How Long Do Gas Fireplaces Last? [Cost To Replace a Gas Fireplace]

When you consider fireplaces, you can never go wrong with a gas fireplace. Apart from enjoying adequate warmth from your fireplace, gas fireplaces are also known to add class and an overall exotic look and feel to your home.

There’s nothing quite as snuggling comfortably on your most comfortable sofa, with your favorite book and a cup of coffee, enjoying the warm air filling the room from your gas fireplace.

It is only logical that you will want this experience to last forever. But does it? How long do these gas fireplaces really last? Well, let’s find out!

How Long Do Gas Fireplaces Last?

On average, however, gas fireplaces usually have a life expectancy of 15 to 20 years and may need to be replaced after the second decade. But it’s not enough to approach this issue with a blanket method.

We’re going to go out on a limb here and assume you are absolutely enjoying your fireplace, especially if you live in an area where the temperature outside is around 10 degrees Celsius, or worse.

For people in these kinds of regions, fireplaces often become the most sought after home appliance, and for good reason. They are always utilized in the home and, occasionally, homeowners may erroneously leave them on overnight.

However, not all gas fireplaces last for the same number of years. Some may develop faults during the first decade of using it, while others may even exceed 20 years. This is not just a random occurrence.

There are specific factors that often influence the lifespan of gas fireplaces. These factors, if not taken into proper consideration could either decrease or increase the lifespan of your gas fireplace.

Top 3 Gas Fireplaces with Best Lifespan

Factors That Affect the Lifespan of Gas Fireplaces

These factors are pretty straightforward. For some of them, they are important qualities to look out for before you purchase and install the gas fireplace in order to guarantee longevity.

For others, you need to ensure you pay attention to them while using the fireplace to ensure a longer lifespan.

1. Ensure your Fireplace is Properly Installed

To be safe, request the assistance of an installation professional in order to avoid wrongful installation of the appliance, causing an unfortunate fire hazard in the future.

Other times, these fireplaces may be installed in a way that gives room for leaks, which may cause severe damage subsequently.

2. Maintenance

As with most home appliances, gas fireplaces require proper and consistent care in order to not only guarantee it being around for a long time, but to ensure it does not develop hazardous faults.

You are probably wondering if gas logs can eventually wear out, the simple answer is yes.

While you most likely will not need to replace your gas logs every other day as you may be required to when you are dealing with real firewood, you eventually will be required to swap out the gas logs for replacement logs.

When you eventually need to replace the logs, you do not need to change or replace any other part of your fireplace. By simply replacing the logs in your fireplace setup, you can easily get a general boost in your fireplace in terms of both aesthetics and its performance.

3. Types of gas logs

The type of gas logs used in your fireplace is also an important factor that can determine its lifespan. A fireplace with properly vented log sets made of ceramics and adequately maintained will have a much longer lifespan.

In most cases, these types of gas logs can last as long as 10 years and even longer before they may need to be changed. While for ventless gas log sets, their lifespan often ranges from 3 to 6 years but will need to be replaced as soon as it begins to wear.

4. Quality of materials

Typical gas logs that you may find in most homes are usually made of ceramic materials which fortify them against extremely high temperatures.

For fireplaces with cement log sets, you can bank on the fact that your log set will begin to fade after a short while, thereby losing its aesthetic value. The fireplace body itself will stand the test of time if it is made with quality steel materials.

5. Avoid placing objects or trash into the fireplace

Although this may seem relatively obvious, to avoid clogging your fireplace with debris or damaging the appliance altogether, avoid throwing dirt and objects into the fireplace.

How To Know If Gas Fireplace Needs to Be Replaced? (Warning Signals)

A gas fireplace can last as long as 15 years or even more if well maintained. Nonetheless, you should be vigilant to know if and when a replacement is needed whether or not you’ve enjoyed it for up to 15 years.

There are a few signs to tell when a gas fireplace needs replacement.

1. When repair becomes constant

You know a gas fireplace replacement is needed when you keep fixing the same or different damages over and over again.

2. The unit is out of date

Most gas fireplaces have a lifespan of 15 years. Once that lifespan elapses, the fireplace may begin to malfunction or become less efficient.

3. Unresolved Pilot Light Issues

This may be due to worn-out or damaged thermocouples. Where repair becomes impossible for some reason, a replacement is inevitable.

4. Lingering smell of sulfur or rotten eggs

This often indicates there is a gas leak. It is easily fixed when this leak is on the hose or pipe. You’ll simply turn it off and call in the professional to replace the pipe. However, when the leak is on the firebox, it may just require a replacement.

5. Presence of soot

While this may be normal in the wood fireplace, soot in the gas fireplace can indicate a major problem. Sometimes, especially when it’s the fireplace interior that has soot buildup, a replacement may just be the better option.

How Much Does It Cost to Replace an Existing Gas Fireplace?

Gas fireplaces made of stones or bricks can generally cost anywhere between $400 to about $1,500. While its gas log sets can cost around $500 to $800.

As we have stated, after a while, your gas fireplace may become too old and will need to be swiftly replaced.

It is worthy to note that replacing an existing fireplace is significantly cheaper than installing a fireplace in a home without a fireplace. The price of replacing a gas fireplace often varies.

A huge portion of the budget is also allocated to material costs which could be anywhere from $1,100 to $1,800.

As it is largely advised, you should employ the services of an installation professional. The labor cost for this professional ranges anywhere from $2000 to $2,500.

You should also note that these prices are subject to change, depending on your location and the demand for these individual materials.

Top 3 Gas Fireplaces with Best Lifespan

1. Majestic Mercury 32″ Top/Rear Direct Vent Gas Fireplace

Best Value for Money

This direct-vent fireplace is the very definition of a modern, classy and featureful fireplace. You can immediately improve the outlook of your home and give it a more nifty design.

Additionally, it works great in providing adequate heat throughout your home. You can now enjoy your fireplace and remain warm and energetic during cold seasons without having any adverse effect on your home’s air conditioner or the environment.

The materials used in the construction and installation of the fireplace are the sure stamp of longevity. It’s equipped with a direct vent, ceramic gas logs, which means that if properly maintained you can use this appliance for more than a decade.

After installing this fireplace, there are a number of benefits that you immediately begin to enjoy. The first is complete remote control over your fireplace unit leading to a more convenient experience.

Some other features you are able to access with the remote control include the volume of the flame, the temperature, and the power option to either turn the appliance on or off.

You are also given the option to utilize a fan that is usually placed on top of the gas fireplace unit that helps in distributing the heat directly precisely into and around the room to facilitate your comfort. You can also adjust the speed of the fan using the remote control.

This fireplace measuring up to 32-inch is capable of producing up to 19000BTUs every hour. Its ignition system consists of the advanced Intellifire Ignition System (IPI).

With this modern ignition system, all that stands between you and igniting your fireplace is just one touch. From the moment you ignite it, the system constantly monitors the ignition, ensuring safe and comfortable usage.

Pros

• It is capable of running on both liquified propane gas and the type obtained naturally.
• Efficient heat distribution.
• Highly conductible
• Customizable design and well put together exterior.
• Equipped with unique features such as tempered glass, artificial split gas logs, and a gas flex connector.

Cons

• Performance of this fireplace may not be as effective in very large spaces.

2. Empire Tahoe Deluxe Direct-Vent Fireplace

Best for Features

Whatever it is you seek in a fireplace, whether it be modern features, even distribution of heat,  or its sleek design, this direct-vent fireplace is just right for you. Not only are you assured of convenience and luxury, but also longevity.

For optimum output, the manufacturers utilized a slope glaze burner in this particular model. This system can release up to 25000BTUs with a competency of over 83%.

The model runs without any form of electricity. This is particularly good news for homes without access to constant power. It is powered strictly by natural gas.

To ensure continued convenience, you can also control this fireplace with the use of remote control. Also, this compact fireplace is equipped with slat louvers that guarantee efficient venting.

The design of this fireplace includes modern hem-bent seams designs that ensure a sturdy fit. For the installation of this fireplace, you do not have to bother with traditional fasteners and screw bolts.

Now, for the exterior look and the dimension of this fireplace, it is measured at 36 inches. It also features a large tempered glass heatproof window. Overall, this fireplace is guaranteed to make your time at home comfortable and more relaxing.

Pros

• No excess fumes, no unnecessary ash and it’s very environmentally friendly. 
• Properly distributed heat.
• Can be remotely controlled.
• Equipped with a 4-piece log set.
• Warranty of about 3 years.

Cons

• The viewing screen is sold separately from the rest of the unit.

3. Superior DRT3500 Direct-Vent Fireplace

Best Price

The Superior fireplace is just perfect for classy and sophisticated users who require a sober ambiance. The entire structure and build of this fireplace rightly complement its sophisticated exterior.

On the whole, you are provided with excellent warmth and a serene atmosphere when you opt for this fireplace.

The materials used in the manufacturing of this fireplace are high-end, and so you do not have to worry about the early wearing of the individual parts. As a seal of quality assurance, the manufacturers offer a warranty of up to 20 years for faults that are not self-inflicted.

This fireplace comes with a depth of up to 17-inch and as such may take up more space.

The fireplace also features a sophisticated illumination system that is equipped with six distinct settings that can soothe, intensify or placate your mood at different times depending on your specific needs.

You will also be provided with a high-end log set, ceramic glass, a fully functional remote control, and a screen for protective purposes.

Pros

• Heat output can be enhanced from 23000 to 26000 BTUs.
• Powder coating offers additional durability.
• Also helps in illuminating the interior of your home.
• Equipped with remote control.
• Comes with a factory fitted blower.
• Offers warranty of up to 20 years.

Cons

• The unit isn’t packaged with the critical barrier.

Final Words:

Much like the price, the standard of performance you get with the direct-vent gas fireplace is significantly higher. Investing in a direct-vent fireplace offers good value for your money and gives your home the much-needed comfort you desire.

Choosing the one that is most suitable for you and paying close attention to the factors listed above can also offer value in terms of longevity. You must remember that in order to enjoy the benefits of this gas fireplace, you must periodically replace the individual parts that may become faulty.