Heatmaster/American Gas Log, LLC • 16-1012 •Rev D. 03/2018
10
O. Frequently Asked Questions
Can I close the glass doors on my fireplace when using my gas logs?
No. The gas log sets are designed for use in fireplaces with all fireplace doors fully opened. Operating your log set with the doors closed will cause overheating, premature failure
of valve systems, and will void the warranty of your log set.
What sort of maintenance do gas logs require?
Vented gas logs do not require regular maintenance. However, it is a good idea to have valves, pilots and gas connections on your set periodically inspected by a hearth
professional. Although it is not required maintenance, annually refurbishing the ember material and periodic cleaning of the logs will help maintain your set’s beauty and realism.
Why do I need a safety pilot control for my LP gas log set?
Since LP gas is heavier than air, it tends to gather or pool in low spots, rather than dissipating through the chimney flue. Furthermore, escaping LP gas can go unnoticed until
a significant quantity has gathered, creating a potential hazard. Installation of a safety pilot control ensures that gas cannot accidentally pass through the burner when not
operating, eliminating the risk of such an occurrence.
Does the ember material burn-up, and do I need to replace it periodically?
The ember material is a fireproof, organic mineral material called rock wool, and does not burn or require periodic replacement; however, annual refurbishment of the embers will
help maintain the beauty and realism of your log set.
Can I burn real wood along with my gas logs?
No. The intense heat of a wood fire will damage your logs, burners, grates and valves, and will void your warranty.
Will gas logs help my chimney that drafts poorly?
No. Improper or poor draft will not be helped by gas logs. Please have your chimney inspected by a hearth professional or chimney sweep in order to determine how to correct
the problem.
Can I close my fireplace damper to get more heat from my vented gas log set?
No. Vented gas logs are designed to be operated with the damper in the fully opened position. This gas log set produces carbon monoxide gas. The damper must be removed or
clamped fully open using the “C” clamp provided with the set.
My gas logs make a whistling noise when I burn them. What causes this?
This behavior is normally caused by using a corrugated flex connector to hook up the gas log set. We recommend the installer use the supplied aluminum connector rather than
the corrugated flexible type.
Can I move or change the position of the logs on my gas log set?
Certified Log sets should not be altered-log placement must be exactly as indicated in the set’s installation instructions.
Can I install my gas log set myself?
No. We recommend installation be performed by an NFI certified hearth professional, HVAC professional, gas fitter, or plumber experienced in gas log installation. Most localities
require installation of any gas appliance to be performed by a professional. Please check with your local inspection agency/department.
What are the gas logs made of?
The gas logs are made of a mixture of pre-fired, expanded clay and a special high-temperature cement, with a wire mesh reinforcement. This combination creates a strong,
ceramic material capable of withstanding extreme temperatures, yet also allows molding of the intricate detail found in these gas log sets.
I have a vented log set, and the logs have black soot on them. Is this normal?
Soot build-up on vented gas logs is a normal part of the combustion process. Natural gas log sets generally produce less soot than liquid propane log sets. We recommend any
soot build up be removed periodically using a product designed for gas log soot removal.
Can I add a remote control to my log set after it has been installed?
You can easily add a remote to the gas log set if it is already equipped with a solenoid type valve. In addition, vented sets without solenoid valves can also be converted to
remote operation by adding, in the field, a solenoid type valve; however, a hearth professional must do this type of in-the-field modification.
Do I have to re-light the pilot light every time I use my log set?
No. You can light the pilot in the fall and leave it on throughout the winter, as the pilot is extremely clean burning and uses very little gas (approximately 1,500 BTU/hr.). The log
set is equipped with a safety shut off device that will automatically shut the gas off if the pilot flame is extinguished.
Is the gas log set approved by a testing agency?
Yes. The SBS series has been design under the
ANSI Z21.60-2017 Decorative Appliances for Installation in Solid Fuel Burning Fireplaces
. The installation and the
provisions for combustion and ventilation air must conform to the
National Fuel Gas Code, ANSI Z223.1/NFPA 54
. Check with your local inspections department for further
information.
What is the warranty coverage of the log set?
The logs carry a lifetime warranty to the original owner in the original installation. All metal parts (burners, brackets, grates, etc.) carry a 5-year warranty and all valves, pilot
assemblies, and other mechanical parts are warranted for 1 year. The complete warranty is printed in the back of the owner’s manual.
