Gas Fireplace Efficiency Vs Furnace

This model from ashley hearth offers 99 percent efficiency thanks to its ventless design.

Gas fireplace efficiency vs furnace.

Electric fireplaces have an output that is based on the electric current. Heating efficiency of vented gas fireplaces. It stands for annual fuel efficiency ratio and measures a direct ratio of fuel consumed to heat distributed. The included mesh screen and ceramic logs complete the look of this ventless gas fireplace insert.

If the unvented gas fireplace manufacturers reported efficiency relative to the higher heating value they would come in at about 91. Today s gas stoves and fireplaces have delivered efficiency ratings hovering around 70 which would rival even a 98 efficient gas furnace with the best imaginable forced air delivery system. A gas furnace made in the early 1970s typically has an afue of about 65 percent. Also much of the heat produced by a stove or fireplace is radiant heat.

Comparing efficiency of a gas fireplace with a gas furnace is somewhat difficult due to the variables that are associated with the two appliances. Direct vent gas fireplaces are recommended for their efficiency. As a result ventless gas fireplace inserts are generally considered the best type of inserts for heating your room. The furnace has a lot going for it here depending on the model.

Gas furnace or gas fireplace. For measurements of efficiency this is the best determiner of what delivers the most bang for your buck. The dancing flames and crackling wood of a traditional masonry fireplace adds charm and beauty to the home yet produces surprisingly little heat. Air to feed the flame enters from the outside and relatively cool combustion gases are exhausted through a wall mounted vent or can be vented through a roof.

To begin your comparison you can start by taking a look at the btu consumption listed in an owner s manual or on the appliance itself. The lowest efficiency allowed by law for new gas. Furnaces have become more energy efficient over the years. This difference means that the efficiency listed on a gas fireplace can t always be compared to the efficiency listed on a gas furnace in a meaningful way.

Direct vent fireplaces comprise the majority of gas fireplace sales. Gas fireplaces use between 7 000 and 16 000 btus are between 70 and 90 efficient at converting energy to heat and cost around 60 a year to run. However for a gas fireplace the actual amount of heat can be measured because it delivers heat directly into your home.