Vented vs Ventless Gas Logs

If you're looking for a new gas fireplace, you've probably noticed that there are two different types of gas logs to select from: vented and vent-free. While they may appear to be the same on the surface, there is a significant difference between them. Knowing what you'll need for your fireplace ahead of time will save you a lot of time.

What is a Gas Fireplace?

A Gas Fireplace generates flames that are fueled by natural gas or liquid propane gas, and it serves as both a source of supplemental heat and an aesthetic feature in the room. These units are an excellent alternative to a traditional wood-burning fireplace or wood stove.

For those who want to experience the warmth of a genuine fire but with a touch of modernism without the hassle of managing and stoking natural burning wood, a gas fireplace or firebox is definitely where you should start looking.

The major advantage of a gas unit is that it is hassle-free. No ashes to clean up, no wood to cut, and no chimney to sweep. You can relax and enjoy your fire without worrying about any major upkeep. A gas line or propane tank is all you need to start a fire with the flick of a switch.

Another advantage is security. There's less of a chance of your fireplace igniting your items and triggering a home fire because of uncontrolled flame.

What are Gas Logs?

Gas Logs are ceramic logs that are stacked together to fit inside your fireplace. They serve as both a source of heat for living spaces and a decorative fire feature. Gas log sets come with a gas burner and can be purchased as vented, vent-free, or ventless.

Vented vs Ventless Gas Logs: Which one should you choose?

Let's go through the pros and cons, and perhaps by the end of this post, you'll be able to decide which one best suits you and your home.

VENTED GAS LOGS

These sets may be placed in an existing fireplace, making them ideal for homeowners looking for a safer alternative to a wood-burning fireplace.

Pros

The following are our thoughts on the top three reasons why Vented Gas Logs is a great choice:

• Easy Installation (if you have an existing fireplace or chimney) - Since a vented gas log can be placed without any additional construction or renovation, customers who already have an existing, functioning fireplace and chimney will likely opt for this type of gas log. It's a snap to get everything up and running. The chimney should be operational since vented gas logs emit carbon monoxide. If you pick this type, you must ensure that the fumes are vented outside for safety.

• Aesthetically Pleasing - The appearance of a vented gas log replicates the dancing and flickering motion of flames of real burning wood. So if you want a fireplace that appears to be real, but without the actual mess of a wood-burning fireplace, vented gas logs are the way to go.

• Won’t Break Your Budget - According to market pricing, vented gas logs are significantly less expensive than vent-free gas logs. As previously stated, if you already have a working fireplace and chimney, installation is an easy process and the labor cost is significantly lower. As a result, vented gas logs are a preferable option for those who do not want to spend a lot of money switching to a gas fireplace.

Cons

Since we've already addressed the pros, let's take a look at the cons of purchasing vented gas logs. The top three are as follows:

• Requires An Existing Fireplace and Chimney - We previously explained how vented gas logs may save consumers a lot of money and effort if they already have a fireplace and a chimney. So, what about people who don't already have them? They cannot have a vented gas log set unless they build and construct a fireplace and chimney from scratch, which would be time-consuming and expensive.

• Heats Inefficiently - Unfortunately, the vented gas log would disappoint those whose major purpose for purchasing a fireplace is to use it as a primary source of warmth in their home. A large amount of the heat it generates escapes through the chimney.

• Burns More Gas - As previously stated, a vented gas log utilizes a chimney, and much of the heat it generates is lost, thus it requires more gas than its counterpart. In the long term, it may be rather costly. 

 

VENT-FREE GAS LOGS

Ventless or vent-free gas logs produce a clean, smokeless flame that burns safely without a chimney. Here are some of the top reasons to choose ventless gas logs.

Pros

• Does Not Require A Chimney or Flute - A functional fireplace and chimney are not required to install a ventless gas log. It may be put in a wood-burning fireplace or in one of those pre-fabricated fireplaces. All you need is a gas line to start warming up your home.

• Quick and Efficient - It does not require a chimney or a flute, resulting in greater heat that offers more warmth. Despite being far more efficient than vented ones, it is also worth noting that it consumes less fuel, which means you’ll be able to save more in the long run.

• Environmental Friendly - Ventless Gas Logs are incredibly hot and almost burn the fuel entirely, resulting in considerably less pollution. That is a major plus in the pro column.

Cons

• Prohibited On Some States - Before installing Ventless Gas Logs, states like Massachusetts have laws and rules that must be strictly observed. Meanwhile, ventless gas logs are prohibited in California. So, make sure to verify the laws and regulations in your state/area first before you purchase.

• Can Cause Health Problems - This type of fireplace might cause health issues, particularly respiratory problems, due to its design and operation. It can also trigger inflammation of the eyes and coughing. People with severe allergies or persistent lung issues are significantly more vulnerable to its negative effects.

• Can Cause Danger or Risk - Sensors for oxygen levels are built into ventless fireplaces. It will automatically turn off the device if the oxygen in your home becomes dangerously low. As a result, users must accept that if the system experiences a mistake or malfunctions, it might be harmful. As a backup, it is suggested to avoid using Ventless Gas Logs for more than an hour, and if that is not feasible, ensure that a window or door is cracked to provide greater oxygen access to the area.

 

Conclusion

After reading about the pros and cons of both options, have you decided yet? Remember that you must carefully evaluate your needs and requirements in order to make the best selection possible.

Do you prefer a good source of heat or do you place a higher emphasis on the ambiance? Do you intend to upgrade your current fireplace? What is the law regarding gas logs in your state? There's a lot to consider. I advise you to take your time and carefully weigh your choices.

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• Vent Free Gas Log Sets
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If you have any concerns about our products, contact us or call our customer service representative at 1-800-923-4556. You can also send us an email at support@flameauthority.com

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