How To Choose A Propane Gas Log Set

If you love spending evenings in front of a fire, but don’t love all the effort it takes to make them happen, you’re not alone. That’s why people throughout Connecticut are turning to propane gas log sets – a one-click solution that brings you the warm glow of a hearth without the hassles of wood fire set up and clean up.

If you have decided to install a propane gas log set, one of the key choices you will have to make is between direct vent and vent-free options. Each has its pros and cons, and the best choice for you will depend on your needs, your home, and your local building codes.

Here’s a quick summary of considerations for each of the two propane gas log possibilities:

Vent-Free Propane Gas Log Sets

• Vent-free log sets are considered space heaters and have similar features, including a safety shut-off, room oxygen sensor, and nearly 100 percent heating efficiency.
• The flame on a vent-free log set is reduced so it burns less fuel and emits fewer exhaust fumes in order to meet safety standards; a typical vent-free log set is rated at about 40,000 BTUs / hour.
• Vent-free log sets are great if you want an efficient heat source for a small- to medium-sized fireplace or room. However, some building codes prohibit the use of vent-free heaters in living spaces, so do your research before committing to buy one!

Vented Propane Gas Log Sets

• Vented gas logs are designed to produce bigger flames, but this comes a cost of efficiency: vented fire log sets burn about twice as much fuel as a vent-free log set – about 80,000 to 90,000 BTUs/hour.
• Vented log sets are great if you have a large fireplace, want a blazing fire and can live with lower efficiency and higher fuel bills.

Not sure which propane gas log set is right for your existing masonry fireplace? Call a pro at Hocon to discuss your options. Don’t have an existing fireplace? Consider a propane fireplace installation in CT. Contact us today to get started with a FREE, no obligation estimate.