How Much Does a Gas Fireplace Insert Cost? [2025 Data]

On average, installing a gas fireplace insert costs $3,700, but the total project price commonly ranges from $2,300 to $8,000. There are many factors that impact how much you’ll spend, including the type of gas fireplace insert, the amount of prep work required to install your insert, and local permitting and labor costs.

Gas Fireplace Insert Cost Factors

The overall cost of a gas fireplace insert depends on factors like the insert’s type and size, as well as your current fireplace setup and labor rates in your area. Here’s what to consider when putting together a budget for your insert installation.

Type

Gas fireplaces are either vented or ventless—and the type you choose will influence your cost. Vented gas fireplaces, including direct-vent models, send combustion gases outside of your home through a chimney, exterior wall, or ceiling. Ventless gas fireplaces don’t require venting, so they’re more affordable. 

Existing Fireplace Setup

The current setup of your fireplace (or lack thereof) will also impact the price of this project. For example, if you’re converting a wood-burning fireplace to a gas-powered one, you may need to run a new gas line. Similarly, the cost to replace a gas fireplace insert is less than the cost of installing a new one from scratch.

Here are some common tasks you may need to cross off your to-do list before installing a gas fireplace insert.

Size

Gas inserts come in a range of sizes, with larger inserts costing more than smaller ones. The correct size will depend on a few factors, including the square footage of the space you’re trying to heat and the size of the opening where you’ll install the insert. If you don’t know which size to choose, reach out to a local gas fireplace installer.

Surround Material

The “surround” is the area around your fireplace, which is commonly made from wood, tile, stone, or metal. If you need to install a new gas fireplace surround, the cost will depend on the material, as you can see in the following chart.

Permits

Depending on your location and the scope of your project, you may need permits to install a gas fireplace insert. On average, these permits cost between $100 and $400.

Labor

Labor accounts for a significant chunk of the cost to install a gas fireplace insert. If your project is relatively straightforward, you’ll likely spend $500 to $1,500 on labor. However, if you need new venting or chimney work, you may have to budget an additional $1,000 to $6,000.

Gas Fireplace Insert Ongoing Costs

In addition to the up-front expense of installing an insert, there are ongoing costs to consider. So, how much does a gas fireplace insert cost to run and maintain? Let’s break it down.

Operating Costs

Fuel is the main ongoing expense you’ll face when using a gas fireplace insert. On average, running a gas fireplace costs between $400 and $640 per heating season.

The exact price you’ll pay depends on your fireplace’s fuel type (either natural gas or propane) and heat output, as well as how often you run your fireplace. Your location also factors into these gas insert fireplace costs since the price of fuel varies across the country.

Maintenance

You need to hire a pro to conduct an annual fireplace inspection so that they can identify potential safety issues and ensure your insert is running efficiently. The cost of a gas fireplace inspection ranges from $75 to $200 per year.

Repairs

In addition to the price of gas fireplace maintenance, you may also need to budget for occasional repairs, which cost between $200 and $1,000.

Why You Should Hire a Gas Fireplace Insert Installation Pro

Hiring a local gas fireplace installer is the best way to ensure this addition is safe, efficient, and ready to run reliably over the years. Considering labor for a gas fireplace insert installation only costs about $500 to $1,500, the improved safety is more than worth the added costs.

Here’s why it’s ideal to hire a gas fireplace installation pro

Projects like this one are always better left to the professionals—benefits of working with a pro include: 

• Ensure safe installation of the gas line and other fittings

• Compliance with the law (in certain areas) regarding gas installations

• Quick work on any needed structural modifications

• Safety when accessing the roof and other areas of the home

• Compliance with local building codes

• Ensure your gas fireplace will run efficiently and reliably over time

How to Save Money When Installing a Gas Fireplace Insert

Installing a gas fireplace insert is less expensive than installing a built-in gas fireplace, but if you’re looking to save even more money, these tips can help: 

• Pick a basic model: One way to cut costs is by choosing a simple fireplace insert without any fancy lighting, crackling sounds, or other optional bells and whistles.

• Handle the prep work yourself: Clear it with your fireplace installer beforehand, but you may be able to save money by removing your old fireplace insert or cleaning the fireplace opening before the pros arrive.

• Compare quotes: It’s a good idea to compare quotes from multiple contractors to see which companies offer the best prices. But beware of any suspiciously low estimates, which may equate to poor-quality work.

How Angi Gets Its Cost Data

Home is the most important place on earth, which is why Angi has helped more than 150 million homeowners transform their houses into homes they adore. To help homeowners with their next project, Angi provides readers with the most accurate cost data and upholds strict editorial standards. We extensively research project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We rely on reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects. 

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