Gas logs are a decorative appliance that mimic the look of real wood without the hassle of starting a real fire. They burn cleaner than burning natural wood.

Where you are installing gas logs will determine the type of gas log set you can have.

Are you converting a wood-burning fireplace to gas?
A wood-burning fireplace is either:

• A masonry fireplace - typically built from brick or stone 
• A prefabricated/ zero clearance firebox - a metal box with imitation brick or porcelain liners. At first glance, you may think you're looking at a natural masonry fireplace. But, if you take a peek inside these fireboxes, you will most likely see a “knockout hole” on either side. This hole is a gas line access hole and is used to bring the gas line into the fireplace. If you are installing logs in a prefabricated or zero-clearance fireplace, check the owner’s manual to ensure you are installing gas logs that are compatible with the fireplace. If unsure, contact the manufacturer of the firebox. You will need your model information. You can typically find this stamped near the opening of the fireplace, or at the top behind the mesh screen (if you have one).

Are you adding a set of gas logs to a vent free firebox? 

• A vent free firebox is a metal box designed for vent free gas logs only
• If you have a vent free firebox, you CANNOT install a set of vented gas logs. 

PRO TIP: If you are converting a fireplace that was used to burn real wood, consider having your chimney swept and inspected before installing a set a gas logs. 

PRO TIP: If your existing fireplace came with a set of gas logs, check to be sure you are able to change the logs. Some can and some cannot. When in doubt, contact the fireplace manufacturer and learn your options. 

For your safety, it is important to only install gas logs that work in your space. Failure to do so, could lead to catastrophic results. 

• The flames come up between the logs. Vent Free units are designed this way so they don’t produce soot. The flames stay on the burner track and the logs are placed around the flames.
• It’s gettin’ hot in here! That’s what you will be saying as your vent free gas logs warm the room. Vent free gas logs do not require venting, therefore, you can heat your home and not the neighborhood!
• Must be installed in a fireplace approved for a vent-free gas log set.
• Installation is subject to state & local codes (some areas do not allow vent-free).
• Some units are available with thermostat options, allowing you to set the temperature!

Vent Free is great when you want to heat the coldest room in the house, you are more considered about heat that ambiance, you have an approved vent free box or no working flue. 

• Think ambience! Because the flames dance on and around the logs they are typically considered more realistic than vent free.
• Must be installed in an approved, fully-functioning wood burning fireplace.
• The chimney must be fully open when the unit is in use. This means, the majority of the heat will be lost. Think of it as a decorative appliance.
• The unit will produce some soot when the flames touch the logs.

Vented gas logs are a fantastic option when you have a fully functioning chimney, want to run the gas logs for a couple hours in the evening, want ambiance more than heat.