Gas Logs     

What better way to unwind at the end of a hectic day than sitting in front of a flickering fire?  However, do not waste time and energy on cutting and cleaning up after wood logs! The solution is a beautiful, natural looking set of gas logs.  You’ll be enjoying your fire in seconds and it’ll burn all evening if you wish without tending. Gas logs are easy to use, need very little maintenance and truly add beauty to a fireplace whether operating or not.

Convenient and Clean

A set of gas logs consists of a gas burner covered in manufactured fire wood made from fireproof molded refractory cement, extruded bisque ceramic clay or molded ceramic fibers, depending on the manufacturer and model. Whether vented or vent-free, they are a great way to enjoy a fire in an existing wood fireplace and are a good choice for a fire with little mess or environmental impact. Gas logs will save you the work of cutting, hauling and cleaning up after wood logs, but more importantly will help protect winter air quality. Clearly, the best thing about them is their convenience. In addition to easy ignition options, the flame height and available warmth is controllable either manually or by remote control.

Easy Installation

Professional installation of both vented and vent-free gas logs is possible in most masonry or factory-built wood burning fireplaces as long as the fireplace and chimney are in good shape, and natural gas or propane gas is available. Sizing vent-free may require more thought, but they also provide more installation options.

Identical to Wood

The wide variety of styles in gas log sets will provide you with your greatest challenge:  deciding on your favorite. These beautiful logs are designed to mirror actual wood and are available in oak, birch, manzanita, pine, walnut and even driftwood. Manufacturers actually use stacked firewood to form a mold when they create these sets.  Then they are often detailed by hand using authentic colors, textures, knotholes and even ax marks. Finally, burner systems are engineered to perfectly duplicate the flickering flames of a fire complete with the glowing embers and coals.

How to Choose

Always consider your own needs and preferences as you shop. Visit a local store that carries the brand you like, ask the dealer or your friends and relatives for recommendations. Our friendly, specially trained sales staff is here to answer all your questions whether it be about design or the more technical aspects of specific manufacturers. Give them a call 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 877-669-4669.

Check Points

• Type: Vented and vent-free.  Materials can be molded refractory cement, extruded bisque ceramic clay or molded ceramic fibers.
• Size: 12 to 60 inches in width, height varies. Size of vented log set is dictated by available flue size.  Size of vent-free depends on the size of the room or rooms as well as the size of the fireplace.
• Location: Approved for installation in most open masonry or factory-built wood burning fireplaces where the fireplace and chimney are clean and in good working condition. The firebox should have about 6 inches of clearance around the logs. Strictly observe vent-free log sizing requirements. A hood may be necessary to reflect heat.
• Venting: Vented sets require that the damper stay open when in use. Glass doors can be used to reduce heat loss. Vent-free are designed to be used with the damper closed.
• Features: Easy to use ignition systems including manual (light with a match), standing pilot light, electronic ignition and remote control.  Many also come with wood style grates, glowing embers and sand granules to simulate ash.
• Installation:   The Hearth Patio & Barbecue Assoc. (HPBA) recommends using a certified, professional installer to insure meeting all state and local codes.
• Maintenance: The HPBA recommends an annual inspection by a certified chimney sweep.  In addition, a carbon monoxide detector should be used with all gas hearth products.
• Fuel Requirements: Natural gas is most widely used.  Propane can be used where it is not available.  In this case, a standing pilot light option is required.
• Average Cost:   Cost of the unit, the gas line, installation, annual fuel costs and maintenance. To install a gas line, contact a qualified plumber or contractor.

Benefits

1. Minimal installation and maintenance requirements
2. Clean, convenient and easy fire in seconds.
3. Authentic wood-like flame
4. Installation for heat or ambiance.
5. Helps protect winter air quality

Source:  HPBA.org