Are you considering a gas fireplace and log set?
Gas fireplaces are a convenient and energy efficient way to add warmth and comfort to your home. Gas fireplaces are designed to have the look and feel of a traditional wood fireplace, without the added hassle of cutting or chopping wood, or the lingering odor or smoke once the fire is out. It may be common to think that all gas fireplace logs are the same, however, there are two options to consider when choosing a gas fireplace – vented logs or ventless logs.
Do Gas Logs Need to Be Vented?
When considering a gas fireplace, homeowners have two options to choose from in regards to the type of logs they choose to use: vented or ventless. With vented logs, a fully functioning chimney is required to provide the proper venting that these logs and fireplaces require. Ventless logs, on the other hand, do not require venting or a chimney as long as they are being used in a firebox designed for such logs and use.
Deciding which type of log is best for you and your gas fireplace is a decision that comes down to how you intend to use your fireplace.
Vented Gas Logs
Vented logs require a chimney to help remove unwanted waste from byproducts created when they are burning. Your chimney helps to guide these products out of your home and outside. In order for your chimney to properly vent these types of logs, the flue must be open while you are using the fireplace.
Now, having the flue open causes these types of gas fireplace logs to put off less heat than ventless logs. However, vented logs produce the most realistic looking flame and ambiance.
Ventless or Vent-Free Logs
As their name implies, ventless or vent-free logs do not require any additional measures for venting, as long as they are used in an appropriate and approved firebox designed for this type of log and use. This makes these a great option for installation where an existing chimney flue no longer opens, or in homes that do not have a chimney. V
entless logs also provide the best heating option since they put off more heat than their non-vented counterparts. If you are considering ventless gas logs be sure to call the professionals at Pettit Heating & Cooling to help you decide on the best option for your gas fireplace.
Many are considered about gas exposure with ventless logs, but most options nowadays have an oxygen depletion sensor that tracks the level of oxygen in the air and shuts itself off if levels that are too low (which typically means the presence of another gas is in the air).
How Do Gas Fireplace Logs Work in Your Fireplace?
Your gas fireplace has several system components that work together to create heat in your home. A typical gas fireplace consists of gas logs or other decorative material (fire glass or shaped stones), a valve system, a burner system, and a fireplace burner. Component system specific parts can vary by brand, but in general all will contain the above.
Additional accessories exist to enhance your gas fireplace like ceramic log pieces or ember bed enhancements. However, they are not always compatible with all gas fireplaces, so be sure to check your manufacturer manual, or call the professionals here at Pettit Heating & Cooling to be sure.
Ignition Systems
Gas fireplaces need an ignition system to ignite the fireplace and produce a flame. There are non-piloted systems and piloted systems. With a non-piloted ignition, a valve key controls gas flow and ignition is manually controlled by lighting a match or applying a lighter to the fireplace. With a piloted ignition system, a pilot light is what allows the fireplace to be shut off when there is no flame present which prevents gas leaks. Piloted systems can also vary in how they are controlled.
In a manual pilot ignition system, the light must be lit by hand and then the burner knob is used to light the rest of the fireplace. A manual pilot switch or remote system involves a remote or switch to light the system, which is a slight upgrade from a traditional manual pilot system.
Lastly, there are electronic ignition systems which are by far, the most convenient option for homeowners. Electronic ignition systems can be battery operated or hard-wired to your home’s electrical wiring. To light your fireplace, you simply push a button to light the pilot.
Our Technicians Are Happy to Help You Out
Gas fireplaces and logs can be a great addition to your home that bring warmth and ambiance into your space, and our techs would be happy to guide you regarding which type – vented or ventless – are the best fit for your space.
Still have questions? Call the professionals here at Pettit Heating & Cooling today, so we can help you decide and ensure your installation is completed by an expert. Dial our number at 615-654-0814 or book online today.
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