How much does it cost to install a gas log lighter in my existing wood-burning fireplace in Ottawa?

Installing a gas log lighter in your existing wood-burning fireplace in Ottawa typically costs $800 to $1,800, including the gas line run, log lighter kit, and professional installation by a TSSA-licensed gas fitter. The total cost depends primarily on the distance from your existing gas meter to the fireplace location and whether any drywall or flooring needs to be opened to run the gas line.

A gas log lighter is a simple but effective upgrade that allows you to start wood fires quickly and reliably without kindling, newspaper, or fire starters. This is particularly valuable during Ottawa's long heating season when you might be lighting fires regularly from October through April. The system consists of a gas burner pipe installed beneath your fireplace grate, connected to a gas line with a manual shut-off valve. You turn on the gas, light it with a long lighter, place your seasoned hardwood on top, and once the wood catches fire, you turn off the gas and enjoy a traditional wood fire.

The cost breakdown typically includes $300 to $600 for the log lighter kit itself, $200 to $800 for running a new gas line from your meter to the fireplace (depending on distance and complexity), and $300 to $400 for professional installation and TSSA compliance tagging. If your fireplace is on the opposite side of the house from your gas meter, or if the gas line must run through finished basement areas or multiple floors, costs can reach the higher end of the range. Most Ottawa installations fall in the $1,000 to $1,400 range for a straightforward setup.

Important safety considerations: All gas work must be performed by a TSSA-licensed gas fitter — this is Ontario law, and unlicensed gas work voids your insurance and creates serious safety risks. The gas log lighter should only be used to start wood fires, never as a standalone gas fireplace. Always turn off the gas once your wood is burning well, typically within 10 to 15 minutes. Your existing chimney and damper must be in good working condition, and you should have a recent chimney inspection before adding any new fuel-burning equipment to ensure proper draft and structural integrity.

When you're ready to move forward, you can browse TSSA-licensed gas fitters who work on fireplace installations through the Ottawa Construction Network directory to compare options and get detailed quotes for your specific setup.