How to Replace Gas Fire Logs

Tools

First, you will need: a log set, gloves, a hand brush and dust pan, a portable vacuum, pliers, a masonry bit, 4 masonry screws, and a spray bottle with soapy water.

Step 1: Remove the Original Log Set

Begin by shutting off the gas to the fireplace. If you already have a gas log set in place, pull out the logs one by one and put them into a disposable container. Use gloves to prevent your hands from getting dirty or cutting yourself on sharp edges. Once the logs are out, remove the bottom grate and disconnect the gas line from the old burner with a pair of pliers. Remove the original burner and then clean out the ashes and dust from the fireplace. A brush and dust pan come in handy for this step. Finish with a quick vacuum over the entire fireplace. If you have sensitive lungs, consider wearing a paper cone over your nose and mouth.

Step 2: Install New Burner

Before you begin, arrange all of the components on the floor in front of the fireplace. Most new log sets have a burner, logs, and remote control. Prep the burner’s gas connection by putting pipe thread sealant around the burner’s end. Fit the supply line to the burner, using pliers to tighten the connection so that the two pieces fit together snugly. If your log set has a remote control, plug the receiver into the control box. Put the burner into position in the fireplace and use a masonry bit to drill holes into the bottom corners of the burner, straight into the brick, to secure the box in place. Finish with masonry screws to ensure the box remains stable. Attach the gas supply line to the main gas line in the fireplace. Check for leaks in the gas lines by turning the gas back on and spraying a little bit of soapy water over the connections. Use a small spray bottle and give each one a few squirts. A leak will cause large soap bubbles to form. Spray on all the connections.

Step 3: Install New Logs

While this part might seem easy compared to hooking up gas lines and drilling holes, installing the logs must be done in the correct order or the fireplace will not work. Check the manual for the correct installation setup. The logs also have holes on the bottom that line up with pins on the burner, so use those as a second guide to double check your work. Once you place the logs on the burner, your fireplace is finished. You may, however, purchase a fireplace that comes with an extra “authentic” kit of fake coals and wood pieces that lend an air of realism to the fireplace. Scatter these around the base for a beautiful, natural look. Some may even come with rock wool, which you place over specific parts of the burner to create glowing prisms beneath the logs.