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Fireplace Installation Near Me: Is Gas or Electric More Efficient?

You want a new fireplace, and you know you don’t want to deal with the hassle of a wood system. Hauling logs? Building a fire? Scooping up ash? Definitely not for you.

Fortunately, nowadays, getting a cozy and beautiful ambiance without all the work is no problem thanks to the many gas and electric fireplaces, stoves, and inserts on the market. But which is right for you? And which is the most efficient?

It’s hard to say that one is “more efficient” than the other because they’re both highly efficient in different ways – and both are definitely more efficient than burning with wood.

A quick take?

• If your primary goal is heating efficiency with a warm, authentic flame and you have access to natural gas or propane, a gas fireplace is generally the more efficient choice for heating your home.
• If you want a versatile, clean, and maintenance-free option that can fit almost anywhere, and you’re comfortable with simulated flames, an electric fireplace offers nearly perfect energy conversion.

The fact is that both gas and electric fireplaces have unique advantages and limitations, so understanding the in and outs of how they’re efficient in their own way is important. Let’s get into it…

How Efficient Are Gas Fireplaces?

Efficiency ratings for gas fireplaces typically range from about 70 – 90%. This means a large portion of the fuel’s energy is converted into usable heat inside your home. This is significant compared to wood fireplaces, which are only about 10 – 20% efficient.

Beyond just numbers, this efficiency translates into real comfort for your household. Gas fireplaces provide steady, controllable heat without the mess or maintenance demands of wood, and many models allow you to adjust flame height or heat output. If you want flexibility, high efficiency, and less mess – without losing out on aesthetics – gas fireplaces are hard to beat.

On the cost side, operating a gas fireplace tends to be fairly predictable. While gas prices can fluctuate with the market, they are often more stable than other fuel sources, making it easier to budget for your home heating needs.

How Efficient Are Electric Fireplaces?

Electric fireplaces are nearly 100% efficient in the fact that all the electrical energy consumed is converted into heat and light. However, their real-world efficiency depends on how electricity is generated in your region. If your electricity comes from renewable sources (like solar energy), electric fireplaces can be a very clean option.

You will lose a bit in ambiance, though. Electric fireplaces don’t produce real flames – they simulate them with LED lights and screen effects. So, while you’ll get instant heat with adjustable thermostats that require virtually no maintenance, you may have to sacrifice on authenticity.

And while electric fireplaces are very efficient at heat conversion, their heat output is usually lower than gas fireplaces, making them better suited for supplemental or small-room heating rather than for heating bigger living areas in colder climates.

What’s the Best Fireplace & Fuel Type for an Apartment?

Electric fireplaces are typically the best fit for apartment living. They require no venting or chimney, emit no real combustion gases, and are easy to install, just requiring plug-in access to a standard outlet. And they’re flexible too! You can put them about anywhere, and easily move them around, if needed.

Most importantly, because they produce no emissions, electric fireplaces and stoves typically comply easily with apartment building regulations and don’t require special permits.

Are gas fireplaces an option? Some apartments allow ventless (or vent-free) gas fireplaces, which burn cleanly enough that no external vent is needed. These units produce real flames and provide strong heat output. However, they must be installed according to strict safety codes, including proper oxygen depletion sensors and carbon monoxide detectors.

Check your apartment’s policies carefully, though, as some buildings (or whole regions) prohibit ventless gas units due to indoor air quality concerns.

Pellet stoves and wood fireplaces are generally not suitable for apartments, as they require chimneys or vents and fuel storage, making installation nearly impossible in most apartment settings.

For Fireplaces & Stoves Near Harrisburg, PA, We Can Help

As Pennsylvania’s state capitol, Harrisburg serves as a hub for history, culture, and entertainment, offering residents plenty to do and see. Nestled along the Susquehanna River, you can easily enjoy lovely riverfront views, or go deeper into the city to find historical landmarks, beautiful parks, and plenty of shopping opportunities.

What might locals recommend for a day out and about? Well, you could always take a visit to the Pennsylvania State Capitol Complex. The Capitol building is often hailed as one of the most beautiful in the nation with a large rotunda, lots of ornate chambers, and 273 antique clocks (all still ticking).

Other spots for history lovers include the National Civil War Museum, the State Museum of Pennsylvania, and Fort Hunter Mansion & Park. Or take a ride on the Pride of the Susquehanna, one of the few remaining paddle-wheel riverboats in the country.

Rather spend a day hiking or enjoying the outdoors? That’s easy to do with great spots like Riverfront Park, City Island, and Wildwood Park. And check out Rockville Bridge while you’re out – it’s the longest stone masonry arch railroad bridge in the world.

No matter what your day is like in Harrisburg, we want to ensure you have a cozy fireplace to come home to at the end of it all. We serve this area, as well as surrounding communities like Highspire, Enola, Camp Hill, New Cumberland, Oberlin, Susquehanna Township, and more. Ready to reach out? We’d love to hear from you.

Purchase Your New Fireplace Product Today

There’s no better time than now to bring warmth, style, and comfort into your home with a new fireplace product. Whether you’re looking for a stunning wood insert, an efficient gas fireplace, or quality accessories to complete your setup, we have what you need. Our knowledgeable team is ready to help you choose, purchase, and install your new fireplace product with ease.

Purchase today or call with questions – we’re here to help.