What You Need to Know About Your Gas Log Fireplace

It’s hard to beat a gas log fireplace when you want to warm up the main living areas of your home and create a cosy atmosphere as the temperature drops outside.

There’s no doubt that modern gas fireplaces boast a sleek design and classic charm, all while keeping winter’s chill out. However, there are a lot of additional benefits, plus numerous factors to consider if you want to get the best performance out of your gas log fireplace.

You might be shopping around for gas fireplaces. You may even already be enjoying the elegance and warmth of your existing fireplace. Whatever the case, we’re here to tell you what you need to know to maximise its safety and performance. The following details might help you decide whether installing a gas fireplace is right for your home.

How Long Have Gas Fireplaces Been Around?

Gas log fires have existed since the 19th century, when the first commercial gas fireplace model appeared on the market in the mid-1850s. The earliest versions of gas log fires were stand-alone, portable gas heaters.

However, it took 100 years for households to widely adopt them as a heating source. This happened only after efficient convector designs and clean air legislation were introduced post-war.

With the invention of the convector fire in the 1950s, the gas fireplace became recognised as being more efficient and better for the environment. This was due to natural gas emitting fewer by-products than coal and other alternatives.

Benefits of Gas Log Fires

The ideal gas fireplace delivers instant warmth, classic charm and modern efficiency. It effortlessly transforms living areas into inviting retreats on chilly evenings. Among the wealth of benefits it offers are:

• Instant, controllable heat – Enjoy push-button ignition, remote controls and smart thermostats that let you dial in the perfect temperature. All without the hassle of chopping or storing firewood.
• Versatile, easy installation options – From sleek in-built inserts that slide into an existing fireplace to contemporary wall-mounted or freestanding models, gas log fireplaces suit almost any room layout while keeping building work to a minimum.
• Clean, energy-efficient performance – High-star ratings mean lower running costs and fewer emissions; without ash or soot, upkeep is as simple as an annual service by a licensed gas fitter.
• Safe, reliable operation – Choose flued systems that vent combustion by-products outdoors, or opt for advanced vent-free technology with catalytic converters and oxygen-depletion sensors for added peace of mind.

Whether you favour a minimalist wall unit or a traditional hearth look, today’s gas log fireplaces blend style, safety, convenience and superior heating performance in one elegant package.

Enjoy The Convenience of the Ideal Gas Fireplace

A gas log fireplace is ideal for anyone wanting the ambience of a traditional fireplace without the hassles of chopping and storing firewood or cleaning out ashes.

Gas log fires can be fitted into an existing fireplace or mounted on a wall, and with no smoke, they keep indoor air healthier. At the touch of a button — or via remote or timer — you enjoy instant, energy-efficient heat, and realistic flames. Once you’re done, you can switch it off just as quickly.

Appliance maintenance is minimal: a quick monthly wipe-down plus an annual service by a licensed gas fitter to check the burner, thermostat, fan, venting and pilot light. Installation of your purchase may cost more without a chimney, yet the long-term convenience, efficiency and classic charm make modern gas fireplaces a quality choice.

You Have Two Fuel Choices

There are two types of gas used to fuel modern gas log fires. It’s important to know the difference between them.

• Natural gas – A clean-burning and cost-effective fuel that is less volatile than liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). It also dissipates in the air and is less likely to form dangerous pools if gas leaks occur. If you do not have an existing gas connection, installation for gas log fires will typically cost more. Be sure to check with local gas suppliers to determine what expenses you will face.
• LPG – A by-product of both the processing of natural gas and the refining of crude oil. It condenses into a liquid state when stored under pressure and is far more volatile than natural gas. You will need to install an LPG tank outside of your home to power your gas log fireplace. You will also need to regularly refill the tank.

Whichever option you choose, you will need a licensed technician to connect your gas to the fireplace. It’s a legal requirement here in Australia.

You Have a Choice of Venting Options

You essentially have four types of venting options to choose from that don’t require a chimney. Vented systems are preferable, but there have been advances towards vent-free gas log fires. Choose from:

• Direct vent – By far the safest choice. It expels combustion fumes and pollutants through a small hole in the exterior wall (or a chimney).
• Natural venting – A natural vent (or B vent) draws air for combustion and gets rid of exhaust fumes via a venting system (or chimney) in the roof.
• Power venting – This option uses a fixture powered by a fan that pushes unwanted exhaust fumes out of the home through vents.
• Vent-free fireplace – This is the most flexible type of gas fireplace. Some exhaust fumes will be released into your home, although it is generally considered safe. This may prove damaging in small rooms or poorly vented spaces. Some models come with a carbon monoxide monitor we recommend having a second monitor as well.

Vent-free technology is now much safer and has advanced considerably, according to Lennox Hearth Products development director Robert Dischner on the Bob Vila home advice website. “The fireplaces use catalytic-converter technology,” he said. “Because of this technology, no chimney or venting is required.”

The Final Word on Gas Log Fireplaces

To wrap it up, gas fireplaces are stylish, versatile, efficient and clean. Gas fireplaces are more eco-friendly and safer than burning wood. If you want a heater that looks good and, most importantly, keeps you toasty warm in winter, it’s hard to go past a gas log fireplace.

For more information on gas log fireplaces, contact the heating and cooling experts at Metropolitan Air Conditioning today.

Please note: Thanks for reading our blog “What You Need to Know About Your Gas Log Fireplace”. This information is provided for advice purposes only. Regulations differ from state to state, so please consult your local authorities or an industry professional before proceeding with any work. See our Terms & Conditions here.