Gas Logs Buying Checklist

The Gas Logs Buying Checklist For Vented and Vent Free Gas Log Sets

Buying gas logs can be a fun experience! American Gas Works also wants to ensure it’s a safe one. This checklist will answer some of the most commonly asked questions. If you need additional help, please contact us! One of our friendly team members will be happy to help you!

DID YOU MEASURE YOUR FIREPLACE?

One common mistake homeowners make, especially when replacing a set of gas logs, is buying the exact same size they currently have. While that may be the proper size, the best way to know if you are purchasing the proper sized gas logs is to measure your fireplace and ensure the dimensions of the gas logs will fit. Minimum fireplace dimension requirements can vary between gas logs.

Be sure to review the minimum fireplace requirements for the gas logs you are considering under the “Specifications” tab on the product page. Need to know how to measure your fireplace? Click here.

DID YOU SELECT THE PROPER GAS TYPE?

Be sure to select either natural gas or propane based on the fuel that is powering your fireplace. Some vented gas logs will offer conversion kits. Vent free gas logs do not.

DID YOU SELECT A BURNER?

Your gas logs must sit on a burner designed for that particular style. When selecting gas logs, unless you are replacing an existing set of gas logs with a style that is compatible with your existing burner, you will need to select a burner as well.

DID YOU SELECT THE VALVE YOU WANT?

A valve is attached to your burner and it’s how you operate your gas log set.

A manual safety pilot valve - allows you to turn the unit on and off at the unit. It is not compatible with a remote control.

A standard on/off remote valve - once you initially light your fire at the unit, you can then turn your gas log set on and off from the remote control. You will adjust the height of your gas flame from your unit.

A variable flame height remote valve - once you initially light your fire at the unit, you can then turn your gas log set on and off from the remote control. You can also adjust the height of your gas flame up and down from your remote control.

An electronic remote valve - You will turn your unit on and off from the remote control. You will adjust the gas flame from your unit.

WHERE ARE YOU INSTALLING YOUR GAS LOGS?

Vented gas log sets can ONLY be installed in a fireplace with a fully operational damper. Placing a vented gas log set inside of vent free fireplace or firebox can lead to catastrophic results.

Vent Free gas log sets can ONLY go in fireplaces approved for vent free gas logs.

HOW DO I KNOW THESE GAS LOGS ARE COMPATIBLE WITH MY EXISTING BURNER?

Unless you have your owner’s manual, it can be difficult to tell if your existing burner will be compatible with new gas logs. Some burners will have a model tag. You can check that against the owner’s manual for the logs you are considering. For your convenience, we include a link to the owner’s manuals under the “Download Documents” tab. When it doubt, it’s best to buy the complete gas log set.

DID YOU HIRE AN INSTALLER?

While some people are quite comfortable with DIY projects, we highly recommend that you have a licensed and insured professional install your gas log set. Failure to do so, could lead to catastrophic results. It can also void your warranty.

DID YOU CLEAN YOUR CHIMNEY?

If you have creosote build up from burning real wood, we recommend that you consider having your chimney inspected before installing a set of gas logs.