INTRODUCTION
The shift from gas to electric fireplaces in the modern Australian home | MAY 2022
Fireplaces, especially the fire element within them, are a sought-after feature for the modern home. Once a necessity for warmth and comfort, fireplaces are now used as either a calming element or statement piece in contemporary design. They have evolved to become the focal point of both indoor and outdoor environments, creating a warm, inviting space for family gatherings and social connection.
Over the years, different types of fireplaces have grown in popularity depending on the needs of the time. For example, traditional wood-burning
fireplaces were commonplace in older homes. Gas fireplaces soon came into prominence due to their ease of use.
More recently, electric fireplaces have gained popularity, especially as improvements to ‘flame effect’ technology have resulted in more authentic- looking flames. While the latest electric models
are impressive in their range of features, some designers and specifiers are unaware of the growth in this category. For many, electric fireplaces are still perceived as less authentic, less powerful and less value for money than their gas counterparts.
Several broader social, economic and industry trends are gradually overturning these misconceptions.
Today’s market is characterised by a growing environmental awareness among consumers, and calls to move away from energy derived from fossil fuels. This is combined with the rising cost of natural gas coinciding with the Australian government’s focus on renewable energy sources. Finally, there
is the recent emergence of highly-efficient electric fireplaces with ‘smart’ technological features and realistic flame patterns that improve markedly upon older ‘flame’ technology.
In this whitepaper we explore these developments and highlight the key reasons why electric fireplaces are overtaking gas as the more environmentally- friendly, user-friendly, budget-friendly and aesthetic choice for modern Australian homes.
THE GAS DILEMMA
The environmental impact of gas
There is growing concern for gas as an industry, particularly from eco-conscious consumers concerned about the ongoing impact of fossil fuels on the natural environment. In the past, natural gas was considered the go-to option for cooking, water heating and space heating due to being a ‘cleaner’ fossil fuel. Compared to oil or coal, burning natural gas for energy results in fewer global warming emissions and fewer emissions of nearly all types of air pollutants.1
However, natural gas may be a much ‘dirtier’ energy source than we first thought. Natural gas consists of mainly methane and other hydrocarbons, and is formed naturally underground when the remains of plant and animal matter are exposed to heavy pressures. Methane gas leaks from the ground occur naturally as well as during the gas extraction process.
Methane is a super-potent greenhouse gas, meaning it is 80 times more potent at warming than carbon dioxide over a 20-year period.2 A 2015 report by the Environmental Defense Fund posited that the natural gas released during the extraction process may negate a significant proportion of the clean-burning benefits associated with this energy source.³
Natural gas advocates argue that the short-term greenhouse gas reductions from switching away from coal-fired power are needed to smooth the transition to a carbon-neutral energy future.4 Nevertheless, studies show that natural gas is a highly emissions-intensive energy source and a major driver of Australia’s expanding carbon footprint. Science and policy institute Climate Analytics found that between 2015 and 2020 the emissions growth from natural gas will effectively wipe out the carbon pollution avoided through the 23% renewable energy target.5
THE RISING COST OF GAS
Industry trends indicate that the price of gas is on the rise, which may give homeowners pause when selecting gas-powered appliances.
In 2021, Australia’s competition watchdog, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission, forecasted that gas prices would continue to spike across the south-eastern states over the next two years due to potential shortfalls in gas supply and increasing demand for gas around the world.6
According to the report, while prices for contracted gas in the east coast market through to February 2021 remained at the lower levels observed during 2020, the tightening supply situation means these prices may not last.7 This is further supported by modelling in Victoria which suggests that gas prices will be unaffordable by the end of the decade with shortfalls in supply expected from 2022.8
The rising cost as well as a lack of reliability in regional areas provides further reasons why gas may no longer be an attractive energy source for a large number of Australian domestic users.
TOWARDS AN ALL-ELECTRIC HOME
In Australia, government subsidies are contributing to soaring rooftop solar installation numbers. Solar rebates are essentially financial discounts for households that install a renewable energy system. The number of Australian households enjoying the benefits of roof solar has risen to around three million.9 In 2020 alone, there were 378,451 rooftop solar installations – the most installations in the industry’s history.10 In fact, reports indicate that Australia leads the world for solar installations with a total installed capacity of just under 17GW nationwide.11
The growth in rooftop solar installation has made an all- electric home powered by renewable energy a possibility. People are wanting to use the electric energy they are generating for as much as possible, not only to reduce their environmental impact, but also save on cost. By using their own solar energy, domestic users avoid retail electricity charges and save money from using electric appliances during the day while their solar is generating.12
Health is also a motivator, as burning gas puts carbon dioxide and nitrous dioxide (NO2) into the air. Exposure to air with high concentrations of NO2 can lead to health complications for people with asthma or other respiratory issues, and prolonged exposure can contribute to the development of those conditions.13 Studies have demonstrated the negative health impact of gas, especially in children who have an increased risk of having asthma in homes with gas stoves.14
WHY ELECTRIC FIREPLACES?
Many Australians are looking to disconnect from the gas grid and save money with efficient electric appliances, and by generating their own solar energy. Against this backdrop, a permanent market shift away from gas fires to electric fireplaces appears inevitable, one made easier by the recent technological improvements in the latest electric models.
Electric fireplaces were first introduced in the early 1910s before gaining popularity in the mid-1950s. The first electric fireplaces were impractical, expensive and difficult to install and maintain. They also suffered from unrealistic flame effects that limited their acceptance in the market.
From the 1980s, techniques for electrical “flame effects” improved slowly, eventually achieving somewhat realistic-looking flames in the mid-1990s. In recent years, new manufacturers have entered the market and are continuing to innovate and improve, delivering more advanced solutions that include smart, wi-fi connected technology, multi-dimensional flame effects and a range of shapes, profiles and finishes to suit any design aesthetic.
Available from Castworks, Amantii Bespoke electric fireplaces are a culmination of the brand’s nearly four decades of experience in the fireplace and heating industry. The modern design of Amantii fireplaces ensures they complement the diverse range of living and working spaces, capturing the latest in technology and styles to deliver a world-class electric fireplace.
Amantii’s emphasis on technology and performance is on display with the advanced flame effects featured in its bespoke models, which combine flame, quality and sound to produce a highly realistic flame presentation. With two flame patterns (standard and realistic flame), customisable brightness and speed levels, and multiple flame colors (orange, red, blue in any combination), users can adjust the LED flame effects to their liking. Ember bed lighting featuring multi color LED lights illuminate from underneath, while a crackling fire sound (sampled from a real fire) further enhances the fireplace experience.
More people are steering towards electric fireplaces as a lower cost, greener and more functional alternative to gas fireplaces. Amantii delivers in these respects with a range of Bespoke models that require no ventilation and feature superior construction ensuring a long-lasting electric fireplace.
Compare this to the installation of new gas products, which is accompanied by additional costs associated with installing ventilation and testing to ensure the installation meets Australian standards and regulations. Amantii bespoke models are rated for either indoor or in an alfresco area, and can be fully recessed or wall-mounted, which offers versatility in design.
All new homes these days achieve a minimum 6-star energy rating so heating appliances do not need to produce as much heat as required 10 years ago. In any case, Amantii electric fireplaces are ideal for zone heating, allowing users to heat indoor spaces while keeping the central thermostat lower and ensuring no energy is wasted heating unused areas. LED flames can be enjoyed with or without heat, which means users can enjoy the ambience of fire in warmer months while consuming much less energy.
Amantii models feature the latest in smart technology and intuitive controls. Using a WiFi app, users can set the fireplace to turn on before arriving home, or have it turn on automatically when the weather is cold. Users also have complete control to adjust the flames, temperature or timer using the patented thermostatic remote.
Electric fireplaces present a healthy and efficient solution for modern spaces. Much of the population is uncomfortable about using gas as a heat source due to health concerns regarding actual flame and carbon monoxide risks. Amantii’s electric fires eliminate these risks entirely with designs that fully enclose the heating element and emit no gases or particulate pollution from the source.
AMANTII BESPOKE ELECTRIC FIREPLACES
Exclusively from Castworks
As the exclusive distributor for many of Europe’s leading manufacturers, we have been relied upon by architects and designers for many years to introduce new and innovative products. Amantii has a proven track record across the globe with products considered by many to be the best in the electric fireplace category.
Electric fireplaces by Amantii are perfect for homes, offices, restaurants, spas, and other commercial settings. Their fireplaces are available in almost every size and shape, with a variety of media and styles. With their clean, contemporary design and innovative features, they are a first choice for many designers, architects, builders and homeowners.
The Amantii Bespoke range offers flame patterns that are second to none in the market, smart controls and the highest warranty on the market – 5 years which is more than double most others. Not only does Amantii offer the consumer the most tailored set up possible, but these bespoke solutions are also the only product that enable alfresco installations [subject to conditions].
REFERENCES
1 Union of Concerned Scientists. “Environmental Impacts of Natural Gas.” UCS. https://www.ucsusa.org/resources/environmental-impacts-natural-gas (accessed 24 March 2022).
2 Borunda, Alejandra. “Natural gas is a much ‘dirtier’ energy source than we thought.” National Geographic. https://www.nationalgeographic.com/science/article/super-potent-methane-in-atmosphere-oil-gas-drilling-ice-cores (accessed 24 March 2022).
3 Moskowitz, Peter. “New report estimates enough natural gas is leaking to negate climate benefits.” The Guardian. https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2015/jun/24/natural-gas-leaks-methane-environment (accessed 24 March 2022).
4 Above n 1.
5 Morton, Adam. “‘Problem in waiting’: why natural gas will wipe out Australia’s emissions gains.” The Guardian. https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2018/nov/13/problem-in-waiting-why-natural-gas-will-wipe-out-australias-emissions-gains (accessed 24 March 2022).
6 Foley, Mike and Nick Toscano. “Gas prices on the rise again in ‘extraordinarily tight’ market.” Sydney Morning Herald. https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/gas-prices-on-the-rise-again-in-extraordinarily-tight-market-20210817-p58jh3.html (accessed 24 March 2022).
7 Australian Competition & Consumer Commission. “Looming gas supply shortfall for east coast market.” ACCC. https://www.accc.gov.au/media-release/looming-gas-supply-shortfall-for-east-coast-market (accessed 24 March 2022).
8 Leading Edge Energy. “Natural gas shortage and price spikes loom as Victoria moves to decarbonise fuels.” Leading Edge Energy. https://www.leadingedgeenergy.com.au/blog/natural-gas-shortages-and-price-spikes-loom (accessed 24 March 2022).
9 Clean Energy Council. “Solar.” CEC. https://www.cleanenergycouncil.org.au/resources/technologies/solar-energy (accessed 24 March 2022).
10 Ibid.
11 Kurmelovs, Royce. “Growth in rooftop solar slows due to lockdowns and supply chain issues.” The Guardian.
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2022/jan/19/growth-in-rooftop-solar-slows-due-to-lockdowns-and-supply-chain-issues (accessed 24 March 2022).
12 Energy Australia. “Use solar and save on your energy bill.” Energy Australia. https://www.energyaustralia.com.au/blog/solar-power (accessed 24 March 2022).
13 Imbler, Sabrina. “Kill Your Gas Stove.” The Atlantic.
https://www.theatlantic.com/science/archive/2020/10/gas-stoves-are-bad-you-and-environment/616700 (accessed 24 March 2022).
14 Seals, Brady. “Indoor Air Pollution: the Link between Climate and Health.” RMI. https://rmi.org/indoor-air-pollution-the-link-between-climate-and-health (accessed 24 March 2022).
All information provided is correct as of May 2022, and may be subject to change
