Many people are making the switch from a traditional wood fireplace to the convenience, efficiency, and cleanliness of gas logs. Is a gas log fireplace right for you?

Our experts at Clean Sweep 317 know our fireplaces, and we hear a lot of questions about making the jump to gas logs. Since your satisfaction is our desire we’ve compiled some of the most common questions that people have – and their answers.

Still need assistance? Ready to schedule? Reach out – we’re here to help.

Vented vs. Ventless Gas Logs: What’s the Difference?

When it comes to your gas log fireplace, one of the primary decisions that needs to be made is whether you use vented or ventless logs. Ultimately it comes down to your priorities and what you want to get from your gas logs.

an infographic highlight the various differences between vented and ventless gas logs

Vented Gas Logs

The advantages of going with vented gas logs is that you get a more realistic flame pattern that most accurately mimics a wood-burning fire. They also maintain cleaner indoor air quality as emitted vapors and carbon monoxide are vented out of the home. The major disadvantage of vented gas logs is that they do require a vent which means they are a less efficient heat source for the home as most of the heat is released out the chimney or vent.

Ventless Gas Logs

On the other hand, ventless gas logs offer a more controlled, but less realistic flame pattern. They are an efficient heat source as they don’t need a vent or chimney in order to work safely. It is recommended not use ventless gas logs for longer than 2 to 4 hours at a stretch.

What Are Fireplace Gas Logs?

Gas logs are decorative logs that are designed to look like real wood logs in order to give your gas fireplace the appearance of burning wood. Often made of ceramic, refractory cement, or ceramic fiber, gas logs create the illusion of genuine wood. They come in various styles and can look extremely convincing.

How Do You Install Gas Logs?

Anytime you are working with gas, it is strongly suggested that you use professional help. Gas logs need to be connected to a gas line and improper installation can cause dangerous situations. Things like…

  • gas logs burninggas leaks
  • improper ventilation (which can lead to high concentrations of lethal carbon monoxide)
  • unlawfully failing to be in compliance with local building codes
  • losing warranty and insurance perks
  • …and more

At Clean Sweep 317 our certified and experienced team of technicians are licensed, experienced, and fully equipped to make sure your gas logs are properly installed.

How Do Gas Logs Work?

Gas logs burn off a home’s gas supply. This could be either natural gas or propane. The gas line connects directly to the gas logs, and when switched on, the fire ignites either by manually applying a flame to the gas or electronically with a switch. In an electronic system a pilot light will often be present to make sure there is always flame available.

Once ignited, the continual supply of gas through tiny hole patterns in the gas logs keep the flames dancing just like a natural wood fire. These flames produce heat which radiates warmth into the room and throughout the home. How much control over heat output you have depends on the model of the fireplace.

Are Gas Logs Safe?

Gas logs can be very safe when installed and used correctly. Like any appliance, however, safety can become a factor if regular maintenance and safety checks aren’t considered. Hiring a professional from Clean Sweep 317 to regularly clean your fireplace and chimney system, inspect it, and repair anything that could be potentially dangerous can make using a gas fireplace very safe.

Can You Convert a Wood-Burning Fireplace to Gas Logs?

Yes, it is possible to convert your current natural wood-burning fireplace to use gas logs.

Many people like not having to keep a store of chopped wood on hand or they worry about the potential mess that natural wood can make. Still, they want to use their fireplace. Using gas logs can help you get around these things, while allowing you to enjoy all the great ambiance a fireplace has to offer. Here is how converting a wood-burning fireplace works at Clean Sweep 317.

  1. Assessment: Our experts at Clean Sweep 317 will inspect your existing fireplace to determine the current condition of your fireplace system. It is important that your chimney and flue are in good working order and up to code.
  2. Gas Line Installation: Once your fireplace is deemed suitable and ready, a gas line will be installed (if not already) to provide the fuel source for the gas logs.
  3. Venting: Depending on your preference and local regulations, you can choose vented or ventless gas logs. Vented models will require proper venting through the chimney, while ventless models can be used without a vent.
  4. Installation: The gas logs are carefully placed and connected to the gas line. The ignition system is tested to ensure it works correctly and all mechanical systems operate as engineered.
  5. Safety Check: A thorough safety check is conducted to confirm that there are no gas leaks and that the gas logs are functioning properly.
  6. Operation: Once the conversion is complete, you can enjoy the convenience of gas logs in your existing fireplace.

Converting to gas logs is a great way to breathe new life into an old wood-burning fireplace, making it more efficient and user-friendly.

Turn to Us for Your Gas Fireplace Services

So are you ready to make the jump into the world of the gas log fireplace? Let us help! Call Clean Sweep 317 today and let us walk with you through the process. Our friendly experts will help you choose the perfect fireplace for your home, bringing you comfort and warmth for years to come.

Call 317-643-1128 or book online with us today.