Fireplace Sizing -
How to Measure your Fireplace for A Gas Log Set

It's important to buy the right size log set - improper sizing can interfere with proper drafting of your fireplace. If the logs are too large, the unit will not burn as efficiently and the size may hamper the proper operation of the control system. Too small a log set will diminish the beauty of your hearth setting. Look below to see the parts of the fireplace you'll need to measure before purchasing your log set - this area of your fireplace is called the "firebox".

Where to Measure Your Fireplace

Sizing and Specifications

By measuring the front width, back wall, depth and height of your firebox, you can determine what size log set you will need. The chart below can be used as a guide to select correct log set size. Log set sizing charts vary somewhat by manufacturer so you should check with your hearth dealer for the chart that matches the manufacturer you've selected.

Sizing Notes:

If you install a safety pilot kit, add 3" to the width of the firebox opening and front dimension of the log set.

If you install a remote system, add 6" to the width of the firebox opening and front dimension of the log set.

Size	Front Width of Fire Box Opening*	Sample Gas Log Set Dimensions Front   Back   Depth			Log Set Average BTUs
12" Set	16" TO 22"	12"	12"	11"	25,000	25,000
16" Set	20" TO 30"	16"	12"	11"	50,000	30,000
18" Set	24" TO 30"	18"	15"	12"	75,000	40,000
20" Set	26" TO 32"	20"	15"	12"	75,000	40,000
24" Set	31" TO 38"	24"	20"	12"	90,000	50,000
30" Set	39" TO 45"	30"	24"	12"	90,000	65,000
36" Set	46" TO 51"	36"	30"	13"	120,000	90,000
42" Set	52" TO 58"	42"	36"	20"	150,000	105,000
48" Set	59" TO 65"	48"	42"	20"	150,000	105,000
54" Set	66" TO 71"	54"	48"	20"	150,000	105,000
60" Set	72" or more	60"	54"	20"	150,000	105,000

*Front widths are provided as a general guide for selecting proper log size.

Gas Log Sizing and Specifications

The Main Benefits of Gas Logs:

• Can operate without electricity
• Functional room decor
• Leaves no smoky odor
• No cleaning ashes
• Added source of space heating
• Environmentally friendly

Main Components of a Gas Log System

1. Gas Logs (the number of logs included in a log set will vary by style and manufacturer)
2. Fireplace grate (stand on which the logs are installed, sized according to the log set size)
3. Gas Burner System (burner type depends on fuel type and log style)
4. Fuel Injector (Natural Gas Only)
5. Sand (Natural Gas Only)
6. Vermiculite (Propane Gas)
7. Damper Clamp (Vented Logs)
8. Stabilizer Clips
9. Safety Pilot (Mandatory for Vent Free and Propane Gas, optional for Natural Gas)

Gas Requirements

Is a gas line currently installed?

If no, then a gas line or propane will need to be installed upon installation on the logs. A licensed gas installer should install your gas line.

If yes, please verify the following information: Is the natural gas line currently in place for a log lighter? If so, a larger gas line will most likely need to be installed. Again, any licensed gas installer can supply this service.

Vented or Vent Free Style Logs

Gas Logs are sold in vented and vent free or unvented styles. Vented logs require an open damper in the fireplace to allow the heat to flow upwards and out of the chimney. Vented logs mirror the action of a wood-burning fireplace with the damper open.

While the vented logs do produce heat, vent free logs function more like a space heater because they do not require an open damper and the heat is confined to the room. However, vented logs are more aesthetically pleasing and not only supply some heat, but double as room decor.

Vent Free logs require an Oxygen Depletion Sensor (ODS), a device that senses the amount of oxygen in the room and automatically shuts off the log set when oxygen level drops below 18%. The pilot on a vent free set that has been automatically shut off by the ODS can only be re-lit when fresh air is available. This may require opening a window or a door to another room or cracking the damper open slightly.

Gas Log Efficiency Ratings

On average, vented gas logs are 47% efficient (2 times more efficient than wood-burning fireplaces).

On average, vent free gas logs are 99% efficient (4 times more efficient than wood-burning fireplaces).

Fireplace Requirements for Vented Gas Logs

Vented Gas Logs are to be installed only in a fully, vented, noncombustible fireplace with an open damper. The chimney must be free of any obstructions. The fireplace must be designed and approved to burn wood. Like burning natural firewood, your gas log set is designed to burn with yellow, smoky flames. For this reason, it must be adequately vented. The fireplace flue must be at least 8" at its smallest dimension.

Your fireplace must have a gas supply line that has been installed by a qualified technician in accordance with all local codes. The gas supply line must be 1/2" minimum interior diameter. If the gas line to your fireplace is longer than 20', a larger diameter line may be necessary.

Before installation, be sure to clean your fireplace floor of any ashes or other foreign materials. It is recommended that a chimney sweep or other qualified person inspect the fireplace and chimney before having your log set installed.

Fireplace Requirements for Vent Free or Unvented Gas Logs

Before having vent free gas logs installed in a solid fuel burning fireplace, the chimney, damper and firebox must be thoroughly CLEANED of soot, creosote, ashes, loose paint and inspected by a qualified chimney cleaner. Some older fireplaces may need repair prior to installing this appliance.

Any outside air ducts and/or ash dumps located on the floor or wall of the fireplace must be permanently sealed shut during installation with a heat resistant sealant. Do not seal the chimney flue damper.

Gas Log Valves

The Standard ON/OFF Valve - This valve is controlled manually and the logs will need to be lit each time they are burned.

The Safety Pilot Kit - This valve may be installed with the logs to allow the pilot to burn constantly, which does not require the logs to be lit each time they are burned. It is possible that additional installation costs may be charged for installation of a safety pilot.

Gas Log Accessories

Remote Controls - Allow for the automatic turn on/off of the log set from anywhere in the room. Styles vary from allowing the customer to turn the flame up/down, installation of a wall switch or simply turning the set on/off.

Other Available Accessories include branches, sand, embers, lava granules, pine cones, bonus logs and wood chips to help customize the look of your fireplace.

Certifications

RADCO certification is the standard for vented logs. The installation, including provisions for combustion and ventilation air, must conform with local codes, or in the absense of local codes, to the latest edition of the Natural Gas Fuel Code (ANSI Z223-1 and NFPAA54). Vent Free or vented logs should be C.S.A. certified to the unvented room heater standards (ANSI Z21.11.2) and as a vented decorative appliance (ANSI Z21.60).

Propane Gas Logs

Gas log sets are designed for use for either Natural Gas or Propane fuels. Sets designed for use with Propane Gas must be installed with a safety pilot system. In most gas log sets, the safety pilot is included. Never use Propane Gas in a log set designed for use with Natural Gas or Natural Gas in a log set designed for use with Propane Gas.

 

 

Buyer's Guide to Natural Gas Water Heaters

Frequently asked questions:

Q. How can I tell what capacity (size) my current water heater is?

A. Look at your water heater for the label that says, "US Gallon Input." It will likely say, 40, 50 or 75 gallons. If your current water heater provides enough hot water, just order the same size as what you have.

Q. My current water heater does not provide enough hot water. What size should I go to?

A. If you have a 40 gallon, you should upgrade to a 50 gallon. If you have a 50 gallon, you should up to a 75 gallon. The below sizing chart should help you.

Q. What installation charges are involved in replacing my gas water heater with a new one?

A. If you are staying with the same size water heater, normal installation costs might run about $210.00. If you are going one size up, you will need to add $25.00 to this amount.

Q. Are there any new building codes I should be aware of before installing my new gas water heater?

A. Gas water heaters must now be 18" off the floor according to the State of Georgia plumbing code if the water heater will be installed in a carport, basement or room adjacent to either. A water heater stand is therefore recommended to ensure you meet code standards. The cost for the stand and installation is $55.00.

Q. Do you offer same day installation on natural gas water heaters?

A. We can arrange installation the same day, if you place your order online by 2:00 p.m. in areas where we install. When you place your order online, our system will ask for your address and let you know if installation is available in your area.

Q. I have an electric water heater now. Why should I switch to a natural gas water heater?

A. The main reason is energy cost savings. You'll save year after year on your utility bills from increased efficiency and a longer life of the appliance. Also, because natural gas water heaters recover their hot water faster than electric, you may be able to downsize to a smaller gas water heater and still get the same amount of hot water as you did with your electric. Because you will need to add venting for safety reasons, your installation costs will vary between $150-$500. Our installer will come out and give you an exact price. To help you off-set some of these costs, we offer $100 rebates on natural gas water heaters.

Use this chart to select the size (gallon capacity) water heater that would best fit the hot water needs of the individual/family. Note: Usage may vary depending on individual/family habits.
Regular Demand - Based on a home having a washing machine and an automatic dishwasher.
High Demand - Based on a home having teenagers, whirlpool tubs, spas or oversized baths.
Helpful tip: Selection of an appropriate water heater size should take into consideration future family needs.

 

Generator Sizing Guide

What will it run?
Each unit powers the following items simultaneously.