How to Convert a Wood Fireplace to Gas or Electric

Fireplaces have a timeless charm, often being the centerpiece of a cozy home. But as times change, so do the needs and preferences of homeowners. If you’re considering converting your traditional wood-burning fireplace to gas or electric, you’re not alone.

The Fire Place (Magic Touch’s fireplace division) has been remodeling, repairing, and installing fireplaces for almost 3-decades. In recent years, the demand for converting a wood fireplace to gas or electric has skyrocketed. We’ll discuss a few of the reasons in this article.

This guide will walk you through the conversion process and the pros and cons of each option to help you make an informed decision.

Why Consider a Wood Fireplace Conversion?

Wood fireplaces are beautiful, but they come with their own set of challenges. The constant need for firewood, regular cleaning of ashes, and the occasional smoky room to name a few. Gas and electric fireplaces offer convenience, efficiency, and modern aesthetics.

Here in the Phoenix area, we experience a lot of “no burn” days. To help control air pollution, it’s against the law to use a wood-burning fireplace or fire pit on no-burn days. Both electric and gas fireplaces are exempt from no-burn days as they don’t contribute (much) to Arizona’s poor air quality.

But if you’re thinking of converting, how do you know which is right for you? Let’s dive into the details.

Converting a Wood Fireplace to a Gas Fireplace

The Process:

Converting a wood fireplace to gas involves installing a gas line, burner or insert, and sometimes new venting. This type of conversion requires professional help to ensure everything is up to code and safely installed.

Pros:

1. Convenience: With a gas fireplace, you can enjoy the warmth and ambiance of a fire with the press of a button. No more hauling logs or dealing with ashes.
2. Efficiency: Gas fireplaces burn cleaner and more efficiently than wood, providing steady heat without the mess.
3. Low Maintenance: Minimal cleaning is required. You won’t have to deal with creosote buildup or chimney cleaning as often.
4. Consistent Heat Output: Gas fireplaces provide a consistent heat level, which can even be controlled with a thermostat.

Cons:

1. Installation Cost: The initial cost of converting to gas can be higher than electric, as gas lines, new venting, and often electrical wiring need to be installed.
2. Fuel Costs: Natural gas or propane costs can add up, especially during the colder months.
3. Aesthetic Differences: While gas fireplaces are designed to mimic the look of a wood fire, some people feel they lack the authentic crackle and character of burning wood.
4. Dependency on Your Gas or Propane Supplier: In the event of a gas supply issue or an empty propane tank, your fireplace won’t function, unlike a wood fireplace that only needs wood.

Converting a Wood Fireplace to an Electric Fireplace

The Process:

Converting a wood fireplace to an electric fireplace usually involves inserting an electric fireplace unit into the existing fireplace cavity or remodeling the cavity. It’s typically less complex than converting to gas, making it the more economical option. Professional installation is still recommended for optimal results. We’ve fixed more than a few handymen and “husband-installed” electric fireplace installations over the years!

Pros:

1. Lower Installation Costs: Electric fireplaces are easier and quicker to install than gas. There’s no need for a gas line or venting—but a dedicated electrical circuit, framing, and surround (decorative elements around the fireplace) are often part of the work scope.
2. Low Operating Costs: Electric fireplaces are generally more cost-effective to run than gas. This is especially true if used primarily for ambiance rather than heating.
3. Safety: Electric fireplaces don’t produce real flames, reducing the risk of fire hazards. They’re also cool to the touch, making them safer for homes with children or pets.
4. Customizable Settings: Many electric models come with adjustable flame colors, brightness, and heat levels, offering more control over the ambiance.
5. Placement Flexibility: Without the need for a chimney, venting, or gas supply you have more options for placement with an electric fireplace. Even simple changes like a foot higher or lower, or more to the right or left are more possible.

Pro Tip: Consider installing an electric fireplace in the bedroom, bathroom, or even a hallway.

Cons:

1. Heat Output: Electric fireplaces typically provide less heat than gas or wood fireplaces, making them more suited for smaller spaces or supplemental heating.
2. Aesthetic Realism: While modern electric fireplaces have improved greatly in appearance, some may still find them less authentic than wood or even gas.

Pro Tip: The advance of “virtual fireplaces” in the last couple of years has created a new category and look for electric fireplaces. This look is preferred by many clients of The Fire Place by Magic Touch.

3. Dependency on Electricity: In a power outage, your electric fireplace won’t function, which could be a drawback during winter storms. While rarely an issue in the Phoenix area, this could be a deciding factor in other areas.

4. Long-Term Costs: While operating costs are low, electric fireplaces might not add as much value to your home as gas.

Which Option Is Right for You?

The choice between gas and electric conversion depends on your specific needs, preferences, and budget.

• If you prioritize convenience, heat output, and a balance of ambiance and functionality, a gas fireplace might be your best bet.
• If you’re looking for lower installation costs, safety, and a variety of aesthetic options without needing significant heating power, an electric fireplace could be the perfect fit.

Regardless of your choice, converting your wood fireplace to gas or electric can enhance your home’s comfort and style while reducing the maintenance associated with wood-burning fireplaces.

Final Thoughts

Before deciding, you should consult a professional to assess your existing fireplace, home layout, and local codes. A fireplace is a long-term investment in your home’s comfort and value, so it’s worth taking the time to choose the best option for your needs.

The Fire Place has the Phoenix area’s only NFI (National Fireplace Institute) Certified Master Hearth Design Specialist on staff to help. We also have Mesa AZ’s largest fireplace showroom featuring dozens of electric fireplaces, gas fireplaces, gas logs, fire glass burners, and a variety of decorative remodeling options to choose from.