Railroad Commission Offers Safety Tips for Propane Gas Fireplace Logs

As more Texans use propane to fuel fireplaces, following some simple safety precautions can save money and lives.

AUSTIN, TX, Jan. 13, 2009 -- The Railroad Commission offers the following safety tips for Texans enjoying the cozy warmth of a propane gas log set this winter. As the state’s chief energy agency, the Railroad Commission has been in charge of propane safety in Texas for more than 50 years.

“More and more Texans are fueling their fireplaces with clean-burning propane gas,” said Railroad Commission Chairman Michael L. Williams, “And it’s easy to see why. Gas logs don’t smoke up the neighborhood, and they turn on at the flip of a switch. But they don’t turn off by themselves like a wood fire, so remember to switch off your gas log when you leave the room for an extended period and before you go to sleep.”

Even though gas log owners no longer have to split and stack firewood or haul ashes out of the fireplace, gas-fired logs do require some maintenance.

“Have a trained technician install the units and schedule a regular maintenance checkup at the start of the heating season,” said Commissioner Victor G. Carrillo. “The checkup should include cleaning the control compartments and burner as well as checking all the components for proper operation.”

Gas logs may be vented or unvented. Unvented units do not have a chimney or flue. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, unvented gas heaters are gaining in popularity because they are relatively inexpensive, easy to install and efficient.

“Consumers should know whether their gas logs are vented or unvented,” said Commissioner Elizabeth A. Jones. “If they’re vented, make sure the fireplace where the logs are installed is designed for actual use, not just for decoration. Inspect it to see that it has adequate protective linings and smoke ducts, and that the chimney is clear and in good repair,” Jones said.

Vent-free models are easier to install, but they can pose a health hazard because they draw their combustion air from inside the room, which can deplete the room’s oxygen level and may produce some carbon monoxide (CO). They also produce water vapor, which can cause problems when they are operated often or for a long time, especially in a “tight” home. Newer models of vent-free appliances come with an oxygen depletion sensor that will automatically turn off the unit if the oxygen drops below a specified level.

For more information on how to stay warm safely with propane this winter, view the following website link at: http://www.propane.tx.gov/ or call the Railroad Commission’s Alternative Fuels Division at (800) 64-CLEAR.