How Much Does It Cost to Run a Gas Fireplace? [2024 Data]
Normal range: $400 - $640
On average, it costs $520 per year to run a gas fireplace. Between fuel and maintenance, most people spend between $400 and $640 annually.
Running a gas fireplace costs between $400 and $640 per year. The average cost to run a gas fireplace annually is $520. This comes out to $0.35 to $0.62 per hour, but your costs will depend on several factors, including your fireplace’s fuel type and heat output. Your location and usage habits also play a role.
- Average
- $520
- Low end
- $160
- high end
- $1,450
Cost Factors for Running a Gas Fireplace
There’s nothing like a roaring fire to keep you nice and toasty during the coldest months of the year, but how much does it cost to run a gas fireplace? There are a few factors at play, including your fireplace’s fuel type and your location.
Fuel Type
Gas fireplaces run on either propane or natural gas. Comparing the costs of these fuel types can get tricky—not only because they’re measured differently, but also because fuel prices vary significantly by location.
Here’s a look at the current nationwide costs of propane and natural gas, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
| Fuel Type | National Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Propane | $2.48 per gallon |
| Natural gas | $1.38 per therm* |
*One therm is equal to 100,000 BTU
Heat Output
Like a furnace, the heat output of a gas fireplace is expressed in British Thermal Units (BTUs). BTUs measure how much heat the fireplace can generate in an hour, with most gas fireplaces producing between 10,000 and 70,000 BTUs. The higher your fireplace’s BTU rating, the more heat it can produce—and the more expensive it will be to run.
Propane-powered fireplaces use 1 gallon of fuel for every 100,000 BTUs, also referred to as a therm. So, if you have a 25,000-BTU fireplace, it would go through 1 gallon of propane every four hours. Based on the current national price of propane, that would cost you $0.62 per hour.
To calculate the hourly cost of running a natural gas fireplace, multiply its BTUs by the current per-therm cost of natural gas and divide it by 100,000. (One therm equals 100,000 BTUs.) A 25,000-BTU natural gas fireplace at $1.38 per therm would cost $0.35 per hour to run.
25,000 (BTUs) x $1.38 (current gas cost per therm) = 34,500
34,500 / 100,000 (BTU per 1 gallon of fuel) = $0.35 per hour
Location
Your location has a major influence on the price of fuel and, as a result, how much you’ll pay to use your fireplace. Here’s how much it costs to run a 25,000-BTU propane or natural gas fireplace for three hours per day in different states.
| State | Daily Cost | Yearly Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Ohio | $0.74–$1.91 | $179.08–$462.22 |
| Colorado | $0.75–$1.67 | $181.50–$404.14 |
| Illinois | $0.80–$1.36 | $193.60–$329.12 |
| Pennsylvania | $0.94–$2.12 | $227.48–$513.04 |
| New York | $1.16–$2.47 | $280.72–$597.74 |
| Texas | $1.21–$2.16 | $292.82–$522.72 |
| Georgia | $1.22–$2.27 | $295.24–$549.34 |
| North Carolina | $1.28–$2.48 | $309.76–$600.16 |
| Massachusetts | $1.63–$2.68 | $394.46–$648.56 |
Climate
As you’re calculating your gas fireplace costs, it’s helpful to consider the climate in your area. If you live in Florida, you probably won’t use your fireplace as often as someone in Montana might—and you'll pay less overall to run your fireplace.
Gas Fireplace Ongoing Costs
Gas fireplaces require periodic maintenance (and, occasionally, repairs) to keep them running safely and efficiently. Here’s how much to budget for those ongoing costs.
Maintenance
First, the good news: You can handle a lot of gas fireplace maintenance yourself. For example, wiping down the glass, replacing decorative rocks, and vacuuming the interior are all DIY tasks that only require your time and basic cleaning supplies.
However, you’ll want to have a professional check out your fireplace at least once per year. On average, an annual gas fireplace inspection costs between $75 and $250, depending on the type of fireplace and your location.
Repairs
If your local gas fireplace pro uncovers any issues during your yearly inspection, you’ll need to cover the cost of repairs, as well. Most repairs cost $200 to $1,000, but prices depend on the exact problem.
Here are some common gas fireplace repair costs (including labor):
| Repair | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Pilot light | $100–$350 |
| Igniter | $100–$150 |
| Gas valve | $150–$300 |
| Thermocouple | $75–$350 |
| Thermopile | $75–$375 |
| Chimney flue | $200–$5,000 |
Cost of Common Gas Fireplace Add-Ons
Whether it’s in your living room, bedroom, or another part of your home, a gas fireplace makes your space feel warm and inviting. If you want to take these cozy vibes even further, consider investing in one of these add-on projects:
Fireplace remodeling costs: $400–$2,000
Carpet installation costs: $780–$2,800
Installing new light fixtures costs: $160–$960
Painting a room costs: $300–$2,800
Home theater installation costs: $12,000–$42,000
How to Save Money When Running a Gas Fireplace
Want to minimize the costs of running your fireplace this winter? These tips can help:
Perform routine maintenance: Maintaining your fireplace is the best way to keep it running safely and efficiently. It also helps you identify and fix minor problems early—before they turn into major headaches.
Invest in an energy-efficient fireplace: Traditional vented fireplaces aren’t as efficient as ventless models. If ventless fireplaces are permitted in your area, installing one can help you save on fuel costs.
Use your fireplace as the main heating source: When everyone is relaxing in front of the fire, you won’t need as much heat in the rest of your home. During these times, consider turning down your thermostat to save on heating costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
On average, a gas fireplace will last between 10 and 15 years, but its components—such as the logs, igniter, or thermocouple—wear down faster than that. If you notice any unusual signs, such as yellow or uneven flames, strange smells or sounds, or reduced heat output, you’re due for a replacement. Reach out to a local gas fireplace company to discuss your options.
Some people don’t like the look of gas fireplaces since they don’t offer the classic charm or appeal of a wood-burning fire. Plus, gas fireplace installation is more expensive than other types of fireplace installations due to the added complexity of working with gas lines. There’s also a chance that gas could get into your home, which is a major health and safety risk.
In addition to scheduling an annual inspection, it’s a good idea to clean your gas fireplace at least once or twice per year. It’s a simple process that involves removing and scrubbing the glass, cleaning off the logs and rocks, vacuuming the inside, and wiping down the exterior. It should take about an hour.