Wood AND gas fireplace?

Question

We just moved in and we're both fireplace idiots. There's a gas pipe in the back of the fireplace and it works, but we don't know what to do next. Can we burn regular logs in there? Will the house blow up? lol Do we have to use gas logs?

Know of any websites where we can learn how to use it? Thanks a lot.

Its a big brick old fireplace with a chimney.

Do we need a log "cradle" to burn logs or just put them on these two bars that are in there. Thanks

Answer 1

The gas line in the fireplace is probably a log lighter. You turn on the gas and light it and it helps the logs light. After the logs are burning, turn off the gas. There should be a gas valve close to the fireplace. Probably recessed into the brick and you will need a "key" to open the valve. They could of had gas logs in there also. Check the gas line in the fireplace. A log lighter has a pipe that runs under where the wood goes in the rack. They usually have a piece of pipe with holes drilled in the top and a cap on the end. As always before you light a fire in the fireplace, check the flue to make sure the chimney is open and clean. Also make sure the damper is there and works properly. If everything looks OK, the fireplace should be good to go. If any doubts, have a HVAC dealer look at it, or a chimney sweep look. They will surely check it out fr you!! Hope this helps!! Good luck!!

Answer 2

Well, both the kind of fireplaces has some pros and cons, but if consider the major factors then there are few things in which we can compare both of the fireplaces:
Difficulty Level of Use: The gas fireplaces are easy to use while wood burning fireplaces require a lot more efforts. In these first you need to get some wood, then you need to arrange in a proper way and then start fire and maintenance. Gas fireplaces are really very good when you just want to warmth your home and want a fireplace to look at.
Fuel Cost: Here the advantage is for wood as you can buy wood from firewood or hardware store.
Maintenance: The wood fire is not a fun to clean, the dust, ash and burned out woods are cluttered and spread very easily while gas fireplaces are easy to maintain and they are to operate. There is no messy cleanup and now sweeping required. So in the term of maintenance gas fireplaces are advantageous.

Answer 3

Gas Fireplace Starter

Answer 4

Gas Starter Fireplace

Answer 5

1

Answer 6

I would have the chimney checked FIRST.

FIND the MAIN shutoff for the FIREPLACE gas line BEFORE using the fireplace. (It should be OUTSIDE the fireplace somewhere.)

Based on your question, I would suggest you contact a professional about the matter.

In some cases, you CAN use either wood or gas logs.

IF using wood, the gas should be turned off at the MAIN fireplace valve, and the line capped with a pipe cap (metal) so that NO gas can get into the fireplace.
I have never heard of a gas "starter" for wood fires as described in another answer. (Possible, I guess, but I wouldn't trust it!)

My fireplace uses EITHER, because it was BUILT that way!

I suggest a set of andirons (log cradle) for burning wood, mine has 4 connected "bars" 6" apart, on 6" legs.

Answer 7

Some modern home are only capable of burning gas, the flue and chimney will not handle the large volume of smoke. In an older home where wood has been burnt there may be an accumulation of creosote on the chimney wall, this will create a fire hazard. Have you fireplace checked by a reputable, licensed and bonded Chummier witch. A log cradle allows air supply to the fire. It will help you achieve a complete burning of your logs.

Answer 8

The gas pipe is to help in starting the wood fire. But, you need the fittings/burner to attach to the pipe. Do not just open the valve and light the pipe. Since you have a brick chimney you should be able to use any type of log you want- real wood or the manufactured type. The cradle that you mentioned will allow you to start fires much more easily. The gas burner is typically placed under the cradle , allowing it to ignite the wood above. If you are unsure about how to attach the burner, get a professional to install it. A DIY project like this is not worth the risk.

Answer 9

That may be a gas starter for the fire. You need a wood grate for the logs. I would get a plumber to check out that gas pipe before I lit any fires in the fireplace and also I would get a chimney sweep to be sure the chimney is not blocked or and he can clean it too also give you some fire lessons.

Answer 10

This Site Might Help You.

RE:
Wood AND gas fireplace?
We just moved in and we're both fireplace idiots. There's a gas pipe in the back of the fireplace and it works, but we don't know what to do next. Can we burn regular logs in there? Will the house blow up? lol Do we have to use gas logs?

Know of any websites where we can learn...