QA

How To Install Gas Logs

Can I install gas logs myself?

You should not install gas logs on your own because gas log installation involves obtaining an installation permit and getting a post-installation inspection from a town or city inspector.

Is it hard to install gas logs?

Installing a gas log set doesn’t have to be difficult. Our experts can lead you through the shopping process to ensure you have a product you’re satisfied with.

Are ventless gas logs safe?

Ventless gas fireplaces emit dangerous and noxious gasses into the room they are operating. Ventless fireplaces produce small amounts of nitrous dioxide and carbon monoxide which can be deadly in large doses.

Do you need a fireplace screen with gas logs?

Jim says the answer is YES. While they are not necessary to prevent sparks and burning logs from escaping OUT into your room, some gas log manufacturers do require the use of a screen with their product. This is largely to prevent any flammable object from going INTO your fireplace.

How much does it cost to install a gas log fireplace?

Most units fall between $400 and $4,000 when including basic installation prices — though costs can run much higher. Depending on the type of fireplace you choose, the total cost of installation can reach anywhere from $2,300-$10,000 at the high end.

Which is better vented or non vented gas logs?

If you’re more concerned about ambiance and aesthetics than heat, then a Vented gas log set is the best choice for you. Vented gas logs are the best way to achieve a realistic-looking fire. They are designed for use in a traditional wood-burning fireplace and are a safe, mess-free alternative to real wood logs.

What kind of gas logs do I need?

When shopping for gas logs, you’ll need to choose vented or vent-free logs. This decision comes down to many factors, including looks versus efficiency, local building codes and fireplace placement. With vented logs, you’ll enjoy a large, realistic-looking flame that operates with an open chimney flue or damper.

Can you install ventless gas logs yourself?

A ventless fireplace has no chimney, vent or damper. You CANNOT install ventless gas log in any other type of gas fireplace or gas stove including b-vent (natural vent), direct vent or ventless gas fireplaces. Important Note: Ventless gas logs are NOT legal in California and some other states, cities or municipalities.

Can I replace the logs in my gas fireplace?

Changing just the logs can give your fireplace the reboot it needs. The ceramic logs for gas fireplaces have improved through the years so that they mimic real wood with great detail. They are complete with cut marks and branches.

Can you convert gas fireplace to wood?

Not all gas fireplaces can be turned into wood-burning fireplaces. Converting a fireplace to wood is only possible with fireplaces originally built for wood. A wood-burning fireplace must have the proper, safe chimney and venting system. Next, any work with natural gas should be done by a qualified professional.

Do I need a chimney for a gas fireplace?

Ventless fireplaces fueled by gas or propane rely on indoor air for combustion, and they exhaust a low level of their combustion gases into the room in which they’re located. A chimney or flue isn’t necessary. In fact, ventless fireplaces generally are just for aesthetics and supplemental space heating.

Can you get carbon monoxide poisoning from a gas fireplace?

Yes, gas fireplaces are one potential cause of carbon monoxide poisoning. An improperly maintained or ventilated gas fireplace can create incomplete combustion, creating carbon monoxide, and causing this toxic gas to linger—putting those inside at risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Can I light my gas fireplace without electricity?

Many gas fireplaces will work without electricity. You can run both intermittent pilot ignition fireplaces and standing pilot light systems during a power outage. IPI valve systems will normally have a backup battery system in place to ignite the flames.

How many hours can you run a gas fireplace?

In general, you should not run an unvented fireplace for more than three hours at a time. If you are using natural gas, you can usually run your fireplace for up to four hours before needing to refuel. If you are using propane, the limit is typically two hours.

How much does a gas log cost?

Cost of Gas Logs Vented gas logs, which need a chimney, cost between $300 and $500, not including installation. Ventless gas logs, which are used without a chimney, cost between $350 and $600 without installation.

Are gas log fireplaces efficient?

Gas logs are only about 10%-20% efficient, with the majority of heat produced escaping through the chimney. (The same is true with a traditional wood burning fireplace.) Gas logs must be installed in an existing, working fireplace opening – meaning the fireplace masonry and chimney need to be in good working order.

Does it cost a lot to run a gas fireplace?

Gas fireplaces are pretty inexpensive to run. That’s primarily because the price of natural gas and propane are very (about $1.09 per 100,000 BTU) low compared to the price of electricity (about $3.87 per 100,000 BTU). Standard 20,000 BTU gas fireplace costs $0.29 per hour to run.