How to Choose Gas Logs?
Choosing gas logs can be simple!
1. Select Fuel Type - Natural Gas or Propane?
This one is easy! Purchase the logs with the appropriate fuel type. Some gas log sets come with both natural gas and propane orifices. Be sure to use the appropriate orifice for your fuel type.
2. Vented or Vent-Free (also called Ventless)
Vented gas logs have a higher flame that is more yellow, and that actually curls around the logs. However, these sets produce very little heat and are considered a decorative appliance.
Vent-Free (Ventless) gas logs will provide more heat in your room because your damper remains closed. The flame goes in between the logs rather than touch the logs.
If you're going for looks, you should consider VENTED. If you're going for heat, you should consider VENT-FREE.
Please check with your local laws, as some states have banned the use of Vent-Free gas logs.
3. Measure Your Fireplace (also called Firebox)
Choosing the right size of gas logs for your fireplace is CRITICAL! Gas logs must have proper ventilation.
Most fireplaces are tapered, so measure:
- Measure the front width of your fireplace
- Measure the rear width of your fireplace
- Measure the depth from the front to the back of your fireplace
- Measure the height from the top to bottom of the front your fireplace
- Measure the height from the top to bottom of the back your fireplace
The logs on our website have the firebox dimension requirements listed in the description. Please be sure to select a gas log that fits within the minimum. If you have questions, feel free to contact our Customer Support team. We will be more than happy to walk you through the process so you get it right the first time! You can also follow this simple step-by-step guide.
4. Select Your Gas Logs
Once you know the correct fuel type, whether you want vented or vent-free, and the appropriate size, you are now ready to select your logs. It's really a matter of personal taste. So many choices! Select what you like!
5. Select Your Gas Log Burner
It's crucial to select a gas log burner that is compatible with your gas logs. Failure to select the appropriate burner can ruin your logs, create unnecessary soot, void your warranty, and potentially release carbon monoxide into your home.
6. Select Your Control Option
There are a few basic options for controlling the flame on your gas log set. You can learn more, here.
First, is a manual safety pilot valve. This is similar to the pilot valves seen on a furnace or a water heater. To light the pilot, simply turn the knob on the valve to “Pilot,” light the pilot, and hold the knob in for about 30 seconds until the pilot stays lit on its own. Once the pilot is lit, you can turn on your gas logs without having to light anything. In addition, when the pilot light is out, the valve automatically closes and no gas can pass through it. The safety pilot valve allows you to rest assured that no gas is escaping into your home.
Second, is a millivolt safety pilot valve. This valve is similar in operation to the manual safety pilot, with an added bonus – it can be hooked up to a control device such as a wall switch, remote, or thermostat (for vent-free only). If you’re looking for a remote, you can either get a simple on/off remote, or a model that allows you to adjust the flame height.
Third, is an electronic ignition, also called an IPI (Intermittent Pilot Ignition). This type of system allows you turn the unit completely on or completely off. Because there is no millivolt valve, there is no standing pilot. This type of system works well for people who do not want a pilot light burning when the logs are off.
7. Select Your Gas Log Accessories
You have many choices with accessories to customize the look of your gas logs. Platinum Embers are a huge seller. They are a low-cost option that really makes your set sparkle and they are considerably brighter than regular embers. You can do a mix of regular embers and platinum embers for a more realistic look.