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There is No Such Thing as a Standard Gas Log

There is No Such Thing as a Standard Gas Log - Ann Arbor MI - Clean Sweeps of MI

Sweeps America Bedfor Char Vented Gas Log

Whether you want to install a brand new fireplace or are interested in switching fuel sources, finding the right gas log can be difficult. Many homeowners mistakenly believe that there is a “standard” gas log that will fit all fireplace units; however, this is not the case.

There are a number of variations and options when it comes to gas logs. In order to find the gas log that best fits their needs, homeowners should consider all of their options and consult with a fireplace professional before making a purchase.

Types of gas logs

There are two kinds of gas logs – vented and vent free.

  • Vented: Vented gas logs are connected to a venting system such as a chimney or flue. This allows the fireplace to draw air from the outside during the combustion process; while this creates a more complete burn and a hotter fire, it can also lead to some heat being lost up the chimney. Vented gas logs are most often used when a gas log is being installed into an existing fireplace.
  • Vent free: Vent free gas logs are self-contained combustion systems do not require any connection to outside air. Because of this, they can be placed virtually anywhere in the home. However, vent free gas logs do not create realistic flames and may impact the air quality in the home when used for long periods of time.

Within both of these types of gas logs, three main materials are used to create the logs: bisque ceramic clay, molded ceramic fibers, and molded refractory cement. These differences in materials create different burn patterns and wood looks; gas logs are available in a number of different wood styles such as oak, birch, or hickory. This allows homeowners to select a gas log that more closely resembles the wood burning fire of their choice.

Fuel options

Homeowners have the choice between either natural gas or propane for their gas log. While natural gas is more widely used, propane can be used in areas where natural gas is not an option. When operating a propane gas log, however, the standing pilot light option is required. Both fuel options for gas log fireplaces have low operating costs. Natural gas fireplaces typically cost between $0.60 and $1.50 per hour to operate, while propane costs between $0.75 and $1.75 per hour to run.

No matter what fuel source they use, most gas logs are designed to burn dirty. This means that the gas log burns with incomplete combustion in order to create a more realistic yellow flame similar to those created by wood burning fires.

Gas log size

The size of the gas log varies by manufacturer and model. Most sets range in size from about 12 to 60 inches in width. The size of the unit you need will depend on flue size. When selecting a vent-free gas log, the size of the unit is dependent on how big of an area in your home you want to heat.

Since there are a number of available options, there are no “standard” gas logs. Because of this, working with a fireplace professional is often the best way to find the gas log that is right for you. Contact Clean Sweeps of Michigan today and let us help you find your new gas log!

Inserts vs Stoves vs Fireplaces

Regency Excalibur® P90 Medium Gas Fireplace

Regency Excalibur® P90 Medium Gas Fireplace

When it comes time to choose a new heating appliance, the choices can often be overwhelming. A traditional, wood-burning fireplace is no longer the only choice for homeowners looking to add warmth and ambiance to their homes. While there are dozens of different styles of heating appliances available, three of the most popular are inserts, stoves, and fireplaces. With more fuel choices and styles available than ever before, now is the perfect time to upgrade to a more modern heating appliance.

Inserts 

Unlike the open combustion of traditional fireplaces, fireplace inserts used a closed combustion system. This allows them to be more energy efficient as less warm air escapes up the chimney and less cool air enters a room. According to the Hearth, Patio, and Barbeque Association’s Leslie Wheeler, adding a fireplace insert has been known to reduce energy bills by as much as 40 percent.

There are fireplace inserts for a wide variety of fuel sources on the market today, as well as a variety of aesthetic styles. Clean Sweeps features a number of gas, pellet, and cast iron inserts, giving consumers the freedom to choose an insert that fits not only their style but also their budget.

Stoves

Free standing stoves are no longer just for rustic cabins or hunting lodges. These energy efficient appliances have begun to appear in more and more modern homes in recent years as homeowners are attracted to their ease of use, relatively low cost, and aesthetic appeal. Even during burn bands, EPA certified stoves are allowed to continue running.

Like inserts, stoves that burn many different fuel sources are available. Wood stoves are ideal for homeowners looking to replicate the look and feel of a traditional fireplace, whereas gas stoves offer the same aesthetic look without the work of chopping and hauling firewood. Pellet stoves combine the look and feel of wood with a more efficient fuel source, and cast iron stoves have a more traditional, rustic aesthetic.

Fireplaces 

According to the National Association of Realtors, 40% of home buyers are willing to pay more for a home with a fireplace. For homeowners looking to upgrade or install a fireplace, there are more choices than ever before in terms of fuel sources, styles, and cost.

While traditional, wood-burning fireplaces remain popular, gas is becoming an increasingly widespread choice due to its ease of use. With an ease of use that is as easy as flipping a switch and little to no necessary maintenance, gas offers many benefits to homeowners. However, wood still wins in terms of lower fuel costs and overall ambiance. Clean Sweeps has a variety of gas and wood fireplaces available in their showroom to fit most styles and budgets.

If you’re looking to replace, upgrade, or install a new heating appliance, trust the experts at the Clean Sweeps to help you make the right choice for your family. With a wide variety of available styles and brands, our friendly and knowledgeable staff is ready to assist you today!

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