Propane vs Natural Gas Logs

Rustic design is all about the simple life, but in a few areas it can mean a little more initial complexity. Choosing the proper fuel source for your gas logs is one of them. However, distinguishing between natural gas logs and propane gas logs needn't be stressful. These few tips should help.

Fuel Source
Gas logs are made from a fireproof mix of cement, clay, and ceramic fibers. They are unique compared to wood in that rather than burning, they draw from an alternate fuel source. That source can be either natural gas or liquid propane.

In most homes, choosing between the two will be as easy as knowing how your home is currently heated. If your appliances run on natural gas, your decision has already been made for you.

Natural Gas
Even if you have natural gas in your home, you'll still need a gas line running to your fireplace. If you're not sure, check with your utility company or have a certified plumber run a line for you.

Natural gas is pumped into your home from existing lines buried underground. A plumber will use the BTU output of your gas logs to determine the size of the line. A single BTU, or British Thermal Unit, is the energy needed to raise the temperature of a pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit. Natural gas is lighter than air, but be sure youre safe by asking if a safety pilot would be necessary.

Propane
Unlike natural gas, propane is stored in a reinforced tank outside your home, like a larger version of what you might have on your backyard grill. A certified plumber or liquid propane professional could run a line from that tank to your gas logs.

If you use liquid propane, you will need a safety pilot. A safety pilot operates like an automatic shut-off valve to prevent the accumulation of gas in your home.

If your home is set up for neither natural gas nor propane, ask your local utility company about what would be the best arrangement for your home.