Vented or Vent Free Gas Logs: Which Do You Need? Posted on January 1, 2020 If you’re shopping for a new gas fireplace, you’ve likely noticed there are two main types of gas logs: vented and vent-free. While they may look similar, the differences are significant. Choosing the right type for your fireplace can save you time and ensure safety. In this guide, we’ll explore the benefits of gas fireplaces, the types of log sets available, and the key differences between vented and vent-free options. What is a Gas Fireplace? A gas fireplace uses natural gas or propane to produce flames, offering a convenient and efficient way to heat a room while enhancing its decor. Unlike traditional wood-burning fireplaces, gas units provide consistent warmth without the hassle of chopping wood, cleaning ash, or maintaining a chimney. Modern gas log sets replicate the appearance of real wood, complete with dancing flames that provide excellent heat output. These fireplaces combine efficiency with aesthetics, making them a popular choice for homeowners. Vented vs. Ventless Gas Logs Gas fireplaces are categorized into two types: vented and ventless. Each requires specific gas logs to ensure proper functionality and safety. Let’s break down their features: Vented Gas Logs Vented gas logs mimic the appearance of a traditional wood fire, complete with lifelike flames. These logs are ideal for existing fireplaces with chimneys or flues. However, they produce carbon monoxide, so proper ventilation is essential. While vented logs create an authentic ambiance, some heat escapes through the chimney, making them less efficient than vent-free options. They’re perfect for those who prioritize aesthetics over efficiency. Key Features of Vented Gas Logs Require a chimney or flue for proper ventilation. Offer realistic flames and wood-like appearances. Best suited for decorative purposes rather than primary heating. Ventless Gas Logs Vent-free gas logs are highly efficient and don’t require a chimney or flue, ensuring that more heat stays in your home. They’re an excellent choice for supplemental heating, providing warmth at a lower cost. Although ventless logs may lack the visual appeal of vented sets, modern designs, such as the Whiskey River and Sassafras sets, offer a balance of efficiency and beauty. Key Features of Ventless Gas Logs No chimney or flue required, maximizing heat retention. Lower operational costs and greater efficiency. Ideal for supplemental heating in well-ventilated areas. Vented or Ventless: Which Should You Choose? The choice between vented and ventless gas logs depends on your priorities. If you value a realistic flame and have an existing fireplace, vented logs are a great option. If efficiency and cost-effectiveness are more important, vent-free logs are the way to go. Explore our selection of gas log sets to find the perfect addition to your home’s heating solution. Shop Gas Logs Mickey Luongo Mickey is the resident heating and air conditioning expert with over 15 years of experience in the industry.
April 22, 2017 at 5:35 AM Dedicated server says: Fully Vented gas logs must be burned in a fireplace that is capable of burning real wood and must be burned with the damper open. The real beauty of vented gas logs is that they produce substantially more yellow flame than ventless logs which makes them look far more realistic. Reply
December 19, 2017 at 11:56 AM Types of Gas Logs for Fireplaces: A Guide to Different Options says: […] next item to determine is whether or not your gas logs need to be vented or vent-free. Vent-free gas log sets offer the most versatility and are the easiest to have installed, as they […] Reply
January 4, 2018 at 1:02 PM Greg says: Our ventfree fireplace logs give off an odor that smells like melted crayons, which bothers me . The fireplace has a clean out in the basement leading us to believe that at one point it was a wood burning fireplace and was converted to ventfree. Previous owners had the chimney blocked. Is there a difference in vented and ventfree systems? Could the wrong one have been installed? Reply
January 14, 2018 at 11:03 PM Mickey Luongo says: Yes, you can use vent free logs in a vented fireplace. Reply
May 31, 2018 at 9:36 AM Sarah says: Can I use vented logs in a vent free fireplace? I have vented now, but I’m considering a switch to vent free because I want the fireplace to produce more heat. What would I have to do to make that conversion? Thanks Reply
May 31, 2018 at 11:33 AM Mickey Luongo says: You cannot under any circumstances use vented logs in a vent free firebox. This is a massive fire hazard. Reply
January 2, 2020 at 5:28 PM Gas Log Safety & Efficiency - Are Ventless Gas Logs Safe? says: […] may make sense for one person to go with a vented system and another with a ventless system. There’s really no wrong answer — it just depends on your priorities and space […] Reply
November 24, 2020 at 5:50 PM vic says: i had a standard wood fireplace. I installed a gas line and purchase vented logs with a burner. Now , to have more heat in the room, i want to install ventless logs. Do I need to install a new burner for the ventless logs ?? or can i use the existing burner and change the logs?? Reply
November 25, 2020 at 9:57 AM Mickey Luongo says: You must use a vent free burner. You cannot use a vented burner in a vent free application. Reply
October 18, 2021 at 9:52 AM Ron Simmons says: Your article is confuseing.what makes the diff Between vented or ventless….the BURNERS or the logs.. Reply
January 23, 2022 at 12:56 PM CHERYL A STONE says: What is the difference between the different remotes? Variable flame is understood, but what does intermittent pilot mean, and can you have intermittent pilot and flame control? Reply
January 26, 2022 at 10:28 AM Mickey Luongo says: Intermittent pilot means that the system creates a spark when it comes on and does not have a constantly running pilot. Some intermittent pilot systems are also variable flame. Reply
January 23, 2022 at 12:58 PM CHERYL A STONE says: The terms vent free and ventless are both used. Is there a difference? Reply
August 11, 2023 at 8:56 AM Frank Holsinger says: Is it true that vented and ventless gas logs should not be used in bedrooms? Reply
November 17, 2024 at 9:03 PM Saul says: Quick question on the ventless gas fireplace do u have to install the outside air kit or it’s not necessary if its install outside on the deck and just screens around Reply
