How Much Does it Cost to Run an Electric Fireplace in Ontario?

There is no one size fits all way to determine the cost for running your electric fireplace.

Electric fireplaces have become popular in Ontario due to their convenience and low installation costs compared to traditional fireplaces. A favoured heating option, a stylish electric fireplace can provide warmth and ambiance to a room. If you're wondering about the cost of running an electric fireplace in Ontario, there are a number of  factors to consider. According to Hydro One, the average cost of electricity in Ontario is 14.5 cents per kWh, while Toronto Hydro states that the average cost is 11.3 cents per kWh. The overall price tag of using an electric fireplace in Ontario can vary significantly depending on a number of factors, including the unit wattage, temperature setting, daily usage duration, mode of operation, and hydro provider billing.

Here is a breakdown of several of these most common factors that determine the cost of running an electric fireplace.
 

• Unit Wattage: The unit's wattage, or the amount of power it consumes, is a significant factor in determining the cost of running an electric fireplace. A higher wattage unit will consume more power, leading to higher energy bills.
• Temperature Setting: The temperature setting is another crucial factor in determining the cost of running an electric fireplace. A higher temperature setting will result in more energy consumption and, consequently, higher energy bills. Lowering the temperature setting by a degree or two can make a significant difference in energy consumption and costs.
• Daily Usage Duration: The duration of daily usage is also an important factor in determining the cost of running an electric fireplace. The longer an electric fireplace is in use, the more energy it consumes, resulting in higher energy bills. To keep energy costs low, it's recommended to limit daily usage to a few hours.
• Mode of Operation: The mode of operation is another factor to consider. Electric fireplaces can operate in different modes, such as flame-only, heat-only, or a combination of both. Using the flame-only mode consumes less energy than using the heat mode. However, if the aim is to warm a room, then the heat mode should be used, but the duration should be limited to keep energy costs low.
• Hydro Provider - Off, Mid, or Peak Billing: The hydro provider billing system can also affect the cost of running an electric fireplace. Some providers offer off-peak billing rates, which can be less expensive than mid or peak billing rates. It's recommended to check with the hydro provider to understand their billing system and take advantage of any off-peak rates.

Are electric fireplaces expensive to operate with the heaters turned off?

The good news is that if you only use the flame effect, without heaters turned on, electric fireplaces are relatively cheap to operate. The flame effect only uses about 2 cents worth of electricity per hour, which means you can enjoy the ambiance without worrying about high electricity bills. Thankfully we have a whole section on, are electric fireplaces expensive to operate or maintain?

How expensive is it to run an electric fireplace with the heaters turned on?

If you plan to use the heater function of your electric fireplace, the cost will of course increase. The cost of operating an electric fireplace with heaters turned really on depends on the factors listed above, including the unit wattage, temperature setting, daily usage duration, mode of operation, and hydro provider billing.

Other Electric Fireplace Cost Variables to Consider

Along with the previous key considerations that affect cost, there are other factors that can also impact efficiency and the overall investment of running an electric fireplace in your home. Here are some additional points to keep in mind that may affect your energy consumption, which are often overlooked.

• Insulation: Poor insulation in your home can cause heat loss, making it harder to maintain a comfortable temperature in your home. This means your electric fireplace may need to work harder and consume more energy to keep the room warm, resulting in higher energy costs. Improving insulation by adding weather stripping or upgrading to double-paned windows can help reduce energy usage and lower costs.
• Room size: The size of the room where your electric fireplace is located can affect its efficiency. If the room is too large for the unit, it may struggle to keep the space warm, leading to higher energy consumption. On the other hand, if the room is too small, the fireplace may produce too much heat, causing it to shut off and turn on frequently, also resulting in higher costs.
• Location of the electric fireplace: The location of the electric fireplace can impact its efficiency. Placing the unit in a drafty area or near windows or doors can cause heat loss and make it harder for the unit to maintain a consistent temperature. Choosing a location away from drafts and insulation can help optimize energy usage.
  
• Type of electric fireplace: Freestanding electric fireplaces typically require more energy to operate as they are often larger and designed to heat larger spaces. Inserts, on the other hand, are designed to fit into an existing fireplace and can be more efficient as they do not need to heat the entire room.
  
• Type of heating element: The type of heating element used in your electric fireplace can also impact its efficiency. Infrared heaters are designed to heat objects rather than the air, making them more efficient and using less energy. Traditional heating elements, on the other hand, work by heating the air in the room, resulting in higher energy consumption.

Calculating the total cost of using an electric fireplace in your home is an inexact science

However an overall understanding of the factors that will affect the cost can help you to keep energy expenditures low. Considering the unit wattage, temperature setting, daily use duration, mode of operation, and hydro provider billing, as well as unit type / placement, and home insulation are all essential in determining your overall cost of using an electric fireplace in Ontario. By implementing smart energy-saving practices, you can enjoy the warmth and ambiance of your electric fireplace without worrying about high energy bills.