Electric vs. Ethanol vs. Water-Vapor vs. Gas vs. Wood — Fuel Showdown 2025

Not sure which fuel fits your lifestyle, budget, and building code? This deep-dive stacks up heat output, realism, install complexity, running cost, eco-impact, and smart-home compatibility for the five major fireplace fuels.

1 • Quick Scorecard

2 • Heat Output & Efficiency

• Electric: 4 600–5 100 BTU (120 V) — 100 % efficient but space-heater level warmth.
• Ethanol: 6 000–13 000 BTU — real flame, 50 % radiant heat, needs room volume.
• Water-Vapor: Ambience only; adds humidity instead of heat.
• Gas: 20 000–40 000 BTU — vent-free models hit 99 % efficiency.
• Wood: 30 000 BTU avg., but 15–30 % lost up the flue.

3 • Install Complexity

1. Electric: Plug and play or recess into 2 × 6 studs; no vent or permits.
2. Ethanol: Cut-out niche, fireproof board, no vent; needs CO detector.
3. Water-Vapor: Same framing as ethanol + optional ¼″ water line.
4. Gas: Run NG line (licensed plumber) or hide propane tank; code checks.
5. Wood: Chimney, hearth, spark arrestor — highest labor & permitting.

4 • Running Cost (2025 U.S. Avg.)

5 • Eco & Indoor Air Quality

• Electric & Water-Vapor: Zero emissions at point of use.
• Ethanol: CO₂ and trace VOCs; needs ventilation.
• Gas: Trace CO — ODS safety pilot required.
• Wood: Particulates, smoke; needs EPA-certified stove or open chimney.

Need personalised advice? Email consult@pureflameco.com with room size & goals—our team replies within one business day.