The Benefits Of Vent Free Gas Logs

By Author: Cale Johnstone
Total Articles: 22
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There are two types of gas logs, vent free and vented. Which ones you choose depend on what you want to achieve most from your fire boxes. If you are looking for a realistic look, including burning embers in the bottom of the box (that aren’t really burning embers in the bottom of the box), you should look into vented gas logs. There are numerous benefits to vent free gas logs as well. Here are a few that are worthy of consideration prior to your purchase.

They Produce More Heat

Many people use gas fireplaces to heat their homes. This may or may not be the only way they heat. Some people include gas as a complement to the furnace; others only use the fireplaces. When looking for more heat production from your gas logs, vent free is the only way to go. These are the ones that produce the most heat when you ignite the burner, keeping you toasty warm day and night. Depending on the maximum BTU you are allowed within the space, you may find that going vent-free will reduce your need to run other producers of warmth, such as your furnace or space heaters.

They Maintain More Heat

One of the reasons why ...
... vent free gas logs produce more heat is because you do not need to open a damper when you ignite the burners. This keeps the heat from the fireplace inside instead of going up the chimney. It also keeps the heat in the room much longer after you’ve turned off the gas for the evening. Again, this saves you the necessity of using heating sources that might be more expensive if they are electric, because the room stays warm longer. Your energy efficiency is increased with these fake logs, which makes you feel better about your carbon footprint overall.

No Open Damper Means No Pollution

As a whole, gas logs, vent free or vented don’t produce smoke that releases harmful chemicals into the environment. Even so, with your damper closed you know for certain you aren’t releasing anything into the air that might cause damage. This, too, can make you feel better about your carbon footprint. With your damper closed, you needn’t worry about adding to the pollution that is already compromising the air quality of the planet.

Some Safety Considerations

Of course, nothing is without risk, and because you keep your damper closed when running your fireplace it’s important to ensure that the carbon monoxide detectors in your home are in proper working order. These logs do not emit smoke, but anytime you’re running something using gas, you run the risk of carbon monoxide exposure. If you live above 2,000 feet, these logs aren’t for you, either.

Vent free gas logs work well for many people and within many fire boxes. Speak with an expert in this type of heating to ensure that they will work for you. If they do, fantastic. If they don’t, all is not lost, as vented gas logs will turn into your heating element of choice. Don’t make the decision on your own. Contact a professional to discuss your needs today.