Buying a new gas fireplace? (How long will it last?)
The life span of a gas fireplace is anywhere between 15 to 25 years. To get the most out of your fireplace, purchase a high quality unit and clean it yearly after the season.
Fireplace Experts Tip: Turn on your gas fireplace at least once per month during the offseason to clear the system of bugs, dust, pet hair and other debris.
The following factors will impact the longevity of your gas fireplace:
- Usage Frequency – Frequent use may lead to faster wear on components.
- Maintenance & Cleaning – Annual servicing by a professional extends lifespan.
- Component Quality – Higher-end units and parts last longer.
- Environmental Conditions – Humidity, dust, and gas quality can impact longevity.
How many years will my existing gas fireplace last?
Most fireplaces and stoves should last anywhere between 15 – 25 years on average. Buying a high quality hearth appliance with a reputable installation is the best way to ensure your fireplace or stove will last for many years to come.
Specialty hearth shops are the best place to go for stoves and fireplaces. Look up who is certified by the National Fireplace Institute in your area for reputable fireplace and stove installation outfits. Big box retailers have wood stoves, gas fireplaces, pellet stoves and more, but the issue is the installation and service after the appliance sale. Think about yourself two years from today. What will matter the most? Saving a couple of dollars on a low quality unit with a subpar installation, will only give you a headache when you most need heat from your fireplace or stove.
How do I get more time out of my existing gas fireplace?
Regular maintenance, including checking the burner, pilot light, and venting, ensures optimal performance and extends the unit’s life. Treating the your hearth appliance with care and getting it regularly serviced is the best way to get a long life out of your gas fireplace. If repairs become frequent or parts are no longer available, replacement may be a better option. Regular maintenance and general care while using go a long way in preserving your gas fireplace.
When should I plan to replace my existing gas fireplace?
You should consider replacing your gas fireplace if you notice the following signs:
- Frequent Repairs – If you’re repeatedly fixing components like the thermocouple, ignition system, or gas valve, replacement may be more cost-effective.
- Inconsistent Performance – Difficulty in lighting, weak flame, or fluctuating heat output are indicators of wear and tear.
- Visible Damage – Cracks in the firebox, deteriorating burner components, or a malfunctioning glass front suggest it’s time for a new unit.
- Strange Odors or Soot Buildup – Unusual smells (beyond the initial burn-off of dust) or excessive soot on logs and glass indicate combustion issues.
- Outdated Technology – Newer models offer better efficiency, smart controls, and improved safety features.
- Higher Energy Bills – Older units may not be burning fuel efficiently, leading to increased gas consumption.
- No Longer Code-Compliant – If your fireplace doesn’t meet current building or safety codes, an upgrade is necessary.
Is a gas fireplace upgrade right for you?
A well-maintained gas fireplace lasts 15-25 years, so if yours is approaching this range and showing issues, it may be time for a replacement.
We recommend replacement most frequently for folks who purchased their home from a large national home builder. There is always an opportunity to improve your current fireplace if you are not happy with your current situation. For example: If you do not like the look of your gas fireplace after moving into a new home, you likely have the ability to upgrade your existing gas fireplace with additional features.
Another example: If you have lived in your home long enough to know that the heat output from your existing gas fireplace is not adequate, a replacement is often the best plan of action. A gas fireplace with a better burner and more heat output will make a massive difference both to your overall available warmth and heating bill, especially if your home has natural gas access. (A new gas fireplace also present an opportunity to replace the mantle and surrounding design elements.)
What does it cost to upgrade my existing gas fireplace?
Replacing a gas fireplace costs on average $8,000 – $18,000 depending on the depth of your fireplace redesign project. Factors like mantle, stonework and other labor variables create the largest differences in price. A high quality gas fireplace versus a budget model can range widely in price as well. Your selection of visual elements like the front, refractory and logs will have a medium impact on pricing. Once the plans are made and the material is ordered, installation should take no more than a day or two.
What brands are best for gas fireplace or gas fireplace insert replacements?
Many builders use Heatilator, Majestic or Heat & Glo brand gas fireplaces. All three brands have upgrade options or easy replacement options depending on your design and home heating goals. Regardless of your gas fireplace brand, finding your serial number and part number is wildly helpful when speaking with an authorized hearth retailer. (How to find your fireplace brand, model and serial number?)
Replacement is often a good option if you do not get adequate heat from your existing gas fireplace. If you are happy with the heat from your hearth appliance and it is functioning properly, replacement is not necessary in our view. Only purchase what you will use.
