Fireplaces are a hot (no pun intended) commodity in today’s housing market. The trend is shifting away from traditional wood-burning fireplaces and towards gas fireplaces. This shift has led many to wonder, can you use a gas fireplace without logs?
Without logs, you typically cannot use a gas fireplace. Gas fireplaces are designed to function with gas logs. A gas fireplace without logs will not burn properly. Gas logs serve both safety and functional purposes.
If you’re new to gas fireplaces and want to learn more, this article is perfect for you. Read on to find out what kind of logs they require, what benefits they offer, and what kind of maintenance is needed to keep your gas fireplace in top condition.
Types of Gas Logs for Fireplaces
One of two fossil fuels can be used to fuel your gas fireplace. These two fuels are natural gas and propane gas. When choosing a fuel for your fireplace, you should consider your preferences, needs, budget, and the availability of gas.
Keep in mind that one advantage of propane gas is that it burns cleaner. On the other hand, natural gas is more cost-effective. Propane gas is stored as a liquid and contained in portable tanks. Natural gas, on the other hand, is always in a gaseous state and delivered through pipelines.
There are two types of gas logs. Gas logs can either be vented or ventless. When choosing gas logs, you should consider all of your needs and preferences before making a decision. Choosing and using the right set not only maximizes the efficiency of your system but can also be crucial for your safety.
Vented Gas Logs
Vented gas logs aesthetically resemble a wood fire. They produce full, natural-looking flames. The bed of embers resembles the bed of embers of a dying wood fire. Those who care about appearance may lean towards vented gas logs.
However, vented gas logs are not as efficient as their ventless counterparts. Vented logs require an open damper to allow hot air, gas, and combustion byproducts to escape. As a result, a significant amount of heat is lost to the outside.
For these reasons, vented gas logs are typically considered more decorative than a functional heat source.
Ventless Gas Logs
Ventless gas logs are ideal for those living in colder climates. They heat a room very well and efficiently. Unlike vented gas logs, no damper is required. The heat is circulated into the room.
Ventless gas logs are considered efficient because they burn almost all of the consumed fuel. A chimney is not needed as the substance burns clean and smoke-free. However, this does not mean that the fire does not give off heat: There may be an odor under certain conditions.
Unlike wood logs, the fire does not appear authentic or realistic. Flames are smaller and can appear blue. Ventless fireplaces require a specific arrangement, which also affects the appearance of the fire: Flames lick upwards.
Ventless gas logs must be arranged in a way that the flames do not come into direct contact with the logs. Carbon monoxide can be produced when flames and logs come into contact. For optimal safety, ventless gas logs have a built-in oxygen sensor called an Oxygen Depletion Sensor (ODS). ODS can detect drops in oxygen levels. Once it reaches a certain level, ODS cuts off the gas supply.
The Most Common Materials for Gas Logs
Gas logs can be made from one of three materials. These materials are considered safe for gas fireplaces as they do not get damaged when exposed to high levels of heat.
As an additional precaution, gas logs are sometimes reinforced. In these cases, manufacturers add steel reinforcement rods to ensure that the logs do not bend or break.
These materials are:
- Ceramic: Ceramic gas logs have an exceptionally long lifespan, ranging from three to five years.
- Fiberglass: These are the lightest of the three and usually the most affordable.
- Refractory Cement: As the name suggests, these gas logs are made of a cement mixture. These tend to develop cracks and have a shorter lifespan. The price range is large, as you can find both affordable and high-end options.
Determining the Right Gas Log Size
Gas log size is another critical factor to consider before making a decision. Your gas log set should fit properly in your fireplace. Choosing the wrong size can cause your firebox and gas valves to overheat, potentially damaging your home.
To ensure that you purchase the ideal size for your equipment, refer to the manufacturer’s measurement requirements. There should be a recommended clearance. You should also measure your firebox. You need to measure the length, width, height, and depth. If you are unsure or uncomfortable measuring yourself, you can always seek the help of a professional.
Advantages of Gas Fireplaces
Gas fireplaces offer many advantages over wood-burning fireplaces. Compared to wood logs, gas logs are incredibly easy to handle and require less effort. Due to these benefits, gas fireplaces are quickly replacing their wood-burning counterparts.
Advantages of a gas fireplace:
- Does not require lighting and maintaining a fire.
- Produces instant heat.
- Does not require wood storage.
- Eliminates the possibility of termites and other pests.
- Requires minimal maintenance.
- No ash removal.
- Cost-effective.
Maintenance of a Gas Fireplace
Gas fireplaces require less maintenance compared to wood-burning fireplaces. In fact, gas fireplaces do not need daily maintenance. However, essential parts of a gas fireplace should be regularly checked. A licensed fireplace professional can help you keep your gas fireplace in top condition.
What a Hearth Professional Does
A hearth professional will inspect the valves, pipes, and gas connections. If you have a vent-free log set, the ember bed and logs need to be cleaned at least once a year. For vented log sets, the hearth professional inspects and sweeps your chimney and cleans the legs as needed. This professional replaces and repairs parts on your gas fireplace.
Gas Fireplace Decor
While logs are essential for gas fireplaces, they can also be visually appealing. However, decorating gas fireplaces goes beyond these functional gas logs.
While the list of elements below cannot replace gas logs, they can be added for increased visual effect:
- Lava rock
- Fire glass
- Mineral wool
Conclusion
Gas logs are an essential component of a gas fireplace system. However, they can vary in size and functionality. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that the logs you purchase meet the fireplace requirements.
A gas fireplace, when properly installed, can provide you with a multitude of benefits that make it increasingly preferable over the wood-burning counterpart every day.