- Propane space heaters differ from other forms of space heaters, as it attaches to a wall, which you cannot move freely throughout your home. Propane space heaters must be professionally installed to ensure it functions properly and follows all safety regulations per your cities building code. Propane space heaters are available in vented and non-vented designs; however, you must install both versions on a non-combustible wall and feature a minimum of 12-inches between the front of the heater and surrounding objects. Either type of propane space heaters also requires a propane tank. The size of the tank depends on whether or not it's a vent free heater.
Fireplaces are available in gas or wood burning styles. Vent-free gas fireplaces feature a more simplistic installation process, as this fireplace does not require a chimney or outdoor air-intake and run on natural or liquefied petroleum gas. Direct vent gas fireplaces do not require a full-length chimney. Instead, it vents through a pipe leading through the wall to the outdoors. This type of fireplace is ideal for those who wish to install a fireplace, but do not have the financial means or time to install a chimney.
Wood burning fireplaces are the most difficult to install, especially in a pre-built home. This fireplace style requires a chimney to rise out of a homes roof, and must meet building safety codes for your city. This installation process is time consuming and requires a professional. - The largest difference between propane space heaters and fireplaces is its fuel. Propane space heaters are powered by propane gas, which is a gas derived from petroleum and natural gas, according to the National Energy Education Development Project. The propane feeds into the space heater through a series of tubes, and the gas is safely contained within a propane tank.
Wood burning fireplaces use seasoned wood, which is wood dried for at least six months. It is vital to use seasoned wood as it produces more heat, burns cleaner and ignites easier than un-seasoned wood, according to the Chimney Safety Institute of America.
Gas fireplaces, are powered by the same fuel as propane space heaters; however, this is where the similarity ends. While a gas fireplace utilizes the same fuel, the heat distribution and appearance is vastly different than a propane space heater. - Propane space heaters may produce a wide range of heat depending on its size and configuration. A small propane space heater typically distributes 10,000 BTUs, which is capable of heating a 380 sq. ft. room. Large propane space heaters are able to triple the heat output to a maximum of 30,000 BTU, which may heat a 1,000 sq. ft. room.
Fireplace heat output is directly related to the its fuel source. Gas fireplaces are able to deliver upwards of 60,000 BTU, which is capable of heating a 2,000 sq. ft. home. The heat distribution of wood fireplaces depends on the size of the fire, and whether or not the fireplace features a blower and if it's a masonry fireplace. Wood burning fireplaces may produce anywhere from 50,000 to over 100,000 BTU depending on its size and amount of wood used. - The cost difference between a propane space heater and a fireplace is dependent on several features. Final costs are determined by the installation amount, maintenance costs and fuel price. The product and installation cost for a space heater may cost anywhere from $250 to over $500. The cost of propane varies according to the energy industry; however, at the time of publication, propane is typically priced below $3 per gallon, yet this is subject to change.
The installation and product cost for a gas fireplace may range anywhere from $1,000 to over $4,000 depending on the fireplace design and venting method. Due to the various city building codes a wood burning fireplace must meet, its final cost can vary dramatically from city-to-city; however, the product and installation cost of a wood burning fireplace will be the most expensive option out of all the aforementioned heating methods.
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