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How long a fireplace lasts depends on the type of fireplace in question. Gas inserts may last 10 to 25 years when properly maintained while electric fireplaces typically top out at 20 years. A traditional brick fireplace can last centuries, though you’ll need to keep up with maintenance and repair over the years, including tuckpointing.

Based on the current national fuel prices, running a gas fireplace costs about $0.35 per hour if it uses natural gas or $0.62 per hour if it runs on propane. However, these figures depend on fuel prices in your area. For one heating season, it costs an average of $400 to $640 to run a gas fireplace, depending on your location and how often you use your fireplace.

Deciding whether to buy a prebuilt fireplace kit or build one from scratch comes down to aesthetics, available space, and budget. Many homeowners like the convenience and lower cost of prebuilt options—around $1,500—versus the involved planning and construction of a larger fireplace. Another bonus: you can usually move prebuilt units. Custom projects are more common when homeowners have access to a larger budget and more area in the yard to place the fireplace.

If you have a gas fireplace with an electric ignition and you’re experiencing a power outage, you will need to light your fireplace’s pilot manually before you can start a fire. The instructions should be in the manufacturer’s manual.