Was in the mega-hardware store this evening and noticed that they have gas logs for fireplaces. There are the vented kind (you need to keep your damper open) and the non-vented version. The non-vented version is more expensive but also more efficient. It looks like the burner is a different system and it also has an oxygen depletion sensor.

I think that it is possible to have interruptions in electricity and still have natural gas. Some of you will no doubt disagree but I'm hoping to here from anyone who has one and how well it works. Or any technical discussion on these items.

Thanks Mikey2k

-- Mikey2k (mikey2k@he.wont.eat.it), September 14, 1999

Answers

Our house had unvented gas logs when we bought it. Very inefficient, heat goes straight up chimney. Unless you're within a few feet of the flames, you're cold. I understand the new unventd types are much better.

-- Old Git (anon@spamproblems.com), September 14, 1999.

Mikey2k,

Gas logs are for looks. If you want an efficient backup or emergency heat source, get a gas heater that doesn't pretend to be of biological origin. OTOH, if you really want a nice-looking gas log (which is fine), don't kid yourself that it's going to be an efficient backup or emergency heater. :-)

-- No Spam Please (nos_pam_please@hotmail.com), September 15, 1999.

We have had a gas log fireplace for two years now, the unvented kind. The only way that you get any real heat is when the blower is working. No electric, no blower. Ours must need cleaned or something because it's not putting out near as much heat as it used to. I wouldn't count on it for backup heat. hope this helps! Donna

-- Donna (dietrick@penn.com), September 15, 1999.

We purchased NON_VENTED gas logs last winter and heat our first floor of a 3000 sq. ft home with them. EXCELLENT backup as long as the gas flows. (By the way, our logs are made by Monessen and put out 32,000 BTU. Any other questions, just ask.

-- Just visiting (theyworkjustfine@NEOhio.here), September 15, 1999.

By the way, we have lost electricity several times over the past few years and still had gas service. Just depends where the gas company gets its electrcity.

My sister lives in Richmond, Va. Last winter a certain area of Richmond lost electrical service for weeks due to an ice storm but gas was available througout the whole area.

-- Just visiting (theyworkjustfine@NEOhio.here), September 15, 1999.