Restrictions for Vented Gas Log Fireplaces

Fireplace Type

• Not every fireplace has the equipment required to accommodate gas logs, and the type of fireplace you need depends of whether you have vented or ventless gas logs. Ventless gas logs can be used safely in a ventless fireplace, because these logs emit virtually no gas or exhaust fumes. Vented gas logs need to have a traditional wood burning fireplace that is fully functional. Vented gas logs produce more heat and require that the damper in the fireplace be open during use. Masonry fireplaces and pre-fabricated wood burning fireplaces are appropriate for this use. A ventless fireplace or a fireplace used strictly for decoration should not be used with vented gas logs.

Vent Placement

• It is important to make sure your gas log fireplace is properly vented. In a standard gas log fireplace, you can choose whether you want a top or rear vent position. A top front is appropriate if you already have chimney access or you live in a one-story home. It is not appropriate for houses with multiple stories, and it is structurally impossible to run a chimney through the upper stories. A rear vent exits through the outside wall of your home and provides outside air combustion if your home is small or tightly sealed. A conductive heat vent is generally positioned at the top of the fireplace to blow out high heat.

Logs

• Some areas restrict gas logs that are non-certified. A gas log may fail to earn certification if it is large and generates too many BTUs, but non-certified logs are considered safe for use in some places. Radco manufactures a log that is certified, but its use is restricted to certain areas because of the high BTUs it produces. These types of logs are large and available in sizes up to 30 inches. Certification by the American National Standards Institute is the most commonly accepted certification for gas logs.

Usage

• You must determine whether propane or natural gas is the fuel used for your logs. Real wood logs and gas logs are not interchangeable because of the high heat and additional soot and ashes that wood produces, according to the Regency Fireplace Products website. You should identify the composition of your log to determine how it should be burned. A refractory cement log is inexpensive and is made from heat-resistant material. Refractory cement logs do not radiate a lot of heat, and they are prone to cracking and crumbling after use. A refractory ceramic gas log, which is made from a blend of cement and powdered ceramic, has a higher heat radiating capability, and it lasts for many years. Although not as realistic looking as cement logs, refractory ceramic gas logs are designed to be used several times.