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The cost difference between a gas fireplace and a wood-burning fireplace depends on the type of wood-burning fireplace installed. The cost to install a gas fireplace tends to be cheaper than the cost to install a brick wood-burning fireplace. Installing a gas fireplace costs about $3,600 on average, whereas the cost to build a masonry wood-burning fireplace can go up to $30,000. The cost to install a wood-burning fireplace insert or stove can cost from $700 to $6,500, about the same as a gas fireplace on average.

This will depend on the size of the pellet stove and how much of the house you’re heating, i.e. just one room or the entire house. Many pellet stoves use anywhere from 80 to 345 watts of electricity per hour. In terms of the pellets, a 40-pound bag can cost $5 to $9. A bag of pellets will burn for about 24 hours.

Yes, gas fireplaces benefit from chimney caps just like wood-burning fireplaces. While gas fireplaces produce fewer byproducts, a chimney cap still helps prevent rain, debris, and pesky critters from entering the chimney, which can cause blockages or damage. It also prevents downdrafts that could push harmful gases like carbon monoxide back into your home. Even with the cleaner operation of gas fireplaces, a chimney cap adds a layer of protection and helps maintain proper ventilation.

How you stop your fireplace from smoking depends on the cause. Sometimes it’s as simple as opening the damper. Other times, you need to battle air pressure. The best course of action is to ensure proper ventilation, whether that means opening a door or a window; avoid building a large fire, which produces more smoke; and use seasoned hardwoods, which produce less smoke than other types of wood. If the issue persists, call a pro ASAP.