Your local gas log installation team in Westfield

Yellow flames by design

Vented log sets are made to look like a wood fire, with tall yellow flames. One maker says its unit is designed to burn with yellow flames and that adequate ventilation is absolutely necessary.

Yellow flames produce more soot than the blue flames of a sealed gas fireplace, which is why the flue and damper rules matter so much. Our crew explains how the look and the venting go together before you choose between vented and vent-free sets.

Odors when the logs are running

Not every odor at a log set is a fault. One maker's troubleshooting table notes that a new home, new carpet or new paint can produce objectionable odors when those fumes are drawn into the fire, and it advises ventilating the area thoroughly before restarting the set.

The same table lists a closed damper as another cause, with the fix of making sure the damper is open. Our technicians check the damper and clamp first whenever an owner reports an odor.

Walls above a vent-free set

Warm air rising from a vent-free set carries whatever is in the room with it. One manual cautions that installing the heater next to vinyl or cloth wall coverings, or running it where tobacco smoke, scented candles, cleaning fluids or oil lamps are in the air, may cause walls to discolor.

It is a practical point that surprises owners after the first season. Our pros mention it at the planning stage, when the choice between vented and vent-free is still open.

When the log set pilot keeps dropping out

When a log set pilot lights and then drops out, one maker's troubleshooting table points to several parts. Our technicians check each one before recommending a repair.

Pilot parts are specific to the valve, so replacements come from the set's own parts list.

• A valve that will not hold
• A pilot hood bent away from the thermocouple
• A bent or kinked pilot line
• A loose, cracked or worn thermocouple
• Excessive downdraft in the chimney

Gas logs and a home inspection

Home inspection reports often note a gas log set that did not light, a missing damper clamp or soot on the logs. Those notes deserve a clear, written answer.

Our specialists check each item against the set's manual and the Florida fuel gas code, repair what needs repair and give you a document that buyer and seller can both rely on, with upfront pricing for any work.