Perhaps no home-heating appliance is misunderstood like vent free gas logs. Vent free gas logs can be fitted into an existing open-hearth fireplace, or arranged in their own freestanding firebox. Vent free gas logs require only a gas hookup. They don’t require a chimney or ventilating ductwork.
If you have been exploring your hearth options and been unsure about vent free gas logs, we’ve listed some pros and cons of vent free gas logs to help you better understand them.
Pros of vent free gas logs:
- E
ase of use. Vent free gas logs are convenient and easy to use. They can be ignited or extinguished with the flip of a switch or the press of a button. Also, you can enjoy your fire without the hassle and maintenance of a wood-burning fireplace. - Efficiency. You won’t find a home-heating appliance more efficient than vent free gas logs. Because there isn’t any ductwork for heat to travel out of, nearly all of the fire’s heat is returned to your home.
- Versatility. Because vent free gas fireplaces don’t require exterior access, they can be installed in nearly any room. Vent free gas fireplaces can provide homeowners with the opportunity to enjoy an open fire in rooms that wouldn’t be able to accommodate traditional vented fireplaces.
- Low maintenance needs. Gas logs require very little maintenance. During the fire burning season, you won’t have to bother with caring for your gas logs. However, with all hearth appliances, they should be cleaned and inspected by a certified technician at least once per year.
Cons of a vent free gas logs:
- Combustion byproducts. Without a chimney system, the byproducts of vent free gas logs have nowhere to go but into your home. Vent free gas logs do burn incredibly cleanly. However, they do emit some carbon monoxide and water vapor into your home. All vent free gas logs are outfitted with sensors that will shut off if carbon monoxide levels rise too high or of oxygen levels dip too low. Ultimately most hearth industry professionals admit that vent free gas logs are safe when used properly. []
- Operating limitations. Because of the byproducts put off by vent free gas logs, there are limitations on how long gas logs should be allowed to burn at one time. Depending on the model, vent free gas logs shouldn’t burn for more than one to three hours.
- Limited heat. Vent free gas logs generally aren’t considered a major heat source. They can provide some localized heat within a living space. However, they tend to function more as a decorative object than a heat source.
If you are looking to add ambient flames to a largely unused hearth, or if you want to bring a fireplace to a room that can’t accommodate a traditional vented fireplace, vent free gas logs provide an excellent option. If you would like vent free gas logs in your home, contact Fluesbrothers Chimney Service for a consultation!
