Saftey

Liquid Propane and Natural Gas

Most importantly...Liquid Propane always requires a safety pilot, where as Natural Gas does not. The reasons are explained in more detail below.

Natural Gas: Since Natural Gas is lighter than air, it can be used without a safety pilot in many cities, providing the damper is permanently propped open. Propping the damper open will allow the gas to escape up the flue in the event that someone turns on the gas without lighting the logs. Natural gas is typically used in homes where Natural Gas is already plumbed throughout the home. If you have Natural Gas in your home, but do not have it plumbed to your fireplace, be sure to have this done by a certified plumber. The plumber needs to know the BTU input of the gas logs that you purchase so that the correct diameter line can be run from the gas main or other connection. Also, if you already have natural gas plumbed to the fireplace, the amount of BTU's that the line can handle may be less than the logs consume...which may result in lower than expected performance.

Liquid Propane: Since Liquid Propane gas is heavier than air, all gas log systems that use Liquid Propane are required to have a safety pilot. This prevents the gas from puddling in the home in the event that someone turns on the gas line without igniting the fire. Liquid Propane is commonly used in areas where Natural Gas is not available to the home. If you do not already have gas plumbed to your fireplace, then you will want to have a certified plumber or Liquid Propane expert install the gas line. Make sure that this is done to code for your area. Be sure to consult with your local building department if you are not sure of any requirements before purchasing gas logs from any dealer.
NEVER ATTEMPT TO ATTACH A PROPANE GAS SOURCE TO ANY NATURAL GAS APPLIANCE. THIS WILL RESULT IN FLAMES 2-4 TIMES HIGHER THAN IS CORRECT AND COULD BE A VERY DANGEROUS, LIFE-THREATENING FIRE HAZARD.

What To Do If You Smell Gas: Do not try to light any appliance. Do not touch any electrical switch and do not use any phone in the building. Immediately call your gas supplier from a neighbor's phone. Follow the gas supplier's instructions. If you cannot reach your gas supplier, call the fire department.

Gas Log Building Codes: Building codes may require the damper in your chimney to be permanently blocked open if you install gas logs. You can reduce drafts and heat loss by installing glass doors in front of the gas fireplace, but the doors must remain open while the fire is burning.

Carbon Monoxide Risks: Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless, potentially lethal gas produced as a byproduct when fuels such as natural or propane gas, kerosene, and wood are burned. It's important to follow the manufacturer's instructions exactly when using any type of fuel-burning appliance.