Does Using a Fireplace Save on Your Electric Bill?
The impact of a fireplace on your electric bill depends on the type of fireplace you choose. Different types of fireplaces have varying energy requirements, and some can actually reduce heating costs in certain situations. Let’s look at how different fireplace types—Gas Fireplaces, Electric Fireplaces, Ethanol Fireplaces, and Vapor Fireplaces—can influence your energy usage and electric bills.
Do Gas Fireplaces Save on Electric Bills? Gas fireplaces are an efficient option for heating a room, especially when compared to using an electric heating system or central heating. Gas fireplaces use natural gas or propane as their fuel, so they don’t rely on electricity to generate heat. As a result, they can be a more cost-effective solution for heating compared to electric heating systems.
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Do Electric Fireplaces Save on Electric Bills? Electric fireplaces are typically used for aesthetic purposes rather than as a primary heat source. While they do generate heat, the energy they use comes entirely from electricity. As a result, an electric fireplace is unlikely to save you money on your electric bill—it may actually increase your bill slightly, depending on usage.
How They Impact Bills:
When Electric Fireplaces Can Help Save:
Recommendation: If you’re looking for supplementary heat in small, closed-off areas and are okay with slightly higher electricity use, an electric fireplace can be a practical choice.
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Do Ethanol Fireplaces Save on Electric Bills? Ethanol fireplaces burn bioethanol fuel, a type of alcohol, to produce heat. Because they don’t require electricity, they won’t impact your electric bill directly. Ethanol fireplaces are designed to be more of a decorative or supplementary heat source.
How They Save:
When Ethanol Fireplaces Are Ideal:
Recommendation: While ethanol fireplaces don’t save you directly on electricity, they do save you from using your electric heater or central HVAC system, potentially lowering your electric bill.
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Do Vapor Fireplaces Save on Electric Bills? Vapor fireplaces, which generate a mist or vapor effect to simulate flames, are typically electric and rely on power to produce their misting effect. However, they don’t generate substantial heat. They are mainly decorative and don’t contribute significantly to home heating.
Impact on Electric Bills:
Ideal Use:
Recommendation: If you are looking to enhance the atmosphere of a room without focusing on energy savings, a vapor fireplace could be a good option, but it won't impact your electric bill much either way.
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While gas fireplaces can help reduce your electric bill by decreasing the need for electric or central heating, electric fireplaces and vapor fireplaces are less likely to provide savings. Ethanol fireplaces provide a good alternative for supplementary heat in small spaces and don’t require electricity, but you’ll need to account for the cost of the fuel.
For the greatest savings, a gas fireplace offers the best option for reducing electricity consumption, especially if you're relying on it as your primary heat source in a single room.