LPG vs Natural Gas Fireplace – Which is Right for You?

Electric fireplace flames

Gas fireplaces are one of the most efficient and convenient ways to bring warmth and ambience into your home. In Australia, homeowners generally have two fuel options: natural gas (NG) or liquefied petroleum gas (LPG).

While natural gas has long been a popular choice, there are situations where it may not be the most practical option, such as when local councils restrict new NG connections or when the cost of maintaining a gas line outweighs the benefits. In these cases, an LPG fireplace can be the perfect solution.

Natural Gas Fireplaces – The Traditional Choice

Natural gas fireplaces connect directly to the mains gas network, providing a constant fuel supply without the need for on-site storage. They’re a great option in areas where mains gas is available and unrestricted, especially for households already using NG for multiple appliances.

However, mains connection isn’t free. It can cost thousands of dollars to connect, and you’ll pay ongoing daily supply charges (line rental) whether you use the gas or not. In some council areas, new NG connections are now restricted or banned, making installation difficult or impossible.

LPG Fireplaces – The Flexible Alternative

An LPG fireplace uses bottled gas (delivered in cylinders or via a bulk tank) instead of being tied to the mains network. Every Jetmaster gas fireplace is available in both NG and LPG models, so performance and design are identical. You simply choose the fuel that works for your situation.

Key Benefits of an LPG Fireplace

  • No Connection Fees or Line Rental
    • No costly mains hookup.
    • No daily supply charge – you only pay for the gas you use.
  • Works Anywhere
    • Perfect for rural properties, renovations or homes without NG access.
    • Quick installation with bottled gas delivery – no waiting on utility providers.
  • No Council Restrictions
    • LPG is not currently targeted by council gas bans, making it ideal for restricted areas.
  • Performance You Can Trust
    • Same high heat output, flame presentation and style as NG fireplaces.
  • Control Over Your Supply
    • Choose your supplier, refill on your schedule and keep spare bottles for uninterrupted comfort.
  • Future-Proof Flexibility
    • If you start with NG to take advantage of its current benefits, you can switch to LPG later if circumstances change.
    • All Jetmaster gas fireplaces can be converted from NG to LPG.
    • We’ll perform the conversion at no charge, safeguarding your investment and giving you peace of mind.

Which Should You Choose?

  • Choose Natural Gas if you already have a mains connection, use NG for multiple appliances, and your council permits new connections.
  • Choose LPG if you’re in a council-restricted area, don’t have a mains connection, or want to avoid ongoing line rental for a gas line you rarely use.
  • Start with NG, Switch Later if you want the immediate benefits of natural gas but want the freedom to move to LPG in the future without replacing your fireplace.

The Bottom Line

An LPG fireplace is a smart, cost-effective option that gives you all the beauty and warmth of a gas fire without the limitations of the natural gas network. Whether you’re building, renovating or replacing an old heater, LPG gives you flexibility, freedom and performance – anywhere in Australia. And with Jetmaster’s free NG-to-LPG conversion service, your fireplace is truly future-ready.

Explore Jetmaster’s full range of LPG and natural gas fireplaces to find the perfect model for your home.

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