Converting A Gas Log Fireplace To Wood Burning

The primary differences are that vented logs produce a more realistic fire appearance but don t supply as much heat as the non vented variety.

Converting a gas log fireplace to wood burning.

At the top of the list is making the determination if a conversion of your gas fireplace to one that burns wood is even possible. A gas to wood burning firebox conversion allows the use of the fireplace damper not available for gas fireplaces. Barnhart says the next step involves removing the gas logs or insert and either capping off the gas line or installing a gas log lighter. Fireplace conversion process experts say the process to convert to a wood burning fireplace is relatively simple once you ve determined that all of the parts are in working order.

Next the gas logs are removed and the gas line is capped off or converted to a gas log lighter. Talk with a contractor who specializes in fireplaces or someone at your local hearth store. A gas starter pipe provides gas to your fireplace meaning you won t need any kindling to start a fire just a match. As the name implies vented logs require a vent system the chimney when converting an existing wood fireplace to gas while non vented logs operate without a vent.

The installation of gas inserts into a wood burning system is a straight forward conversion with the major considerations being. If you want to convert your gas fireplace to wood leave it to the professionals so you have the comfort of knowing the job is getting done safely and correctly. Converting a wood fireplace to gas is not as difficult as it seems even though most experts suggest having professionals install the necessary components. Leaving your gas line allows you to add a gas starter pipe to your fireplace.

Remember converting a gas fireplace to a wood burning one is a process that takes extreme attention to detail and skill. Options usually depend on the type of fireplace. The importance of annual inspections. When converting back to wood from gas logs you may want to keep the gas line in your fireplace.

A wood burning prefabricated fireplace will need a conversion kit but masonry fireplaces have several options. If the flue is already in good shape for the conversion the process may only cost up to 300 or as little as half that much. Steps to the gas fireplace insert conversion include. Finally removing the old gas log kit and then selection of a grate suitable for cradling the burning wood will be needed as the gas log grate in the fireplace will be too fragile for the higher temperatures found in a new wood burning fireplace.

You can make the conversion by simply adding a gas log set or by installing a self contained gas insert unit with its own chimney. Conventional masonry wood burning fireplaces are ideal for converting to gas because they already have the look of a traditional fireplace and all you have to do is install the gas burning guts inside the firebox. Keep vertical chimney care in mind when converting your fireplace. Gas fireplaces that were built new during the construction of your home often can t be converted.