Safety Rules for Gas Logs

Keep safe and warm this winter

Recently, gas logs have been seen in an increasing number of home fireplaces. This newfound popularity can be attributed not only to the inexpensive heating gas logs provide, but also for the timeless appeal and cozy feelings that accompany a fire glowing in the hearth.

Professional gas log installation

If you don't already have the necessary gas lines installed in your fireplace to connect a gas log, you will most likely have to hire a certified professional to do the job safely and within state and local guidelines for gas log installation.

Check with your local fuel provider or building code professional to find out who in your area is legally certified to install gas logs.

Strict safety regulations

The Canadian Gas Association (formerly known as the American Gas Association) imposes strict regulations on manufacturers of gas appliances in both the U.S. and Canada to ensure product safety. The CGA tests and determines the safety of features such as safety pilots on gas logs, as well as BTU output, gas log design, and the way gas logs are arranged on the grate. Many states only allow installation of CSA-approved gas logs and gas log burner combinations.

Conventional fire safety

Heating equipment is the leading cause of home fires during the winter months and is second only to cooking equipment in year-round home fires. Once you have installed a gas log in your fireplace, there are safety measures and precautions that you should always follow to ensure that your home remains safe and warm throughout the season.

Obey all sizing guides to ensure that your gas log is the right size for your fireplace.

When using vented gas logs, make sure there is a safe distance between fireplace walls and house walls.

Be sure smoke detectors and carbon monoxide testers are installed in your home and are working properly.

Keep the area in front of your gas log free of any flammable or combustible material such as debris or home furnishings.

Check that the flue/damper is open when operating vented gas logs.

Buy gas logs with safety pilots to guard against oxygen depletion and gas buildup.

Never leave lit gas logs unattended.

Use a fireplace screen to keep children and pets away from a gas log.

Never let young children operate a gas log.

Follow all manufacturer instructions for proper usage of gas logs.

Have all gas logs professionally inspected each year.

Never add wood or any other flammable material to a gas log fire.

Be certain gas heating devices such as gas logs are installed with proper attention to ventilation.

Never install or use ventless gas logs in small bedrooms or bathrooms or other confined spaces.

If you suspect any problem or malfunction, turn off your gas log immediately and call your local fuel provider.

More information on gas logs