Cost to Run a Gas Fireplace

On February 16, 2025 By newsroom Topic: Home Services

A gas fireplace offers warmth and ambiance during colder months. Here’s a breakdown of the costs and factors to keep in mind:

1. Average Costs to Run a Gas Fireplace

Propane Fireplace: $0.62 per hour
Natural Gas Fireplace: $0.35 per hour
Daily Use (3 hours): $1.05–$2.16
Yearly Cost (180 days): $189–$389

2. Cost Factors

Fuel Type

| Fuel | National Average Cost |
|----------------|------------------------------------|
| Propane | $2.48 per gallon |
| Natural Gas| $1.38 per therm (100,000 BTUs) |

Heat Output (BTUs)

Most gas fireplaces produce 10,000–70,000 BTUs per hour.
A 25,000-BTU propane fireplace uses 1 gallon every 4 hours, costing $0.62 per hour.
A 25,000-BTU natural gas fireplace costs $0.35 per hour.

Location

Costs vary based on fuel prices in your state. Example daily/yearly costs for a 25,000-BTU fireplace:
| State | Daily Cost | Yearly Cost |
|--------------------|----------------|------------------|
| Ohio | $0.74–$1.91 | $179–$462 |
| Texas | $1.21–$2.16 | $293–$523 |
| Massachusetts | $1.63–$2.68 | $394–$649 |

Climate

Colder regions result in higher usage and costs compared to milder climates.

3. Maintenance and Repair Costs

Maintenance

DIY Cleaning: Free or minimal (glass cleaning, vacuuming interior).
Professional Inspection: $75–$250 annually.

Repairs

| Repair Type | Average Cost |
|---------------------|------------------|
| Pilot Light | $100–$350 |
| Igniter | $100–$150 |
| Gas Valve | $150–$300 |
| Thermocouple | $75–$350 |
| Thermopile | $75–$375 |
| Chimney Flue | $200–$5,000 |

4. Add-Ons to Enhance Your Fireplace

| Add-On | Cost |
|--------------------------------|--------------------|
| Fireplace Remodeling | $400–$2,000 |
| New Lighting Fixtures | $160–$960 |
| Painting the Room | $300–$2,800 |

5. Tips to Save Money

Routine Maintenance: Regular cleaning and inspections reduce repair costs.
Energy Efficiency: Use a ventless fireplace (if permitted) for better efficiency.
Strategic Heating: Use the fireplace as the primary heat source in occupied rooms.
Off-Peak Installation: Install or repair fireplaces during off-peak seasons for discounts.

Summing it up

Running a gas fireplace costs $0.35–$0.62 per hour, making it an affordable and cozy heating option. Proper maintenance and strategic use can keep ongoing expenses low while enhancing your home's ambiance.