BLOG POST 2: Electric vs Gas Fireplaces — Which Is Better for Your Home in 2025?

Choosing between an electric or gas fireplace can be tricky. Both offer warmth and ambience, but the experience, cost, and maintenance are very different. Here’s a simple breakdown to help you decide.

1. Installation

Electric:
Plug-in or hard-wired. No chimney, no venting, no building regulations.
 Cheapest and easiest.

Gas:
Requires a Gas Safe engineer, ventilation checks, and sometimes flue systems.
 More expensive and complex.

2. Running Costs

Electric fireplaces are surprisingly efficient. Modern LED flame effects use under 15p per hour, and heat output is optional.

Gas fires cost more upfront and more to maintain long-term.

3. Flame Realism

Electric flames have evolved massively — brands now offer:

- 3D flame effects

- Ultra-real embers

- Smoke-mist technology

- Smartphone/Alexa control

Gas flames are real, but electric fireplaces are now so realistic most homeowners prefer them.

4. Safety

Electric fireplaces stay cool to touch and require no ventilation — perfect for families and apartments.

Gas fires require annual servicing and proper airflow.

5. Design & Flexibility

Electric wins easily:

- Media walls

- Wall-mounted

- Inserts

- Corner suites

-Ultra-slim models

Gas fireplaces have limited design flexibility.

Verdict

For 2025 and beyond, electric fireplaces offer better value, safer operation, lower maintenance, and the most premium design options.
This is why UK homeowners — and Emberly Home customers — overwhelmingly choose electric.