Gas Vs Electric Vs Wood Burning Fireplace: A Comparison Guide for Your Western Wisconsin or Eastern Minnesota Home

In Wisconsin and Minnesota, winters seem to stretch on forever, which makes reliable heat the foundation of true comfort. A fireplace provides both warmth and atmosphere—whether it’s the crackle and scent of wood, the push-button convenience of gas, or the sleek design of electric. The right choice depends on your home, your lifestyle, and the feeling you want to create.

At Comfort by Design, we’ve helped families in Ellsworth, Osceola, Hudson, and Hastings find fireplaces that fit their spaces and routines, keeping homes warm and welcoming all season long.

Overview of Fireplace Types

When comparing a gas vs electric vs wood-burning fireplace, it helps to start with the basics. Each type offers advantages that make it well-suited to different lifestyles.

Gas Fireplaces

Gas fireplaces are loved for their convenience and efficiency. With the push of a button or a remote control, you can enjoy steady heat and a realistic flame without the work of chopping or storing wood. They also produce fewer emissions than traditional wood fireplaces, making them a cleaner option for your home.

Electric Fireplaces

Electric fireplaces are the easiest to install and require the least maintenance. Many models plug into a wall outlet, offering flexible placement throughout your home. They’re ideal for homeowners who want ambiance and supplemental warmth without the hassle of venting, fuel, or ash cleanup.

Wood Burning Fireplaces

For many families, nothing compares to the traditional charm of a wood-burning fireplace. It’s the sound, the smell, and the authentic glow. While they require more upkeep and regular chimney maintenance, they remain a popular choice for those who value ambience and high heat output.

At Comfort by Design, we install all three fireplace types and help you find the best fit for your home.

Comparing Cost and Installation

Cost and installation are big factors, and each type has its own tradeoffs.

Gas Fireplaces

Gas fireplaces typically fall in the mid-range for installation costs. They need professional setup, venting, and a gas or propane connection, which adds to the price. However, they provide consistent warmth, making them a worthwhile investment.

Electric Fireplaces

Electric fireplaces are the most affordable option upfront. Most models can be installed without remodeling or venting, some plug into a standard outlet. This makes them an appealing choice for homeowners who want a straightforward, budget-friendly way to enjoy the look and feel of a fireplace.

Wood Burning Fireplaces

Wood-burning fireplaces often carry the highest upfront costs due to chimney construction and safety needs. Regular maintenance, such as chimney cleaning, adds to long-term expenses. However, in rural areas, access to firewood keeps it a practical and traditional choice.

With expert knowledge of each type, we’ll help you choose a fireplace that fits your budget, lifestyle, and home.

Performance in Wisconsin and Minnesota Climates

Midwest winters demand steady heat, whether it comes from the push of a button or the glow of burning logs. Each fireplace type performs differently in the region’s freezing seasons.

Gas Fireplaces

Gas fireplaces deliver consistent, adjustable heat—ideal for Minnesota’s harsh winters. A thermostat or remote lets you fine-tune the temperature and stay warm even when it drops well below zero.

Electric Fireplaces

Electric fireplaces work well for everyday use in Wisconsin homes, although they won’t operate during power outages without a generator. They’re a simple, effective complement to central heating.

Wood Burning Fireplaces

Wood is best for rural or off-grid homes, offering dependable heat even when the power’s out. Although they require more upkeep, they remain a trusted option in all conditions.

At Comfort by Design, we understand the realities of Midwest winters. Our team helps homeowners across the Midwest find fireplaces that work through every season, regardless of the forecast.

Maintenance and Environmental Impact

A fireplace is more than a heat source. It also shapes your maintenance routine, impacts the environment, and influences the quality of the air you breathe indoors.

Gas Fireplaces

Gas fireplaces need yearly servicing to stay safe and efficient. They produce fewer emissions than wood models, making them a good choice for homeowners who want steady heat with less environmental impact.

Electric Fireplaces

Electric fireplaces are easy to maintain, needing only light cleaning. They produce no emissions, which makes them especially good for tightly sealed homes in Wisconsin’s urban areas.

Wood Burning Fireplaces

Wood-burning fireplaces require the most upkeep, including chimney cleaning and ash removal, and they produce more smoke than other options. However, for many rural households, the easy availability of firewood keeps it a sensible option.

At Comfort by Design, we provide maintenance and inspections for all fireplace types. From cleaning to tune-ups, we keep your system running smoothly year after year.

Why Choose Comfort By Design for Your Fireplace

With over 25 years of experience, Comfort by Design has helped homeowners across Wisconsin and Minnesota install and maintain fireplaces designed for the Midwest's long winters. Equipped with local knowledge of Ellsworth’s and Hudson’s bitter cold, Osceola’s access to firewood, and Hastings’ older homes, we make sure your fireplace is the right fit for your lifestyle.

Whether you’re considering a gas vs electric vs wood-burning fireplace, our team can help you find the right balance of comfort, efficiency, and style.