Residents of Metro Detroit know how brutally cold it can get during winter. And while many folks depend on their heaters and furnaces to keep them warm, gas log fireplaces are growing in popularity due to their reduced heating costs and nostalgia.
Motown Fire is the go-to fireplace service company in Auburn Hills, MI, Troy, MI, Rochester Hills, MI, Ferndale, MI, Birmingham, MI, Royal Oak, MI, and the surrounding communities. Whether you need a fireplace installation, chimney sweep services or repairs, you can count on our technicians for fast, accurate work.
What Are Gas Log Fireplaces?
True, few things rival the cozy ambiance of a fireplace on a cold winter night. And furnaces and home heaters are ubiquitous and easy to use. However, many homeowners opt to install a gas log fireplace as a primary or secondary heating source. But what is a gas log fireplace, anyway?
A gas log fireplace is a heating appliance that burns either natural gas or propane to create realistic-looking flames and glowing embers. The “logs” are made from ceramic, refractory cement, or other heat-resistant materials and are designed to mimic the look of real wood.
Gas log fireplaces come in two main types: vented and vent-free.
Vented gas logs vent through an existing chimney or flue and are designed for realism, with larger, more natural-looking flames.
Vent-free gas logs do not require a chimney and are more efficient because they retain more heat in the room, although the flame pattern is often more modest.
Gas Log Fireplaces vs. Traditional Wood-Burning Fireplaces
So, how do gas log fireplaces compare to their more traditional brothers?
Convenience
One of the biggest reasons people love gas fireplaces is how easy they are to use. Lighting a fire is as simple as flipping a switch, pressing a remote control button, or using an app on their phone. There’s no need to gather wood or deal with kindling and matches.
Cleanliness and Air Quality
Wood-burning fireplaces produce smoke, soot, ash, and creosote—all of which can affect indoor air quality and require regular chimney cleaning. Gas log fireplaces, on the other hand, burn cleanly. There’s no ash to sweep, no smoke to ventilate, and no lingering smells.
Vent-free gas logs are especially good for indoor air retention, though they need proper ventilation and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure safety.
Efficiency and Heat Output
Traditional fireplaces lose most of their heat through the chimney, often up to 80% of it. That means you’re burning a lot of fuel without getting much warmth in return. Gas log fireplaces, especially vent-free models, are significantly more efficient. They keep more heat inside the room, making them a solid supplemental heating option. Even vented gas logs perform better than wood in terms of steady, reliable heat.
Cost and Maintenance
While the cost of a gas fireplace might be higher than simply using an existing wood fireplace, long-term maintenance is much lower. There’s no need for chimney sweeping or hauling cords of firewood, and gas is often cheaper than wood over time. Gas logs last for years and typically only require an annual inspection and cleaning by a qualified technician.
Why Homeowners Love Gas Log Fireplaces
Thanks to modern manufacturing, many gas log sets look incredibly realistic, complete with glowing embers, crackling sounds, and dancing flames that mimic the appearance of a traditional fire.
Instant Ambiance
There’s no waiting for logs to catch or worrying about whether the fire will stay lit. With a gas log fireplace, you get immediate warmth and ambiance whenever you want it—even for just 15 or 20 minutes.
Low-Maintenance Lifestyle
Busy homeowners appreciate the low-hassle nature of gas fireplaces. No mess. No cleanup. No chopping or stacking wood. Just comfort on demand.
Design Flexibility
Gas logs can be installed in traditional open fireplaces, custom-built fireboxes, or even modern linear wall units. They come in many styles, from classic oak to sleek driftwood, giving homeowners plenty of options to match their décor.
Come into our showroom located at 50760 Metzen Dr., Chesterfield Township, MI 48051, where you can see working gas log fireplaces and speak to our friendly staff about the best option for your home.