How much does it cost cost to install an electric fireplace?
Just because your home doesn't have a chimney doesn't mean you can't enjoy a fire. Electric fireplaces are energy efficient and an increasingly popular way to heat a home. For this example, we'll look at the cost of a standard plug-in electric fireplace unit, which averages $300.
Cost breakdown
- The cost of the fireplace largely depends on its type and power. There are three main kinds of electric fireplaces:
- Log inserts: these are electric logs that replace wood logs in an existing fireplace. A typical log insert can heat up to 400 square feet and simply plugs into a standard electric outlet. These logs typically cost $150-$200.
- Plug-in inserts: this option has the look of a fireplace and can fit into an existing mantel 1 or other area of the home. It has enough power to heat 400 square feet and typically plugs into a standard outlet. These fireplaces typically cost $150-$350.
- Built-in 2 inserts: like the name implies, these pieces are built into mantels 1, entertainment centers, or the wall. The more powerful 220-volt options can heat up to 800 square feet, and most fireplaces are hardwired into the home heating and electric systems. These typically cost $250-$600.
- Labor: for fireplaces that simply plug into the wall, no electrician is needed. However, an electrician is recommended when installing a built-in 2 insert. Most electricians charge $65-$85 per hour and can install an electric fireplace in two to four hours, for a total labor cost of $130-$340.
Enhancement and improvement costs
- A built-in 2 heater installed directly into the drywall 3 will likely require you hire a carpenter for around $70 per hour. Most carpenters can finish the project in two to four hours for a total labor cost of $140-$280.
- Some electric heaters come with remote control capability, which typically adds around $75 to your cost to purchase a remote.
- If a standard outlet needs to be installed closer to the fireplace location, it will cost an additional $100.
Additional considerations and costs
- Electric fireplaces can also be used for ambiance and not for heat, most fireplaces come with a heat-free setting.
- Electric fireplaces can lower your overall heating bill because they allow you to lower the thermostat 4 level and heat only specific areas of the home most electric fireplaces cost 7-13 cents per hour to operate, while gas systems cost around 20 cents an hour to run.
- Unlike every other type of fireplace, electric fireplaces can be installed in literally any type of home and don't require maintenance or certification fees.