When creating a new fireplace for your home, gas logs are something most people consider. A propane fireplace with gas logs will offer you the warmth and comfort of a traditional fire without the trouble. In addition, gas logs rely on cutting-edge technology to deliver quick-fire on demand.
Fortunately, if you already have a working wood-burning fireplace with ventilation, the answer is simple: you can utilize gas logs in your fireplace. However, the nuances can become more difficult, and the overall situation demands much more delicacy if your fireplace isn't a true vented fireplace for burning wood.
Gas logs, on the other hand, aren't a one-size-fits-all option. Instead, there are numerous varieties and shapes. Continue reading for a quick overview.
Types of Gas Logs
Gas logs are classified into two types: vented and ventless. Vented gas logs, as the name implies, vent to the outside of a home, whereas ventless gas logs do not. As a result, ventless systems are easier to install than vented systems.
These logs offer numerous benefits. Aside from providing the ambiance of wood-burning fireplaces without the bother of locating and cutting hardwood, installation and maintenance are simple, and the heat-to-cost ratio is one of the greatest, making a gas fireplace ideal for heating your house without a large energy bill in the winter. In addition, gas logs are adaptable and accessible for a range of fireplaces or gas heaters, whether you require a heat source for your common area or a tiny supplemental heater to give coziness to your bedroom.
Purchasing your first set requires only a few considerations and should not be difficult. You'll need to know the fuel source, whether you require vented or ventless, and a few other details.
Vented Gas Logs
When inserted in fireplaces, vented gas logs release carbon monoxide in the same way that a traditional fireplace does. This is why you would require a working chimney to adequately exhaust the fumes to the outside (and not the inside of your home).
Ventless Gas Logs
Ventless gas logs, when inserted in fireplaces, on the other hand, are built for highly thorough combustion and can be utilized in a fireplace with a sealed flue or no chimney at all; think of them as a gas space heater shaped like logs and sitting in your fireplace.
Reasons to Purchase a Vented Gas Log
- It is suitable for installation in an existing fireplace with a working chimney.
- Yellow flames are typically higher and more lifelike.
- The gas logs can be rearranged as you desire.
- Installation is less expensive than with a ventless gas log.
Reasons to Purchase a Ventless Gas Log
- It is not necessary to have a working chimney or an open flue.
- Because more heat is retained in residence, it provides greater heat than vented gas logs.
- More environmentally beneficial because the fuel burns virtually entirely, resulting in fewer pollutants.
- Because it uses less fuel than a vented gas log, the recurring expenditures are lower.
Some disadvantages of a vent-free gas log system should be mentioned. They might produce an odor in the room when used. They can also cause moisture to form on surrounding windows. Because of the clearance to combustibles like timber mantels above the fireplace, vent-free solutions have more installation limits. A protective hood is sometimes required.
What Are Gas Logs Made of?
Ceramic fibers, refractory ceramic, or refractory cement are commonly used to make gas logs. Each of these composites is intended to endure high temperatures while closely resembling real wood. To get a realistic appearance, manufacturers employ molds made from genuine wood. Each material is heat resistant, and you should be able to use your gas logs for at least 2-5 years, depending on the frequency of use. Keep an eye on their look to determine when they need to be changed; if they appear faded and begin to show signs of wear and tear, or if they begin to fracture or crumble, it's time to replace them.
Here are some other considerations to address while selecting gas log materials:
- Because of its high heat rating, refractory ceramic gas logs endure slightly longer than cement logs and do not fade as soon with long-term use. Therefore, consider replacing cement logs after around 2-3 years of frequent use. Ceramic logs typically last 3-5 years before needing to be replaced.
- Some types are strengthened with steel bars to prevent cracking and bending, making them even more durable with time.
Each set comes with a burner system and a grate and is very versatile because it may be used in an existing wood fireplace, requiring minimal installation. Vented gas logs can also burn brilliantly with little heat, enabling you to savor the impression of a fire on a warm night without having to heat the house.
Ceramic Vs. Cement Gas Logs
The three materials are refractory cement, ceramic fiber, and refractory ceramic, which are primary forms of gas log materials. Each is intended to look as realistic as possible. However, there are a few distinctions to be aware of when buying a gas log set for the fireplace.
A cement mixture is used to make refractory cement gas logs. The quality of these sets varies, with both inexpensive and premium options available. High-quality cement logs appear more lifelike, which may be vital if you want your fireplace to look authentic. The disadvantage of refractory cement sets is that they are susceptible to cracking at extremely high temperatures. As a result, they might not endure as long as ceramic cement sets.
Ceramic fiber logs are frequently the most cost-effective solution. However, they are often lighter in weight than other sets and can occasionally emit an odor that may not appeal to homeowners when in use.
Refractory ceramic gas logs are comprised of a cement and ceramic blend, allowing them to emit more heat than other forms. In addition, because of their ability to endure extremely high temperatures, they tend to survive longer and are more robust than other choices. They are appropriate for both vented and ventless fireplaces.
Size of Gas Logs
Size counts when it comes to gas logs. The size you need will be determined by the size of your fireplace or firebox. Therefore, measuring your fireplace is critical to ensure that whichever set you buy will fit in your space. Before making a purchase, make sure to check the measurements of the set you're interested in.
How Do Gas Logs Work?
Installation
A gas log is made up of pipework and a collection of ceramic logs. These logs can be used in a variety of fireplace settings. Invisible gas is pumped through holes in the logs via the pipes. The ceramic logs will provide a continuous flame when igniting the gas logs. As natural gas or propane is poured via the pipes, it burns harmlessly on the surface of the ceramic logs.
Igniting a Gas Log
Unlike constructing a fire, lighting a gas log is a pretty straightforward technique. The sort of controls installed in your fireplace will determine your igniting procedure. For example, some gas logs are regulated by a knob, while a remote system manages others. Your gas log installation professional can create an ignition system that is tailored to your lifestyle and tastes.
Flameproofing
The area around a gas log must be made flameproof before it can be utilized safely. Your installation specialist, for example, may need to line the fireplace's interior with lava rocks or sand. These materials prevent the fire from spreading. A glass panel can also be fitted to keep the gas log contained. Once you've completed these steps, you can utilize your brand-new fireplace.
How to Choose the Correct Gas Log?
- Determine whether you require vented or ventless logs based on your fireplace configuration.
- Choose ceramic fiber, refractory ceramic, and refractory concrete for your gas log material.
- Reduce your options based on fuel type (natural gas or liquid propane).
- Measure your fireplace and select the correct size.
- Choose the design and configuration of your gas log set.
- If desired, include any "extras."
Why Choose Vertical for Your Gas Log Fireplace?
A few easy considerations will be involved in selecting a gas log set for your homes, such as vent type and fuel type, but after those critical concerns are answered, it all comes down to finding the appropriate set to bring the right ambiance into your room. As previously said, you can put gas logs in your house fireplace. They are a terrific low-cost way to add heat to your home while also making your living room or bedroom feel comfortable and traditional.
Vertical has been in the chimney care business for over 35 years, and we have devoted our time and energy to bring safety to your home. We have spent all 35 years making sure we give our customers the best possible service. Take your chimney to a higher standard with Vertical and contact us today to get a free quote!
