From Firewood to Gas Logs
After years of using your fireplace and keeping it in top-notch condition, it gets tiring— the constant stacking, chopping and hauling of wood. Not to mention the many problems you may encounter just to ensure that it is safe and effective. Converting your masonry fireplace to gas logs is less messy, more convenient and produces a more even burn.
Using Firewood
Firewood smells and sounds great, but there are a few disadvantages. For a wood-burning fireplace, the natural elements of the wood itself does not produce sufficient amount of heat for a long period of time. Instead, it can produce large volumes of smoke that increases air pollution. You cannot just burn any old wood and you have to prepare your burning season in advance. Also, the burning of firewood can cause a more rapid build-up of creosote in your chimney, requiring more than a once a year cleaning.
Gas logs start at the push of a button and require no chopping of wood, This alone may be reason enough to see if a conversion makes sense for you.
What about Gas Logs?
Gas logs are manufactured as an open flame appliance and designed to copy the exact look and aroma of traditional fire. It is placed on top of a burner and uses either gas or propane. It gets going at the touch of a button and requires no ash removal.
Companies produce two kinds of gas logs; vented and vent-free gas logs. Vented gas logs typically substitute the whole idea of a real, blazing fire—the coziness and the warmth included. It is budget-friendly and very convenient because there is no need to stack and haul the logs. When using this, always remember to keep the damper open so that the vented gas logs can perform its task well.
Vent-free gas logs do not provide a realistic approach of a real intimate fire but it can provide enough heat for a longer period of time. Since it’s going to be utilized longer, make sure to have carbon monoxide detectors installed beside your vent-free logs to assure safety and security in the home.
There are many factors to consider when converting to gas logs; the cost, the installation process and the possibility of restructur ing your entire fireplace and chimney. Gas logs cannot be used in old-fashioned fireplaces. However, the invention of fireplace inserts can accommodate the use of gas logs. Although this upgrade may cost a bit more upfront, it is also more energy-efficient and a higher producer of heat.
Everyone has their own opinion on the matter. Nonetheless, it is always better to have an expert’s opinion. The licensed experts of New Buck Chimney Sweeps are more than willing to discuss and help you decide what you really want and what is really best for your home. We’re the only ones certified by the CSIA in Shreveport, Louisiana. If you are planning on converting to gas logs, let us help you out.