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Vented - vs - Vent Free Gas Logs
Find out which is best for your home...vented or ventless!


Similar Pages: Gas Log FAQs page! Why do Ventless Gas Logs Smell

Basic Overview

Vented Gas Logs Require a Fully Functional Wood Burning Fireplace, Ventless (or Vent Free) Gas Logs can be installed in either a wood burning fireplace, or a ventless fireplace that is rated for aftermarket ventless logs. Ventless gas logs will produce more heat, while vented gas logs will look much more realistic. Read the Pros and Cons of each below:


Vented Gas Logs:

"Fully Vented" gas logs and must be burned in a fireplace that is capable of burning real wood and must be burned with the damper open. The reason for this is that they do not burn the gas cleanly and create exhaust that is very similar to burning a real wood fire. This exhaust needs to be able to go up the chimney. The real beauty of vented gas logs is that they produce substantially more yellow flame than ventless logs which makes them look far more realistic. The downside is that most of the heat goes right up the chimney.

However, In most cases, you can offset this heat loss by slightly closing the damper...but you must be careful that the exhaust from your logs is not coming into the room because, just like burning real wood, it contains Carbon Monoxide. A good way to test this is to turn on your gas logs with the damper slightly closed. Hold a lighter or candle in front of the fireplace opening near the top. If the flame from the lighter (candle) is being drawn in toward the fireplace, then you are OK. If the flame is standing still or pushed out toward the room, then your fireplace is not drafting enough and you must open the damper more.

Positive Features of Vented Gas Logs:

  1. Extremely realistic flame pattern that looks like a wood fire.
  2. Flame is much taller than ventless logs
  3. Flame dances and wraps around logs like real wood.
  4. Does not require a CO2 detector
  5. Since the damper is open, most of the smell will go up the chimney

Negative Features of Vented Gas Logs:

Do's and Dont's for Vented Gas Logs
(Additional information you should read before buying Ventless Gas Logs)

  1. Less heat than ventless logs (probably won't heat your room)
  2. Uses slightly more gas than ventless logs

Check out some Vented Gas Log Installation Manuals Here before you purchase.


Ventless Gas Logs:

Ventless gas logs (often referred to as "Vent Free" gas logs) have specially designed burners that burn the gas cleanly and produce almost no exhaust...somewhat like the way a gas range in a kitchen works. Since there is little or no exhaust, they can be burned with the damper closed.

The beauty of this type of system is that 99.9% of the heat produced by the gas logs goes into the room, so they produce substantially more heat than their vented counter-parts. However, there are many negative features commonly associated with ventless logs that you must be aware of before you decide to purchase them:

Positive Features of Ventless Gas Logs:

  1. Much better heat output than vented gas logs
  2. Less pollution
  3. Slightly less gas consumption

Negative Features of Ventless Gas Logs:

Do's and Dont's for Ventless Gas Logs
(Additional information you should read before buying Ventless Gas Logs)

  1. Since the byproduct of burning gas cleanly is water, ventless logs will introduce excess moisture into your home which can result in mold or mildew.
  2. You must be careful not to burn your ventless logs for extended periods of time with windows closed, otherwise they will deplete the oxygen in your home.
  3. If you burn your ventless logs for more than an hour or so, you must crack open a window to allow air into your home to replace the oxygen burned by the ventless logs. This will introduce cold air into the room and offset some of the heating benefits that ventless logs claim to have.
  4. Ventless logs produce an odor that many people equate to the smell of burning kerosene. So if you have a sensitive nose, you may not be able to handle the smell and will be greatly dissatisfied with ventless logs. On the other hand, we've heard some people who like the smell because it reminds them of their childhood days at Grandma's house. (Read Why Ventless Gas Logs Smell)
  5. Ventless logs can cause eye irritation and coughing spells to those who are sensitive.
  6. Ventless logs are not legal in California as well as some cities and municipalities. However, you can still purchase ventless logs from us if you live in California...you will just have to burn them with the damper open (which really defeats the purpose).
  7. Ventless logs are required to have an ODS (oxygen depletion system) as well as a CO2 detector...which might tell you that there are some risks involved in operating them if these systems fail.
  8. The flame pattern with ventless logs pails in comparison to vented logs. Because the gas must burn cleanly, the flame height is very low and most of it is blue.
  9. Also, you will find that the flame does not dance around like a real wood fire and very little of the flame actually touches the logs. The reason for this is that when the flame touches the logs, it gets cooled off and does not burn cleanly and starts to produce soot and exhaust gases.
  10. Installing vent-free gas logs is not a DIY job. Installation must be performed by a professional who can do the proper tests on your gas pressure and make sure that the installation meets building codes and follows the specifications required.
  11. Clearances to combustables is different than that of wood buring fires or vented gas logs. If there is a mantel above the fireplace, you may need to install a hood to divert heat away from it. You should check the Installation Manual for the Ventless Logs for clearance requirements before you order them.
  12. There are also BTU limitations based on the cubic feet of air available to your room. The maximum BTUs allowed is calculated using this formula: Room Width x Room Length x Ceiling Height x 20.
  13. Ventless gas logs may not be legal in a bedroom or confined space (differs with local building codes).
  14. Other restrictions apply with each of the various burner systems available, so again, you should read the installation manual pertaining to the ventless logs you are considering "Before You Purchase".


Bottom Line: We highly recommend that you purchase vented gas logs. You will be much happier with flame that they produce and less likely to experience discomfort from odors or irritation. We only recommend ventless logs when maximizing the heat output outweighs all of the other negative aspects.


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Answers to Recent Questions Posted To This Page
  1. 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.

  2. 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
    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.

  3. Question #8655 - Posted: 8/27/2010 12:58:28 AM

    Gas Logs Question - R.H. Peterson R.H. Peterson CHDG4-16 - 16" Charred Oak Vented Gas Logs with Burner for Natural Gas Fireplaces. Model PL-CHDG4-16

    View R.H. Peterson CHDG4-16 - 16
    View R.H. Peterson CHDG4-16 - 16" Charred Oak Vented Gas Logs with Burner for Natural Gas Fireplaces. model PL-CHDG4-16

    need diagram to place logs

    Answer: If you own the Peterson Charred Oak gas logs, then you can refer to the Peterson Charred Oak Gas Logs Installation Manual for instructions on setting up the logs. If you own a different brand or model, we will need to know what that is in order to help you.

  4. 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.

  5. Question #8651 - Posted: 8/27/2010 12:42:50 AM

    Gas Logs Question

    View page where question was posted

    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.

  6. Question #8650 - Posted: 8/27/2010 12:41:15 AM

    Gas Logs Question

    View page where question was posted

    can i use my inside vented propane logs outside in a firepit?

    Answer: Indoor gas logs will not survive in an outside setting...particularly in a fire pit that will be exposed to moisture or rain. You need a special stainless steel burner system to handle the moisture. Use this link to find all of our Gas Logs for Outdoor Fireplaces and Fire Pits

  7. Question #8649 - Posted: 8/27/2010 12:37:55 AM

    Gas Logs Question

    View page where question was posted

    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.

  8. Question #8645 - Posted: 8/26/2010 7:17:29 PM

    Gas Logs Question

    View page where question was posted

    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.

  9. 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
    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


  10. 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.

  11. Question #8634 - Posted: 8/25/2010 8:03:07 PM

    Gas Logs Question

    View page where question was posted

    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.

  12. 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.

  13. 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
    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.

  14. Question #8617 - Posted: 8/20/2010 5:48:10 PM

    Gas Logs Question

    View page where question was posted

    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.

  15. 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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