In the long run, gas fireplaces are not expensive to run. They are much like using a gas stove top, in that they are incredibly efficient. All of the gas that is fed into their system is transferred into heat and ambiance. Compared to conventional wood burning fireplaces, gas fireplaces have a number of advantages. They don’t require any storage for fuel- they use fuel pulled directly from the main gas line. As well, they are much more efficient in providing heat. Since the heat does not escape up the chimney or is absorbed uselessly into the hearth, gas fireplaces are much more efficient in transforming their fuel into radiant, and convective heat.