If you have a gas fireplace, one thing you’d be conversant with is the gas log component. Gas logs fireplaces basically consist of a stack of ceramic logs.
These are arranged in such a way to have the look and feel of an actual wood-burning fireplace. Having this component installed is what we seek to discuss.
Gas Fireplace Logs: Things to Never Ignore
The installation of gas logs is a whole process that involves several aspects that has to do with preferences, as well as the type of fireplace you have.
Also, you’ll need to think about and find out about applicable building or city codes. All of these are geared towards a successful gas logs installation process.
Looking closely at available choices, homeowners should be able to figure out whether they need venting or ventless gas logs to be installed. What more?
You’ll also need to decide how your fireplaces’ functionality is going to be in terms of convenience of operation.
In other words, do you want gas fireplace logs with a remote or not? Having answers to these and more helps simplify the gas log installation process.
Enough of that already! How do you install gas logs for a fireplace?
We won’t delay you any further!
Gas Logs Installation For New & Existing Fireplace
The process for gas log installation for fireplaces follows a series of steps that each needs to be well implemented.
These steps can be split into two categories or phases; the preparation phase and installation proper.
Let’s consider each of them as follows;
The Preparation Phase
Before a gas log installation occurs, certain things need to be put in place.
In other words, the installation process requires some level of tidying or groundwork before work commences. These actions include installing a carbon monoxide detector, clearing up the fireplace, and removing the grate.
Next, you’ll need to shut off the gas line, clean and reconnect the gas line to the new burner, and applying sealant. Let’s discuss each of these points a bit more.
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Installing a Carbon Monoxide Detector
More than anything else, every homeowner should be more invested in limiting health risks associated with gas log use. Although this heating system is largely harmless, it could malfunction and release toxic gases like carbon monoxide.
The only way to protect yourself and your family is by having a carbon monoxide detector installed. This detects the earliest signs of carbon monoxide present in your home and sets or triggers an alarm.
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Clearing up the Fireplace
There’s likely to be extra debris around your fireplace.
Before gas log installation begins, consider cleaning up and remove old gas log installations if any. You may also need to perform some coating by applying high-temperature paint to your fireplace interior.
This must be allowed to dry before moving on to the next step.
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Removing the Grate
Your grate might be held in place with screws. This needs to be removed for installation to commence. Unscrew the masonry screws and take out the grate.
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Shut off the Gas Line
It’s important to shut off the gas line first before disconnecting it from the burner. This enhances overall safety.
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Clean and Reconnect Gas Line to New Burner
Ensure that your firebox is completely cleaned before reconnecting the gas line to the burner (new burner precisely).
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Applying Sealant
To avoid leakages, the gas line will need to be sealed using a thread sealant. With this process completed, you’re now ready to proceed with gas log installation.
Installing Gas Logs For Fireplace
The installation proper involves several actions.
The process starts with proper placement of burner, installing grate over the burner, inspecting for leaks, a reference to manual, the use of protective gear, placing gas logs on a grate, application of fire granules, and addition of accessories if any.
What more? Turning on the fireplace follows. This is the last step that shows if a good job has been done. Let’s further discuss each of these points as follows;
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Proper Burner Placement
To begin the installation, the burner needs to be placed in its proper position. This helps you mark out the points for drilling holes for masonry screws.
With drilling completed, screw the burner in place and proceed to the next step.
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Installing Grate Over Burner
Here, your grate will have to be installed over the burner. There isn’t much to do here as you only need to put the grate in position.
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Inspecting for Leaks
You must inspect for leaks by applying or spraying a water and soap solution along the gas line. Leaks will be noticed whenever bubbles appear. Any leaks should be fixed before proceeding to the next step.
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Reference to Manual
The manual is indispensable when it comes to gas logs installation for a fireplace.
Different gas log types may have varying installation techniques. The only way to ensure you’re doing the right thing is by referring to the manual.
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The Use of Protective Gear
Gas logs installation will require using some form of protection. A pair of garden gloves will help reduce the likelihood of injuries by shielding your hands.
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Placing Gas Logs on Grate
Now, it’s time to place your gas logs in position on the grate. It’s important to note that every action outlined in this procedure helps you achieve the needed results.
As such, the outcomes depend on how well each aspect of the installation was performed.
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Application of Fire Granules
If you need some flame dispersal, you may want to apply some fire granules. These are mostly placed beneath the logs as well as above the burner.
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Addition of Accessories
Some gas logs will come with accessories that should be added to the fireplace. If yours has any, consider placing them where they belong.
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Turn on the Fireplace
Now that you’re through with the gas logs installation process, it’s time to test your fireplace. Turn on the fireplace and look out for any anomalies that will require correction.
Gas log installation for the fireplace can be easy when the right procedures are followed. These have been provided above. However, we recommend calling a professional technician for the job especially when in doubt.