How Much Does It Cost To Run A Gas Fireplace Per Hour?

Average Costs To Run A Gas Fireplace Per Hour

As mentioned above, the cost of running a gas fireplace varies based on a few factors. These factors typically include the size of the fireplace, gas type and prices, efficiency ratings, usage patterns, and climate. Calculating exactly how much gas is consumed each hour is crucial toward estimating your gas fireplace costs.

On average, it costs between $0.15-$0.40 to run a gas fireplace per hour. Other factors, such as the fireplace’s BTU rating, rate of gas consumption, and local gas prices, will impact your total costs.

Here is a quick breakdown of what you can expect to pay per hour:

• Lowest Cost: $0.15 per hour.
• Average Cost: $0.27 per hour.
• Highest Cost: $0.40 per hour.

*These are cost estimates according to Mklibrary. Contact the team at Diversified Builder Supply for more information.

Gas Fireplace Cost Factors

Understanding how the following factors impact the total costs of running a gas fireplace is very important. Below are a few of the factors affecting overall costs to run a gas fireplace.

Fireplace Size And BTU Output

Bigger fireplaces featuring higher BTU outputs will consume more gas, which leads to higher operating costs. The BTU (British Thermal Unit) rating shows the amount of heat the fireplace can produce every hour. The higher the BTU, the higher the costs.

Efficiency Rating

Fireplaces that have better efficiency ratings will ultimately use less fuel to produce the same amount of heat. Check for units featuring high Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) ratings as they will reduce your operating costs over time.

Type Of Gas

It’s no secret the type of gas can impact the final cost. Generally, natural gas is less expensive than propane, but the availability of it can vary. Always consider the predominant type of gas in your area first.

The Price Of Gas

The price of gas is one of the biggest factors affecting the cost of owning and running a gas fireplace. Of course, location is crucial is determining how much you’ll have to spend. Season and market conditions will undoubtedly come into play, as well. With gas prices currently soaring across the nation, gas fireplaces will be more costly to operate for the foreseeable future.

Electricity Comparison

First, determine how much electricity costs per therm so that you can accurate compare the gas fireplace operating costs to the cost of electric heat. Electricity costs are determined by kilowatt hours. One kilowatt is equivalent to 3,413 BTUs.

The easiest way to figure out your cost is to multiply the kilowatt-hour cost of electricity by 100,000, then divide that number by 3,413. It sounds complicated, but it’s very important for homeowners on a budget to estimate costs ahead of installation.

Central Heat Comparison

Comparing gas fireplace operation costs to the cost of a gas central heating system will require various considerations. The fuel cost will remain the same since both appliances use the same source. The biggest difference, though, comes from the heat output and efficiency of the two appliances.

For example, a gas furnace will consume much more fuel than a gas fireplace. It will also produce more heat than the fireplace at the same time. So, while the operating costs for a gas furnace are higher, it is more efficient for a larger area than a gas fireplace.

Installation Cost

Gas fireplaces are an enticing and energy-efficient way of heating up a room in your home. Gas fireplaces are installed easier than wood-burning alternatives and usually cost less to run, which makes them great retrofit for homeowners who desire a fireplace in a room that doesn’t have one existing.

Installing a stone gas fireplace to a room that doesn’t already have one typically costs around $6,550 for a pre-built fireplace, its installation, and finish work.

Usage

A couple final factors include your usage of the unit and your surrounding climate. When coming up with a budget for your fireplace, try to evaluate your climate and anticipated usage patterns.

By understanding and planning for the above factors, you’ll be able to make an informed decision regarding the fireplace type that’s best for your property. 

Understanding BTU And Gas Consumption

The first step is to determine your fireplace’s BTU rating and the rate of gas consumption. The BTU rating will indicate how much heat the fireplace produces per hour, as previously mentioned.

The gas consumption rate will specify how much gas is needed to generate the heat. Most manufacturers will provide these details in the owner’s manual or product specifications.

Estimating Hourly Gas Usage

Using the BTU rating and gas consumption rate, you’ll be able to estimate your fireplace’s gas usage per hour. This calculation usually involves converting the BTU rating to the proper gas unit (gallons or cubic feet). Then, you’ll multiply that number by the consumption rate.

Gas Vs Wood Vs Electric Fireplace Costs

Gas fireplaces and inserts aren’t the only choices for installing a fireplace in your home. Wood-burning and electric fireplaces are also alternatives to think about:

Conclusion

The installation of a gas fireplace can add warmth and ambiance to any home. Of course, the costs will add up over time, but there are a few ways to reduce the overall operating costs.

Keeping up with all routine maintenance and cleaning tasks can improve your fireplace’s efficiency. Also, the installation of a programmable thermostat can help homeowners better control both the temperature and usage patterns of the gas fireplace.