How Much Does It Cost To Burn Gas Logs?
About Our Gas Log Fuel Consumption Calculator
January 11, 2010
By: Greg Tillotson
Gas Log Expert & Webmaster for Hansen Wholesale
We are constantly asked how much it will cost to burn a gas log, or how much gas a particular gas log will consume. In response to these questions, we have
recently added the calculator you see below to the left hand navigation of all of our gas log search results pages as well as included the calculated usages and costs
on each of our gas log product detail pages.
Calculate The Cost to Burn Any Gas Log...
Find out how much gas your gas logs will burn
and how much it will cost to run them per hour!
Enter the BTU rating of any gas log set then click GO!
How Does this Gas Log Fuel Calculator work:
Basic Overview
The amount of gas (Natural or Propane) that a gas log will use is directly related to the BTU rating of the burner system you choose.
The BTU rating is in fact the amount of gas that is burned by the gas log set, not the amount of heat that the gas logs generate...particularly when referring to vented
gas logs since much of the heat goes up the flue. Ventless gas logs will pretty much produce the same amount of heat in BTUs as the amount of gas that is consumed
because they are burned with the damper closed and 99.9% of the heat comes into your room.
However, most consumers do not know just how to translate BTUs into either the amount of fuel used, or the cost attributed to the BTUs, hence the reason we have
published this page. In order to translate BTUs into something useful, you must first understand the terminology used by the company you buy your fuel from, whether
it be natural gas or propane.
BTU: BTU stands for British Thermal Units, which is a standard measurement of the amount of energy contained in any fuel that is released
per hour when it is burned. So a gas log set that has a 40000 BTU burner consumes 40000 BTUs of gas per hour.
Calculating the Cost to Burn Liquid Propane:
Liquid propane is normally sold either by the Pound or by the Gallon. So in order to make use of the BTU rating of a gas log to calculate the amount of propane
gas it will consume and attribute a cost to that, we need to know how many BTUs there are in a pound or gallon of LP gas. Here is that information:
1 Pound of LP Gas = 22,000 BTUs
1 Gallon of LP Gas = 91,500 BTUs
Now that you have that information, you can easily calculate the amount of gas any gas log (or gas appliance for that matter) will consume.
You simply divide the BTU rating of the burner by the BTUs for the unit of measure you want to check. Here is an example of performing the calculation
for a 40,000 BTU gas log:
Pounds of LP Gas Used: 40,000 BTUs divided by 22,000 BTUs = 1.818 Pounds
Gallons of LP Gas Used: 40,000 BTUs divided by 91,500 BTUs = 0.442 Gallons
Calculating the Cost
If you know the cost per pound or gallon of your the LP gas that you purchase, simply multiply this by the calculated usage above. On our website, we actually
perform these calculations for you on each one of our gas log product pages...but the calculation we perform is based on the National Average for the cost
of Propane Gas, which in fact varies widely by region.
The National Average cost of LP Gas is $2.536 per gallon according to the EIA
(U.S. Energy Information Administration) as of January 2010
Using this information, we are able to calculate the average cost in the USA to operate a 40,000 BTU gas log using this formula:
40,000 BTUs divided by 91,500 BTUs/gallon times $2.536/gallon = $1.11 per hour
Calculating the Cost to Burn Natural Gas
Natural Gas is normally sold to the residential consumer by the Therm (100,000 BTUs) or Ccf (100 cubic feet = 102,700 BTUs).
So in order to make use of the BTU rating of a gas log to calculate the amount of Natural Gas
it will consume and attribute a cost to that, we can use these numbers to do the math:
1 Therm of Natural Gas = 100,000 BTUs
1 Ccf of Natural Gas = 102,700 BTUs
Now that you have that information, you can take the BTU rating of a gas log and translate it into useable information by converting the BTUs into Therms or Ccf.
To do this, you simply divide the BTU rating of the burner by the BTUs in a Therm or Ccf. Here is an example of performing the calculation
for a 40,000 BTU gas log:
Therms of Natural Gas Used: 40,000 BTUs divided by 100,000 BTUs/Therm = 0.40 Therms
Ccf of Natural Gas Used: 40,000 BTUs divided by 102,700 BTUs = 0.389 Ccf
Calculating the Cost
You can find the cost of your natural gas in either Therms or Ccf by looking at your gas bill. If a different unit of measure is used, you will need to convert
a little additional math in order to perform the conversion properly. However, according to the EIA, these 2 units of measure are the most commonly used for
by gas companies when billing residential consumers. So, take the cost/Therm or Ccf and multiply by the Therms or Ccf used by the gas logs found from the previous calculation above.
On our website, we actually perform these calculations for you on each one of our gas log product pages based on the National Average for the cost
of Natural Gas, which varies widely by region.
The National Average cost of Natural Gas is $1.368 per Therm according to the EIA
(U.S. Energy Information Administration) for 2008.
Based on this information, we are able to calculate the average cost in the USA to operate a 40,000 BTU gas log using this formula:
40,000 BTUs divided by 100,000 BTUs/Therm times $1.368/Therm = $0.55 per hour
Interesting side note: Based on the excersises performed above, we find that the National Average cost of Natural Gas is about half the cost of Propane.
So if you have access to both fuels and are contemplating which to choose, then Natural Gas is likely your best choice.
Related Articles:
Have a Question About This Page? Ask an Expert!
Answers to Recent Questions Posted To This Page
- Question #8686 - Posted: 8/28/2010 2:17:12 PM
Gas Logs Question
View page where question was posted
where can I buy single logs for a fire pit made for propane gas?
Answer: We can supply you with the single logs you need for your firepit. Please give us a call so we can discuss your application and get you what you the gas logs you need.
- Question #8685 - Posted: 8/28/2010 12:14:38 PM
Gas Logs Question - R.H. Peterson R.H. Peterson HRDG4-16 - 16" Rustic Oak Designer Plus Vented Gas Logs with Burner for Natural Gas Fireplaces. Model PL-HRDG4-16
View R.H. Peterson HRDG4-16 - 16" Rustic Oak Designer Plus Vented Gas Logs with Burner for Natural Gas Fireplaces. model PL-HRDG4-16
What about using these logs with LP? We love our Peterson logs and want to buy a set for our daughter, but she has LP, not natural gas.
Answer: Virtually all of the gas logs you see on our website can be ordered for use with LP gas. You can change the gas type in the dropdown menus when viewing the log set on the product detail page, or you can select LP gas in the left hand navigation when searching our site. Keep in mind that LP gas requires a safety pilot, so if you are viewing match-light gas log sets for Natural Gas, you will get a warning stating that a safety pilot is required. Here is a link to this particular gas log with the most basic LP burner system and safety pilot:
Peterson 16" Rustic Oak Gas Logs for LP Gas.
- Question #8653 - Posted: 8/27/2010 12:53:32 AM
Gas Logs Question
View page where question was posted
fireplace dimension 42" wide, 24" high, 28" deep, 28" wide at base What size gas burning, coals fits best, 24 or 30?
Answer: If you choose the most basic on/off controls or match light system, then you should choose a 30" gas coal fire in your fireplace. However, each burner and control system combination has different clearance specifications from the side walls of your fireplace in order to keep cool and prevent the safety valve from melting, so some of the other control options may require you to use a 24" set. Please give us a call so we can help you choose the right size.
- Question #8651 - Posted: 8/27/2010 12:42:50 AM
Gas Logs Question
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Need gas fireplace logs with automatic ignition. Do you sell them? Need it for a rental unit.
Answer: Yes, we carry various types of gas log ignition systems that operate from remote controls, thermostats, wall switches and more. Please give us a call so we can discuss your needs and help you choose the best gas logs for your fireplace.
- Question #8649 - Posted: 8/27/2010 12:37:55 AM
Gas Logs Question
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I am interested in the 30" charred majestic log set with a G45 stainless steel burner (outdoor fireplace) - can you send me price and availability information?
Answer: The Peterson Charred Majestic gas logs are not designed to use the G45 stainless steel burner. Because the logs are so massive, they require the GX45 burner system which includes a heavy duty grate that can withstand the weight and size of the logs. This particular burner and grate combination is not available in stainless steel for use outdoors, which is why you will not find the Charred Majestic Oak gas logs in our outdoor fireplace log section. Please call us so we can help you find the right gas logs for your outdoor fireplace.
- Question #8645 - Posted: 8/26/2010 7:17:29 PM
Gas Logs Question
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Do you sell the Eiklor brand.
Answer: No, we do not recommend or sell the Eiklor brand of gas logs. Each year, we view them at the annual national fireplace trade convention to see if they meet our standards of value and excellence, and we still have decided not to carry them. The Peterson Real Fyre gas logs have so much more to offer and are approximately 1/2 to 2/3 less expensive. The only advantage we have found with Eiklor is their ability to custom make large massive gas logs for industrial or commercial applications. These types of log sets sell for $10,000 to $25,000 per application and are only available purchased direct from the factory. Please give us a call and we will be happy to help you find the best gas logs for your fireplace.
- Question #8641 - Posted: 8/26/2010 12:10:55 AM
Gas Logs Question - R.H. Peterson R.H. Peterson HSG4-24 - 24" Ripped Split Oak Vented Gas Logs with Burner for Natural Gas Fireplaces. Model PL-HSG4-24
View R.H. Peterson HSG4-24 - 24" Ripped Split Oak Vented Gas Logs with Burner for Natural Gas Fireplaces. model PL-HSG4-24
I just moved into a new home with a vented gas log fireplace.
It has a pilot light and a switch that turns it on.
The pilot is lit and everything seems fine if I do not turn it on. It is turned on by the switch.
If I turn it on, the gas comes out and is quickly (two seconds) lit by the pilot light, however I smell gas (unburnt fuel?). The smell may or may not get worse over the first minute of being on, its hard to tell and then I turn it off.
Is this simple or do I need a new log set?
Answer: It is quite unlikely that what you are smelling is unburnt gas. When the logs are burning, the gas is burning. Several other things can cause your gas logs to produce odor:
- Dirty chimney
- Bird nest in chimney
- Poorly drafting chimney
- Dust on your gas logs
- Improper installation - burner may be too far forward
- Gas leak
- Poor quality gas log set
If the logs have not been burned for several months, dust accumulates on them and smells when it burns. You may want to open up your house and let the logs burn for half an hour. If you are uncomfortable with doing this, then contact your local gas utility company and have them come out and inspect your logs to see if there is a gas leak. You can also contact a fireplace professional to inspect the logs for proper installation. You should also have the chimney inspected. A poorly drafting or dirty chimney can be the cause. Even with gas logs installed, a chimney still must be swept regularly. Also, if you are testing the logs during the summer when it is warm or hot, your chimney may not draft properly...it may need to be cold outside to get a good draft.
Here is a link to Locate Fireplace Professionals in your area.
If you email me some pictures of your fireplace, I will be happy to take a peak and see if anything looks out of the ordinary or if you need to replace the log set. Email: gregt@hansenwholesale.com
- Question #8640 - Posted: 8/25/2010 11:53:55 PM
Gas Logs Question
View page where question was posted
how do I know the size logs I need? Currently, I have vented logs , heat bar length 27 inches, current log length 23 inches, front of fire place 42 inches, depth 20 inches
Your assistance is appreciated.
Answer: The size logs you need depends on the type of control valve you select. Each control valve has a specific clearance requirement from the sides of the fireplace in order stay cool. If you use our website to its fullest extent, you can enter your dimensions into the calculator on any gas log page to determine which size logs will fit depending on the type of controls you select. This can be confusing for those who are not familiar with the various controls and gas log options, so I recommend that you call us during our normal business hours to talk to one of our gas log experts. See the bottom of every web page for your business hours.
- Question #8634 - Posted: 8/25/2010 8:03:07 PM
Gas Logs Question
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I have a wood burning fireplace in my master bedroom. It is a typical metal box with ceramic liners and a chiminney flu and finised by the builder with granite anround the front and floor. The room is large-- approx 18x18 with a vaulted 16 ft ceiling. Can I used a ventless gas log set in that fireplace (29"F, 20"R 14" D). I would have a professional install the gas line according to spec.
Answer: Yes, you can use a Ventless gas log in a fireplace such as yours. Based on your dimensions, you will most likely need an 18" log set, but that really depends on the set you choose and the type of control you desire. Please give us a call and one of our Gas Log Experts will help you choose the right log set for your fireplace.
- Question #8624 - Posted: 8/21/2010 1:22:54 PM
Gas Logs Question
View page where question was posted
what choices do i have ? I need natural gas 18" logs with elec. remote.
Answer: Well, we are going to need more info about your fireplace in order to help you narrow down your choices. One of our gas log experts will give you a call in a few minutes to go over your fireplace dimensions and other necessary details in order to help you find the best gas logs to fit your particular needs.
- Question #8623 - Posted: 8/21/2010 1:11:16 PM
Gas Logs Question - R.H. Peterson R.H. Peterson BDGX45-42SPK26P - 42" Royal English Oak Designer Vented Gas Logs with Burner for Liquid Propane Fireplaces. Model PL-BDGX45-42SPK26P
View R.H. Peterson BDGX45-42SPK26P - 42" Royal English Oak Designer Vented Gas Logs with Burner for Liquid Propane Fireplaces. model PL-BDGX45-42SPK26P
can you get ventless 42" propane logs
Answer: 30" is the largest size that ventless gas logs come in. There are national building codes that restrict the BTUs a ventless product can use inside your home without being considered unsafe. The reason for the restriction is that the more BTUs a ventless product consumes, the more oxygen it depletes from your home and the more moisture it creates. When these things become to far out of balance, it is considered unsafe. In order to meet these safety standards, most 30" ventless gas logs actually use the exact same burner system as a 24" ventless log. So a 30" ventless log set will have the flame pattern restricted more to the middle of the logs...not the full width. Using a 24" burner on a 42" log set simply looks horrible and most consumers reject the look (it has been tried in the past and failed due to complaints). It is not feasible to make the burner wider, because the flames would not be seen coming up through the logs at all...even in a 30" vent free gas log. It has also been shown that anything larger than 30" is almost impossible to make without producing exhaust. When a gas log produces exhaust...the exhaust must escape from the home, so it cannot be ventless.
- Question #8617 - Posted: 8/20/2010 5:48:10 PM
Gas Logs Question
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is it ok to use gas logs in wood burning stove
Answer: No, you cannot install a gas log in your wood burning stove, it is not safe or up to code. Wood burning stoves are designed to use a relatively small amount of air compared to what is required for a gas log. There is a potential that the gas will not burn completely and build-up until it explodes. Vented gas logs also require a larger vent than wood stoves have, and both vented and ventless gas logs require more space than a wood stove has on the interior. The installation manual for any wood stove sold over the last 10 or 15 years will clearly state to burn only wood.
- Question #8610 - Posted: 8/19/2010 9:38:24 AM
Gas Logs Question
View page where question was posted
I have a never installed Sunbeam Gas Log Heater Model # UV-024. It is missing the three unattached logs (there is a large log that is attached to the main burner unit) and am also missing the embers. 24" Can I buy replacement logs for this model # even though Sunbeam no longer produces this product? Am I right to assume that I cannot use another brand's logs in this unit?
Answer: Sunbeam is not a brand that we recommend or offer support for. It is a very low end brand that is sold mostly by mass merchants. You cannot replace your missing logs with any other logs than those that were made specifically for your gas log set. Using different shapes and sizes of logs that would be positioned differently over the burner system will most likely cause a ventless gas log to produce potentially dangerous exhaust...which makes them no longer ventless. You most likely will need to replace your entire ventless gas log set including the burner and logs.
Read more questions and answers here! >>
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