Learn the instances where retrofitting gas logs into your fireplace may be the perfect option - and also, when they're NOT the right choice
What are gas logs really good for?
Decoration and ambience. Vented gas logs are not meant to heat your home - they are designed as a substitute for an open burning wood fire. Just like you wouldn't try to heat your house with wood in your open fireplace, gas logs are not meant for this job, either. They are intended as a means of having a beautiful fire at the touch of a button, and to save you the trouble of toting wood and cleaning up ashes. Appreciate them for what they are and have realistic expectations of the benefits they offer you in beauty and convenience.
Can I put gas logs in my wood stove?
No. Wood stoves are meant to burn "airtight" or with controlled combustion. Gas appliances actually need excessive amounts of air in order to burn the gas properly. Failure to provide adequate combustion air can result in an explosion.
Can I install gas logs in my bedroom fireplace?
Probably. The recognized building safety codes in effect in most areas will allow them so long as the logs are a vented style, the room is not considered a "confined space" and the home is not of unusually tight construction. But before planning this type of project please consult your local building official for guidelines.
Can I put gas logs in my prefabricated metal fireplace?
Maybe. If there is a gas line knockout, commonly noted as a dimpled depression in the refractory "firebrick" then you can install gas logs and perhaps even a gas insert. Check manufacturer's instructions for both the fireplace and the gas logs or insert before installation. Never drill holes through the firebox in an unspecified area to run a gas line - use only the knockout access provided. If there's no knockout then don't install gas logs into a prefab fireplace!
You should not install vent-free gas logs into a prefabricated woodburning fireplace.
These fireplaces were designed to be used to burn wood and with the damper open, which dissipates the heat. Closing the damper and keeping all that continuous heat in the box may cause excessive heat transfer to the walls behind your fireplace.
My chimney sweep says my chimney is unsafe to burn a wood fire in. Can I install gas logs?
No. Vented gas logs require an operational chimney and fireplace that are suitable for burning wood. Vented gas logs can produce tremendous amounts of soot and fumes and with a faulty chimney they may not exit your home properly. Soot is the least of your worries with a faulty chimney; soot makes a mess but fumes (including carbon monoxide) can kill you. Don't take this lightly! The chimney is very important in the functionality and safety of your gas appliance.
The chimney in my old house was knocked down and only the firebox remains. Can I install vent-free gas logs?
Technically, the answer is no. Even vent-free gas logs require a chimney to be present, except in specially made vent-free zero clearance boxes. Occasionally you may find a building inspector who will specify construction of a masonry firebox and allow this, but do so only with his careful supervision.
My new home was built with a gas fireplace in it. I like the looks of an open fire. Can I remove the glass?
No. If your system has a fixed glass pane on it then it will malfunction if you remove the glass.
Can I change the logs that came with it?
No. A different set of logs may perform differently and adversely affect the performance of the fireplace.
Can I convert my prefabricated gas fireplace to wood?
No. The construction design of the firebox and the heat rating of the chimney are quite different. A house fire or explosion can occur if you attempt this conversion.
Can I add a blower grate to my gas logs so that I get more heat?
Not a good idea. Air movement within the firebox chamber may adversely affect the operation of your logs, putting soot and fumes into your house. If you need more heat, consider installing a vented gas insert. These units are specially designed with a glass front to keep heated air from escaping up your chimney; convective chambers and blowers combined with a smaller venting system means most of the gas is used to provide usable heat back into the room.
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