Are electric fires expensive to run?

With energy a major concern for many households across the UK, it’s no surprise homeowners often ask: are electric fires expensive to run or expensive to use day to day? 

Modern design, ease of installation and versatility are all reasons why electric fires are so popular today. With that, there’s still a common belief that electric fires are expensive to run. Usage is, without a doubt, a big factor here. There are many variables at play, but electric fires can be an economical and flexible option for adding warmth to your home—especially when used strategically. For example, many models allow you to run the flame effect independently. This means you can enjoy the visual ambience for just a few pence per hour, without using the heating element at all. This is, of course, ideal in milder months or well-insulated rooms.

When heat is required, electric fires are typically 100% efficient (all the electricity consumed is converted into heat within the room). With current UK electricity prices at roughly 25–30p per kWh (depending on tariff), running a 2kW electric fire at full heat would cost around 50–60p per hour. However, most people don’t run them continuously at full output. Used as a short-term boost, for example, warming up a living room in the evening instead of turning the central heating on throughout the whole house, they can be a cost-effective way to heat the space you’re actually using.

At Something Different, we help homeowners in Essex, East London, North London and Hertfordshire understand how electric fires work, how they should be used, and how to choose the right model for their home. Keeping running costs sensible and predictable.

Why electric fire running costs are often misunderstood

Electric fires sometimes get an unfair reputation. Many of us associate electricity with rising bills or remember older electric heaters that were inefficient and expensive to use. That perception has stuck around, even though electric fire technology has moved on significantly.

Modern electric fires are designed to give homeowners far more control over how and when energy is used. Unlike open fires or older heating systems, you’re not committing to constant heat output or wasted warmth. Instead, electric fires allow you to decide exactly how much heat you want, or whether you want heat at all.

How electric fires use energy and keep running costs low

Electric fires are simple and flexible to use, which is one of the reasons they are so popular in modern homes. In most UK homes, understanding electric fire electricity usage is key to keeping running costs under control.

Electricity powers two main features, which can usually be controlled independently:

• The flame effect, which creates the look of a real fire
• The heating element, which provides warmth when needed

This means you can enjoy the visual appeal of a fire without turning on the heat, or add warmth only when you need it. Many electric fires also include a flame only mode, which uses very little electricity and is ideal for all year round.

Because electric fires do not require a chimney or flue, the heat they produce stays in the room rather than escaping. This helps avoid unnecessary energy loss and allows you to enjoy comfort and atmosphere without paying for heat you do not need.

If you want a deeper look at electricity usage, we’ve covered this in another article: Do electric fires use a lot of electricity?

Electric fire running costs in UK homes: what affects them

Rather than focusing on exact figures, it’s more helpful to understand what influences running costs. These factors apply to most homes:

• How often the heat is used – occasional use will always cost less than continuous heating
• Room size and insulation – a well-insulated room holds heat better
• Controls and settings – thermostats and timers help prevent unnecessary usage
• Purpose – electric fires work best as secondary or zone heating rather than whole-house heating

Good advice matters. The wrong fire, or using it the wrong way, can make any heating option feel costly. At Something Different, we’ll help you find the perfect fit for your individual needs.

Using electric fires as secondary heating in the UK

Electric fires perform best when used to heat the room that you’re in, rather than relying on central heating throughout the home. This is known as zone heating and allows homeowners to enjoy the warmth where it’s actually needed. 

Many people use an electric fire to take the chill off a single room without heating unused rooms. Used this way, electric fires can complement existing heating systems rather than compete with them.

Planning how and when to use your electric fire makes it easier to get comfort without wasting energy.

Are electric fires cheaper than gas or wood burning fires?

When it comes to choosing a fireplace, it’s worth looking beyond just the type of fuel. At Something Different, we often show homeowners why electric fires can be a really practical choice:

• No chimney or flue, so all the heat stays in the room
• No servicing needed, unlike gas fires
• No fuel to store or buy, unlike wood-burning stoves

Electric fires turn almost all the electricity they use straight into warmth, making them extra efficient and low-maintenance. They’re not meant to replace your main heating, but they’re perfect for everyday comfort, whether it’s cosy evenings in the living room or adding a stylish touch to a media wall.

Making an electric fire a cost effective choice for your home

With over 40 years of experience, the team at Something Different has helped homeowners across Essex, North East London and Hertfordshire find the best sort of fireplace for their home and lifestyle. We guide you through every stage, from showroom advice to home surveys and installation, ensuring your electric fire is fitted correctly and runs efficiently.

Electric fires are a practical and flexible option for most homes. When chosen with expert guidance and used right, they provide efficient room heating, cosy flame effects and predictable running costs. Whether for extra warmth or ambience, an electric fire can make a room feel inviting without surprises on your energy bill.

If you are thinking about adding or upgrading an electric fire, our friendly team is here to help. We will find the right model for your space, lifestyle and budget, ensuring you feel confident with your choice long after installation.

Find the right electric fire for your home – speak to our team