Frequently Asked Questions

WHAT ARE VENTED GAS LOGS?
If looks and ambience are more important to you than heating your space, vented logs are probably what you’re looking for. Available in a variety of wood types like birch, oak and cedar, as well as crushed glass and gemstones, a vented set will provide you with realistic logs and authentic realistic flames for a beautiful ambient focal point. You do require a functioning chimney and an open damper to prevent a build up of hot air and gas by-products like carbon monoxide.

ADVANTAGES OF VENTED GAS LOGS

Designed to use in a wood burning fireplace, but always work with an authorized installer to prevent expensive mistakes, gas leaks or malfunctions.
Clean burning and smoke free.
You can arrange the logs whichever way you like.

DISADVANTAGES OF VENTED GAS LOGS

More about looks & ambience and less about actual heat.
Most the heat will escape up the chimney.
Uses slightly more gas than vent free logs.
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WHAT ARE VENT FREE or UNVENTED GAS LOGS?

If you’re want your fireplace to serve as an efficient heating source, then vent-free logs are the way to go. You don’t need a chimney or damper to install vent-free logs.

ADVANTAGES OF VENT FREE GAS LOGS

Produces more heat than vented logs.
Uses slightly less gas than vented gas logs.
Cleaner burning than vented gas logs.

DISADVANTAGES OF VENT FREE GAS LOGS

Must be installed in a room with sufficient air circulation so as not to deplete oxygen levels in your space.
Has a slight odour reminiscent of kerosene.
Flames are not as realistic and do not wrap around the logs like vented gas logs.
You may need to install a hood if there is a mantle above your fireplace to divert heat and avoid damaging your mantle.

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NATURAL GAS vs PROPANE

ADVANTAGES OF NATURAL GAS:

Natural Gas is less expensive then Propane.
Although there are some initial costs in running a pipe line, in the long run, Natural Gas is more economical.
Natural Gas is piped so you'll never run out of gas, which is a great advantage if there is a power outage in the middle of winter when you need a heating source most.
Natural Gas is lighter than Propane, so if released into the air it will dissipate faster, and is therefore considered the safer choice.

DISADVANTAGES OF NATURAL GAS:

Not as hot or energy efficient as propane
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ADVANTAGES OF PROPANE:

One the greatest advantages of propane gas is that it comes in a tank and can easily be refueled at your local gas station and most big box stores.
It's portability makes it a favorite for grills and fire pits.
Propane provides more energy per unit than Natural Gas which means that propane is hotter burning and provides more heat.
With more than twice the energy of natural gas (one cubic foot of propane = 2,516 BTUs, while one cubic foot of natural gas = 1,030 BTUs), Propane is the most efficient gas fuel available.
Propane is clean burning, not toxic or damaging to the environment.

DISADVANTAGES OF PROPANE

You have to remember to fuel your tanks or have a reserve so you’re not left without a heating source when you need it most.
More Expensive than Natural Gas
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CAN I CONVERT A PROPANE FIREPLACE TO NATURAL GAS?

The answer is YES! Conversions kits are available to do the job, but we recommend you always work with an authorized installer so the job is properly and safely.
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IS IT OK TO BURN WOOD IN A GAS FIREPLACE?

The answer is NO! Never burn anything in your gas fireplace other than the intended fuel type and gas logs supplied. Burning wood or other materials is a safety risk and can be potentially hazardous.
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WILL MY GAS FIREPLACE STILL WORK WHEN THERE'S A POWER OUTAGE?

Some units have a backup battery pack which works when the power goes out, others use a minivolt ignition system which does not rely on electricity. Before you purchase a new gas fireplace check if it has a battery back up or runs on a minivolt system to ensure your fireplace works without electricity.
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CAN I MOUNT A TV ABOVE MY FIREPLACE?

There are a few things you can do to avoid damaging your TV if your mounting it above your fireplace:

Install a mantle above your fireplace, this will help block some of the rising heat from your fireplace.
You should also recess your TV into the wall, but be aware you will need some space to do this as TV's also require some space behind them to prevent them overheating. Best to get some expert advice about your TV's specifications and how much clearance space it needs behind it to keep it cool.
Make sure you have enough clearance space between your fireplace and your TV, your fireplace manual will most often give you safe clearance distances to follow to avoid damaging your television set.
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