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
| Fuel |
Heat (★ 5) |
Ease (★ 5) |
Realism (★ 5) |
Smart (★ 5) |
| Electric |
★★ |
★★★★★ |
★★ |
★★★★★ |
| Ethanol |
★★★ |
★★★ |
★★★★★ |
★★ |
| Water-Vapor |
★ |
★★★★ |
★★★★ |
★★★★ |
| Gas (NG / LP) |
★★★★★ |
★★ |
★★★★ |
★★★ |
| Wood |
★★★★ |
★ |
★★★★★ |
— |
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
-
Electric: Plug and play or recess into 2 × 6 studs; no vent or permits.
-
Ethanol: Cut-out niche, fireproof board, no vent; needs CO detector.
-
Water-Vapor: Same framing as ethanol + optional ¼″ water line.
-
Gas: Run NG line (licensed plumber) or hide propane tank; code checks.
-
Wood: Chimney, hearth, spark arrestor — highest labor & permitting.
4 • Running Cost (2025 U.S. Avg.)
| Fuel |
Cost / hr (ambience use) |
Notes |
| Electric |
$0.12 |
LED flames only, heater off |
| Ethanol |
$1.75 |
1 qt fuel = 4 hrs |
| Water-Vapor |
$0.02 |
Distilled water |
| Gas (NG) |
$0.75 |
$1.50 / therm |
| Wood |
$0.25 |
Bundle of logs at $6 |
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.