Each year we get more requests from homeowners who want to convert a gas fireplace to an electric fireplace. As homeowners seek safer, more efficient options, converting gas fireplaces to electric has become increasingly popular. Let’s explore the pros and cons of making this switch.
Why Convert a Gas Fireplace to an Electric
People choose to convert a gas fireplace to an electric fireplace for many reasons. Some have small children, and their main concern is safety. Others have fireplaces in need of repair that require parts no longer manufactured or replacement makes better financial sense. Some favor the aesthetics of an electric fireplace and the ability to have a fire and turn off the heater. In summary, the top 3 reasons to convert a gas fireplace to electric are:
- Safety: Electric fireplaces are safer for homes with small children.
- Maintenance: Electric fireplaces require less maintenance and fewer repairs.
- Aesthetics: They offer modern designs and the option to have a fire without heat.
Removing Your Fireplace Costs More Than Replacement
While doing research for this article I came across some interesting statistics. Having worked in the fireplace industry for several decades I’ve heard some of these statistics before. However, I wanted to research them for myself to be sure they were accurate. Here are a few interesting statistics I discovered during my research.
- According to the National Association of Real Estate Appraisers, a fireplace can increase a home’s resale value by 6–10%.
- Homes with a fireplace have a 13% higher asking price than the national median sales price (Redfin).
- A fireplace can increase a home’s price by up to $12,000 (National Association of Realtors).
- Fireplaces are the #1 most sought-after home feature by new home buyers, topping wood floors (realtor.com).
- A fireplace remodel has an average 91% return on investment (realtor.com).
5 to 12,000 Reasons to Convert a Gas Fireplace to an Electric Fireplace
Enjoying a working fireplace is a good reason to repair or replace a non-working gas fireplace. However, if that’s not enough reason for you, I’m betting the 5 statistics above probably are. The increase in home value alone takes that from 5 to 12,000 reasons!
In Phoenix, we have what I think is the best reason for converting a gas fireplace to an electric fireplace. We don’t need fireplaces for heating as much as people in other parts of the country do. With the ability to have a fire for ambiance and turn off the heating feature, we can enjoy a fire year-round.
Why Electric Fireplaces Are Safer for Children
I raised two daughters who are grown and married now. We no longer have outlet protectors, gates at the top of the stairs, or safety knobs on the stove. We no longer need to block the fireplace or have eyes in the back of our heads. However, I remember those days well. Frankly, we didn’t use our fireplace as often as we could’ve because of them. Gas and wood fireplaces pose a threat when they’re on. Perhaps more so when they’re off but haven’t cooled down yet.
The face of an electric fireplace doesn’t get hot enough to burn a curious child when the heater is on. Electric fireplaces distribute heat from the top, bottom, or sides depending on the model. While they do a great job of heating the room, they’re generally considered safe for children. In other words, curious fingers can roam without you having a heart attack from the other side of the room.
In summary, the key safety features of an electric fireplace for young families include:
- Electric fireplace faces don’t get hot enough to burn.
- Heat is distributed safely from the top, bottom, or sides, depending on the model.
- They are generally considered safe for children.
The Aesthetics Alone Offer a Great Reason
Modern electric fireplaces can transform a room with their sleek design and customizable features. Many of our clients replace their outdated gas fireplace with a minimalist electric model, creating a stunning focal point in their living room.
Suppose it’s been over a year since you’ve seen the latest electric fireplaces – you must visit a showroom! Like all other technology, electric fireplaces are nothing like those made a few years ago. Take it from a guy who has made a living repairing and installing gas and wood fireplaces … electric fireplaces are where it’s at now.
Don’t get me wrong, I still love wood and gas fireplaces and fire pits, I own both and make a living installing them. Our fireplace store, The Fire Place has many gas options from fireplaces, to log sets, burner pans, and fire glass. But we also have multiple rooms full of electric fireplaces (over a dozen) on display because they’re so popular. The installation flexibility of an electric fireplace makes it accessible to everyone. Even if you’re not converting a gas fireplace to an electric fireplace, you can install one almost anywhere.
The Cons of Converting a Gas Fireplace to an Electric Fireplace
One of the main reasons people convert a gas fireplace to an electric fireplace is the ability to use them with or without heat. You cannot operate a gas fireplace without producing heat. Although new venting technology is available for “heat management” significantly lowering the heat that enters the room from a modern gas fireplace. However, if producing as much heat as possible is the objective, a gas fireplace is usually going to excel over an electric fireplace.
For homeowners and businesses in colder climates, this is likely the biggest con of installing an electric fireplace. In our area (Phoenix, AZ) the ability to turn off the heat while still viewing a fire goes into the pros category. In the Phoenix area there really aren’t many (if any) cons in choosing to convert a gas fireplace to an electric fireplace.
Overall Pros & Cons of Gas to Electric Fireplace Conversion
- Pros:
- Ability to use with or without heat.
- Lower maintenance.
- Safer for children.
- Cons:
- Less heat output compared to gas fireplaces (in most cases).
- May not be ideal for very cold climates.
Converting a Wood Fireplace
While this article is about converting a gas fireplace to an electric fireplace, it also applies to wood fireplaces. There are even options for site-built masonry chimneys that are original to the home. Options range from electric fireplace inserts to factory-built electric fireplaces with new surrounds and finishes. Of course, if you’re in the Phoenix area and want to convert wood to natural gas or propane we can help.
Schedule a Private Tour of Our Fireplace Store, Showroom, & Design Center
Converting a gas fireplace to an electric one offers numerous benefits, from increased safety to modern aesthetics. Visit our showroom to see the latest models and find the perfect fireplace for your home.
The Fire Place by Magic Touch is home to the largest fireplace showroom in Mesa, AZ. Contact us to schedule a private tour to see, feel, and play with many styles of fireplaces and accessories. Compare gas & electric fireplaces, gas logs, and other gas products, plus you’ll find media walls, acoustic wall panels, barn wood, and more. Come for inspiration and leave with a fireplace that will transform your space!
NFI Certified Hearth Design Specialist on staff. The Fire Place by Magic Touch is the fireplace design center and a division of Magic Touch Mechanical. We’re your guide from beginning to end to find and install your dream fireplace – a fireplace that will transform your space.
Of course it has to look beautiful but more importantly, your new fireplace must operate safely, efficiently, and according to manufacturer specifications. We take that part of our commitment to you very seriously. That’s why all of our fireplace technicians, installers, and designers receive ongoing factory training and NFI (National Fireplace Institute) training. The Fire Place by Magic Touch is proud to have the only current NFI Certified Hearth Design Specialist in the greater Phoenix Metro!
