How much does it cost to run an electric fireplace?
How much does it cost to run an electric fireplace?
$13 – $52 average cost per month
$0.11 – $0.44 average cost per hour
Are you a pro?How much will your project cost?TABLE OF CONTENTSEdited by Tara Farmer
Average cost to run an electric fireplace
The cost to run an electric fireplace ranges from $0.11 to $0.44 per hour, which translates to $13 to $52 per month when running an average of 4 hours per day. Your actual cost depends on the fireplace size and wattage, the heat settings you select, your local electricity rates, and how many hours per day you use the fireplace.
| Fireplace wattage | Cost per hour* | Cost per month* (at 4 hours per day) |
|---|---|---|
| 750 watts | $0.11 – $0.17 | $13 – $20 |
| 1,000 watts | $0.14 – $0.22 | $17 – $26 |
| 1,200 watts | $0.17 – $0.26 | $20 – $32 |
| 1,500 watts | $0.21 – $0.33 | $26 – $40 |
| 2,000 watts | $0.28 – $0.44 | $34 – $52 |
*Based on an electricity rate of $0.14 to $0.22 per kWh
How much electricity does an electric fireplace use?
An electric fireplace uses 750 to 2,000 watts per hour when both the heating element and flame effects are running, depending on the model. To calculate your costs, you'll need to know your specific fireplace model's wattage and your local electricity rate.
How to calculate how much electricity your electric fireplace uses:
First, find your fireplace's wattage in the owner's manual or on the unit's label. Then check your most recent electricity bill to see your rate per kilowatt-hour (kWh).
Use this formula to calculate the cost per hour, day, and month:
Cost per hour = (Wattage ÷ 1,000) x Electricity rate per kWh
Cost per day = Cost per hour x Hours used per day
Cost per month = Cost per day x 30 days
For example, let's say you have a 1,500-watt electric fireplace, your electricity rate is $0.20 per kWh, and you use the fireplace 4 hours per day:
Cost per hour = (1,500 ÷ 1,000) x $0.20 = $0.30 per hour
Cost per day = $0.30 x 4 hours = $1.20 per day
Cost per month = $1.20 x 30 days = $36 per month
For a quick estimate, use our electric fireplace electricity cost calculator:
What affects the cost to run an electric fireplace?
Several factors affect how much you'll pay to run an electric fireplace:
Fireplace wattage
Higher wattage fireplace models consume more electricity and cost more to operate. A 1,500-watt fireplace uses twice as much power as a 750-watt model. Most electric fireplaces fall into these wattage ranges:
Small units: 750 – 1,000 watts
Standard units: 1,200 – 1,500 watts
Large units: 1,500 – 2,000 watts
Heat setting
Running your electric fireplace on high heat uses the maximum wattage and the most electricity. Many models offer low and high heat settings, with low typically using about half the power. Some units also have adjustable thermostats that cycle the heater on and off to maintain your desired temperature.
Flame effects vs. heat
The heating element accounts for most of the power consumption, while LED flame effects use very little electricity — usually just 5 to 50 watts. You can enjoy the ambiance without the heating element and spend only pennies per day. This makes electric fireplaces perfect for year-round use, even in warmer months.
Usage
How many hours per day you run the electric fireplace has the biggest impact on monthly costs. Running your fireplace for 8 hours daily costs twice as much as running it for 4 hours daily. Consider using a timer or thermostat to manage usage efficiently.
Local electricity rates
Electricity costs vary significantly by location, ranging from $0.12 to $0.35 per kWh across the United States. Your local utility company sets these rates. Higher rates mean higher operating costs, even with the same usage patterns.
Electric fireplace FAQs
Do electric fireplaces use a lot of electricity?
Electric fireplaces use a moderate amount of electricity compared to other heating appliances. A typical unit consumes 1,500 watts on high heat, which is similar to a space heater or hair dryer. This makes them less energy-intensive than central heating systems but about the same as a space heater.
Running only the LED flame effects uses minimal power. When you do use the heating function, it's best for supplemental zone heating rather than warming your entire home.
Do electric fireplaces give off heat?
Yes, most electric fireplaces include built-in heating elements that can warm rooms up to 400 square feet. They typically produce between 4,000 and 5,000 BTUs of heat. The heater is separate from the flame effects, so you can run the visual flames without heat or vice versa.
Electric fireplaces use fan-forced heating to circulate warm air. While they won't heat an entire house, they're excellent for supplemental heating in specific rooms. This zoned heating approach can actually reduce your overall energy bills.
How long can you leave an electric fireplace on?
You can safely leave most electric fireplaces on for extended periods, and many people run them continuously. Unlike gas or wood fireplaces, electric models don't produce harmful emissions or require ventilation.
Most quality electric fireplaces include safety features like automatic shut-off and overheat protection. However, it's wise to turn them off when leaving home or going to sleep. Using the thermostat function helps manage both comfort and costs automatically.
Getting quotes from electric fireplace installers
Professional installation ensures your fireplace is properly connected and safe to operate. While some units simply plug into existing outlets, others require dedicated circuits or built-in installation.
Follow these tips to find experienced, reputable electric fireplace installers near you:
Get estimates from at least three companies to compare prices and services.
Ask for detailed quotes that break down costs for materials and labor.
Request references from previous customers.
Read reviews on HomeGuide and Google to gauge customer satisfaction.
Confirm the installer is licensed and insured.
Questions to ask electric fireplace installers
Ask these important questions before you sign a contract:
What experience do you have with electric fireplace installations?
Will you handle the electrical work, or should I hire an electrician?
Can you provide references from previous clients?
What does your estimate include?
What additional costs might come up during the project?
Will this project require a permit? If yes, will you obtain it?
How long will the installation take?
Do you offer a warranty on the fireplace unit or your workmanship?
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.