Because of their efficient combustion, there is less pollution. Gas logs add no creosote build-up to your chimney and there are no hot ashes or surprising sparks to drop onto your carpeting. Gas logs resemble wood logs and may be installed in a new or existing fireplace with a chimney. Unvented logs may be used in a fireplace that has no chimney. Stand alone gas fireplaces are typically freestanding units with doors.
Most units produce radiant heat and some have heat exchangers and blowers.
Fireplace inserts are manufactured units designed to fit into a fireplace and provide heat into the living area. Several manufacturers offer gas fireplace logs that can be turned on or off remotely using a light switch. This switch operates an electric gas valve to turn the gas off or on. Another choice offers control of the gas logs with a transmitter similar to the remote control for your TV set. Columbia Gas of Pennsylvania and Columbia Gas of Maryland support a thorough examination, by the purchaser, of both vented and unvented logs.