How much does it cost to convert a wood fireplace to gas?
How much does it cost to convert a wood fireplace to gas?
$300 – $2,000 Convert wood fireplace to gas logs
$2,000 – $5,000 Convert wood fireplace to gas insert
$3,000 – $12,000 Remove wood fireplace & install gas fireplace
Cost to convert a wood-burning fireplace to gas
The average cost to convert a wood fireplace to gas is $1,500 to $8,000, depending on whether your converting to a gas insert, gas logs, or an entirely new gas fireplace. Converting a wood fireplace to a gas insert costs $2,000 to $5,000. A wood fireplace conversion to gas logs costs $300 to $2,000.
| Conversion type | Average cost |
|---|---|
| Convert wood fireplace to gas logs | $300 – $2,000 |
| Convert wood fireplace to gas insert | $2,000 – $5,000 |
| Remove wood fireplace & install new gas fireplace | $3,000 – $12,000 |
The most common gas fireplace conversions include:
Gas logs – Ceramic logs are designed to look like real wood with a natural gas or propane burner.
Gas insert – A gas insert is a metal box that fits inside the existing fireplace and vents through the existing chimney.
New gas fireplace – Involves demolishing the existing fireplace to install a completely new gas fireplace.
Cost of converting a wood fireplace to gas by type
Wood fireplace conversion to gas logs cost
Converting a wood fireplace to gas logs costs $300 to $2,000, depending on whether it's vented or ventless.
Vented gas logs require the dampers and flue remain permanently open to prevent carbon monoxide build-up.
Ventless gas logs are cheaper to install since a chimney inspection and modification are not necessary. Ventless logs exhaust gas and moisture into the home, raising humidity and carbon monoxide levels. Vent-free logs are not recommended for people with respiratory issues and are prohibited in some areas.
Convert wood fireplace to gas insert cost
Converting a wood fireplace to a gas insert costs $2,000 to $5,000 on average. A vented gas insert expels air through the existing chimney. Ventless are cheaper but exhaust directly into the room. The insert may be finished with a decorative surround to block heat loss.
Installing a gas fireplace insert takes less than a day to run gas and electrical lines, re-line the flue with the proper venting, and connect the insert.
Changing a wood fireplace to new gas fireplace cost
Demolishing and changing a wood fireplace with a new gas fireplace costs $3,000 to $12,000 on average.
Wood fireplace removal costs $3,000 to $6,000, including demolishing the chimney stack and repairing the walls, floor, and roof. Partial demolition costs $500 to $1,000 to remove the fireplace and leave the chimney in place.
A new gas fireplace is a completely sealed firebox that vents through the roof or an exterior wall instead of a chimney.
Wood to gas fireplace conversion cost breakdown
Cost to install gas line for fireplace conversion
Installing a gas line costs $12 to $25 per linear foot, including labor, materials, and permits. Extending an existing gas line to the fireplace costs $250 to $500.
Plumbers charge $45 to $150 per hour to install the proper size gas line and prevent the whistle sound of too-narrow lines.
Gas fireplace installation
Installing a new gas fireplace costs $2,300 to $4,000 on average, plus the cost of a gas supply line if one isn’t available. A direct-vent gas fireplace is a self-contained unit that vents through the ceiling or outside walls when there isn’t an existing chimney.
Additional costs to convert a fireplace
Much of the cost to convert a fireplace from wood to gas is spent on skilled labor to install and connect the gas line. Other common costs for a wood-to-gas fireplace conversion include:
An electrician costs $50 to $130 per hour if the gas fireplace requires an additional electrical outlet.
Installing a new chimney liner costs $900 to $3,800 for a stainless-steel liner that supports gas.
Chimney repair costs $900 to $7,000 to reline, resurface, or replace the flue.
Chimney rebuilding costs $1,000 to $3,500 to rebrick the stack above the roof or $4,000 to $15,000 to rebuild the chimney above and below the roofline.
A gas fireplace inspection costs $100 to $600, including cleaning out any build-up inside the chimney or on the insert's glass door.
A new carbon monoxide (CO) detector costs $20 to $160 for safety.
Convert wood fireplace to gas FAQs
Should I convert my wood-burning fireplace to gas?
You should convert a wood-burning fireplace to gas if you want an easy, instant fire and don’t mind a fake flame. Converting to gas is not recommended if you want the sound and smell of a real fire.
| Heat source | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Gas |
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| Wood |
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Can a propane fireplace be converted to natural gas?
Yes, a propane fireplace can be easily converted to natural gas using a kit, provided the home already has natural gas access and the conversion kit matches the fireplace model. The kit replaces the propane burner and pilot light orifices with smaller ones to accommodate the lower-pressure natural gas.
How much does it cost to convert gas fireplace to wood or electric?
Gas to wood-burning stove – Converting a gas fireplace to a wood-burning stove costs $100 to $300 if the chimney is properly lined and vented. Additional costs include replacing the chimney liner, masonry repairs, or chimney reconstruction or replacement.
Gas to electric – The cost to convert a gas fireplace to an electric fireplace is $100 to $2,200 for the electric unit alone. A handyman costs $50 to $80 per hour or an HVAC service costs $75 to $150 per hour to install the new electric fireplace and close off the chimney and damper.
Getting estimates from gas fireplace installers
Before hiring a gas fireplace installer near you, be sure to:
Select licensed, bonded, and insured companies that have been in business for 5+ years.
Browse their reviews on HomeGuide and Google.
Get at least three quotes to compare.
Make sure the estimates include fireplaces of equal quality when comparing quotes.
Confirm the fireplace that has been recommended for your home is the correct size and BTU (heat) output.
Avoid selecting the lowest quote as quality may suffer.
Get a written estimate, contract, and warranty before the work begins.
Never pay in full upfront. Follow a payment plan and do not make the final payment until fully satisfied.
Questions to ask
What experience do you have with converting wood fireplaces to gas?
How many gas fireplaces have you installed in the last year?
Are you licensed, bonded, and insured?
Do you recommend a vented or ventless gas fireplace, and why?
What size fireplace do I need for my room's square footage?
How long will the installation take?
Will the installation require a permit, and if so, will you obtain it?
What kind of maintenance will the fireplace require?
Is there a warranty, and if so, what does it include?