How Long Can You Run Gas Logs?

Written on: December 16, 2024

Go Vented for Endless Cozy Charm

When it comes to easy, low maintenance, cozy charm, the appeal of a propane gas log set beats a traditional woodburning hearth, hands down. They look realistic, and can be a great source of supplemental heat, to boot. But a common question our customers ask is, How long can you safely run a gas log set? The answer depends on whether you have a vented or ventless system.

What’s a Vented Gas Log Set?

Vented propane gas log sets (also called direct-vent) mimic the look and feel of a wood-burning fire, offering bright, natural-looking flames and realistic logs. A vented set, as the name implies, use either a functioning chimney or flue to vent exhaust gases safely outside—as with a traditional fireplace converted to run on gas—or a small pipe that simultaneously draws air for the fire from the outdoors, while it expels the fire’s combustion byproducts to the outside.

Because it’s vented, you can run this type of gas log set virtually as long as you want, even for six or eight hours at a stretch. The downside is, as with a wood-burning hearth, some of the heat also goes up the chimney.

To ensure safety, always check that your chimney is clear and in good condition to prevent potential backdrafts or carbon monoxide (CO) buildup.

What’s a Ventless Gas Log Set?

Ventless gas log sets, also known as vent-free or unvented logs, are designed to burn gas so efficiently that they produce minimal exhaust. These systems do not require a chimney or flue, allowing all the heat to stay within the room. They are highly efficient for heating but must be used cautiously due to the byproducts of combustion, including moisture and trace amounts of CO.

With that in mind, most ventless gas log sets are designed to run for no more than two to four hours at a time. Extended use can lead to excessive humidity, depleted oxygen levels, or the risk of CO buildup, especially in poorly ventilated spaces. For safety, ventless gas fireplaces are equipped with oxygen depletion sensors that will shut off the unit if oxygen levels drop below a safe threshold.

The Convenience Factor

Not only will a gas log fireplace add cozy charm to almost any room in your home, it can also eliminate the hassle, mess and safety concerns of a wood-burning hearth. Did we mention they can be installed in less than a day?

Need more ease? Today’s propane logs use a remote control and a thermostat that lets you dial up the heat you want—which is great not only for controlling temperature, but for controlling your propane use. Those electric igniters are also more efficient than a standing pilot light.

Another feature you don’t get with a wood fireplace are multispeed blowers that push warm air into the room, providing better, more even heat—especially in larger spaces like great rooms.

The even better news is that they don’t just look nice: Your gas log hearth can be a very efficient source of supplemental heat. A propane fireplace runs at about 80 percent efficiency—which makes them four or five times more efficient than a wood-burning fireplace.

But best of all, a gas log hearth lets you spend time enjoying time with family and friends, not tending a fire—how efficient is that? Contact the pros at Pico to help you select the best type of propane fireplace for your Texas home. Contact us for more information today.