- Vented log sets are designed for externally vented fireplaces (chimneys) and operate more closely to a real wood fire, than do vent-free logs. Operating with the damper fully open on a wood-burning fireplace, vented gas logs can be used in either masonry with an open flu and chimney or a prefabricated firebox with vent pipe. Vented gas logs do produce heat but are not as efficient as vent-free logs and use more gas.
- Vent Free logs are very efficient, burning less gas because the damper is closed which keeps the heat in the room. However, vent free logs are not as realistic as vented gas logs. Vent free logs can be used in an existing masonry or prefabricated wood-burning fireplace with the damper closed.
Vent Free Gas Logs
- Benefits: very efficient because all of the heat being produced by the Vent Free logs stays in the room and burn less gas than Vented gas logs - approximately half to two-thirds.
- Fire Characteristics: do not have quite as realistic appearance, compared to the Vented gas logs.
- Type of Heat: Vent Free gas logs are designed to be a supplemental source of heat and there are codes governing where vent free products can be used and how many BTU’s they can burn within the home.
Vented Gas Logs
- Benefits: higher efficiency and the higher quality air - average of five times more efficient than traditional fireplaces; easy to install.
- Fire Characteristics: produces a yellow, smoky, wood-like flame, so they must be used in a fireplace with a working chimney.
- Type of Heat: Less heat than ventless logs