Fireplaces have long been a popular heating staple in homes, with questions like “are gas fireplaces expensive to run?” or “do I need to clean my gas fireplace chimney?” especially helpful when you’re in the market for a new model. However, misconceptions about the efficiency, cost, and maintenance of fireplaces, often leads to misunderstanding and makes buying decisions more difficult for homeowners.
While many myths exist about fireplaces that have been proven false or debunked altogether, this misinformation can actually result in higher costs, safety risks, and insufficient heating practices. This article debunks common fireplace myths to help you make informed decisions when shopping for your next fireplace.
A roaring fire may evoke a cozy winter scene or help you achieve your dream of hygge in your home with its crackle, smell, and ambiance. While traditional wood-burning fireplaces often charm, electric and gas models provide greater efficiency, ensuring more heat stays in your home rather than escaping through the chimney. Electric fireplaces really heat a room just like many gas fireplaces and advanced wood stoves. They offer operational excellence while maintaining a warm, inviting atmosphere - perfect for the optimal hygge environment! Napoleon’s High Country provides better heat retention, while Stuv fireplaces blend Nordic aesthetics with high energy performance to heat your home.
Many assume the elegant, modern design of a gas fireplace must equate to higher operating costs. However, their thoughtfully crafted design and heat technology means gas fireplaces are less expensive to run than wood-burning alternatives. Unlike wood fireplaces, gas models don’t require the full structure of a chimney, making installation simpler and more affordable. They also provide the look and feel of a wood fireplace, at a fraction of the cost. The customizable Valor L3 allows for a sleek, linear design that fits your space while keeping heating costs manageable.
Fireplaces have come a long way from traditional hearths. While they don’t produce flames, electric fireplaces provide heat through infrared or fan-forced technology and are excellent for supplemental heating in bedrooms, kitchens, and family rooms. Beyond their practicality, electric fireplaces also enhance a room’s ambiance with innovative designs and advanced heat technologies. For example, Dimplex’s Optimyst series creates realistic flame effects using ultrasonic technology, while delivering stable, adjustable warmth.
You might be asking yourself, “do gas fireplaces need annual maintenance?”. Like any home appliance, regular maintenance and cleaning of your gas fireplace ought to be an integral part of your routine. While they don’t produce ash and leave residue like wood-burning units, dust buildup, gas leaks, or blocked vents can still occur. A qualified technician can provide routine inspections to keep the interior and exterior of your gas fireplace running effectively and securely. Regular servicing also helps prevent costly repairs and extends the life of your unit.
Even if you don’t have a wood-burning fireplace, or infrequently use your fireplace, your chimney still needs periodic inspections. While gas fireplaces offer increased reliability and performance, they also produce moisture, which can lead to erosion over time. How often a chimney should be cleaned can really depend on the age and condition of your chimney. We recommend annual chimney inspections to help prevent structural issues, ensure proper ventilation, and keep your fireplace running optimally and with care, for years to come.
Although fireplaces are great heating options, myths can lead to poor performance and safety risks. A certified fireplace technician can help separate myth from fact while ensuring your unit operates at peak performance. Regular maintenance and annual inspections help prevent potential issues, improve functionality, and extend its lifespan—saving you from costly repairs down the line. If you have any questions about your fireplace maintenance in Toronto or need service, contact us at Classic Fireplace or visit one of our locations.
