Do Fireplace Inserts Add Electricity Costs?

Investing in a fireplace insert can significantly enhance your home's ambiance and efficiency, but many homeowners wonder about their energy consumption. After all, fireplaces are typically associated with burning wood, not electricity. So, do fireplace inserts use a lot of electricity?

The short answer is that most fireplace inserts do not use a lot of electricity, but the amount can vary depending on the type and model of the insert. Traditional wood-burning inserts typically have minimal electrical needs, just enough to power a blower fan or ignition system. However, electric and gas inserts have different electrical requirements.

Electric Fireplace Inserts

Electric fireplace inserts are the most energy-efficient, as they convert 100% of their electrical input into heat. They have no chimney or venting requirements, making them highly versatile and safe. However, they consume electricity to produce heat, so you'll see a higher usage on your power bill compared to traditional wood-burning inserts.

The average electric fireplace insert consumes around 1,500 - 2,500 watts of power, which translates to approximately 1.5 - 2.5 kWh of energy per hour. On a 12-hour usage day, this amounts to around 18 - 30 kWh. Using the U.S. average electricity rate of 13.19 cents per kWh (Energy Information Administration, 2020), this daily operation would cost approximately $2.38 - $3.94.

Operating Costs

To calculate the monthly and annual operating costs of an electric fireplace insert, multiply the daily usage cost by the number of days in a month, and then by the number of months in a year. This will give you a rough estimate of the annual operating cost for your specific model. Keep in mind that these costs can vary significantly depending on the electricity rate in your area and the size of your fireplace.

Using the calculations above, an electric fireplace insert would cost around $71.4 - $118.20 per month, or $856.8 - $1,418.40 per year. While these costs may seem significant, remember that electric inserts do not require the purchase of fuel, and their heat is instant and silent.

Electric vs. Gas Inserts

Gas fireplace inserts are the other alternative to traditional wood-burning inserts. They operate by burning natural gas and often provide more heat than electric inserts. However, they still consume electricity to power ignition systems, fans, and remote controls. The electrical usage of gas inserts is typically much lower than electric inserts, ranging from 200 - 800 watts, equivalent to 0.2 - 0.8 kWh per hour.

Although the electrical consumption of gas inserts is lower, their overall operating costs can be higher due to the cost of natural gas. Natural gas prices vary by region, but on average, it costs around $1.17 per therm (100,000 BTU) in the United States (Energy Information Administration, 2021). The operating cost of a gas fireplace insert can be calculated using the initial electrical consumption and the natural gas consumption rate.

Wood-Burning Fireplace Inserts

Traditional wood-burning fireplace inserts consume virtually no electricity, making them the most eco-friendly option. However, they require proper venting and can produce smoke and pollutants. They also involve more manual labor in terms of firewood storage, preparation, and maintenance.

While wood-burning inserts may not consume electricity, they do contribute to air pollution and have a significant environmental impact. The combustion of wood releases carbon monoxide, particulate matter, and other pollutants into the atmosphere. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, wood smoke is one of the leading causes of wintertime air pollution in many U.S. cities.

Efficiency and Safety

Fireplace inserts can significantly improve the efficiency of traditional fireplaces by reducing heat loss up the chimney. They also provide a safer and more contained fire, minimizing the risk of sparks and embers escaping into the room. Some inserts even have features like thermostatic controls and fans to maximize heat distribution and comfort.

When choosing a fireplace insert, consider your specific needs, budget, and the environmental impact. Electric inserts are the most energy-efficient and convenient, while gas inserts provide more heat and a more traditional fireplace experience. Wood-burning inserts are the most eco-friendly option but require more maintenance and can contribute to air pollution.

Ultimately, the decision to install a fireplace insert depends on your personal preferences and priorities. By understanding their electrical consumption, operating costs, and environmental impact, you can make an informed decision that enhances your home's comfort and efficiency while minimizing your carbon footprint.