We’re well into fall in the Eastern Panhandle region. Temperatures are low in the evening and only getting lower, so lots of people are spending their nights indoors. What could make a night cozier than a beautiful fire in your hearth?
Of course, not every home has a functional fireplace with an open chimney. And even if you have a working wood-burning fireplace, building a fire safely requires a lot of work and attention.
That’s why the team at Roach Energy recommends that customers explore their gas fireplace options. We carry propane-fired gas logs from trusted manufacturers, including Heat & Glo, Monessen, Quadra-Fire, SimpliFire, and Vermont Castings. Here’s how gas logs work.
Gas logs are composed of ceramic logs and piping. They’re placed within a hearth or stove. Propane passes through ports in the piping, where it’s ignited and provides a steady, controlled, stunning flame.
Gas logs have a safety pilot, which prevents gas from escaping into your living area. You can control the flame with a dial or remote. One signal turns on the fire, and another turns it off. No mess, no hazards — just perfect ambiance and warmth!
To hold up under continuous high temperatures, the most common materials for gas logs are ceramic or refractory cement mixes. Some products are reinforced with steel, too. Although there might be some color changes on your gas log’s façade over time, it will maintain its structural integrity and remain attractive after many roaring fires.
Vented and vent-free gas logs are produced for different spaces. A vented gas log might be your best choice if you have a fireplace with an open chimney. It will make a larger, more stunning orange flame than a vent-free product. On the other hand, you will need to keep your chimney’s damper open continuously to vent byproducts from combustion. This makes vented gas logs less effective as supplement heat options.
Conversely, a vent-free product doesn’t require an open chimney. Its flames are more contained and less realistic compared to a vented gas log. However, it produces more powerful heat for your living space, a special bonus in the winter.
Like most propane-fired products, having a professional clean and inspect your gas log every year is a good idea. A Roach technician can look at your gas log, perform adjustments and calibrations on the equipment, perform safety inspections, thoroughly clean it and make any needed repairs.
Our team has installed and serviced many gas logs. We can assess your existing fireplace or hearth and help figure out the best product for you. Then, we can seamlessly install and service it annually to ensure many years of wintertime comfort!
Contact the Roach Energy team for an appointment to explore your gas fireplace options.
