Electric Fireplaces

• An electric fireplace provides the look of a traditional fireplace without the work of installing a gas line or chimney or chopping and carrying in wood for use. The fire is contained in a box that features an electric motor. When switched on, the electric motor produces the heat and an artificial flame that emanates from ceramic logs, creating the look of a real fireplace. The up-front cost of an electric fireplace tends to be cheaper than traditional gas or wood fireplaces, with prices starting around $300 and up as of June 2011.
  
  

Central Heat & Air Conditioner

• A central heating and cooling system works by pumping air throughout the entire house through a ventilation system. These ventilation systems typically run either beneath the floor, above in the ceiling or, occasionally, through the walls. Types of systems that can be used with ventilation systems include electric heating and cooling systems, gas heating systems and heat pump systems. Price can vary greatly depending on what needs to be installed in terms of the ventilation system, as well as what type of central heat and air conditioner system is chosen.
  
  

Similarities

• Both central heat and an electric fireplace produce heat that can warm the home. In the event that the power goes out, neither system will be able to operate; as most heating systems, regardless of whether they use gas, still require electricity to turn the system on. Furthermore, because gas and electric systems both require electricity, both options can become quite costly when used regularly, as the price of electricity can be as much as three times the price of gas.
  
  

Differences

• Though gas and electric systems both produce heat, an electric fireplace may only produce enough heat to warm a single room, whereas a central heating system can heat an entire home. Furthermore, central heating and cooling systems also have the ability to cool a house during the warmer months of the year, whereas an electric fireplace does not. Electric fireplaces do not require any special installation, as many models can simply be plugged into a standard outlet and turned on. Overall, central heating and cooling systems are significantly more complex than a standard electric fireplace, requiring thermostats, air ducts and ventilation systems. Central air conditioners also have compressor components and a condensation drain.