Why Do Ventless Logs Smell?
A discussion about the odor produced by burning vent free gas logs.

Standard: Most typical fireplaces are standard. Gas logs for standard fireplaces are designed to be viewed from the front and sides only...not the back. So the flames and glowning embers are visible only from one side. The grate is tapered and the bottom rear log is smaller and may not be a full log because it will not be seen from the back.

See-Thru: Fireplaces that are open to 2 rooms or where the logs can be seen from both the front and back side would require see-thru logs. See thru logs have a special burner that produces flames and glowing embers in the front and back. They also have a grate that does not taper and bottom logs that are the same size.

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Vented - vs - Ventless

Which do I choose? We highly recommend "VENTED" gas logs and believe you will be more satisfied with your purchase if you make that choice!

Vented gas logs: Vented logs must be burned in a fully functional wood burning fireplace with the damper open. Vented gas logs burn much like a real wood fire so they will produce exhaust, which is why they must be burned with the damper open. Although they produce a very realistic flame, much of the heat they produce will go up the flu just like a wood fire. However, most people prefer vented gas logs because they look so much better and do provide similar warmth as a real fire as well as a nice cozy atmosphere when you are sitting in front of them. So open the wine bottle, kick back and enjoy!

Ventless gas logs: Ventless logs must be burned in either a wood burning fireplace or ventless firebox that is designed to use aftermarket ventless logs. We only recommend ventless logs if your sole purpose for burning the logs is to produce heat for short periods of time. Because you can burn ventless logs with the damper closed, all of the heat generated goes into the room. However, there are several negative facts about ventless logs that you must consider before you make a purchase...

Negative Features of Ventless Logs: Ventless logs are not legal in all cities and states (such as California). They burn with a "Nervous Flame" that is not as yellow, so they are not very realistic. There is an odor associated with ventless logs that many people do not like, so if you are sensitive to smell, you may be dissatisfied. They also produce excess moisture, which can cause mold or mildew to grow in your home. They can only be burned for short periods of time (3 to 4 hours), otherwise, they may start to consume too much oxygen in your home and shut themselves off. It is recommended that you crack open a window to allow fresh air in the room, which negates some of the heat efficiency. There are other restrictions that apply to ventless gas logs that may be dictated by your local building department. For example: some cities do not allow ventless logs in smaller rooms unless they are rated for 10,000 BTUs or less, which will give you almost no flame.

Building Codes: In either case, be sure to consult with your local building official to determine if there are any special requirements or restrictions for gas logs in your area.

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What are the different control options?

Important Note: Liquid Propane always requires a safety pilot, whereas Natural Gas does not. The reasons are explained in more detail below.

Match Light (no pilot): Match light systems do not have any type of safety pilot. You start the fire by lighting a long lighter or match and holding it inside the fireplace just above the burner while you turn on the gas. The gas valve should be located either in the wall or floor. If your gas valve is inside the fireplace, be sure that it is legally installed. Most cities require that you at least have a cut off valve outside the fireplace that is in reach. Match light burners are substantially less expensive than other options, but are not legal in many cities.

Non-Remote Manual Safety Pilots: Manually controlled gas logs have a safety pilot that stays lit all of the time (it can be turned off during the off-season). The safety pilot attached to the burner will have a knob that you turn to light the fire. This knob works as long as the safety pilot is lit. You cannot use a remote control with a manual safety pilot. Manual safety pilots are less expensive than remote control pilots because they use a less sophisticated system. This is also the least expensive way to operate gas logs with Liquid Propane.

Remote Safety Pilots: A remote capable safety pilot operates like a manual safety pilot with a knob or switch to turn on the fire. However, you can also purchase a separate remote control or wall control to turn the logs on as well. In most cases the remote control is sold separately. Some remote capable controls only turn the fire on and off while others can adjust the flame height as well. The variable flame remote controls are more expensive.

Electronic Ignition Remote Systems: Electronic ignition systems are the latest technology. These types of systems turn the gas on and off electronically and do not have a standing safety pilot. There is no wasted gas or noise from a gas pilot when the logs are not burning. This is the most expensive type of system, but the most desired.