Homeowners who love the ambiance of a fireplace but dislike the hassle of wood often look to gas log sets as a simpler alternative. If you have an existing wood-burning fireplace and want to convert it to gas, you’re not alone. This popular home upgrade offers greater convenience, minimal upkeep, and consistent heating. Here’s what to expect during the conversion process—and how to ensure your new gas log set is the best choice.
Why Make the Change?
There are several benefits to making the switch:
Ease of Use: No more stacking wood, sweeping soot, or struggling with kindling.
Less Mess: Gas burns cleaner, reducing indoor pollutants, soot, and air contamination.
Better Heat Control: Depending on the type, gas log sets can provide more reliable heat output.
User-Friendly Features: Remotes, thermostats, and timers make gas logs simple to operate.
Homeowners often find that converting to gas increases the usability of their fireplace beyond winter.
Initial Inspection and Planning
Before any conversion, your current fireplace and chimney setup must be reviewed. Key elements to assess include:
Firebox dimensions and structure
Chimney stability and venting capacity
Damper and flue condition
Access to gas lines
A professional fireplace technician can help determine if your system is ready for a gas log set and what modifications, if any, will be needed.
Select the Correct Log System
You’ll need to decide between vented and vent-free log sets:
Vented Gas Logs: Ideal for those who prioritize aesthetics and realism. These use your existing chimney and produce lifelike flames, though much of the heat escapes.
Ventless Gas Logs: Offer higher efficiency and don’t require a chimney. However, their use may be restricted depending on zoning laws and safety requirements.
Your choice will depend on your heating goals, visual expectations, and whether you're willing to keep using your chimney.
Choose Natural Gas or Propane
Gas log sets run on either utility gas or LP fuel. Your selection depends on your home’s utility access:
Natural Gas: Connects to your home’s utility line. Common in urban and suburban areas.
Propane (LP): Delivered via outdoor tank. More typical in rural settings.
The conversion process will differ depending on your fuel source, and the log set must be compatible with that type.
Gas Supply Setup
If your fireplace does not already have a gas line, this will be the initial upgrade. A certified gas technician will install a new line from the main supply to the fireplace location.
During installation:
Proper pipe sizing and gas flow control are ensured.
Safety cutoffs are added.
The system is inspected for leaks before use.
Depending on your layout, this may take a few hours or require additional work.
Log Installation Process
Once the gas line is ready, your log set can be installed. This includes:
Placing ceramic logs in a specific configuration
Connecting the burner system
Installing the ignition (manual, millivolt, or electronic)
Adding decorative embers or fire media if included
Proper log placement is essential for efficient and realistic flame behavior. Many homeowners opt for professional installation to get optimal results.
Wrap-Up and First Use
After setup, the installer will:
Test ignition and flame pattern
Check gas pressure and stability
Demonstrate how to operate the system and maintain it
Once complete, your fireplace is ready for use. Enjoy instant fire at the push of a button—no splitting, no storage, and no smoke in the house.
Making the switch to gas logs is a straightforward project with lasting benefits. Whether you're after low-maintenance warmth, easier operation, or extended seasonal use, gas logs provide a appealing solution to an age-old comfort. With help from a licensed professional, your new fireplace can be installed safely and enjoyed for years to come.
Homeowners who love the ambiance of a fireplace but dislike the hassle of wood often look to gas log sets as a simpler alternative. If you have an existing wood-burning fireplace and want to convert it to gas, you’re not alone. This popular home upgrade offers greater convenience, minimal upkeep, and consistent heating. Here’s what to expect during the conversion process—and how to ensure your new gas log set is the best choice.
Why Make the Change?
There are several benefits to making the switch:
Ease of Use: No more stacking wood, sweeping soot, or struggling with kindling.
Less Mess: Gas burns cleaner, reducing indoor pollutants, soot, and air contamination.
Better Heat Control: Depending on the type, gas log sets can provide more reliable heat output.
User-Friendly Features: Remotes, thermostats, and timers make gas logs simple to operate.
Homeowners often find that converting to gas increases the usability of their fireplace beyond winter.
Initial Inspection and Planning
Before any conversion, your current fireplace and chimney setup must be reviewed. Key elements to assess include:
Firebox dimensions and structure
Chimney stability and venting capacity
Damper and flue condition
Access to gas lines
A professional fireplace technician can help determine if your system is ready for a gas log set and what modifications, if any, will be needed.
Select the Correct Log System
You’ll need to decide between vented and vent-free log sets:
Vented Gas Logs: Ideal for those who prioritize aesthetics and realism. These use your existing chimney and produce lifelike flames, though much of the heat escapes.
Ventless Gas Logs: Offer higher efficiency and don’t require a chimney. However, their use may be restricted depending on zoning laws and safety requirements.
Your choice will depend on your heating goals, visual expectations, and whether you're willing to keep using your chimney.
Choose Natural Gas or Propane
Gas log sets run on either utility gas or LP fuel. Your selection depends on your home’s utility access:
Natural Gas: Connects to your home’s utility line. Common in urban and suburban areas.
Propane (LP): Delivered via outdoor tank. More typical in rural settings.
The conversion process will differ depending on your fuel source, and the log set must be compatible with that type.
Gas Supply Setup
If your fireplace does not already have a gas line, this will be the initial upgrade. A certified gas technician will install a new line from the main supply to the fireplace location.
During installation:
Proper pipe sizing and gas flow control are ensured.
Safety cutoffs are added.
The system is inspected for leaks before use.
Depending on your layout, this may take a few hours or require additional work.
Log Installation Process
Once the gas line is ready, your log set can be installed. This includes:
Placing ceramic logs in a specific configuration
Connecting the burner system
Installing the ignition (manual, millivolt, or electronic)
Adding decorative embers or fire media if included
Proper log placement is essential for efficient and realistic flame behavior. Many homeowners opt for professional installation to get optimal results.
Wrap-Up and First Use
After setup, the installer will:
Test ignition and flame pattern
Check gas pressure and stability
Demonstrate how to operate the system and maintain it
Once complete, your fireplace is ready for use. Enjoy instant fire at the push of a button—no splitting, no storage, and no smoke in the house.
Making the switch to gas logs is a straightforward project with lasting benefits. Whether you're after low-maintenance warmth, easier operation, or extended seasonal use, gas logs provide a appealing solution to an age-old comfort. With help from a licensed professional, your new fireplace can be installed safely and enjoyed for years to come.