Gas fireplaces are an attractive (as well as crucial) addition to any home. Besides looking great, they’re also critical to keeping your home warm in those harsh winter months. Even though gas fireplaces are considered one of the most energy-efficient ways of heating your home, you should be aware of the expenses involved in all cases.
Although it’s a tad difficult to put a concrete number on the board in terms of a gas fireplace installation, we can analyze the variables involved and make an informed assumption. In this article, we’ve put together everything you need to know about the pricing of your gas fireplace and the main considerations involved.
How much does a gas fireplace cost?
Navigating gas fireplace prices can be complex due to many factors influencing the final price tag. While it’s tempting to quote an average figure, it’s essential to realize that the costs can significantly vary based on a variety of considerations.
This is why online quotes aren’t exactly viable, as a standardized range doesn’t take into consideration the unique circumstances of homeowners.
Factors influencing gas fireplace costs
Many variables can affect the overall cost of a gas fireplace, leading to significant disparities in the final price tag. Each factor plays a crucial role in shaping a homeowner’s total expenses. Let’s go over them.
Ventless vs. vented
One primary factor in how much it costs to install a gas fireplace is the type of fireplace option you choose.
Ventless gas fireplaces are more affordable than vented due to their straightforward installation process. They’re naturally more cost-effective, as they don’t require specialized vent pipes. However, the caveat here is local permits. Not all areas can have vent-free fireplaces installed, so be sure to check local regulations before deciding.
Vented fireplaces, meanwhile, can be a costlier option due to their advanced technology, but they eliminate the need for a traditional chimney. Keep in mind that it’s easier to access a roof, attic space, or the walls when having a new vented fireplace installed compared to working with a preinstalled one. This is why having vented fireplaces installed anew is often cheaper than remodeling an existing unit.
Home type considerations
The type of home that somebody has is another crucial consideration in regard to how much it is to install a gas fireplace.
Standard, modern homes might require less structural alteration for installation, resulting in lower costs. In contrast, older or upscale residences may require intricate installation processes or high-end fireplace models that could raise the price.
Installation location
The installation location within a home can also impact the cost.
For example, installing a fireplace in a central location could require less ductwork, thus reducing the cost. Conversely, a corner installation might need additional venting infrastructure, potentially driving up the cost.
Gas line costs
Every new gas fireplace unit will require a new gas line to supply fuel. The main determining factor here is the line length, which can determine the price.
Framing and finishing
The framing and finishing of your gas fireplace will ultimately determine what the unit will look like after installation. Prices of gas fireplaces can vary widely here depending on how fancy you want to get.
For instance, a clean flush installation will incur minimal costs, while a complete masonry hearth-covered fireplace insert will likely cost much more.
For fireplaces, customization options are overwhelmingly vast and add much to their overall appeal. So, depending on your desired final look, your budget will need to match the framing and finish work required to achieve it.
Local permits
Each state in the US has a set of different laws when it comes to installing home fireplaces. Some states will require you to get permits before installation begins. Permit fees can vary in range depending on the state you are in, the type of installation you are after, and the type of permits required.
While not every state charges a permit fee, it’s important to check local guidelines just to be sure. This is especially the case when you need an extended gas line or want to install a vent-free fireplace.
Fireplace features
One of the biggest considerations for gas fireplaces is what features it has, which also directly determines the unit’s price. Features like reversibility and premium ignition can all play a role in determining the final price, which can vary greatly.
Regular maintenance
Of course, it’s best not to blow your entire budget on the fireplace itself, as there are several other costs associated with the process of owning one.
Regular checks and maintenance of the fireplace can be a price consideration—however, in the long run, it can keep repair and upkeep costs down, adding many years to your fireplace unit.
It’s crucial that seasoned and certified technicians perform seasonal servicing to keep your fireplace going and your warranties intact.
Why you should consult a professional regarding gas fireplace costs
Certified technicians can guide you through every step so that you get the most out of your dollars spent. Their detailed knowledge of cost and energy efficiency, combined with their vast knowledge of different fireplace types, can help you find an affordable replacement as well.
An HVAC company that recognizes the importance of inspections and maintenance is essential to keeping your fireplace costs down.
Knowing what you need is the best place to start so you can then communicate it to a professional.
Get in touch with Hurliman Heating & Air Conditioning today!
Gas fireplaces are an attractive as well as a crucial addition to any home. Besides looking great, they are also critical to keeping your home warm in those harsh winter months. Even though gas fireplaces are considered one of the most energy-efficient ways of heating your home, you should be aware of the expenses involved in all cases.
And even though it might be a tad difficult to put a concrete number on the board in terms of a gas fireplace installation, we can try to analyze the variables involved and make an informed assumption. In this article, we’ve put together everything you need to know about the pricing of your gas fireplace and the main considerations involved.
Average gas fireplace costs
First, let’s discuss a few common numbers associated with gas fireplaces. While the national average cost for installing a new gas fireplace in the United States is around $4000, it can vary widely from case to case. In most cases, the price range for installing a standard gas fireplace in a standard home would be anywhere between $2700-$15800.
However, as mentioned, there are several variables at play here. For upscale residences, costs can go up to as much as $300000. This price, however, can be changed based on several considerations, such as fireplace options, types of homes, locations, and more.
Gas fireplace units
Some of the biggest considerations for gas fireplaces are the fireplace style, size, and features – these also directly determine the unit’s price. Other than these, factors like log set quality, reversibility, and premium ignition options can all play a role in determining the final price, which can vary by several thousands of dollars.
There is a whole world of fireplace styles and sizes to be explored. You can install a complex fireplace that blends with the vibe of your home or go for a simple and sleek design. You can also opt for a premade fireplace design or go with whole personalization to make it just as you envision; the options are truly endless.
While a basic gas log fireplace can cost only about $350, there is no actual upper limit. Insert fireplaces can be installed within $600-$2000, but larger and substantially grander fireplace options like island or peninsula fireplaces alone can cost anywhere between $5000-$12000 to install. The key idea is to not blow your entire budget on the fireplace itself, as there are several other costs associated with the process.
Gas line costs
Every new gas fireplace unit will require a new gas line to supply fuel. The main determining factor here is the line length, which can determine the price, from a few hundred to even a few thousand dollars.
Framing and finishing
This is the stage where form takes over the functionality of a gas fireplace unit. The framing and finishing of your gas fireplace will ultimately determine what the unit will look like after installation. Prices can vary widely here, depending on how fancy you would want to get.
While a clean flush installation will incur minimal costs, a complete masonry hearth-covered fireplace insert will likely cost much more. For fireplaces, the customization options are overwhelmingly vast and add much to their overall appeal. So, depending on your desired final look, your budget will match the framing and finish work required to achieve the said look.
Vented vs vent-free fireplaces
Another major consideration is determining whether you’d want to install a vented or a vent-free fireplace in your home.
Vent-free installations
Vent-free fireplaces are naturally more cost-effective as it does not require specialized vent pipes. If you’re remodeling on a budget or even want a new fireplace installed, a vent-free installation will set you back anywhere between $2000-$3500. However, the caveat here is the local permit. Not all areas can have vent-free fireplaces installed, so be sure to check the local regulations before deciding.
Vented installations
On the other hand, vented fireplaces will require a venting pipe that adds to the overall installation costs as it adds material as well as labor charges. Home advisor suggests that the average installation cost of vented fireplaces ranges between $3500-$7500.
Keep in mind that it is easier to access the roof, the attic space, or the walls in the case of a newly installed vented fireplace than while working with a preinstalled one. This is why it is often cheaper to install vented fireplaces anew than to remodel an existing unit.
Local permits
Each state in the US has a set of different laws when it comes to installing home fireplaces. Some states will require you to get permits before installation begins. In most cases, permit fees will range between $100-$400 depending on the state you are in, the type of installation you are after, and the type of permits required.
While not every state charges a permit fee, it is important to check your local guidelines just to be sure. This is especially the case when you need an extended gas line or install a vent-free fireplace.
Extraneous factors
This only covers the installation part of the story. There are three more things to consider when calculating the lifetime costs of fireplaces.
Regular maintenance
Regular checks and maintenance of the fireplace can keep repair and upkeep costs down and add many years to your fireplace unit. It is critical that seasoned and certified technicians perform seasonal servicing that keeps your fireplace going and your warranties intact.
Affordable replacements
Certified technicians do more than just maintain your gas fireplace. They can guide you through every step so that you get the most out of your dollars spent. You can also avail of affordable replacement owing to their detailed knowledge of cost and energy efficiency combined with the vast knowledge of different fireplace types.
Quick repairs
An HVAC company that recognizes the importance of inspections and maintenance is essential to keeping your fireplace costs down. Timely repairs are also crucial; not only do they stop your home from being uncomfortably cold, but they also extend the lifespan of your unit.
Knowing what you need is the best place to start while gauging the expenses behind your fireplace. Moreover, replacements, repairs, and maintenance costs keep adding to the total cost of a fireplace. This makes fireplace maintenance as important as the installation process to optimize overall costs.
