As we get older and our needs change, it makes sense to replace a dying fireplace using wood to gas logs. The idea of buying (or chopping your own) firewood, stacking it and bringing it in on a cold night is no longer romantic.
Like our bodies, the fireplace and the chimney wear out. The mortar will start to crack and need patching. The chimney will build up a layer of creosote that must be swept yearly.
To replace a dying fireplace, the first step is finding a trusted, honest professional chimney services company. A company with many years of experience will quickly inspect the fireplace. They provide guidance on several options to change out the wood burning fireplace. There is never just one solution fits all.
A trusted chimney company is your best friend.
Replacing a dying fireplace with gas logs
The process of converting a wood burning fire place into gas logs is straight forward. First, the chimney is swept thoroughly by a chimney sweep. The firebox is cleaned out of all old soot and debris in preparation of new gas logs. Most new log sets are sensitive to dirt and build up in the burners. The fireplace must be clean before the installation.
Secondly, the source of fuel is located and installed if necessary. Gas log sets are available in natural gas or propane. The orifices are different so you must know which is available before installing a set.
After the gas line is run and secured, the burner set that the logs rest on is installed. This burner has the controls, sensors and design for specific sets of gas logs. Don’t try to put just any burner package on any type of gas logs. It may work but it can result in soot and failure of the sensors.
Gas log options and testing
Many of the newer gas logs sets for replacing wood burning fireplaces operate with a remote control. The options vary by manufacturer. On, off, high, low and temperature control are often common to all. Therefore, look for features in each provider that fit your lifestyle. Heads up – the batteries do wear out over time. Many of our service calls are due to dead batteries!
In addition, each manufacturer provides different quality in the logs as well as the maintenance needed to clean the burners. Make a note of the differences to talk with your installer. After that, the final decision is looks of the logs. How to they fit into your home? You will see them day in and day out. Finally, pick the one that is best for your taste.
When the gas fireplace is not working, it is due to several possible conditions. The most obvious is the fuel source. Is the natural gas or propane reaching the gas fireplace?
During the very cold winter periods, it is not uncommon for the natural gas pressure from the utility to drop. Large commercial users of natural gas may not cut back from their usage. This creates a lower overall pressure in the natural gas system. This results in low pressure and the ignitors for gas logs may keep the system off.
Also, if the gas fireplace not working is fed by propane, the tank levels could be low. Check the levels of the tank and if they are less than 10%, call the propane tank supplier immediately. The propane suppliers may be four to seven days backordered on delivery. Do not wait until the tank is completely gone. The supplier of propane may not be able to service your home quickly.
Another common cause of gas fireplaces not working is the ignitor. The ignitor verifies that the gas source is good before the power is applied to start the logs. Over time when a gas fireplace not working call comes in, we fine the corrosion or soot and dirt is preventing the igniter from doing its job.
Another cause of gas fireplace not working calls is the remote control. We have seen several folks with the batteries simply installed backwards. Check out the gas log remote control batteries if someone changed them recently.
Finally, the gas logs need air to work. Make sure no birds or debris have clogged the chimney piping. If you are not comfortable with this task, reach out our ClearChimney service page here.
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?
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.
