Gas Logs Buyers Guide

There are several things you need to consider when you are buying a set of gas fireplace logs for a new or existing fireplace. First, think about the fuel source. You can buy gas logs that burn either natural gas or liquid propane. Also, note that gas logs are referred to by many names: fake fireplace logs, fire logs, fireplace logs, and our favorite, gas logs for fireplace, which is grammatically incorrect, but you get the point.

There are several ways to find what you are looking for online, so if you continue in your journey of conducting more online research, be aware. If you already have appliances that use natural gas, then going with natural gas might be the easiest and most logical choice.

Liquid propane can be used anywhere but usually requires you to install a tank outside your house (not exactly eye candy for your home). Second, determine whether you want to go with vented or ventless fireplace gas logs. This decision takes into account the main purpose of your artificial fireplace: is it mainly for ambiance or for heat?

Gas Logs for Vented or Ventless Fireplaces

Gas fire logs will appeal to you if you're tired of continually needing to sweep out your fireplace, cut and stack wood, maintain and sweep the chimney, or simply tired of paying for firewood each year. You may just be looking to upgrade from the traditional log appearance to a more contemporary style that can accommodate fireglass and other fun decorative media.

If you're looking for a simpler way to enjoy your fireplace and want to have a fire during social gatherings but don't want to be interrupted every thirty minutes or so to go monitor the fire constantly, then gas fireplace logs are the ideal choice for you.

Before You Buy a Gas Log Set

Prior to making a purchase of your gas fireplace logs, you will need to investigate whether or not you already have a gas line in place. First, you'll want to make sure that you have a gas line to your home. Then, you'll want to make sure that you have a gas line running to your fireplace. It is rare for a property to not have a gas line already in place, but in rural locations or for those living in contracted homes, it is a possibility.

If you don't have an existing gas line, you will need to contact your local utility company to find out the requirements to have one installed. The utility company (natural gas) or propane supplier (propane) will only provide the gas feed line to a meter at the side of the home.

The transition from that meter to the main gas line running into the home is commonly called the disembarkation point. Utility companies and LP suppliers won't do anything with gas lines in the home. A plumber would need to run the infrastructure from the meter to the fireplace. If there isn't a gas line to the fireplace, then you'll want to check with the local code enforcement office to see what requirements exist for a gas line to be run. You may need to get a permit and have an inspection conducted following any gas line installation.

Now, once the gas line is in place and the end is "stubbed" into the fireplace opening, a competent homeowner or fireplace technician can make the connection from that gas stub to the log set. Sometimes you may just need your existing gas line extended, which can be done easily by a licensed plumber. You should check your area for local NFI Certified Techs or gas fitters to see who is available to complete the installation and the cost for the service.

If a gas line is already in place, a permit may not be required, but it is recommended to have a plumber perform an inspection of the gas line to ensure it is sound, even if you plan a DIY installation of your gas log set.

Industry Finest

Some of the most well-known manufacturers of gas logs are also some of the finest manufacturers in the industry, and you can't go wrong with any of these brands.

• R.H. Peterson (Real Fyre) — These are the makers of the Real Fyre gas logline, offering a diverse collection of both vented and vent-free log sets. R. H. Peterson has been manufacturing gas log sets for over 60 years and is one of the industry pioneers. Their log sets are mostly cast refractory, with a focus on striking realism in their presentation.
• Golden Blount — While they're a younger company in the industry, Golden Blount has excelled in the production of cast refractory log sets that fill the needs of most homeowners. They offer a wealth of highly configurable burner systems that allow the customer to pair their log sets to the exact burner system they desire.
• Empire Comfort Systems — A longtime builder of gas floor furnaces and wall heaters, Empire diversified into fireplaces and gas log sets and was the first to employ oxygen depletion sensors in their vent-free gas log sets. An industry leader in vent-free technology, their sets feature many valve and control options, realistic flames, and durable log sets.
• Rasmussen Gas Logs — Now a common technology in the gas log industry, Rasmussen pioneered the sand pan burner system, which uses silica sand to diffuse fuel gas and create a realistic dancing flame pattern. This, coupled with highly detailed log sets, means the company continues to be a well-recognized name in the hearth industry.

What are Gas Logs?

Gas logs are a vital piece of an attractive and easy to operate gas-burning fireplace, whether it's masonry construction or a manufactured fireplace. There are many different gas log options and configurations to choose from. Most gas logs are either natural gas or propane but may be vented, vent-free, or configured for see-through fireplaces.

What do they all mean, and how do they work together?

Truthfully, there are only four major options in gas logs, and only two decisions to make before you get your dream fireplace. The first choice would be a fuel type. The second choice is whether or not you need a vented or vent-free log set.

There is a final set of options that you'll also want to take into consideration. Are you looking for a more modern fireplace design with fireglass or the more traditional log sets? Or, do you relish the traditional appearance with a modern edge?

It all boils down to your fuel choice, really!

Fuel Choices

There are two types of gas utilized for petroleum byproduct fueled hearth appliances. While there is very little visual difference in the flames produced by either fuel, there are still several factors to consider. It is important for you to know what fuels are available to you, and how installation varies.

• Natural Gas — Consisting mostly of alkaline-rich methane, natural gas is lighter than air flammable gas that is commonly found in conjunction with petroleum deposits deep within the Earth. While harmful to the atmosphere in its raw form, natural gas is a clean-burning and lower-cost fuel that is not a volatile as propane. Because of the lightweight of this gas, it also dissipates in the air and is less prone to form dangerous pools if a leak occurs.
  
  If you live in a city or town, it is very likely that there is an infrastructure already in place to supply your home with natural gas. Natural gas is even available in some rural areas. If you're unsure of what is available to you, you should contact your local utility supplier to learn more.
  
  For homes that have previously only had electric appliances installed, a feeder line from the streetside gas main may not be in place. Many gas suppliers will introduce a supply line to the home and install the meter at a discounted cost in anticipation of gaining a new customer. Before you look into installing a gas log set, it is prudent to find out how much the gas supply line, gas meter, and in-house supply piping will cost.
  
  Natural gas contains approximately 1,000 BTUs per cubic foot. While this is less than the BTU input of propane gas, the low cost offsets the difference. Because of the large distribution network that is already in place, a majority of homes will use natural gas appliances. It is important to note that most vented gas log sets can be converted between gas types, but most vent-free gas log sets can not.



• Propane Gas — Propane gas is a hydrocarbon compound that results as a byproduct during the processing of natural gas. When stored under pressure, propane condenses into a liquid form and is often referred to as LPG or liquid propane gas. It is because of this tendency to condense that propane is not suitable for distribution via pipelines over a long distance. Propane is a dense fuel that is heavier than air, meaning that it will pool if allowed to dissipate into the surrounding air. Propane is also far more volatile than natural gas, with a rating of approximately 2,400 BTUs per cubic foot of gas.
  
  If you live in a rural area that is far removed from gas utilities, chances are that you will have to rely on propane gas as a fuel for your gas log set. If your home already has gas appliances, it is likely that you already have a large above or below-ground propane tank installed. If you already have gas appliances in your home, you need only ask the utility company if they have a truck come to deliver the fuel gas each season. If yes, propane. If no, natural gas. To learn more about the differences between natural gas and propane, please read our article here.
  
  As with natural gas appliances, it is possible to convert most propane vented gas log sets to a different fuel. However, it is usually not possible to convert most vent-free appliances. The reason for this is because vent-free appliances can potentially release harmful emissions into the room air if converted improperly.
  
  This is not necessarily a problem with vented appliances because the chimney system will carry the byproducts and dissipate them into the atmosphere. Vent-free models are built, tested, and sold to burn the original fuel they were designed for only. If you purchase a vent-free gas log burner that is fueled by propane and then the utility company installs natural gas in your area, you will be forced to replace the entire burner assembly.


• Gas Orifices — Since the two gases are so different, you're probably wondering how the log sets can burn the same. It's really due to the orifices. Also known in the industry as gas jets, an orifice is a small fitting that is installed in line with the gas flow.
  
  Models that have a standing pilot will have an orifice for the pilot and at least one orifice for the burner itself. Large models may have multiple orifices. Each orifice will have a small hole drilled through the center to meter the correct amount of gas to the pilot and burner assembly. Because of its lower BTU potential, natural gas will use larger orifices, while high volatility propane will use smaller orifices.
  
  The size differences in the orifices for each gas type result is an identical or nearly identical flow of BTUs to the pilot and burner assembly. This means that no matter what fuel you are burning, the overall look of the gas log flame is the same. While these orifices can be easily swapped for most vented appliances, they are usually integral to vent-free pilot assemblies and equipped with anti-tampering devices for vent-free main burner orifices.

How do gas logs work?

Gas logs operate differently depending on whether they're vented or ventless. They contain several components, but the burner assembly is the most important part. The burner may feature different ignition systems: match lit, push-button, or electronic ignition. The gas burner supplies gas needed for combustion, while the gas logs or fireglass camouflages the burner for a traditional or contemporary look.

Difference between Vented and Unvented Gas Logs

Vented Gas Logs

Above all else, vented gas logs are designed for ambiance and flame presentation. These systems are engineered to be enticing to those that have an existing masonry or prefabricated wood burning fireplace that they are no longer using to burn wood. People repurpose wood burning fireplaces for a number of reasons, whether it's due to a lack of wood fuel supply or because they're tired of sweeping ash and cleaning the chimney.

A vented gas log set may be the best option if you desire simple installation, freedom of log arrangement, and less intense heating capacity. Many manufacturers will recommend primary or secondary log arrangements, but in almost all cases, it is possible to play with the arrangement and find a pleasing setup. Additionally, it is not an issue if the flame hits some of the logs directly, but it is recommended to avoid doing so to minimize soot build-up.

Modern vented gas log sets will usually feature the following items:

• Burner Assembly — Many models use what is known as a pan burner,which generally consists of a slanted pan filled with sand for natural gas units or vermiculite for propane units. Both media types diffuse the gas after it exits the gas pipe buried beneath the media. This allows the burner to create a very natural-looking flame.
  
  Other pan burners follow the same concept but may use a pan filled with ceramic pebbles to diffuse the gas. Some low-cost models utilize what is known as a tube burner, which is usually an aluminum tube with rows of perforations. Because the flame is very static and cannot divert from the tube, these systems lack the realistic appearance of other burners.







• Log Grate — Designed to hold the log set and mimic the look of a traditional wood log grate, this item is sized to the specific burner and log set being installed.


• Decorative Embers or Lava Rock — Many sets include a ceramic wool-based material that glows when heated. The material is designed to loosely cover part of the burner or sit directly in front of it, giving the illusion of a real bed of hot embers. If the set includes lava rock it is usually broken down into L or ? inch pieces and is used to surround the burner, but not cover it. The idea is to cover more of the fireplace floor and make it look less sterile. With a wood fire, hot coals will fall away from the fire and smolder out. The lava rock mimics the look of these coals.


• Log Set — What makes gas logs so special and what are gas fireplace logs made of? Well, the log set itself consists of either ceramic refractory (heavy cement) or ceramic fiber (lightweight fibrous), both of which are non-combustible materials. Refractory logs are very durable, sturdy, and usually hand-painted exceptional well. Fiber logs are manufactured from the same basic material as the glowing ceramic embers. They are lightweight and are resistant to flame damage.
  
  Each has its own set of disadvantages as well. For instance, refractory gas logs tend to accumulate soot more readily than ceramic fiber logs, and they do not glow when heated. Depending on the exact design, some models will also glow when heated for added realism. And, ceramic fiber logs tend to break down with age, and their coloring is not as realistic as ceramic refractory log sets.

When installing a vented log set, it is recommended to have your chimney swept beforehand to eliminate the possibility of lingering wood ash odor in the room. The chimney should also be in good working order. If there were problems with the chimney venting a wood fire, the same issues will be present for a vented gas log set. Never assume that a vented gas log set will solve chimney problems.

Vent-Free Gas Logs

Vent-free gas log sets excel as supplemental room heaters. All the heat generated by these models stays in the room, thanks to the ability to close the chimney damper. There are drawbacks, however. Unlike vented gas log sets, vent-free models are limited to a maximum of 40,000 BTUs per hour. This limitation means that the log set will have a lower flame and will look less realistic, especially for larger fire log sets that spread the fire out over a wide area.

Vent-free log sets also release moisture vapor to the room as they operate, meaning that smaller rooms can start to feel humid after prolonged burns. It is recommended to use a vent-free log set for no more than 4 hours continuously.

It's also important to note that many municipalities and some states do not allow the use of vent-free log sets. Before purchasing, you should verify with your local code office to determine if vent-free units are permitted in your area. Vent-free systems can be very versatile, despite their downsides, and make an excellent choice in the right circumstances.

Vent-free log sets are often susceptible to mistakes made in the fireplace acquisition process, and you can check out our 5 Biggest Mistakes Made When Purchasing A Fireplace article to make sure that you're avoiding the most common problems.

Vent-free systems feature similar system components as vented models, with some differences:

• Burner Assembly — Vent-free burner systems feature more advanced engineering compared to vented models. In order to maintain indoor air quality and burn cleanly, they typically feature an enhanced orifice system and do not use loose media.
  
  Pan model burners do exist but are typically filled with ceramic pellets that do not negatively affect room air as the gas burns. The burner pan is also designed for a particular log arrangement around the flame, instead of over them. This prevents direct flame contact to the logs and the release of soot and other byproducts into the air.
  
  Other models use a tube burner, also featuring a similar placement of the logs to prevent covering the tubes. They will also feature numerous small gas ports rather than the larger ones found in the vented systems. The small ports allow very fine metering and complete combustion of the fuel gas.


• Log Grate — Tube burner systems will usually feature either an integral "mini" grate or some sort of faux grate. Manufacturers cannot take the chance of the grate being arranged improperly over the logs, so the grate will either be part of the burner or will be able to attach in only one way. Some pan burner systems use no grate at all, using the height of the burner pan and a decorative front to mimic the look of a traditional grate.


• Decorative Embers or Lava Rock — As with vented sets, many vent-free models use ceramic embers for added effect. To maintain air quality, the embers must be arranged just as instructed in the owner's manual. The embers are placed adjacent to the gas ports, close enough to glow when heated, but not close enough to obstruct gas flow and produce soot. Lava rocks are often included and serve the same purpose as those for vented log sets.


• Log Set — As with vented log sets you have a choice between ceramic fiber or ceramic refractory logs. However, since the log configuration is crucial, manufacturers will employ several techniques to avoid improper installation. For ceramic refractory logs, a series of indentations and corresponding pegs are cast into the legs. These fit together and maintain the correct position of the log set. Some models will also have notches designed to fit over the log grate. Similar to refractory models, ceramic fiber sets have a series of pressed-in pins or guides to fit into corresponding holes on other logs to avoid improper assembly of the log set.

As previously mentioned, vent-free log sets are not as aesthetically pleasing as a vented model, but the gap between the two has closed significantly. For supplemental heating in large spaces, they are both excellent options.

Here are other considerations to make. Vent-free units have BTU limitations for where they can be installed in your home. There are also requirements for how maximum heater rating per the definition of undefined space. These limits are 10,000 BTUs for bedrooms and 6,000 for bathrooms. So, any rooms that are connected via archways or doorways that cannot be closed should be considered as cumulative and undefined space.

How to Light Gas Logs

There are three main ways to light your gas logs, which depend on the internal ignition system used for their operation. Most manufacturers offer a variety of ignition systems for their gas log sets; however, your options boil down to these three pilot and valve types: match lit, safety pilot or push-button, and on/off millivolt valve.

Pilot and Valve Types

• Match Light — This is the simplest method of lighting a log set and usually only available for vented natural gas systems. In these cases, the burner assembly has no valve or pilot assembly attached. Instead, the gas supply line is connected directly to the burner.
  
  To ignite, simply hold a lit match or lighter just above the burner assembly and below the log set. With the external gas valve open to supply the gas to the set, the gas will ignite. This is a good option for the greatest realism and lowest overall cost, with the added plus of no pilot or valve to hide.


• Safety Pilot Light Valve — This system can be found on almost all vented and vent-free systems, both in natural gas and liquid propane configurations. This is usually a simple brass control valve that is affixed to the burner assembly and utilizes a standing pilot light. The system has three settings: Off, Pilot, and On.
  
  The gas control valve adjacent to the fireplace can be left open at all times. During the offseason, the safety pilot valve can stay in the "off" position. For the regular burn season, the valve can be turned to the "pilot" position, and the pilot assembly remains lit. When the use of the fireplace is desired, you can simply rotate the control knob to "on", and the burner will light.
  
  Rotating the system back to "pilot" will turn the main burner off but leave the pilot lit. Should the pilot blow out during either standby or during operation of the main burner, the entire valve will close and stop the flow of gas. Many safety pilot valves are on/off control only, but some brands, such as Empire, have a 3-step flame height adjustment.


• On/Off Millivolt Valve — This system can be found for almost all vented and vent-free systems in both LPG and NG configurations. It builds on the capabilities of the safety pilot system and has the same type of control knob with the same settings. Millivolt valves can add the following abilities:
  
  
  Utilize a remote control or a wall switch for operation. The gas valve has a terminal block that will allow direct wiring of a wall switch immediately adjacent to the fireplace or the use of a battery-operated-remote receiver and transmitter set.
  
  
  
  It usually has a push-button ignitor for the pilot. Unlike almost all safety pilot valves that rely on a match or lighter to ignite the pilot flame, on/off millivolt valves usually have a piezo igniter to light the pilot.
  
  Many models offer manual flame height adjustment. Many valves have a built-in regulator with an adjustment knob that allows the flame height to be regulated. This is a manual-only feature that cannot be automated in most cases.


• Hi/Low Millivolt Valve — This system can be found for almost all vented and vent-free systems in both LPG and NG configurations. This system builds still further on the on/off millivolt system by adding automatic high/low flame adjustment. Almost all valves that have this type of system requires the high/low flame control to be done via a special remote control or wall switch. The system will usually not allow manual adjustment, as damage to the valve can result if it is attempted.


• Electronic Valves — This system can be found for almost all vented and vent-free systems in both liquid propane and natural gas configurations, but the exact features and capabilities vary by brand. This type of system trades a standing pilot system for a fully electronic spark ignitor. The spark ignitor lights the pilot, and the pilot remains lit while the main burner is in operation.
  
  This system is designed to save on gas consumption by not having a pilot light lit at all times. Almost all of these systems have a manual on/off toggle switch for basic control, but they are ideally utilized with a remote. Many models come with the remote as a standard feature. The most basic systems function like an on/off millivolt valve, allowing only on/off control from the remote only. More sophisticated systems will use a multifunction remote that will usually include high/low flame control, timers, and thermostatic settings.

Fireglass Versus Gas Logs

Available in nearly every option of gas fireplaces, fireglass is the ultimate modern touch for a traditional home feature.

Fire glass sets usually feature a gas valve that is concealed more effectively. The low profile of these sets means that the valve would be an unwelcome distraction, and the manufacturers recognize this by placing the valve in the back of the set or beneath the burner within a cavity or platform. Both vented and vent-free sets use specific media for each system. Some sets use L " tempered glass pieces, while some go as large as l " pieces. Others use round glass droplets or will also allow for decorative fire art or shapes to be added. It all depends on the system.

• Vented Fire Glass Sets — There are two common setups for vented fire glass systems. The first is a type that retrofits to a standard log burner. Essentially, the manufacturers take a burner system that was initially conceived as a gas log burner, remove the grate, and then add a screen matrix to support the glass over the burner pan. The result is an elevated platform with a reflective layer of fire glass that can also usually receive decorative shapes.
  
  The second type of system is a pan burner. A pan burner is a very low profile system that usually stands only a couple of inches, with a perimeter lip, an internal burner tube, and a diffuser directly over the burner to help fan the flames. The pan is mostly filled up with sand or vermiculite; then, a layer of glass or fire shapes are added.
  
  Because this system is so low profile, it lends itself towards fire glass installations where the customer wishes to cover the entire fireplace floor in glass or lava stones. The surrounding glass can be mounded up to create a seamless transition to the burner that is not possible with the gas log retrofit style systems.


• Ventless Fire Glass Sets — Ventless glass systems are more specialized than vented systems. Because there is always the danger of carbon monoxide being released from improper installation, the vent-free systems will usually use a purpose-built platform with an inclusive valve that cannot be swapped. The system will use the same type of fireglass that vented systems use, but the specified sizing and quantity to use must be followed closely. Because of their lower BTU output, the ventless systems usually include a burner that is clad in highly reflective surfaces to capitalize on the flame pattern.

How to Measure for Gas Logs

When trying to determine the best size of gas logs for your fireplace, you'll need to take a few important measurements to avoid oversized or undersized units. The best way to ensure you get fireplace logs that are the perfect size is by measuring the front, back, and middle widths of your firebox and the height of the firebox, too.

Log Set Sizing

In this section, we'll cover the log set sizing in more detail. Once you have determined what vent type and control options you desire, you will need to consider what size log and burner set will fit your needs.

Here are brief explanations of the four dimensions you'll need from your fireplace:

• Front Width - As implied, this is the width at the leading edge of the fireplace opening.
• Back Width - This is the width at the very rear wall of the fireplace opening.
• Middle Width - This is the measured width at the halfway back point in the fireplace opening. The front and rear widths can be added and divided by two if you know the fireplace walls to be perfectly straight. If the fireplace has an uneven taper or odd shape, the middle width must be taken manually.
• Height - This is the height measured at the very front of the fireplace opening. Masonry fireplaces will have a smoke chamber just behind the lintel bar across the top of the opening, but this extra chamber height should not be included in the height measurement.

For more detailed information on gas log sizing requirements, you can read our article, "Which Gas Logs Are the Right Size for Me?" This article goes into specific detail about factors you should consider for aesthetics as well as the advantages and disadvantages of each valve type.

Once the measurements are in hand and you have a general idea of what type of log set you're looking for, you can decide on a log set. Sizing requirements vary significantly by manufacturer, and there is no one set rule. Height requirements can range from 12 to 20 inches. Widths can be anywhere from 6 to 18 inches wider than the log set size.

In most cases, the use of a valve assembly will increase the minimum size requirements, due to both the physical size of the valve assembly and the additional space needed for cooling. Many gas log shoppers believe you should install the largest log set possible into your fireplace, but if you take a moment to consider it, how often are wood burning fireplaces jam-packed full of wood? Think proportional sizing, and trust that the manufacturer sizing guidelines are accurate.

Alternatively, if you're shopping for fireglass, you should know that the guidelines are much the same as with the gas log sets. The manufacturer will specify the required width, height, and depth that will be needed to accommodate each system, as well as the additional width or depth that may be needed for different valve options.

An easy way to determine what gas logs meet your requirements is to utilize our gas log calculator at the top of this page to make sure that you get the best log set for your needs.

How to Install Gas Logs

Gas logs are relatively simple to install. If you don't have a gas line, we highly recommend you contact a licensed plumber or gas fitter to determine the best way to route the line and perform the installation safely. Follow the installation steps carefully. You'll need pipe thread sealant, adjustable wrenches, screwdrivers, and patience for any gas log set installation.

With a gas line in place, gas log sets that are appropriately sized will fit into place with no trouble. Manufacturers provide detailed installation instructions and most also provide the necessary flexible supply line and fittings that are needed for installation. It's important to make sure that your gas log set is safe for use, so don't take shortcuts!

You will also want to get your existing chimney inspected, to make sure that it is structurally sound and not leaking, as the presence of water will cause issues with your new gas log set.

Expected Lifespan of a Gas Log Set

When the gas log set is properly installed, and the chimney is in good condition, it is easy to get 20 years of service out of a refractory cement log set with a simple standing pilot valve system. Electronic systems will usually see a failure of modules within 10 years, but the parts are common and easy to replace.

Refractory fiber logs will often begin to break down after approximately 10 years of regular use, but again, replacements are available in many cases.

However, if the chimney is not in good condition and is leaking, then you won't get as long of a lifespan out of your gas log set. Before installation commences, you should have the chimney inspected for leaks or structural issues that could lead to leaks down the road.

Dampness can take a significant toll on a gas log set in as little as a year. Moisture will also have an effect on vent-free gas logs as well and is something to keep in mind even when one is no longer going to be using the chimney for venting purposes. Additionally, dampness in the chimney could result in mold growing in the structure of the home which becomes a massive health hazard if left unchecked.

Time to Fire Up Your Logs!

At this point, we've covered a great deal of material to assist you on your journey to find the perfect gas log set for your fireplace. Not only have you learned what gas logs are and how they operate, but you've learned how to pick out the perfect size and install them correctly. If you happen to have more questions, feel free to contact one of our NFI Certified Technicians! They'd be happy to help answer any of your questions.