Do electric fireplaces use a lot of electricity? This is one of the most frequent questions we get from homeowners. Many people use electric fireplaces today, but you should know how much power they consume. Understanding its power consumption will help you decide if it is a good choice. The good news is that electric fireplaces don’t use a lot of electricity. What’s more? They roughly consume the same energy as a space heater.
Electric fireplaces use a heating element with a 1500-watt capacity. The heating element roughly produces up to 5000 BTUs – which is great in the heat books. Compared to other types of fireplaces, it converts more energy into heat. This article explains how electricity and electric fireplaces relate. We also share tips on reducing electricity consumption when using an electric fireplace. Ready? Let’s go!
Do Electric Fireplaces Use a Lot of Electricity?
Generally, electric fireplaces don’t use a lot of electricity. However, it largely depends on your total usage. You can choose the usage setting for an electric fireplace – oh yes! Now, let’s make some practical calculations! Say you set the usage at 50%; that is an estimated bill of 9 cents per hour, right? Okay. Increasing the usage to maximum capacity – that is, 100%, would be 18 cents for each hour. So, in a year, you would’ve spent roughly $50 to $85, depending on how often you used it.
That amount is pretty fair compared to other options, such as gas and wood. With these other options, you can spend over $500 every year. We recommend using your electric fireplace as an additional source of heat. That way, you can save energy and money at the same time.
How Electric Fireplaces Work
Electric fireplaces are one type of fireplace insert. They largely differ from other types, such as wood-burning and gas fireplace inserts. An electric fireplace is the easiest to install and operate. Want to know why? When using this fireplace, venting and combustion aren’t required. You also don’t need chimneys because they limit the heat to your home’s interior space. This means it converts almost 100% of its energy to heat – that’s the goal!
This fireplace uses a fan and several heating elements, – ceramic, heating coils, and infrared systems. However, the most common is the heating coil and ceramic plate. How does this work? Chill, and let us explain.
When you turn on the fireplace, the heating coil starts heating the air inside the unit. After that, it uses the fan to force the heated air out -now you can feel the heat! The ceramic plate also transfers heat from the unit to the room. In the case of infrared systems, the heat is not converted; it goes directly to the objects in the space.
The good news is that no matter what heating element you use, it generates heat easily. It does this without toxic gas while also saving energy. It’s best if you use electric fireplaces as supplemental heat.
Electricity Consumption of Electric Fireplaces
Some factors influencing electricity consumption include watt usage, heating duration, and power settings. Electric fireplaces typically use about 1,500 electricity watts. Surprising, right? Well, they are energy-efficient for a reason! The good thing about this type of fireplace is that you can turn the flames on without activating the heat. That way, you get to retain the aesthetics without using a lot of power.
In addition, heat from electric fireplaces is measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs). A good electric fireplace should produce up to 5,000 BTUs that warm a medium-sized room. Want something bigger? Don’t worry! Bigger fireplaces can heat large rooms to 10,000 BTUs. However, note that the higher the capacity, the higher the price
Tips to Reduce Electricity Consumption
Saving costs while enjoying your electric fireplace is simple – reduce electricity consumption! This may seem hard, but it is easy with a few tips and tricks. The following tips will help you reduce electricity consumption using an electric fireplace.
Tip
Breakdown
Opt for zone heating.
Zone heating is a practice that allows you to warm specific parts of your home. Here, you set the heating system to heat only certain parts of the house – maybe the one you use more often. Doing this will help reduce costs because heat is going only where needed.
Lower the temperature
This tip is a no-brainer – adjust the temperature settings to a reasonable range. As we mentioned earlier, consider using 50% or less. Do this, especially if your room is comfortable enough. You can also move closer to the fireplace to absorb the heat better.
Reduce the usage
If you want to reduce electricity costs when using an electric fireplace, reduce your usage. Wear an extra layer of clothing or cover a blanket to keep you warm. Also, close your curtains and blinds so the house stays warm and cozy.
When using the light from the fireplace, you can dim it to make it more energy-efficient. Another way to cut back on usage is to use ceiling fans. They don’t use as much electricity as fireplaces do. However, they help circulate the heat that fireplaces produce.
Ensure proper insulation
Insulating your home is another great way to reduce electricity costs. Seal drafts help to keep warm air in your home.
Frequently Ask Question
Is it a good idea to use electric fireplaces?
Ultimately, you decide which fireplace is good for you. That said, using an electric fireplace is also a great idea. Electrical fireplaces are very easy to install and use. They don’t require heavy professional installation as it’s just a box. Sadly, this box is heavy, so you’ll still need help.
Also, electrical fireplaces don’t use too much electricity and are free of harmful gas. However, it may use a lot of energy if you use it as a primary heat source. This will, in turn, affect your electricity bill – so no, you should use it as a supplementary!
How long will an electric fireplace last?
An electric fireplace can last if you maintain it properly. Its average lifespan is anywhere between 10 to 20 years. It also depends on how frequently you use it. All things equal, it is a good investment!
Can I leave my electric fireplace on?
No, you shouldn’t leave your electric fireplace on overnight, not even when sleeping! If the heater is left on and unattended, it can overheat, and this may likely cause a fire. So, it is a no-no!
Is an electric fireplace expensive to use?
Electric fireplaces aren’t expensive, except if you use them at maximum capacity. Using an electric fireplace is less expensive than wood-burning and gas fireplaces. Electricity costs can be as low as $50 to $100 annually – that’s if you use it optimally. So, Do electric fireplaces use a lot of electricity? No.
Conclusion
In conclusion, electric fireplaces are a cost-effective and energy-efficient alternative. They use less electricity than many assume, typically ranging from 1.5 to 2 kW, costing an average of $0.18 per hour. The actual cost depends on the model, usage, and local electricity rates. Electric fireplaces offer a convenient and eco-friendly option for heating and ambiance without the emissions or maintenance of wood or gas fireplaces. By choosing an energy-efficient model and using it wisely, you can enjoy the warmth and charm of a fireplace without significantly impacting your electricity bill.
Hi everyone! My name is Jason, and I am the founder of HeaterWise.com. Having run my own business as a Heating Engineer for 21 years, I have picked up a few things along the way.
I wanted to create Heater Wise as a place where anyone could come, from far and wide, to find the information that they need.
I hope you will join us here at Heater Wise, to get started on your own journey, to expand your knowledge, and make the best heating choices for you and your family.
