Gas Logs For Fireplaces – A Maintenance-Free Alternative to Wood Logs
Gas logs for fireplaces provide the warmth of a traditional wood-burning fireplace without the mess and potential fire risk. Gas logs come in a range of styles and put out twice the heat of wood logs. They are easy to install and maintenance free. Learn the basics in this video.
Natural gas and liquid propane (LP) are two types of gas logs for fireplaces. Natural gas is more affordable but does not burn as hot as other gases. Natural gas must be hard-piped to your fireplace from buried gas service lines. If you already have a natural gas water heater or oven, a natural gas log set is a practical choice. LP gas burns nearly three times hotter and contains more carbon than natural gas; it is supplied from a tank installed outside your home. If you do not already have LP gas service, you will need to contract with a local dealer to install a tank and have it refilled. If you prefer natural gas but do not currently have service, you will need to check with the local natural gas company; if service is not available in your area, you will need LP gas logs.
You will first need to check state and local codes before installing any gas log system. Vent-free logs (also called vent-free heaters) are not permitted in some areas. Vent-free heaters must be installed in areas where flammable objects such as furniture and curtains are at least 36 inches from the heater perimeter, and they cannot be installed in bathrooms or bedrooms. Vent-free
heaters should not be installed in high traffic, drafty or windy areas.
You will need to choose whether you want vented or vent-free gas logs for fireplaces. Vented logs operate with an open chimney flue and simulate a wood-burning fire, but because a lot of the heat that is generated goes up the chimney, they are more decorative than efficient. Vent-free logs operate with the chimney flue closed and do not provide a realistic flame, but as 100% of the generated heat stays in the home, they are highly efficient.
Vent-free logs are composed of U-shaped burners with stacked cement logs on top of the heating element. As they add moisture to the air, they should be installed in a room with adequate ventilation to prevent mildew formation. Most vent-free gas log sets have a thermostatic control, allowing you to maintain a consistent room temperature.
Lastly, when choosing gas logs for fireplaces, you’ll need to know the room size and ceiling height so you can determine how many BTUs (British Thermal Units – a measure of heating power) you’ll need to heat the room. Most home improvement stores will have charts to help you make this determination when you are ready to make your purchase.
