I'm thinking about putting unvented gas logs in my basement rec room. Will this add too much humidity?

Question

I already need to run a dehumidifer. I read that gas logs add moisture to a room. And how about gas odor?

Answer 1

Burning natural gas creates carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide and water vapor. So technically having an unvented heater will add water vapor to the basement but depending on how much it heats the room, it may not raise the relative humidity.

It will greatly add to the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. You can not see, smell or taste carbon monoxide.

I would NEVER have an unvented gas heater or gas log set in a closed room. The risk is just too high.

Answer 2

I've never heard of an ventless gas fireplace adding humidity to the air. I'd be willing to bet the heat would tend to dry things up a bit. Of course, I'm assuming you mean a ventless gas fireplace. As for fumes, there's no issue there. I had one in my townhouse. There's always a pilot light on so there won't be any unburned gas going into the basement.

Answer 3

The extra heat should have the opposite effect, making the air dryer not more moist. If you go ventless, you should probably invest in a good CO monitor for safety. And if you have gas odor, it means you have a big problem.

Answer 4

Gas logs do not add moisture to a room, they remove moisture. If you use the gas logs, you will find that your dehumidifier will probably be able to be shut off for the winter months.

Answer 5

the heater will add a little water vapor to the room. they really dont give off any odor that i can smell, but then again i work with propane every day and i dont really have a nose for it anymore.

you need to get a CO detector and install it according to the instructons.

Possum

Answer 6

Doesn't sound like a good idea to me. Your family could be over come by the fumes from the gas. I sure wouldn't have it un-vented in my house. Sounds like you are flirting with disaster to me.