Gas Log Sets

Gas log sets are decorative gas appliances that are crafted to mimic the look and feel of a real wood-burning fire. Convert an old wood fireplace into a clean and efficient gas fireplace with the use of gas log sets.  Convenient and affordable, these gas units come in a variety of sizes and styles and can be used in vented or ventless fireboxes. Depending on the selected burner system, you can enjoy features such as remote controls, automatic ignitions, and adjustable flame heights. Gas log sets require minimal maintenance and provide a no-hassle alternative to burning wood. 

In addition to providing the ambiance of a real wood-burning fire, gas log sets are easy to install and maintain, while their 99% efficiency rating helps lower your energy bills. Choosing the right set is important for maximum heat output, cost efficiency, safety, appearance, and ease of use. There are a few factors to consider, such as size, fuel source, venting, and style.

Venting Options

When choosing a gas log set, the first thing to consider is whether the firebox is vented or ventless:

Vented/Direct Vent

These gas fueled log sets must be used in a working wood-burning fireplace with a working chimney.  Carbon Monoxide is emitted by the burning gas, and with the damper open, this exhaust can escape through the chimney. Vented log sets have a strikingly realistic appearance and produce realistic, natural looking yellow flames. Not only do direct vent log sets look like a traditional wood-burning fire, they also provide radiant heat similar to burning wood logs.  Some soot is produced when the flame touches the log set, meaning a bit of gas fireplace maintenance is required. The most important reasons our customers choose vented gas log sets include:

• Convenience - The ease of installation and operation is one of the biggest benefits of gas fireplace logs.  With a sufficient fuel supply and the correct size log set for your firebox, vented log sets are extremely straightforward to install. 
• Versatile- A wide array of customization options are available to fit your needs.  Whether you need a set that is large or small, basic or full of optional accessories, you will find the perfect log set for transforming your old wood-burning fireplace.
• Appearance - With a variety of different timber styles, from birch to classic oak, traditional to modern, you are sure to find the gas log set that fits best with your decor.  Optional add-ons like glowing ember beds and LED lighting can offer an even more realistic wood-burning fire experience.

Ventless

Similar to vented log sets, ventless gas log sets come in an array of timber styles and sizes. Unlike vented gas log sets, ventless gas log sets can be installed in any fireplace or firebox, regardless of the ventilation. Vent free gas log sets offer the most versatility, as they do not require a working chimney with a flue and can be installed anywhere that you can place a firebox.  Ventless log sets have a greater heating capacity as heat is not lost through a chimney. Ventless units use air from the room for combustion and burn almost all of the fuel, cutting down on harmful emissions. Though the emission rate is lower than with vented gas appliances, a carbon monoxide detector and an Oxygen Depletion System is required as oxygen is taken from the room and the emissions are not exhausted outdoors. This can also cause humidity in the room. Ventless gas appliances are not recommended for people with allergies or breathing problems. There are very strict guidelines with ventless gas appliances, therefore, it is suggested that you reach out to your local professional to inquire about the rules of your community. When used properly and in accordance with the manufacturer's rules and local safety codes, vent free gas fireplaces can be an efficient secondary heating source for almost any room in your home. Customers who buy ventless gas log sets typically do so for the following reasons:

• Efficiency - Ventless gas log sets are extremely efficient and will provide an exceptional amount of heat for your room.  Since they do not require a chimney or venting, all of the heat produced is circulated back into the room, rather than escaping through the venting system.
• Clean Burning - Ventless gas log sets are designed to burn so hotly that nearly 100% of the fuel is combusted, achieving a clean, smokeless flame. This also allows them to operate safely without a chimney.
• Safety - Ventless gas logs come equipped with a built-in Oxygen Depletion Sensor that automatically shuts off the gas supply to the burner if the room's oxygen level gets too low.

Fuel Types

Natural Gas is most commonly used in urban and suburban developments. One of the biggest benefits of natural gas is that it flows continuously through an underground pipeline, so you don't have to worry about propane gas storage, scheduling deliveries, or running out of fuel. Propane is commonly used in rural areas where a natural gas pipeline has not been established.  Propane burns about half as much volume as natural gas and burns 2.5 times hotter, making it the more energy-efficient option. Propane tank installation and the cost of refilling the tanks are additional costs associated with using propane.

When purchasing a gas log set, be sure to select the desired fuel source at the time of placing the order. Special gas utilization fittings for each fuel source are required. Most natural gas fireplaces and liquid propane fireplaces come with conversion kits to switch to the other fuel source. 

Installation

For a gas log set to perform properly, it must fit the fireplace it will be installed in. Following the minimum specifications for firebox dimensions found in the fireplace or gas log installation manuals will help ensure you pick the appropriate log size.  Keep in mind that certain options, such as the pilot kit or burner assembly, can add to the width of the log set.  Most gas log sets require the fireplace is at least 15" deep, any less than this and you may have to look for a reduced depth log set.

Though you may be able to do the following steps yourself, it is recommended that you contact a fireplace installer who is certified in your area.  You don't want to sacrifice safety just to save a few dollars when you are dealing with gas and fire.

• Read the Installation Manual Thoroughly - Always review the warnings and instructions prior to installation.
• Turn Gas Off and Locate the Gas Supply Stub in the Side of the Firebox - Most gas log sets will need to have the gas coming from the right rear side of the burner system, but this can vary depending on the appliance.
• Connect the Gas Supply to the Burner Using a Flexible Gas Line - A safety pilot kit will need to be installed between the burner and the gas supply. Pipe dope or tape must be used to seal all non-flared fittings during this step.
• Place the Burner in the Proper Position - Typically, the burner will be placed in the center, towards the back of the firebox, but this can vary.
• Turn the Gas Back On and Test for Leaks - Soapy water can be used to detect leaks if a leak detector is not available. If no bubbles form, the line is sealed tight.
• If Using a Fireplace Grate - The correct position for the burner will be provided in the manual.
• Add Necessary Media - Most burners will need to be filled with vermiculite, lava rock, or fire glass to disperse the gas and give a fuller flame appearance.
• Position Logs According to Placement Chart - Log placement is crucial for proper functioning. Please refer to the installation manual of your specific log set for proper log placement.

Control Options

Whether you want a manual ignition, remote control or flame adjustment, there are many burner options and accessories to choose from.  Burners are installed in gas fireplaces to support the log set and to power and control the flames.  There are three common control options available.

• Match Lit or Manual Ignition - The gas log set burner is lit manually with a long match or lighter.
• Manual Safety Pilot - The pilot light is lit manually, and the burner can be turned on/off with a control knob. This is similar to the ones found in water heaters.
• Electronic Ignition System - The pilot light can be switched on with the push of a button.  A remote can be used to control and adjust the flames, along with controlling the on/off functions.

Types of Material Used

There are three common types of gas fireplace logs; ceramic fiber gas logs, ceramic refractory gas logs, and refractory cement gas log sets. Ceramic fiber is a light material that is similar to cardboard.

• Ceramic fiber gas logs are very porous, which means there are tiny holes all over the surface. Because of this, it can absorb strong odors, such as those from strong-smelling foods like garlic or fish. Ceramic fibers are thin, however, they are designed to withstand high heat and typically last around 5 years before showing signs of wear. 
• Ceramic Refractory is similar to reinforced cement.  Powdered ceramic material and cement are poured into a mold and allowed to dry before coating it with heat-resistant paint.  Ceramic refractory gas log sets are more durable than ceramic fiber and can last 8 - 10 years before showing signs of use.  Ceramic refractory logs are not as porous as ceramic fiber log sets, therefore, they do not absorb odors as easily.  Ceramic refractory gas logs are a high-quality option designed to withstand high temperatures without cracking.
• Refractory cement gas log sets are made from a cement mixture and range in quality. High-quality refractory cement logs tend to look more realistic, which is important if you want an authentic-looking fireplace.  Refractory cement gas logs are prone to cracking at extremely high temperatures and do not last as long as ceramic log sets. 

Types of Log Sets

Standard, authentic looking gas logs are very popular and available in various timber-styles, however, they may not be suitable in certain situations. Our selection of gas fireplace log sets includes the following:

• Outdoor Gas Log Sets - Designed for use in outdoor gas fireplaces, these realistic looking log sets are made with weather resistant stainless steel components to help prevent rusting. 

• See-Thru Gas Log Sets - Created to be used in a two-sided, see-through indoor gas fireplace. The see-thru gas fireplace sets are made to look great from both the front and back. The bottom logs are the same width as the rectangular burner.  There is a double amount of glowing embers and burner filler, so everything looks the same from both sides. 

• Contemporary Gas Sets - For those looking for something less traditional looking, contemporary gas log sets come in a variety of styles and configurations.  From smooth fire stones and river rocks, fire glass to ceramic spheres, we have a contemporary gas fireplace log set to fit your style. 

 

  Safety Tips

• Vented gas logs are made for use in pre-existing wood-burning fireplaces with a functional chimney.  
• Check your local code requirements before purchasing any type of gas log set.  Some buildings, city, and state codes have restrictions on using gas log sets.
• Have your gas fireplace log set inspected once a year to ensure the connections are tight and the hoses are in good condition.  If using a vented gas log set, be sure to have your chimney inspected once a year as well.

Whether you’re looking to save time and money, improve your heating efficiency, or make an eco-friendly choice, a gas log fireplace can help you achieve all these things and more. Not all gas log sets are created equal. We are here to help you find the right gas logs to keep your fireplace effectively burning.