Indoor fireplaces are one of the most in-demand home upgrades—and also one of the most misunderstood when it comes to cost.
Prices vary massively between electric, gas, wood, and ethanol fireplaces, and homeowners often underestimate installation costs, monthly running costs, and long-term maintenance.
This guide answers the most common cost-related questions, giving you clear numbers and practical expectations before you buy.
Here’s what you can expect by fuel type:
Price Range (unit): $300–$3,500
Electric is the most budget-friendly option. The higher price range includes large linear units, built-in models, and premium flame realism.
Good for: apartments, condos, bedrooms, media walls, renters.
Price Range (unit): $2,000–$6,500+
• Direct-vent gas units cost more but offer real flame + safety.
• Vent-free models cost slightly less but may have local code restrictions.
Fuel & look quality (log sets, burners, glass fronts) can raise the price further.
Price Range (unit): $2,500–$5,500+
EPA-certified wood inserts cost more but save money over time with high heat output.
Expect extra cost for:
• stainless steel chimney liner
• surround panels
• blower kits
• installation labor
Price Range (unit): $500–$3,000
Mostly used for ambience. Great for modern, frameless, minimalist homes.
Installation is where costs vary most. Here’s a realistic breakdown:
$0–$500
• Wall-mount = free or low-cost
• Recessed = minor drywall work
• Hardwiring = $150–$400 (electrician)
Lowest installation cost of all types.
$1,000–$8,000+
Installation costs depend on:
• Gas line added or extended
• Venting (direct-vent through wall or roof)
• Framing and finishing work
• Electrical for ignition and blower
• Custom surrounds or media walls
Direct-vent units require the most labor and materials.
$1,500–$4,000+
Costs include:
• Chimney liner ($1,000–$2,000)
• Fire-rated insulation / block-off plates
• Insert fitting and sealing
• Stone/tile finishing (optional)
New factory-built wood fireplaces (not inserts) cost more due to framing + venting.
$0–$1,000
• Wall-mounted = free to minimal
• Built-in = carpentry work only
• No chimney, no gas line
Great option for fast, decorative modern installs.
Monthly costs differ significantly based on fuel type and usage.
$10–$30/month
Depends on:
• heat setting
• hours per day
• electricity rates
Heat-off / flame-only mode uses very little electricity.
$20–$70/month
Gas is efficient for the amount of heat delivered.
Usage example:
• 25,000–35,000 BTU/hour
• 2–3 hours per evening
• local gas prices determine total
$30–$100+
Depends on:
• local firewood prices
• amount of heating needed
• whether you buy or source wood yourself
Wood is highly cost-effective in cold climates.
$60–$200+
Ethanol gel/fuel is the most expensive per hour of use.
Best for ambience > heating.
These are the common ones homeowners forget:
• Dedicated circuit (optional but recommended for large units)
• Vent pipe kits
• Gas line extension
• Surround finishing (drywall / tile)
• Annual inspection
• Chimney liner
• Chimney cap
• First cord of seasoned wood
• Annual sweeping
• Fuel refills (can add up fast)
Electric fireplaces
• Lowest purchase cost
• Lowest installation cost
• Lowest maintenance cost
• Predictable monthly cost
“Best overall” for cost efficiency across 10–15 years.
Wood and ethanol—but for different reasons:
• Wood: ongoing fuel + chimney maintenance
• Ethanol: expensive fuel + low heat efficiency
Gas sits in the middle—higher upfront cost but moderate monthly cost.
Electric: Slight increase
Gas: Moderate, depending on BTU
Wood: Can reduce heating bills if used properly
Ethanol: Highest cost per hour
Electric and gas fireplaces are most predictable.
It depends on your goal:
Worth it if you want:
• strong secondary heating
• a home design upgrade
• energy-efficient zone heating
• added resale value
• a cozy focal point
Indoor fireplaces blend practicality with emotional value, which is why they remain one of the top home upgrades nationwide.
Ask yourself:
• Do I want heat or just ambience?
• What’s my installation budget?
• Do I have access to gas or chimney?
• Do I want zero maintenance?
• Am I trying to reduce heating bills?
Usually:
Electric = lowest cost
Gas = best performance vs cost
Wood = best for long-term heat savings
Ethanol = best aesthetics, not heat
If you want fireplace recommendations based on budget, room size, BTU needs, or installation requirements, reach out anytime:
📩 support@pureflameco.com
📞 +1-833-922-6460
{"one"=>"Select 2 or 3 items to compare", "other"=>"{{ count }} of 3 items selected"}
Leave a comment