ClearChimney Blog

The real truth behind gas fireplace logs will surprise you. Gone are the days of cheap looking gas log inserts. Vent free is here.

Gas fireplace logs offer the ease of use in turning them on and off with a switch. Also, the better quality gas logs operate with a remote control for setting room temperatures.

Many times, old chimneys and flues become a maintenance headache for burning firewood. A professional chimney company can convert a wood burning fireplace into gas logs.

What is a vent free fireplace?

Simply put, a vent free fireplace is a self contained unit. It contains a metal shell called a firebox. It also has a burner (served by natural gas or propane) and the log set. The real truth behind gas fireplace logs is they do not require venting or a chimney.

We have another post on our site: How to Install Fireplace Inserts. This will help you understand more about conversions from wood to gas.

The installers mount vent free gas log fireplaces a wall. They also install logs in existing chimneys. Don’t forget the outside deck, hot tub area or barbecue pit area.

Is there preparation needed before you convert to a vent free gas log system?

A chimney inspection or a sweep is highly recommended before installing vent free gas logs. The old creosote build up must be removed.

The benefits are numerous for converting an existing wood burning fireplace to gas logs. Here are several benefits you will enjoy:

• The top benefit of gas logs is no ash and soot to clean.
• Remote control of the space temperature.
• On and off times based on temperatures or time.
• No chimney or fireplace to maintain.
• Efficient burning of the natural gas or propane saves money.
• Real fire look every time. No poking or moving logs around.

How about the cost of installing vent free gas logs?

Most vent free gas log installations and conversions are very affordable. As with any purchase, you get what you pay for in looks, convenience and energy use.

Most installations range from $1,800 to around $4,500. Of course, the very high end units and large units can cost over $8,000. Remember, this is a one time cost. Factor in the cost of wood, cleaning, maintenance and safety to see the value of gas logs installed. All prices are going higher now due to the supply and demand of goods. Ask up about used gas log sets or other alternatives to lower the install cost.

What secrets we use to make the gas log conversion look real?

Real fires produce ash and embers that glow as they burn. For instance, the smoldering embers on the bottom of the logs look real. Therefore, we use a man made ember that glows but does not burn up.

Volcanic rock and heat sand add additional “real fire” look to any gas log set. The key is proper placement in the log set.

What to watch out for – too many rocks or ash will clog the orifices. Also, the logs will scorch if done incorrectly.

Finally, even though the gas logs are not wood, don’t forget to keep a fire extinguisher around. Also, a carbon monoxide detector is critical for your families safety.

How to install fireplace inserts is one of our top questions we receive. Fire place inserts convert wood burning fireplaces to an electric or gas log fireplace. Once fireplace inserts are installed, the existing chimney will not longer need aggressive cleaning. The only maintenance for the inserts is a chimney sweep once a year.

Over time, a traditional wood burning chimney builds up soot. If not cleaned regularly by a professional chimney sweep, this build up can start fires. Many families choose gas logs or electric fireplaces to maintain the look and feel of a fire as our homes are modernized.

Many vendors offer remarkably real gas logs. Also, some have remote controls and thermostats to regulate the temperature in the home.

When we are asked how to install fireplace inserts, we inform them in order to convert a wood burning fireplace into gas logs or a vented fireplace, there are several steps to take:

• The most important first step is a chimney sweep by a professional (do not go pass this point until it is done!)
• The old fireplace grate is removed and recycled.
• The chimney professional will inspect and repair any fire brick and defects in the masonry.
• A fireplace insert is installed. This insert is lowered from the chimney top or in some cases pushed up through the chimney.
• The insert is cut and installed in the chimney cap at the top of the chimney.
• The new set of gas or electric logs are installed in the existing fireplace opening.
• All gas lines and other connections are verified and secured.

What are the benefits of a fireplace liner?

The new gas logs are amazing. The benefits are ease of use, remote controls, no clean up and high efficiency.

Even though the old chimney smoke is reduced, it is important to sweep the new liner yearly. The chimney cap and liner build up soot also.

Finally, search for chimney sweep near me for a qualified professional. Require insurance, recommendations and a guarantee for all work.

One of the most frequently asked questions in our business is “how to burn wood in a fireplace”. A lot of us were taught in scouts or from our family and friends. Often, the skill is not totally the best.

Here are 9 key stages on how to burn wood in a fireplace.

1. Get an annual chimney check – Have chimneys inspected annually and cleaned as necessary.  This reduces the risk of fires and carbon monoxide poisonings due to creosote build-up or obstructions in the chimney.
2. Keep it clear – Keep tree branches and leaves at least 15 feet away from the top of the chimney.
3. Install a chimney cap – to keep debris and animals out of the chimney.
4. Choose the right fuel – Choose well-seasoned wood that has been split for a minimum of six months, and stored in a covered and elevated location.  Never burn Christmas trees, loose paper of any kind (newspaper, cardboard…) or treated wood in your fireplace or wood stove.
5. Build it right – Place dry, seasoned firewood or fire logs at the rear of the fireplace on a supporting grate using the following top-down fire method.   Start by placing the largest pieces of wood on the bottom of the fireplace grate or wood stove, with the ends going front to back (opposite of what you were taught).  This front to back method allows the air to mix well with the fuel.  Place smaller wood on top with their ends going side to side.  Keep alternating your rows of wood using smaller and smaller pieces until your wood is stacked about ½ the height of the fireplace.  At this point you will begin placing your kindling (the smallest pieces of wood).  Again, stack smaller and smaller pieces until there are simple wood shavings on top. The shavings on top should be small enough to light with a single match.  As the fire burns from the top to the bottom, it will continue to ignite the wood below.  Only a little smoke is created as the fire burns hotter and more cleanly from the top of the stack.  Burning wood this way prevents smoke and unburnt gases from entering your cold chimney. This can potentially adhere to the chimney walls causing creosote.
6. Keep the hearth area clear – Combustible material too close to the fireplace or to a wood stove, could easily catch fire.  Keep furniture at least 36” away from the hearth.
7. Use a fireplace screen – Use metal mesh or a screen in front of the fireplace to catch flying sparks that could ignite or burn holes in the carpet or flooring.
8. Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors – Place detectors throughout the house and check batteries in the spring and fall.  An easy way to remember to check:  When you change your clocks for Daylight Savings Time, check your batteries.
9. Never have a fire in a fireplace unattended – Before turning in for the evening, be sure that the fire is fully extinguished.  Supervise children and pets closely around wood stoves and fireplaces when in use.