What does it cost to run a new gas line to my existing wood-burning fireplace for a gas insert conversion in Ottawa?

Running a new gas line for a fireplace conversion in Ottawa typically costs $500 to $1,500 for the gas line itself, plus $2,500 to $5,500 for the gas insert installation — bringing your total conversion cost to $3,000 to $7,000. The gas line cost depends on the distance from your existing gas meter or main line to the fireplace location, the complexity of the routing through your home's structure, and whether any drywall or flooring needs to be opened and repaired.

Gas line installation costs break down by distance and complexity. A simple 10 to 20-foot run through an unfinished basement with easy access to the fireplace location runs $500 to $800. Longer runs of 30 to 50 feet, or routes that require going through finished walls, around obstacles, or up multiple floors, cost $800 to $1,200. Complex installations that require extensive drywall repair, running lines through concrete foundations, or working around tight spaces can reach $1,200 to $1,500 or more. The gas fitter will use black iron pipe or CSST (corrugated stainless steel tubing) depending on your home's existing gas system and local code requirements.

All gas line work must be performed by a TSSA-licensed gas fitter — this is Ontario law, and unlicensed gas work voids your home insurance and creates serious safety risks. The gas fitter will size the line properly for your chosen insert (typically requiring 3/4-inch or 1-inch line for most residential gas inserts), install a manual shutoff valve near the fireplace, and pressure-test the entire system. After installation, they'll tag the work with a TSSA compliance label and provide documentation for your records.

The conversion process also involves removing or capping the existing wood-burning damper system, installing a new stainless steel liner sized for the gas insert (if your chimney doesn't already have appropriate venting), and ensuring proper clearances around the new appliance. Many Ottawa homeowners are surprised to learn that even with a gas insert, the existing masonry chimney still needs to be in good structural condition since the insert vents through it.

When you're ready to move forward with the conversion, you can browse licensed gas fitters and fireplace installers through the Ottawa Construction Network directory to compare options and get detailed quotes for your specific installation.