Gas Log Burners and Safety Pilot Controls
for Standard Vented Gas Logs from R. H. Peterson Gas Log Sets
For details about safety piltos read: How a Safety Pilot Works
G46 Advantage Burner
G46 Burner shown with optional SPK-26 Safety Pilot
If you want a gas log set with a remote control system, then the G46 burner is probably your
"Best Choice". The G46 allows you to use wider logs
because it has a
"Tapered Shape" that conforms better to the inside of most fireplaces.
In most cases, adding a remote control valve to a gas log requires an additional clearance of about 8" to 10" on each side of the burner (that's 16" to 20" less in width your logs must be). This clearance is necessary in order to
allow enough air around the burner system to keep it cool...otherwise it can overheat and melt the inner workings of the pilot valve (leaving you with an expensive repair or replacement).
Allowing for the proper clearance means that your log set ends up being much smaller than you might desire.
This is not the case with the G46 Advantage Burner System from R. H. Peterson!
The tapered shape of the G46 burner allows Peterson to attach the safety pilot to the angled side of the burner instead of on the end, which reduces the required clearance by more than half
compared to other burners, thus allowing you to use a larger set of logs in your fireplace.
Burner Type: The G46 incorporates a "Triple T" burner system, which maximizes the flame both coming up through the logs as well as the flames that produce the glowing bed of embers beneath.
Triple T burners have an extra burner that "Ts" off the main burner and goes beneath the front log where all of the glowing embers are, so you get a much nicer bed of glowing embers as well as an ample
amount of flame coming up and around the logs.
Approval: The G46 burner is ANSI approved, so it is legal to install virtually anywhere in the USA!
Available Sizes: 18", 20", 24", 30"
Downside: Sizes are limited from 18" to 30", so for larger fireplaces, you should go with the G45 burner system instead. You cannot purchase a G46 burner without a safety pilot, so if you want a match light system, stick with the G45 or G4 as described below. The G46 burner is not available for see-thru fireplaces, but there would be no advantage to such an application anyway.
Control Options: Each of the available control options has the same reduced clearance, so adding a remote control does not require using smaller logs,
which is what truly makes this burner the best choice if you want a remote control!
- SPK: Manual Pilot - Non Remote
- G46-APK-11: Basic Remote Pilot
- G46-APK-15: Adjustable Flame Remote
- G46-APK-17: Adjustable Flame Remote
- G46-EPK-01: Electronic Ignition Remote
Read about each control option below
G45 and GX45 Triple T Burners
G45 Burner shown with optional SPK-26 Safety Pilot
If you are looking for the best "Match-Light" system and are not interested in a safety pilot or remote control, then the G45 burner is the best choice for you. Also, if you have a larger fireplace
that can accommodate logs that are wider than 30", then the G45 is also your best choice since it comes in sizes up to 60" wide.
What's the difference between the G45 and the GX45 burners?
The only difference between the G45 and GX45 burner is the grate. The G45 has a standard gas log grate while the GX45 has a heavy duty grate like those used to burn real wood.
The G45 burner is simply a G4 burner with a built in front flame burner.
The wedge shaped rectangular pan has a main burner tube going down the middle and a smaller front flame burner that "Ts" off from the main burner.
The additional front flame burner allows you to position the burner directly beneath the logs while giving you a nice bed of glowing embers with flames lapping up around the
front log and up between the middle logs.
Approval: For sizes 30" and smaller, you can purchase the G45 burner system in a RADCO approved (match-light) setup. If you purchase a RADCO approved set and add a safety pilot,
the safety pilot will be shipped separately and you will have to install it yourself. If you pay a bit more for an ANSI approved G45 burner system, the factory will install the approved safety pilot of your
choice and apply the ANSI certification at the factory. If this is the case, you might want to compare the G45 to the G46 burner because it is more likely that the G46 burner will be a better choice.
The G45 burner has no approval rating in sizes that are 36" and larger.
Control Options: You can choose from a basic SPK manual safety pilot, APK-11 Remote control, APK-15 or APK-17 Variable Flame Remote or the EPK-01 Electronic Ignition system. However,
since the safety pilots and remote control systems are attached to the side or end of the G45 burner, they will require an additional 8 to 10 inches of clearance to "Each Side" of your log set, which
can dramatically reduce the size logs that you can use...which is why we recommend the G46 burner if you are using a remote control. The SPK-26 manual safety pilot only adds an additional 3" to each
side of the burner, so the a G45 burner with an SPK-26 safety pilot is still an excellent choice.
Available Sizes:16", 18", 19", 20", 24", 30", 36", 42", 48", 60"
Downside: Since the safety pilots and remote control systems are attached to the side or end of the G45 burner, they will require an additional 8 to 10 inches of clearance to
"Each Side" of your log set, which can dramatically reduce the size logs that you can use...which is why we recommend the G46 burner if you are using a remote control.
The SPK-26 manual safety pilot only adds an additional 3" to each side of the burner, so the a G45 burner with an SPK-26 safety pilot is still an excellent choice.
Control Options:
- No Pilot: Match Light
- SPK-26: Manual Pilot - Non Remote
- APK-10: Basic Remote Pilot
- APK-11: Basic Remote Pilot
- APK-15: Adjustable Flame Remote
- APK-17: Adjustable Flame Remote
- EPK-01: Electronic Ignition Remote
Read about each control option below
G4 and GX4 Burners
G4 Burner shown with optional SPK-26 Safety Pilot
The G4 and GX4 burners have the same exact characteristics as the G45 and GX45 burners described above except that they have only a single tube burner,
there is no additional front flame burner that "Ts" off the main burner, so your glowing embers will not glow quite as much as with the G45 burners.
The G4 is about $35 less than the G45, so most people will choose the G45 over the G4 burner because they believe that having an additional front flame burner is better
(except for those who know the little secret...which you can read below).
What's the difference between the G4 and the GX4 burners?
The only difference between the G4 and GX4 burner is the grate. The G4 has a standard gas log grate while the GX4 has a heavy duty grate like those used to burn real wood.
A little secret! You can in fact get the G4 to burn as if it had a front flame burner, even though it does not. All you have to do is position the burner slightly forward so that the burner tube
is directly beneath...or slightly toward the front of the bottom "front" log. Most people position the burner right in the middle of the logs, which puts the glowing embers underneath the logs
and makes most of the flames go right up between the logs with almost no flames coming up around the front log. Moving the burner forward will give you a nicer bed of glowing embers and cause
the flames to lap up around both sides of the front log...which looks just as though a front flame burner was installed. There, we just saved you $35!
Approval: For sizes 30" and smaller, you can purchase the G4 or GX4 burner system in a RADCO approved (match-light) setup. If you purchase a RADCO approved set and add a safety pilot,
the safety pilot will be shipped separately and you will have to install it yourself. If you need an ANSI approved burner or wish to have the factory install a safety pilot, they no longer do this for
G4 burners, so you will need to purchase a G45 or G46 burner if you must have ANSI approval. The G45 burner has no approval rating in sizes that are 36" and larger.
Control Options: You can choose from a basic SPK manual safety pilot, APK-11 Remote control, APK-15 or APK-17 Variable Flame Remote or the EPK-01 Electronic Ignition system. However,
since the safety pilots and remote control systems are attached to the side or end of the G45 burner, they will require an additional 8 to 10 inches of clearance to "Each Side" of your log set, which
can dramatically reduce the size logs that you can use...which is why we recommend the G46 burner if you are using a remote control. The SPK-26 manual safety pilot only adds an additional 3" to each
side of the burner, so the a G4 burner with an SPK-26 safety pilot is still an excellent choice.
Available Sizes:16", 18", 19", 20", 24", 30", 36", 42", 48", 60"
Downside: Since the safety pilots and remote control systems are attached to the side or end of the G4 burner, they will require an additional 8 to 10 inches of clearance to
"Each Side" of your log set, which can dramatically reduce the size logs that you can use...which is why we recommend the G46 burner if you are using a remote control.
The SPK-26 manual safety pilot only adds an additional 3" to each side of the burner, so the a G4 burner with an SPK-26 safety pilot is still an excellent choice.
Control Options:
- No Pilot: Match Light
- SPK-26: Manual Pilot - Non Remote
- APK-10: Basic Remote Pilot
- APK-11: Basic Remote Pilot
- APK-15: Adjustable Flame Remote
- APK-17: Adjustable Flame Remote
- EPK-01: Electronic Ignition Remote
Details About Each Gas Log Control
No Pilot - Match Light
Match Light Burner System with No Safety Pilot. Light a match or lighter then turn on the gas from the gas valve that is already installed in your floor or wall. Simplest, least expensive, most versatile and reliable burner system available. Requires an existing inline gas valve that has already been installed outside of your fireplace. Cannot be used with Liquid Propane. Be sure to check with your local building department to see if this type of burner is acceptable in your municipality.
SPK-26 - Manual Pilot - Non Remote
Low Profile Manual Safety Pilot with Variable Flame Knob for Gas Log Burners. 300 degree solid brass valve handles more heat for reduced clearance. Comes with a rotary knob for operation inside fireplace. Cannot be operated by remote control. Designed for average to smaller size gas logs.
APK-10 - Basic Remote Pilot
On/Off Remote Control Safety Pilot for Gas Log Burners. Includes Basic RR-1 On/Off remote control transmitter and receiver. Has a standing pilot that can turned on and off from the remote control or manually with an on/off control inside the fireplace. You can upgrade to RR-2 Deluxe Remote Control system with Thermostat, Timer, Clock and Room Temperature (sold separately). Large gas flow capacity designed for gas logs ranging from 12" to 60".
APK-11 - Basic Remote Pilot
On/Off Remote Control Safety Pilot with Low Profile for Gas Log Burners. Includes Basic RR-1 On/Off remote control transmitter and receiver. Has a standing pilot that can turned on and off from the remote control or manually with an on/off control inside the fireplace. You can upgrade to RR-2 Deluxe Remote Control system with Thermostat, Timer, Clock and Room Temperature (sold separately). Designed for average to smaller size gas logs.
APK-15 - Adjustable Flame Remote
Variable Flame Remote Control Safety Pilot with Piezo Starter for Gas Log Burners. Includes Basic RR-1 On/Off variable flame height remote control transmitter and receiver. Has a standing pilot that allows you to turn the fire on and off or adjust the flame height with the included remote control, or manually by turing a knob attached to the pilot valve inside the fireplace. You can upgrade to VR-2 Deluxe Remote Control system with Variable Flame, Thermostat, Timer, Clock and Room Temperature (sold separately). Designed for average to smaller size gas logs.
APK-17 - Adjustable Flame Remote
The Ultimage Variable Flame Remote Control Safety Pilot for Gas Log Burners. Features a Low profile adjustable flame remote control safety pilot that takes up less room and requires less clearance inside your fireplace. Includes VR-1 On/Off remote transmitter that actually adjusts the flame height as well.
EPK-01 - Electronic Ignition Remote
Electronic Ignition Pilotless Remote Control Safety Valve for Gas Log Burners. Uses the latest technology with an energy saving automatic electronic ignition system eliminates standing pilot. Includes Basic RR-1 On/Off remote control transmitter and receiver. Fire can turned on and off from the remote control or manually with an on/off control inside the fireplace. You can upgrade to RR-2 Deluxe Remote Control system with Thermostat, Timer, Clock and Room Temperature (sold separately). Designed for average to small size logs.
More About Controls and Burner Choices
Match Light Burners:
Match Light gas log burners are for natural gas only, you CANNOT use a match light system with Liquid Propane!
To operate a match light burner, you light the gas logs by holding a long match or lighter in front of the burner with one hand while turning on the
gas from your main gas valve located either in the wall or floor next to your fireplace. It is important to know that
when you turn on the gas to a match light burner, the gas flows freely through the holes in the burner, so if you turn on the gas and do not light the logs, gas just
continues to flow into your home. If someone (such as a small child) turns on the gas without lighting the logs, you can see how this would create an unsafe condition.
So you must be more more careful with this type of system. if you have small children, don't forget to keep the gas key out of reach, or consider one of the safety pilot or remote options.
Because there are no safety controls whatsoever to a match light system, many cities across the country do not allow them. Be sure to check with your local building department
to make sure this type of system is allowed in your home before you make a purchase.
Manually Operated Safety Pilot (SPK):
This type of burner system has a safety pilot that stays lit at all times (unless you turn it off). If the pilot is lit, then you can turn the logs on and off manually by reaching inside your
fireplace and turning the control knob that is attached to the burner system. You cannot operate this type of system with a remote control.
Basic On/Off Remote:
This type of burner system has a safety pilot that stays lit at all times (unless you turn it off). If the pilot is lit, then you can turn the logs on and off from the included hand held remote control.
You can also turn the logs on and off by reaching inside the fireplace and adjusting the valve manually.
You cannot adjust the flame height with this type system, so it is either on all the way or off.
Adjustable Flame Remote:
This is the most popular type of remote controlled gas log system. It has a safety pilot that stays lit at all times (unless you turn it off). If the pilot is lit, you can turn the logs on and off as well as
adjust the height of the flame directly from the included hand held remote control. These functions can also be performed by reaching inside the fireplace and adjusting the valve manually.
Electronic Ignition Remote:
This is the most sophisticated and costly burner system. There is "NO" safety pilot. Instead, the gas valve is turned on and off by the remote control and there is a spark igniter that
lights the gas. This type of system saves energy because you are not burning the safety pilot while it is not in use. The entire system is battery operated, so there is no hard wiring necessary.
You cannot adjust the flame height with this type system, so it is either on all the way or off.
For more details read: How a Safety Pilot Works
Approval Ratings and Building Codes
Check with your local building department: Before you purchase gas logs anywhere, It is very important that you find which of the rating standards below are accepted in your city.
Because building codes vary from city to city, Peterson produces gas logs to 3 different standards, giving you the most flexibility in choosing the best logs for your needs.
The less strict the standard is in your city, the more choices you will have that may be either less expensive or more appealing to you.
We cannot tell you what your local building codes require, so you must contact your local building department to determine what they will accept.
No Approval - Some gas logs have no approval rating. These are generally log sets that are over 30" wide because they use too many BTUs to be approved by any national building standards.
Non approved log sets are still acceptable in many cities. Often times you can get approval from your city to use such logs if you provide certain documentation to your local planning department.
We can help you with this if necessary, you will just need to let us know what it is they want.
RADCO Approved - A majority of cities in the USA accept RADCO approved gas logs. These meet basic minimum safety standards that are accepted by many municipalities.
However, RADCO approval does not require that your gas logs have a safety pilot, so if one is required by your city, you will most likely
need to purchase an ANSI approved gas log.
ANSI Approval - Gas logs that are ANSI approved meet the most strict standards and are pretty much approved anywhere in the USA. Some cities and states (such as Massachusetts and New York) will not allow you to install any gas log unless it is ANSI approved. All ANSI approved gas logs will have a "Factory Installed" safety pilot, so there is no such thing as a "Match Light" ANSI approved gas log.
If you are unsure which approval is legal in your city and you do not wish to deal with the building department to find out, then purchase an ANSI approved gas log and you will be fine.
However, there is an additional cost for gas logs to go through the ANSI approval process, so be prepared to spend a little more for an ANSI approved log set.
Please email questions or comments to: gregt@hansenwholesale.com
For details about safety piltos read: How a Safety Pilot Works
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