Installing a gas fireplace costs $2,300 to $10,000 on average, depending on the size, vent type, and materials used. Ventless fireplaces typically cost less than vented or direct-vent units but are less common because of safety risks.

Gas line installation costs $12 to $25 per liner foot or $350 to $2,000 if you don't have an existing gas line in the home. Extending an existing gas line to your desired fireplace location costs $250 to $500.

Gas fireplaces are typically safer and more efficient than wood-burning fireplaces. Here are the main benefits of installing a gas fireplace:

• They release fewer harmful emissions than burning wood.
• You don’t have to buy or cut any firewood or clean up ash afterwards.
• They don’t produce creosote, a flammable by-product of wood that sticks to the inside of chimneys.
• You don’t need to sweep the chimney or pay someone to sweep it every year.

Professional fireplace installers are the only contractors with te knowledge, skill, and experience necessary to install gas fireplaces safely. While hiring a handyperson or installing one yourself may save you some money, it might result in repairs or dangerous gas leaks later on.

Gas fireplaces do not necessarily need a masonry chimney like wood-burning fireplaces and typically use a Class A flue or B-vent to release fumes. Some gas fireplaces have no vent at all, but they are highly regulated and banned in many areas. Check local regulations or ask your installer whether ventless gas fireplaces are legal in your area.

No, you should never burn wood in a gas fireplace. Wood burns at a much higher temperature than natural gas, so gas fireboxes and vents aren’t designed to withstand higher temperatures or emissions that come from from burning wood. Doing this may result in a house fire, carbon monoxide poisoning, or a gas line explosion.

To find the best possible gas fireplace installer, follow these steps:

• Compare 3 or more estimates in person.
• Browse reviews and photos of previous jobs on HomeGuide and Google.
• Ask them for references from recent customers.
• Choose a licensed, insured, bonded gas fireplace installer.
• Ask for a written, itemized estimate before work begins.
• Don't pay in full until they finish installing the fireplace.

Ask these questions before hiring a gas fireplace installer:

• Do you have any pictures of similar fireplaces you’ve installed recently?
• Are you certified by the National Fireplace Institute (NFI)?
• How much experience do you have installing gas fireplaces?
• Will you give me a free estimate?
• Will you hire any sub-contractors to help you install the fireplace?
• How long will this project take?
• Will you need to do any work on the gas line or extend it?
• What kind of vent or chimney do you recommend?
• Will you do any electrical work?
• Can I have a written copy of my contract and warranty?