Do you have a new propane fireplace and want to know how much it uses? Maybe you are considering converting your current fireplace into a propane one and want to know how much propane you will use?
Or are you curious and want to know more? Whatever the reason is that brought you here, we have the answers for you!
Finding out how much propane a fireplace uses can be tricky, especially if you have never had a propane fireplace before. There are so many conflicting answers online, you can be left not knowing who to trust or believe.
Well, that is where we are here to help! As a general rule, a propane fireplace uses one gallon of propane for every 100,000 BTU. so if your fireplace is rated 50,000 BTU, you need one gallon of propane for every two hours you use it!
Now that we have cleared that up, let’s dive into our article and take a closer look at propane fireplaces and everything you need to know about them!
What Fireplaces Use Propane?
Propane-based fireplaces or gas fireplaces frequently use propane. You can check what fireplaces use propane before you purchase your fireplace by checking the product description or the user manual.
These will tell you what the fireplace runs on to help you decide which is the best option for you.
How Much Propane Does A Fireplace Use?
How much propane a fireplace uses does vary from fireplace to fireplace, so it is hard to give an exact number.
But as a general rule, for every 100,000 BTU the fireplace has, it takes 1 gallon of propane. If you have a 100,000 BTU fireplace you will need a gallon of propane to run it for one hour.
When considering how much propane a fireplace uses, there are some factors that you need to consider. We have composed a brief list of these below so you know what to consider when looking at how much propane you need.
The size of the fireplace and its BTU rating – the higher the rating, the more propane you need
The weather – the colder it is, the more fuel you need to warm your home
The settings – the higher the settings you use, the more propane you will burn through
Efficiency – over time fireplaces can lose efficiency, tuning your system annually can help to prevent this
Chimney leaks – can cause heat to escape or cold air to enter the room, meaning you need to burn more propane to heat it
Coverings – fireplaces with a covering tend to be more efficient, burning less propane compared to open fireplaces
Benefits Of Converting Your Fireplace To A Propane One
These days, more and more people are converting their wood-burning fireplaces into propane ones. And it is easy to do, with an insert that just slots into your current mantle. But what are the benefits of making the switch? Let’s take a look now!
Versatile
Propane fireplaces or freestanding sources come in many styles and colors, so you are sure to find one that matches your existing decor. Plus, they are a heat source that works even when the power is out!
You don’t need to worry about keeping warm in a blackout now, just make sure you have your propane fireplace and some propane to use!
Convenient
Propane fireplaces are extremely convenient to use too. You can enjoy the heat and the glow of a fire whenever you want, without needing to set the fire yourself!
Plus, modern propane fireplaces come with remotes and thermostats that allow you to control the heat from your couch! You can’t get a more convenient fire!
Efficient
Propane fireplaces offer 89% efficiency, making them four to five times more efficient than a wood fireplace. Propane fireplaces are more efficient as all of the heat is staying in the room.
When you use a wood-burning fireplace, most of the heat goes up the chimney with the smoke, meaning you need to burn the fire for longer to feel the benefits.
You don’t need to do this with a propane fireplace, you can enjoy more of the heat!
They Are Healthier
While wood smoke smells divine, it isn’t great for your body. The fine particles, known as fine particulate matter, are a health threat from wood fires, causing respiratory problems and other issues.
Propane fireplaces don’t come with these issues, making them the better choice.
Better For The Environment
Propane fireplaces are not only more efficient but are better for the environment too. By comparison, a wood-burning fireplace emits up to 4,000% more emissions than a propane one!
How To Light A Propane Fireplace
If you have a propane fireplace, then lighting it is super easy! Simply use your remote or the switch on the fireplace and it will come to life! But there are times when the fire doesn’t appear and you might be wondering what you can do. Well, we are here to help!
If your fireplace has a pilot light, you can follow the steps below to light your propane fireplace.
Check the main valve to see if the gas is on
If the gas is on, purge the air out of the pilot tubing. Hold the pilot button down for two minutes while the air bleeds out.
If gas comes out of the pilot but it doesn’t light, clear any gunk in the igniter and thermocouple with a can of compressed air
If after this, there is still no fire, it’s time to call in the professionals!
Final Thoughts
And there you have it, a propane fireplace uses 1 gallon of propane for every 100,000 BTU.
While the usage varies from fireplace to fireplace, this is a good guideline to use, and shows you how propane fireplaces are a more efficient choice compared to wood-burning fireplaces!
As the founder of firepit.co.uk, I am proud to run the largest online fire pit retailer in the UK. I am a leading expert with extensive knowledge of indoor fireplaces and outdoor heating solutions.
I love contributing to Fireplace Ideas, where I can share my love of fireplaces and pass on the experience I have gained in running my business.
In addition to running firepit.co.uk, I am a prolific writer currently working on a book about fireplaces.
Whether you're a homeowner, a designer, or simply someone who loves the warmth and comfort of a fireplace, I have the knowledge and expertise to help you create the perfect space for your needs.
I also love a great fire. Over the years, I have enjoyed using different types of wood burners and gas fireplaces. Now in a more modern home, I use an electric fireplace.
