If you are looking to convert your traditional wood-burning fireplace to a more efficient heating appliance, gas logs is a popular option. Less
expensive than gas fireplace inserts, a set of gas logs also takes less time to install. Switching from a traditional fireplace to gas logs can also save you money on your heating bills this winter since they heat your home much more efficiently. While the gas logs of the past looked plastic and very artificial, a modern set of gas logs can be so realistic that you may have to remind yourself that you are not sitting in front of an actual wood-burning fire. For those who are tired of dealing with the chores of burning wood, the convenience of operating a set of gas logs can be enough to convince homeowners to make this switch. Some units even come with a remote control to adjust the flame. At Owens Chimney Systems, we carry a variety of gas logs, and we would like to tell you more about this type of heating appliance.
According to the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA), gas logs are available in two different types:
VENTED GAS LOGS
To be able to install a set of vented, or “yellow flame,” gas logs, you need a working chimney that has been approved to use gas to fuel its fireplace. You may be surprised when you see a flame produced by vented gas logs as it is both realistic and beautiful. The “yellow flame” can easily be mistaken for a wood-burning fire. The amount of heat produced from a set of vented gas logs is also similar to a fire from wood. Part of the heat exits out of the chimney so vented gas logs do not provide as much heat to a room as the other type of gas logs. Since the byproducts of combustion such as soot and carbon are vented out of the chimney, you will need to have the chimney professionally swept and inspected once a year, as recommended by the CSIA.
VENT-FREE GAS LOGS
Also known as “blue flame” gas logs, a set of vent-free gas logs needs no ventilation, which means this type of gas logs can be installed anywhere in your home. However, it is very important to know the local building codes if you want to install a set of vent-free gas logs. In certain parts of the country, it is illegal to install this type of heating appliance in homes because of its effects on indoor air quality. Of course, Owens Chimney Systems can safely install a set of vent-free gas logs in your home so that the indoor air quality will not be negatively affected. While the flame produced by this type of gas logs is not as realistic looking as a flame from vented gas logs, the amount of heat from the “blue flame” is much greater. You can have a set of vent-free gas logs installed in a wood-burning fireplace, although the damper must be kept closed, or we can install a separate firebox cabinet for the set that has been approved for use without a chimney.
Considering converting your wood-burning fireplace to gas? Contact usat Owens Chimney Systems to learn more about gas logs. We can help you decide which type is best for you as well as professionally install the set for you.