An important part of the buying decision is efficiency – take the time to learn about fireplace efficiency to match the unit aesthetics and heat output to make sure it fits your needs. The best way to determine the efficiency of a gas fireplace is to look on the EnerGuide label for its Fireplace Efficiency (FE) Rating based on the CSA-P.4 test method.

Energy Efficiency is shown as a percentage because it is the comparison of two pieces of information – the input value of the gas versus the usable heat output to the home. Simply put fireplace #1 may have a gas input of 30,000 BTUs and a heat output of 20,000 BTUs which would mean it is 66.6% efficient. Fireplace # 2 could have a gas input of 40,000 BTUs and also have a heat output of 20,000 BTUs which would mean it is 50% efficient and so on. Keep in mind the average residential gas hot water heater is about 50% efficient. Efficiency is important but doesn’t tell the whole story – you also need to factor in the beauty of the fire which is why most people are looking for a gas fireplace in the first place.

Decorative units have been designed with aesthetics in mind – they are intended for occasional use, not for heating purposes. A significant number of fireplaces have been designed with heating in mind and are intended to provide supplemental home heating – the best performers in the heating category are designated EnerChoice.