Vented vs. Ventless Gas Logs

Few other images are so enticing a part of a Western or rustic decorating scheme as cuddling up in front of a warm fireplace. For urban dwellers, however, regular fireplace use can pose a few problems. Gas logs are an easy and realistic alternative. Understanding the differences between vented gas logs and ventless gas logs is crucial for the neophyte rustic designer.

Why Gas Logs?
Cleaning a fireplace and restocking logs requires time that many commuters don't have. Some environmentally sensitive people would prefer to avoid excessive use of firewood. Gas logs are clean and efficient, providing warmth and ambience without the hassles of natural wood fires. Gas logs are typically made from a fireproof mix of molded refractory cement, fired ceramic clay, and molded ceramic fibers, and utilize natural gas or liquid propane to burn.

Vented
Vented gas logs offer all the beauty and realism of a traditional wood fire. Flames are bright orange and yellow, and include glowing ember beds to enhance appearance.

However, vented gas logs require the same outside ventilation as a wood fire. A functioning chimney or damper must be used when vented gas logs are burning.

Ventless
Ventless gas logs are nearly 100 percent heat efficient, and because they don't need ventilation, they can be installed in homes even without a standard fireplace chimney.

The downside of ventless gas logs is that you won't get the same beautiful fire as with vented gas logs, and you should check regulations for your state to make sure they're permitted. If they are, ventless gas logs can be a wonderful heating alternative for quiet, cozy nights.

Whether you prefer the ambience of vented gas logs or the warmth and efficiency of ventless gas logs, a gas log fireplace will put the final seal of comfort on your Western or rustic decorating scheme.