As summer approaches its peak in June, it’s the perfect time to start planning for the cooler months ahead. Whether you’re renovating your home or aiming to reduce your heating bills, understanding the costs associated with electric & gas fires is crucial. This blog delves into the financial implications of each option, helping you make an informed decision before the cold sets in.
Initial Costs: Installation & Setup
Electric Fires:
Electric fires are generally more affordable and simpler to install compared to gas fires. Since they don’t require a chimney or flue, they can be installed on almost any wall. The cost of purchasing & installing an electric fire varies widely, starting from as low as £100 for a basic model to over £1,000 for high-end versions.
Gas Fires:
Gas fires usually involve a higher initial investment. They require a connection to a gas supply and proper venting, necessitating professional installation. Initial costs can range from £500 to £2,000, depending on the complexity of the installation & the style of the gas fire chosen.
Running Costs: Keeping the Flames Burning
Electric Fires:
The running cost of an electric fire depends on the electricity tariff and usage frequency. On average, electric fires use about 1 to 2 kilowatts of power. With the average electricity price around 28 pence per kWh (as of June 2024), running an electric fire for five hours a day would cost between £1.40 to £2.80 per day.
Gas Fires:
Gas is typically cheaper per unit than electricity and can be a more cost-effective heating method. Although gas fires consume more energy due to their higher heat output, the cost per kWh is generally lower. With average gas prices around 7 pence per kWh, running a gas fire that consumes 5 kWh per hour for five hours would cost about £1.75 per day.
Efficiency and Heat Output
Electric Fires:
Electric fires are nearly 100% efficient at the point of use, meaning all the electricity used is converted into heat. However, they often don’t produce enough heat to warm large spaces efficiently & are best suited for supplementary heating or smaller rooms.
Gas Fires:
Gas fires are less efficient overall, with typical efficiency rates ranging from 60% to 90%. However, they generally produce more heat, making them more effective for heating larger areas.
Environmental Impact
The choice between gas & electric fires also has environmental implications. Electric fires produce no direct emissions, making them a cleaner option, especially if your electricity comes from renewable sources. Conversely, burning gas releases carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas.
Which Should You Choose?
Deciding between an electric or gas fire involves weighing initial costs, running costs, heat output, and environmental impact. If ease of installation, lower initial costs, and fewer emissions are your priorities, an electric fire might be the ideal choice. However, if you need to heat a larger space or seek a more cost-effective solution in terms of running costs, a gas fire could be more suitable.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific needs and circumstances. By considering both the financial and environmental impacts, you can ensure that your cozy fire is both comforting & cost-effective, ready to keep you warm as the seasons change.
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