Gas Logs or Wood Stove?

By George Elias
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23 Sep, 2013
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Wood vs. Gas logs

Asking someone whether they prefer real or gas logs is a little like opening up the real or fake Christmas tree debate. Some people prefer the authenticity, experience, and smell of the real thing; others insist that something that comes out of a box and goes right back into it with no mess to clean up afterwards is the way to go. Choosing between wood and gas can be similar. There isn’t a definitive answer, because it all boils down to preference. People can usually agree that there’s no substitute for the “real thing”, but having another option can prove to be enjoyable, easier, and more efficient than the real thing. Young’s Chimney serves the Volusia, Seminole, Orange and Lake County area, and can help you service your chimney, whether gas or wood is your thing.

*There are many factors that go into the decision of whether to use wood or gas logs. What do you like most about have a fireplace? And what about the experience is unpleasant or not useful?*

The first issue most people want to look at is cost. Depending on where you live, the cost of wood will fluctuate, but generally speaking gas will cost about ¼ of the price of wood to burn. The other consideration many of us take into account is environmental impact. Wood burning fireplaces emit 28 lbs of particulates (soot and ash) per MMBtus of heat output as opposed to natural gas which produces about .28 lbs/MMBtus, which is up to 99% less. This reduces pollutants both inside and outside of the home, giving you cleaner air to breathe.

Gas log pros:

Less expensive and more efficient than wood
Burn more predictably than wood
No messy cleanup after a fire
Greatly reduces creosote buildup
Environmentally friendly

If you choose to go with gas logs and have a chimney, remember to continue annual maintenance of your chimney to ensure that any debris, soot, carbon, or dust is removed to keep your chimney healthy and your fireplace running safely. Obstruction in the chimney can still cause carbon monoxide and other pollutants to become trapped inside the home, causing chimney fire or contaminating your air and causing respiratory issues and other health problems. Call us at 407-322-1181 to schedule your inspection and cleaning.