Difference between Electric Fireplace and Gas Fireplace
A fireplace is the perfect element when looking to create the necessary degree of aesthetics as well as heat in a house. Historically, fireplace structures were quite large and usually made of bricks featuring a long chimney to capture and release the smoke. This particular byproduct proved difficult to clean up and people paid for the help of professionals to do the job. In modern times, fireplaces have been redesigned to better fit into smaller places while providing the required level of heat and style in homes. They can be fueled by prefab cleaning burning blocks, classic wood piles placed on burning charcoals or through gas and electricity as the least time consuming method.
Source of Heat
An electric fireplace is fueled by electricity and has the ability to mimic a traditional fireplace. It consumes between 1.4 and 1.6 Kw while heating a surface of up to 37 m2 (400 sq. feet). A gas fireplace uses gas to power combustion and spread heat in the house. Propane or natural gas are the available choices. From the total of energy generated a small percentage is lost in the case of gas fireplaces. The rest goes into the room to create the required atmosphere proving the high efficiency of the product.
Cost
In order to create the illusion of an actual fireplace where flames burn the wood, advanced technology is employed which leads to a higher costs on the market.
The costs of gas fireplace heating varies according to design used, filters incorporated, surface to be warmed up and installation needed. Gas fireplaces running on natural gas are connected to the gas main pipeline. Therefore any maintenance should be done by a professional to avoid any issues.
Ventilation
An electric fireplace does not require ventilation as it does not emit smoke or other malicious substances as ash and other byproducts. There are gas fireplaces which feature ventilation units placed outside the house. They draw air from outdoor to create the heating combustion required and vent out the smoke. Some gas fireplaces are ventilation free using the air in the room to warm it and release heat into the room. Although the gas fireplace doesn't have a ventilation system incorporated you still need to vent the room so the quality of the air is kept at an acceptable level. Vent-free gas fireplaces also incorporate smart devices detecting level of oxygen for a safer use. Whenever oxygen reaches a low level, the gas fireplace will pause allowing you to let fresh air enter the house.
Similarities and Differences
- An electric fireplace relies on electricity to function. A gas fireplace can run on natural gas or propane.
- To produce the illusion of fire, electric fireplaces require high display level therefore they cost more. Gas fireplaces also tend to be expensive due to installation and maintenance needed.
- An electric fireplace doesn't require ventilation as no smoke is involved. Gas fireplaces can also be vent-free and use the air in the room for heating, but you still need to vent the room for fresh air.
