Ottawa winters are long, cold, and demanding—making the right fireplace more than just a style choice. Homeowners often weigh electric vs gas fireplaces when deciding how to add warmth, comfort, and value. Both options have unique pros and cons, and the right choice depends on your budget, safety needs, and home setup.
In this guide, we’ll break down real costs, safety factors, efficiency, and maintenance so you can make the best choice for your Ottawa home.
Running Costs: Electric vs Gas Fireplaces
One of the first questions homeowners ask is: “What’s the cost to run a fireplace in Ottawa?”
- Electric fireplaces
- Average operating cost: around $0.15–$0.30 per hour (depending on local hydro rates).
- More efficient because almost all the electricity converts to heat.
- Zone heating saves money—heat only the room you’re in, instead of the whole house.
- Gas fireplaces
- Average operating cost: around $0.40–$0.80 per hour (depending on natural gas prices).
- Produces more heat, better for larger spaces.
- Higher upfront installation costs, especially if you need a gas line installed.
💡 Tip: If you’re upgrading multiple systems, consider pairing a fireplace install with other energy efficiency solutions to lower overall costs.
Safety and Maintenance for Families
For households with children or pets, safety is a major concern.
- Electric fireplaces
- No open flames, no harmful emissions.
- Exterior glass stays cooler to the touch.
- Minimal maintenance beyond dusting and the occasional bulb replacement.
- Gas fireplaces
- Real flames mean higher surface temperatures and burn risks.
- Requires annual servicing to check the venting, burners, and carbon monoxide safety.
- Produces emissions, so ventilation must be up to code.
If safety is your top priority, electric wins. For added peace of mind, consider upgrading your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms when installing a gas unit.
Reliability During Power Outages
Ottawa is no stranger to winter storms and blackouts. How do these fireplaces hold up?
- Electric fireplaces stop working immediately when the power is out. Unless you have backup power or a generator, they won’t provide heat.
- Gas fireplaces can keep running during outages, depending on the ignition system. Models with battery backup or manual ignition continue providing warmth even without electricity.
👉 If reliability is critical, gas may be the safer choice—though pairing an electric fireplace with a home generator gives you the best of both worlds.
Aesthetics and Home Value
Both electric and gas fireplaces add resale value—but in different ways.
- Electric fireplaces
- Modern designs, slim wall-mounted options, and realistic flame effects.
- Flexible installation—no need for a chimney or vent.
- Great for condos, basements, or smaller homes.
- Gas fireplaces
- Provide a more “authentic” fireplace look and feel.
- Better for larger living rooms or open layouts.
- Higher installation costs, but often seen as a luxury feature.
If you’re planning a broader upgrade, pairing a fireplace installation with lighting upgrades or smart home automation can boost property value further.
Environmental Impact
Eco-conscious homeowners often prefer electric fireplaces because:
- They don’t release emissions directly into your home or neighborhood.
- Can be powered by renewable energy sources, such as solar panels.
Gas fireplaces, while efficient in heating larger spaces, rely on fossil fuels and contribute to greenhouse gases.
Which Fireplace Should You Choose in Ottawa?
- Choose Electric if you want:
✅ Lower upfront cost
✅ Safer option for kids/pets
✅ Minimal maintenance
✅ Flexible placement - Choose Gas if you want:
✅ Higher heat output
✅ Functionality during power outages
✅ Traditional fireplace ambiance
✅ Added resale value in larger homes
For many Ottawa homeowners, the decision comes down to budget, family safety, and reliability during outages.
Get Expert Help Before You Decide
Installing a fireplace isn’t just about comfort—it’s about safety and compliance with Ottawa’s building codes. Whether you choose gas or electric, professional installation ensures your unit runs efficiently and safely.
Explore our full range of installation services or speak with a licensed Ottawa electrician to discuss your options today.