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All natural gas fireplaces have two basic components - logs and a natural gas burner module.
The logs are fashioned after actual wood logs using refractory or ceramic fiber. They are crafted to simulate the look of real wood and are available in a wide variety of wood types. Many are split and charred for added realism.
The gas burner module creates the flames in the fireplace. The technologies used to create the authentic looking flames are triumphs of engineering. Golden flames are made to dance and flicker among the logs by reducing the air entering the firebox and dispersing gas through a bed of sand or vermiculite.
Most units contain either a safety pilot system or electronic controls that prevent the main burner from operating if combustion cannot take place safely. Unvented units contain an oxygen depletion sensor, which cuts off the unit if the oxygen level in the room drops below a safe level. See the Buyer's Guide for more information.
Natural Gas Fireplaces Can Be a Source of Heat
Some natural gas fireplace products can provide a substantial amount of heat. The amount of heat from your gas fireplace depends on the type of fireplace you purchase. For the aesthetic effect of a beautiful fire, choose a product certified as a "vented natural gas fireplace." For heat as well as the ambiance, choose a "vented natural gas fireplace heater" or an "unvented room heater."
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