When it comes time to purchase your gas logs, you will discover
they come in two choices - vented and vent-free. The vented gas
logs have been around more than five decades and remain a popular
choice for many people. One of the main reasons is that the
vented gas log produces the most realistic substitute to that of
wood.
To use vented gas logs, you must have a regular fireplace, one
originally designed to burn wood where the flue damper can be
fully opened. With the vented gas log option, you will enjoy
a beautiful, natural looking fire that burns with a lot of
yellow color and flames that are smoky, which is why the open
damper is a requirement.
If you prefer a roaring fire without much emphasis on heat,
vented gas logs are the ideal choice. Although you will
obviously get some heat, you can expect about the same level
as a medium-sized wood burning fire. Before burning vented
gas logs, have your chimney inspected to ensure it is clear of
any obstructions. Vented gas logs, which are often referred to
as the "yellow flame", will produce both soot and carbon that
builds up in the chimney. Because of this, you will need to
have the chimney swept the same as if burning wood.
The fire produced with vented gas logs is so realistic that most
people will not even realize they are gas logs. Additionally,
vented gas logs tend to be flexible, meaning they can be
rearranged differently much easier than vent-free logs. A couple
of other considerations for your vented gas logs include:
- Some vented gas logs burn hotter than other vented logs.
Therefore, you can check with a professional to choose a gas
log set ideal for you. Keep in mind that the vented gas log
that has the lowest BTU and most realistic burning flame will
give you a fantastic looking fire and a low operating cost.
- Fireplaces with vented gas logs often have glass doors.
The reason is that when your logs are installed, your damper
will be partially blocked in an open position. The glass
doors will help keep any heat within your home from escaping
up the chimney when you are not burning a fire. Just remember
that when you do burn a fire, the doors need to be opened.
- Look for vented gas logs that have undergone testing and
certification. In addition to looking for a RADCO or CSA
stamp on the logs, be sure to ask your salesperson for safety
information.
|
