthetic of a real flame is essential. Electric fireplaces offer flame effects, but they may not match the authenticity of a gas fireplace. So, yeah, the vibes might not be immaculate.

Gas Fireplaces: Pros and Cons

Gas fireplaces offer a more traditional look and feel with real flames and higher heat output. However, they also come with some installation challenges that DIY renovators might balk at. Here are the main pros and cons of gas fireplaces that we considered:

Pros of Gas Fireplaces

High Heat Output: One of the most significant advantages of a gas fireplace is its ability to heat large spaces quickly. This makes them a solid choice for those who want to use their fireplace as a primary heat source in colder months.
Real Flame Experience: If you love the look of a roaring fire and that satisfying crackle sound, a gas fireplace provides that authentic ambiance. A lot of models even offer adjustable flame settings to customize the experience.
Reliable Heat Source: Gas fireplaces can function even during power outages, which makes them a reliable heating option during emergencies.

Cons of Gas Fireplaces

Complex Installation: Installing a gas fireplace is more complex than an electric one. It typically requires professional installation to run gas lines and ensure proper venting. This means it’s less suitable for a DIY installation unless you’re experienced with gas work. You’d be much better off hiring out for this project, and checking if you need permits.
Maintenance: Gas fireplaces need regular maintenance, including cleaning the vents and inspecting gas lines for leaks. This can add ongoing costs that you don’t have with a fireplace that simply plugs into a wall outlet.
Safety Considerations: While modern gas fireplaces come with safety features, there’s always a risk of gas leaks or carbon monoxide exposure. Proper ventilation and regular inspections are crucial to avoid these hazards. The first house we lived in together had leaky gas lines and we never want to deal with that again.

Cost Comparison: Electric vs Gas Fireplaces

When comparing the cost of electric vs gas fireplaces, electric fireplaces tend to be more affordable upfront. You can purchase a quality electric unit for a fraction of the cost of a gas model, and installation is usually much cheaper. Gas fireplaces, on the other hand, require a more significant investment in both the unit itself and the installation process, particularly if gas lines need to be run.

However, gas fireplaces can save money in the long run through lower operating costs, especially in colder climates where the fireplace will be used frequently. Gas fireplaces typically have a lower cost per hour of operation compared to electric models, making them a more economical choice for heavy use.

Energy Efficiency and Environmental Impact

In terms of energy efficiency, electric fireplaces are generally considered more efficient because they convert nearly 100% of their electricity into heat. However, the efficiency can vary depending on your home’s energy source—electricity rates may make them more expensive to operate in certain regions.

Gas fireplaces are less efficient in terms of energy conversion but can heat large spaces more effectively, reducing the need for additional heating systems.

Also, make sure to check if you live in an area that has banned natural gas appliances!

Which Fireplace is Best for Your DIY Renovation?

Ultimately, the decision between electric vs gas fireplaces depends on your renovation goals, budget, and personal preferences. If you’re looking for a simple, low-maintenance solution that’s easy to install, an electric fireplace might be your best bet. On the other hand, if you prioritize actual heating, ambiance, and long-term savings, a gas fireplace could be the better option.

Either way, make sure to carefully consider both options and you specific needs to make the right decision for your home. Hopefully this has helped a little!

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