Considerations

• You should never burn wood in a gas fireplace or gas insert. The wood will burn, but it's almost sure to start a fire that spreads beyond the fireplace. Logs for a gas fireplace or gas insert are fireproof; they're just for show. It's important to note that fireproof logs are not made from wood. According to the Hearth, Patio and Barbecue Association, fireproof logs are made from extruded bisque ceramic clay, molded refractory cement or molded ceramic fibers. From a distance, fireproof logs are indistinguishable from wood logs. For your safety, avoid burning wood in a gas fireplace or gas insert.
  
  

Function

• A gas fireplace and a gas insert serve two different functions. Most homeowners choose a gas fireplace when installing a wood fireplace isn't feasible. A chimney isn't necessary, as the gas fireplace can exhaust fumes through a vent installed in a wall or roof. Compare that to a gas insert, which you must install into a wood fireplace. The purpose of a gas insert is to convert a wood fireplace into a gas fireplace. A gas insert is a gas burner that you install into the wood fireplace. After installing the gas insert to convert the wood fireplace, you cannot burn wood without converting it back to a wood fireplace.
  
  

Features

• A gas fireplace or a gas insert will use a standing pilot light or an electronic ignition. A standing pilot light is designed to remains lit whether the fireplace is on or off. However, there's always a chance that a standing pilot light will go out. If that happens, you must reignite the pilot light with a match or other source of flame. An electronic ignition uses an electric spark to light the pilot light. You turn the pilot light on or off with a remote control or switch only when you want a fire; otherwise the pilot is extinguished. An electronic-ignition fireplace will not operate without electricity. However, depending on your type of gas fireplace, you might have the ability to override the electronic ignition in the case of a power outage.
  
  

Warning

• You might want to install a carbon monoxide detector if you're using a gas fireplace or gas insert. Carbon monoxide is a deadly gas that can cause symptoms such as dizziness, vomiting, confusion and death following prolonged exposure. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, any gas-powered product has the potential to malfunction and produce dangerous amounts of carbon monoxide. Because the gas is odorless and colorless, it's impossible to detect without a carbon monoxide detector. Install one.