How to Know What Size Gas Logs to Buy

Gas fireplaces come in a wide variety of shapes, styles, and sizes. So how are you supposed to know what size gas logs you need?

If you’ve already selected a type of gas log, it’s now time to figure out what size you’ll need. Most gas log buyers start limiting their options at this point, taking into account factors such as fireplace size concerns, control kinds, pilot systems vs. manual gas valves, and others.

Here, we’ll help you understand what size gas logs you’ll need for your fireplace this winter. Just keep reading to become an expert!

Gas Log Sizing Factors

When selecting the size of your gas logs, it’s important to consider some factors regarding your fireplace.

First, the width and height of the opening, the width of the rear wall, and the depth of the fireplace are all pertinent fireplace parameters when picking gas logs. Any type of gas log requires a minimum depth of 12 to 14 inches in the fireplace.

Additionally, the burner system and the fireplace sidewalls must be kept apart by at least 2 inches on both sides, while some customers prefer up to 6 inches on both sides.

The length of the gas log set you choose shouldn’t exceed the breadth of the fireplace’s back wall. Remember that you must provide space for the fuel control system your gas log burner employs when choosing the size of your gas logs.

You should also consider manual on/off gas valves, safety pilot valves, and millivolt or remote-ready pilot valves when shopping for gas logs.

A gas log set that is too big for the fireplace can impair the burn and make the fuel control system less effective.

Additionally, the beauty of the fireplace setting may be diminished by selecting a gas log set that is too small. A gas log set that is either too big or too small might have a negative impact on how well a fireplace drafts.

Measuring Your Fireplace

Four dimensions must be taken into account when measuring your fireplace and firebox for gas logs: front width, rear width, depth, and height. Your firebox’s depth is measured from the front to the back, and its height is measured from bottom to top.

The size of your firebox defines the size of gas logs you will require, regardless of the kind of fireplace doors you have or the type of hearth that is there. You must measure your firebox and take clearances into consideration.

To precisely measure the firebox of your fireplace, grab the following items:

• tape measurer
• paper
• writing utensil

Move all of your fireplace accessories and decor away from the firebox. Clear the inside of the gas log fireplace of any debris, dust, or dirt. Then you may start taking measurements!

Standard Fireplace Dimensions

When thinking about your fireplace’s proportions, there are two scenarios.

The first step is to measure the internal components of your fireplace, which comprise the firebox itself, the flue that leads to the chimney, and the smoke shelf region that extends within and above the fireplace.

The second is what the homeowners view, which is the fireplace’s exterior. This includes the hearth, the facing, the firebox, the shelf, and the mantel.

We shall take a measurement of the firebox’s width to assess the size of the fireplace. A firebox’s width can typically range from 11 to 19 inches and beyond. 14 inches of height for the firebox is also required.

The depth of a fireplace is determined by measuring it from the back of the firebox to the opening; on average, a fireplace is 16 inches deep.

The height of an opening in a fireplace is the distance from the hearth to the top of the aperture, and the width of the opening is the distance from one side of the opening to the other.

A fireplace’s aperture typically ranges in height from 24 to 29 inches and in width from 24 to 36 inches.

Mantle, legs, and occasionally the hearth are all referred to as the “surround” informally. The face surrounding the firebox of your fireplace is known as the surround. These components’ coordinated measurements make up the outside cabinet’s size.

The average fireplace’s width is 42 inches. However, some smaller ones might be as narrow as 36 inches. Some fireplaces that are a little larger can even be 48 inches broad.

A mantle should typically be at least 12 inches taller than the aperture. It should be 29 inches tall for a typical fireplace that is 36 inches wide.

Natural Gas vs. Propane Gas Logs

There are two fuel kinds for gas logs: liquid propane and natural gas (LP). The type of gas you burn will depend on whether you already have a line in the fireplace. You will need to choose the sort of fuel you want to use if there isn’t a line.

Confirm the type of fuel that your appliances are currently using. Natural gas is probably the best option if you have a natural gas heater, dryer, stove, or another device.

Choose a gas log set that uses liquid propane if you have propane-powered appliances. If neither form of gas is available in your home’s plumbing, find out locally which fuel would be most suitable for your locale.

Choose the Right Size Gas Logs For Your Fireplace

Different lengths and sizes of gas logs are available, and they also require a particular amount of space in your firebox on all sides. This makes taking precise measurements essential to comprehending gas log options and guarantees that you select the proper gas log configuration the first time.

Now that you’re aware of how to choose the right size gas logs for your fireplace, you can look forward to enjoying a beautiful, cozy fireplace all year long.

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