Vented vs. Vent-Free Propane Gas Log Sets – Pros and Cons

Written on: October 24, 2017

You may love the idea of adding a convenient, realistic, and beautiful propane gas log set to your existing masonry fireplace – but do you understand the differences between vented and vent-free options?

There are benefits and costs to each technology, and the best option for you depends on your needs and home.

Here’s a rundown for each gas log option:

Vent-Free propane gas log sets

• These units are actually considered vent-free 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 gases) so it can meet safety standards; a typical vent-free log set is rated at about 40,000 BTUs / hour.
• Bottom line: Vent-free log sets are great if you want an efficient heat source for a small- to medium-sized fireplace, or if you want a back-up heat source during power outages.

Vented propane gas log sets

• Vented gas logs are designed to produce a beautiful roaring fire, but it comes at a cost of fuel: 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 gas log sets are also less efficient, since some of the heat that’s produced escapes through the chimney.
• Bottom line: 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 fireplace? Contact us today and let’s talk about it.

And if you’ve always dreamed of having a fireplace but have settled for a blank wall instead, guess what – a propane fireplace or cast iron stove is more affordable than you think! Contact Koppy’s today for a FREE estimate and let’s get to work on your dream hearth.