The Complete Guide to Logs for Gas Fireplace: Professional Recommendations

Choosing the correct logs for gas fireplace systems isn't just about aesthetics. How your logs are arranged and what type they are affects the way your fire looks, keeps you warm and how safe it is. 

Helping homeowners pick and install the best gas log set is one of our biggest roles at Fireside. We have noticed through our years in the industry that selecting a log set is not the same for all people. If you’re replacing logs or adding a gas fireplace to your home, the guide is written to help you through the whole process. 

Gas Logs Are More Important Than Many Realize 

Decorative as they may be, gas logs are very important for the proper working of your fireplace. Proper selection and placement of them means they can offer: 

• Flame that is always reliable and maintained 
• How efficient the heating is (depending on how it is vented) 
• Proper use and correct flow of air 
• Holding up through years of exposure to different seasons 
• A style that matches the look of your house 

Your gas log set can be made from charred oak or a simple low-profile flame bed and this helps decide the style of your hearth. Fireside will show you which insert is ideal for your house and your fireplace. 

Vented vs. Vent-Free Logs for Gas Fireplace 

The initial step is to find out if your gas fireplace is vented or vent-free, as this will help determine what type of logs you can have. 

Vented Gas Logs 

They are made to work in a chimney or flue where the fire is lit. They give off a flame shape that looks much like a real wood fire. A big, bright flame is made, but most of the heat is released through the chimney. 

Key Benefits: 

• It has smoke, flame and ember effects
• More different styles are available
• Good for creating the right atmosphere and stylish design 

What to Pay Attention To: 

• A chimney needs to be in good condition
• Not a great option if you want heat retention most

Vent-Free Gas Logs 

Sealed gas fireplaces use vent-free logs which are designed not to release any dangerous combustion gases into the air. They keep the heat in the area for a longer time, which is why people like them for warmth. 

Key Benefits: 

• A lot of heat is produced. 
• Since there is no flue or chimney, it is very easy to install 
• Zone heating uses less energy, so heating bills are reduced 

Points to Keep in Mind: 

• Installing the logs at the appropriate location keeps things safe 
• Sometimes makes the smell or dampness more obvious 
• There is less natural-looking movement with flame appearance 

We make sure to match you with gas logs that work with your fireplace and match your desires for atmosphere, heat and style. 

Precise Placement and Sizing is Important 

Gas log sets are not designed to fit every space. They should fit your fireplace exactly, so they work as intended and you stay safe. These are the aspects that have to be measured: 

• Firebox dimensions are both important. 
• How far the gas line will have to be installed 
• The size of the burner pan 
• Spaces left between parts for venting 

After you have chosen a site, where to place it becomes very important. Logs should be arranged in the way the manufacturer recommends, mainly for vent-free setups. If the stove is not in the right place, the flame ports may be blocked, backdrafts can form and CO may be released in an unsafe way. 

Fireside will care for these details for you with onsite measurements, custom advice and official installation. 

Installing the System Needs to Be Done by Professionals  

Gas logs cannot be set up simply by plugging them in. It requires: 

• Having a licensed professional connect the gas line 
• A correct burner system alignment 
• Protect the wiring that goes to the ignition system 
• Vent-free units can be equipped with CO detector 
• Refining the recipe and making it better 

If you try to build a log set by yourself, it may not work well, it could cause gas leaks, put your home at risk from fires and you might lose your warranty. So, Fireside sets up each fireplace and log project with professional technicians. 

Our technicians have deep experience in working with all major brands of logs for gas fireplace systems, and we’re familiar with regional codes, safety protocols, and best practices. 

How Fireside Works: Planning, Product Selection, and Completion 

Fireside is different from large retailers or online shops because we combine all the services into one. Unlike just a showroom, we are with you from the start to the end of your fireplace project. 

When you decide to use Fireside: 

• Tips will be custom made for you considering your home and what you want to achieve 
• You can choose from gas log sets that have been carefully selected by our team 
• Getting an installation done by our team is more convenient than trusting someone else 
• A clear schedule, clear costs and project monitoring will help you stay updated 
• The Plan My Project tool allows you to start selecting and designing your project right from your home 

Common Questions About Gas Log Installation 

Are gas logs supposed to be cleaned or looked after in any way? 

Yes. Dust or soot may start to collect over the years. Cleaning your fireplace annually is best if you depend on it often for heating. Fireside provides service plans to help everything work smoothly. 

Is it possible to change from vented to vent-free? 

That could be, but you need to examine your fireplace, venting system and read local codes for installation. Our team will evaluate the conversion and show you what steps to take if it is the right choice. 

How many years do Gas logs generally last? 

Ceramic fiber or refractory cement logs have a life span of 8–10 years or more if you look after them properly. 

You Can Get Style, Safety and Comfort with Just One Update 

Choosing the right logs for gas fireplace is about more than just aesthetics—it’s about safety, performance, and longevity. Fireside will help you at every part of the process: finding the right looks, flames and then installing everything according to the best standards. 

When it’s time to change or build a new fireplace, go straight to the gas logs. A good choice will add comfort and design to your house for a long time. 

Call Fireside or use our Plan My Project feature to get your hearth transformed using an attractive gas log setup.