Gas Log Blog

How to Buy a Gas Log Set

Wednesday, June 26, 2013 Posted by Anonymous


GL-105There are many advantages to Gas Log Sets over the traditional wood burning fireplace.  Not only does gas burn cleaner than wood, but it often has greater heat output as well. Add to that the convenience, cost savings and safety of Gas Logs, and it is easy to see why more and more homes are making the switch. Woodland Direct creates a user experience that is simple and thorough to make sure you find the ideal unit for your home. Here are several factors you will need to consider when purchasing a Gas Log Set. 

Gas Type

GL-104The type of gas you burn may be decided by a line that is already installed in your fireplace. If you are converting from a wood burning fireplace to gas, you will need to choose what type of gas you would prefer to fuel your fireplace.


Propane


PropaneThe primary advantage of Propane is that it contains more carbon than Natural Gas. The increase in carbon allows Propane to burn up to three times hotter than Natural Gas. Because Liquid Propane is heavier than air, a safety pilot is required when using it. Liquid Propane is readily available in areas where Natural Gas in not accessible to the home.




Natural Gas


Natural GasNatural Gas is the most commonplace fuel for Gas Log Installations. It is widely available, and there is no need to have a tank refilled, as is the case with propane. Natural Gas is lighter than air, meaning that in some areas it can be used without a safety pilot. We advise you to check local code requirements before installing any gas system. If you have Natural Gas coming into your house, but not to your fireplace, it is very important to know the BTU input of the gas log set that you will be installing. If you have this information, a certified plumber will then know what diameter line to run into your firebox. This will ensure that a safe amount of gas is flowing to your log set so it performs at the expected performance level.
Click here to learn more about the gas options for your fireplace or contact our technical sales team at 1.800.919.1904

Vented or Ventless?  

When selecting a Gas Log set, you will need to choose between Vented or Ventless systems. Choosing the one that suits your installation depends on a number of factors.


Vented Gas Logs


Vented Log SetsVented Log Sets are made to be used in fireboxes that would traditionally be capable of a wood burning fire.
The true value in a vented gas log set is how realistic they look. Vented logs produce a taller flame, allowing it to look more like a wood fuel flame. Because of the heat produced, the damper is required to be open, just as in a traditional wood fire.
However, the open damper also means that vented log sets are less efficient than ventless log sets in heating a room. Vented Gas Log Sets will also use slightly more gas than ventless.


Ventless Gas Logs


Ventless Log SetsVentless or “Vent-Free” Gas Log Sets are unique in that they produce little or no exhaust. They operate similar to your home’s natural gas stove or range. Vented log sets can be used with the damper closed. High heat output is one of the main benefits to ventless units. With ventless units, about 99% of the heat produced is circulated back into the room rather than escaping up through a chimney. Ventless units come standard with an oxygen depletion sensor, or “ODS.” The ODS measures the amount of oxygen that is present in the room and will alert you if oxygen levels get too low.

Click here for more information on Vented and Ventless Log Sets
If you have any general or technical questions regarding Vented vs. Ventless or any other aspect of Gas Logs, feel free to ask our Technical Sales Team at 1.800.919.1904.

Sizing

Measuring

MeasuringAt Woodland Direct, we strive to give customers the easiest buying experience. To find the correct Log Set size for your fireplace, there are a few critical dimensions that need to be obtained. Once you have decided on a log set, our configurator will walk you through choosing the correct log size for your purchase.
Simply measure your fireplace width at both the front and rear locations inside the firebox. Then measure the depth of the firebox from front to back.

Other Considerations

With many models, the type of control system you choose will determine how much clearance you will need between your burner pan and the wall of your fireplace. A Gas Log installation will look much better if it is centered in the firebox, so determining the right size is crucial to the aesthetic of your fireplace.

Control Options


ControlsThere are many options when it comes to controlling your Gas Log Set. Manual Safety Pilots are the most basic method. This simple setup uses a knob that turns the flame up. The pilot stays lit throughout the season. For more control, a remote system can be used. Remote systems can light a fire from across your room, or from a wall mounted switch. Some remotes are on and off only, while more advanced remotes can have LCD displays and even show room temperature. Also available are variable remote controls, where the amount of flame is set from the comfort of your sofa. A new control method is the Electronic Ignition System. These systems turn the gas on and off remotely without requiring a standing pilot. There is no wasted gas and no gas pilot noise when the fireplace is not in use.
Click here for more information on valves and remotes.

For more information please visit the Woodland Direct Learning Center

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