Will gas fires be phased out?
Growing concerns about the impact of energy sources have thrown light onto our use of gas fireplaces. With the UK’s commitment to achieving net-zero CO2 emissions by 2050, many wonder: will gas fires be phased out?
Gas fires have warmed UK households as early as 1895. Following a post-wartime boom in technology, the efficiency of gas fires greatly improved, and soon, they overtook traditional coal-burning models to become the main source of heat in UK homes.
In 2023, gas-fire manufacturing continues to go from strength to strength. With high-efficiency models that marry classic aesthetics with modern technology, it’s no wonder millions of people still rely on gas fireplaces to warm their homes.
But how does this factor in with new environmental regulations?
Does the UK have to stop using gas fires?
No, the UK has no current plans to ban gas fireplaces.
These worries may come from the UK government’s Net Zero Strategy, composed of various policies to make carbon-free alternatives cheaper and more accessible.
The Net Zero Strategy’s wider goals include reducing our dependence on fossil fuels whilst phasing out gas boilers in new build homes.
As these new properties are less likely to have a natural gas connection, they allow homeowners to heat their homes using more eco-friendly methods, whether with high-efficiency gas fires, electric fires or via heat pumps.
Worries about the future of gas fireplaces are based on the misconception that they are less energy-efficient than electric-powered alternatives. But in 2023, this couldn’t be further from the truth.
Why do people still use gas fires?
Millions of UK homeowners still use gas fires because they are more cost-saving and energy-efficient than ever.
1. Long lifespan
According to fireplace manufacturer Dreifuss, modern high-efficiency gas fireplaces can last for as long as ten to fifteen years. That’s a decade and a half's radiant heat for your home, all while reducing your property’s carbon footprint.
2. Beautiful aesthetics
Gas fireplace manufacturing has improved dramatically, internally and externally.
Skilled craftspeople can now make ornate, detailed designs that speak to all tastes. Whether you prefer minimalist, modern appliances or sturdy cast-iron stoves, there is no limit to the number of styles you can purchase.
They’re the ultimate focal point for any bedroom or lounge, with realistic flames and fuel beds offering a charm that’s difficult to replicate.
3. High heat output
Modern gas fireplaces provide homeowners with an instant and controllable heat output. Control them manually or via a thermostatic remote (so you don’t have to leave the comfort of your sofa to turn up the heat).
What alternatives are there to gas fires?
As the UK moves towards its greener future, gas fireplaces are not the only appliances heading in the right direction. If you want to explore more eco-friendly options, look for:
Wood-burning stoves
At first glance, you might think of wood-burning stoves as harmful to the environment, but recent government regulations have ensured this isn’t the case. EcoDesign wood-burning stoves are the cleanest models on the market.
They use efficient burning technology to guarantee high heat outputs at no cost to the environment. At Fires2U, we stock wood-burning stoves from the industry’s top manufacturers, like Dik Geurts, Portway Stoves and Spartherm.
Electric fireplaces
Electric fires can be operated independently of your heating function, making them a convenient, time-saving alternative to wood-burning stoves or gas fireplaces. They are easily installed, inexpensive to run and come in a wide range of sizes and styles.
LPG fires
If your home isn’t connected to the mains supply, but you’re dead-set on a gas model, why not choose one of our LPG fires?
They are connected to a propane tank or bottle, typically located outside the home. A gas-safe engineer will then securely connect the gas line to your home so that you have constant access to the warmth of a gas fire without access to the mains supply.
