September 10, 2010

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Vent-free Gas Logs

January 12, 2010 By admin Leave a Comment

Gas logs that burn clean and produce a hot blue flame are known as vent-free, unvented, ventless, or non-vented gas logs. These logs lack the aesthetic beauty of vented gas logs that burn with a natural yellow flame but burn much hotter and therefore produce more heat. Vent-free gas logs do not need a ventilation system to vent the products of combustion because the gas is fully burnt into heat.

hargroveSome vent-free gas log sets come with blowers that actually blow the heat directly into the room. Since the damper can be fully closed while in operation, no heat escapes through the fireplace. All vent-free gas logs come with an Oxygen Depletion Sensor which will immediately shut off the appliance if the oxygen level reaches 18%. Normal oxygen levels are 21%, and this feature that comes standard with every vent-free gas log set insures the safety of the appliance.

Vent-free gas logs are allowed no more than 40,000 BTUs. Although most vent-free gas logs are not approved for bed or bathroom use, those that are are limited to 10,000 and 6,000 BTUs respectively. The flame produced by these logs are extremely hot and even if the minimum required clearance is met, the mantle and surrounding walls may still be warm to the touch.

Vent-free gas logs can be installed in an existing fireplace although it is not required. Some homeowners without a fireplace choose to install the logs in vent-free fireboxes, much like prefab fireplace fireboxes, that have no connection to a chimney. The latter method is highly debated. Codes may change in the future regarding the legality of installing vent-free gas logs in prefab fireboxes, but this change would not affect units previously installed.

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Vent-Free Gas Log Odors

January 12, 2010 By admin Leave a Comment

Some people who purchase vent-free gas logs complain of an odor that occurs while burning the appliance. People worry that this is due to poor air qSS_ACG-1uality in the room due to the lack of ventilation. In reality, the cause of these odors is airborne contaminants.

These chemicals in the air from odor eliminators, chemical cleaners, hairsprays, new carpet, and even freshly finished wood can be sucked into the burner and chemically and physically altered by the heat in the combustion process. This problem can be easily solved by simply cracking a window near the gas logs when using the appliance. This will provide the appliance with plenty of fresh air for combustion that will not produce an odor.

Another solution is to purchase a gas log cleaner, such as ACS Gas Log Carbon & Soot Remover. This product aids in the prevention of odor, creosote buildup, and keeps the gas logs working as efficiently as possible.

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Gas used for Gas Logs

January 12, 2010 By admin Leave a Comment

premium-fire-oak-logsPropane and natural gas can be used to fuel a gas log set. When looking into buying a unit that uses natural gas or propane there are a few factors to weigh into the decision. First, natural gas is cheaper and more convenient. Because you can access natural gas with the flip of a switch it is easier to come by than propane, which has to be bought from a store and hauled home. Natural gas is also thought to burn cleaner and is generally safer. You may want to consider purchasing a gas log cleaner that you spray on the logs at regular intervals throughout the year to prevent odors and creosote buildups from occurring.

Propane is heavier than natural gas, and will pool in low spots in concrete or masonry surfaces. The natural gas will dissipate in the air. Private propane companies will deliver propane. They can set up propane cylinders, which come in varying sizes (usually 20 or 40 lbs.) for the homeowner to fill. Natural gas, however, is a public utility supplied through gas lines.

Whether you are looking into using propane or natural gas, any type of gas logs need to be properly installed by a professional to insure that they function properly. Also, although gas burns clean, you should still have the logs inspected annually for functionality and the flue system inspected for debris.

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