Gas vs Electric Fireplaces 2026 Guide

Choosing between a gas fireplace and an electric fireplace depends on what you want most.

Do you want strong heating, easy installation, or mainly a visual feature?

Gas fireplaces usually produce more heat. Electric fireplaces are easier to install and maintain. Energy prices, installation rules, and room size also affect the decision.

Understanding these differences helps you choose the best fireplace for your home, budget and heating needs.

Which Is Better Gas or Electric Fireplaces?

Gas fireplaces are better for heating large rooms and providing real flames, while electric fireplaces are cheaper to install, easier to maintain, and ideal for smaller spaces.

The best option depends on your heating needs, budget, and installation options.

Gas vs Electric Fireplaces: Key Differences

• Gas fireplaces provide stronger heating and can warm large living areas.
• Electric fireplaces are easier to install and often plug into a wall outlet.
• Gas fireplaces require licensed installation and may need a flue.
• Electric fireplaces have lower upfront costs and minimal maintenance.
• Gas fireplaces create real flames, while electric models use LED flame effects.
• Electric fireplaces are ideal for apartments and rentals.

Why Choose Gas Fireplaces?

Gas fireplaces are popular because they provide strong heat and realistic flames. They can warm large living rooms quickly and efficiently.

Many homeowners choose gas when they want both ambience and serious heating. This makes gas fireplaces common in main living areas.

Gas Fireplace Cost in Australia

Gas fireplace prices vary depending on size, design, and brand. Installation cost also affects the total price.

Gas installation can include gas line work and flue installation. Licensed professionals must complete the installation.

Gas Fireplace Running Costs

Running costs depend on how much gas the fireplace uses. Most gas fireplaces use around 20-30 MJ of gas per hour.

Gas prices in Australia vary by state and retailer. This means hourly heating costs can change depending on your tariff.

Gas fireplaces are often used as a main heat source. This makes them effective for large rooms.

Gas Fireplace Heat Output

Gas fireplaces are designed for stronger heating. They are often sized based on room size.

This higher heat output is one reason many households choose gas. It can heat large open living spaces.

Gas Fireplace Safety and Maintenance

Gas fireplaces must be installed correctly. They also need regular servicing.

A licensed gasfitter should install and service the unit. This helps prevent issues like gas leaks or carbon monoxide risks.

Professional installation is required across Australia. Gas safety standards must always be followed.

Gas Fireplace Pros and Cons

Gas fireplaces are a good choice if you want powerful heating. They are commonly used in larger homes and living rooms.

Natural Gas vs LPG Gas Fireplaces

When choosing a gas fireplace in Australia, it’s important to understand the difference between natural gas and LPG (liquefied petroleum gas). Both fuel types can power gas fireplaces, but they differ in availability, cost, and how they’re installed.

Natural Gas Fireplaces

Natural gas fireplaces are connected directly to the mains gas supply that runs through many Australian cities and suburbs. If your home already has natural gas connected, installing a natural gas fireplace is often the most convenient option.

Benefits of natural gas fireplaces include:

• Continuous fuel supply from the mains gas network
• No need to store gas bottles or tanks
• Generally lower fuel costs compared with LPG
• Ideal for homes in metropolitan areas

Because the fuel supply is constant, natural gas fireplaces are popular for regular home heating and larger living spaces.

LPG Gas Fireplaces

LPG (liquefied petroleum gas), sometimes called bottled gas, is stored in cylinders or outdoor tanks and delivered to the home. LPG fireplaces are commonly used in regional and rural areas where natural gas pipelines are not available.

Benefits of LPG fireplaces include:

• Suitable for homes without a mains gas connection
• Flexible installation in rural or off-grid locations
• Similar heat output to natural gas fireplaces

However, LPG fuel is typically more expensive per unit of energy, and tanks need to be refilled or replaced periodically.

Can a Fireplace Use Both?

Many modern gas fireplaces can be configured to run on either natural gas or LPG, but they require different burners or conversion kits. It’s important to choose the correct fuel type when installing the fireplace or have it converted by a qualified installer.

Which Gas Type Is Best?

For most Australian homes:

• Natural gas fireplaces are the best option if your home is connected to the mains gas network.
• LPG fireplaces are ideal for rural properties or homes without natural gas access.

Both fuel types provide the real flame appearance and strong heating performance that gas fireplaces are known for.

For more details on choosing the right gas fireplace, see our Best Gas Fireplace Guide, where we explain heat output, installation options, and what to consider before buying.

Electric Fireplaces

Electric fireplaces are simple and convenient. They are often chosen for modern homes and apartments.

They do not require a gas connection or flue. Many models simply plug into a power outlet.

Electric fireplaces are often used for ambience and extra heat. They are not usually designed as the main heating system.

Electric Fireplace Cost in Australia

Electric fireplaces usually cost less than gas fireplaces. Installation can also be much simpler.

Plug-in models may require little installation work. Built-in units may require an electrician.

Electric Fireplace Heat Output

Electric fireplaces usually have two heat settings. These work like an electric heater.

Some larger units produce more heat. However, gas fireplaces usually produce stronger heating.

Electric Fireplace Running Costs

Electric fireplaces use electricity instead of gas. This makes running costs easy to estimate.

Example electricity prices in Australia range around $0.27 - $0.35 per kWh. Actual prices depend on your electricity provider.

Example running costs:

If you have solar panels, running costs may be lower. Using solar energy can reduce electricity costs.

Electric Fireplace Pros and Cons

If you want a deeper look at electric fireplaces, read our complete guide to Electric Fireplace Guide, which covers installation, running costs, and the different types available.

Environmental Impact 

Gas fireplaces burn natural gas. This produces carbon emissions during use.

Electric fireplaces do not burn fuel inside the home. However, electricity production may still create emissions.

The environmental impact depends on how electricity is generated. States with more renewable energy have lower emissions.

Homes with rooftop solar can reduce emissions further. Solar energy can power electric fireplaces with minimal impact.

The total environmental impact depends on how electricity is generated. Electric fireplaces powered by solar energy usually have the lowest emissions.

Fireplace Installation Rules in Australia

Fireplace installation must follow safety rules. Many “cheap” installation plans fail because they ignore these requirements.

The basic rule is simple:

• Gas fireplaces must be installed by a licensed gasfitter and follow gas installation standards.
• Built-in electric fireplaces usually require a licensed electrician and must follow electrical wiring rules.

Gas vs Electric Fireplace Comparison

Gas vs Electric Fireplace Running Costs in Australia

Gas fireplaces generally cost less to run per hour compared with electric heaters, especially if your home already has a natural gas connection.

Most modern gas fireplaces use 15-30 MJ of gas per hour. With typical Australian natural gas prices, this usually translates to around:

• $0.60 - $1.20 per hour to run a gas fireplace
• Higher heat output suitable for large living areas and open-plan homes

Gas fireplaces are designed to heat entire rooms efficiently, so while they may cost slightly more per hour than small electric heaters, they can warm larger spaces faster and more effectively.

However, installation costs can be higher because gas fireplaces often require:

• A gas line connection
• Professional installation
• In some cases, venting or flue systems

Electric Fireplace Running Costs

Electric fireplaces are typically cheaper to install and extremely simple to operate. Most units plug into a standard 240V household outlet, meaning there is no need for gas lines or venting.

Electric fireplaces usually use around 1.5-2 kW of electricity per hour when the heating function is on. Based on average Australian electricity prices, this typically costs:

• $0.40 - $0.70 per hour to run an electric fireplace heater
• Lower heat output best suited for smaller rooms or supplemental heating

One advantage of electric fireplaces is that the flame effect can often be used without heat, consuming very little electricity while still creating the ambience of a real fire.

Which Is Cheaper to Run?

In many Australian homes:

• Gas fireplaces are more cost-effective for heating large spaces
• Electric fireplaces are cheaper for occasional use or smaller rooms

If your main goal is efficient home heating, a gas fireplace may offer better long-term value. If you want easy installation, lower upfront cost, and decorative ambience, an electric fireplace can be the better choice.

Fireplace Safety for Homes with Children and Pets

Fireplaces can be safe in family homes when used correctly. However, both gas and electric fireplaces can become hot and should be treated with care.

Children and pets may not understand the risks of heat or fire. Taking a few simple precautions can help prevent accidents.

General Fireplace Safety Tips

• Keep children and pets at least 1 metre away from the fireplace.
• Use a protective fireplace screen or guard if young children are present.
• Never leave children unsupervised near a fireplace.
• Make sure the fireplace is installed by a licensed professional.
• Keep flammable items like curtains and furniture away from the unit.

Gas vs Electric Fireplace Safety

Gas fireplaces should also be serviced regularly to ensure safe operation. Electric fireplaces generally require less maintenance but should still be used correctly.

Gas vs Electric Fireplace: Which One Is Best?

The best choice depends on how you want to use your fireplace.

Choose a gas fireplace if you want strong heating. It works well for large rooms and main living spaces.

Choose an electric fireplace if you want simple installation. It is ideal for apartments, rentals, and feature walls.

Gas fireplaces offer stronger heat and realistic flames. Electric fireplaces offer convenience and low maintenance.

Many homeowners choose based on room size and installation options. Budget and energy costs can also affect the decision.

Quick Decision Guide

Takeaways

Gas and electric fireplaces both offer comfort and style. The right choice depends on your home and heating needs.

Gas fireplaces are powerful heaters with realistic flames. Electric fireplaces are simple, modern, and easy to install.

Think about room size, installation options, and running costs. These factors will help you choose the best fireplace for your home.

If you're deciding between traditional and modern heating, our Wood vs Gas Fireplace Australia compares heating efficiency, maintenance, and running costs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a gas fireplace cheaper to run than an electric fireplace?

In many Australian homes, gas fireplaces can be cheaper to run for large rooms. This is because gas heaters often produce more heat for the energy used.

However, the exact cost depends on your gas and electricity prices. Homes with solar power may find electric fireplaces cheaper to run.

Do electric fireplaces heat a room well?

Electric fireplaces can heat small to medium rooms effectively. Most models use heaters around 750 W to 1,500 W.

They work well as supplementary heating. Gas fireplaces usually provide stronger heating for larger spaces.

Do electric fireplaces need ventilation?

Electric fireplaces do not require ventilation or a flue. They do not burn fuel or produce smoke.

This makes them easier to install than gas fireplaces. Many models simply plug into a power outlet.

Are gas fireplaces safe?

Gas fireplaces are safe when installed correctly. They must be installed by a licensed gasfitter.

Regular servicing is also recommended. This helps prevent issues such as gas leaks or carbon monoxide risks.

Which fireplace is better for apartments?

Electric fireplaces are usually better for apartments. They do not need gas connections or flue systems.

Many models are plug-in and easy to install. This makes them ideal for renters and smaller homes.

Do electric fireplaces increase electricity bills?

Electric fireplaces can increase electricity use when the heater is running. Most units use 1-2 kW of electricity per hour.

The cost depends on your electricity rate. Using the flame effect without heat uses very little power.

Are gas fireplaces better for heating large rooms?

Gas fireplaces are often better for heating large spaces. They can produce 5-15 kW of heat, depending on the model.

This makes them suitable for open-plan living rooms. Electric fireplaces are usually used for smaller areas.

Related Fireplace Guides

If you're researching fireplaces for your home, these guides may also help:

• Read our Best Gas Fireplace Guide to understand the different gas fireplace styles available.
• Explore the Electric Fireplace Guide to learn about wall-mounted and freestanding electric models.
• Compare traditional heating options in our Wood vs Gas Fireplace Australia.
• See our Fireplace Cost Guide for installation and running cost estimates.