Glowing embers in a fireplace (sometimes called burning embers) are an inexpensive way to enhance a gas fireplace. Glowing embers will not affect the operation of a gas fireplace. However, they are great for imitating a real wood fireplace or campfire. If your gas fireplace's gas log set doesn't look too realistic, you might just need glowing embers to beautify it!
What are glowing embers in a fireplace?
The real burning embers (coal) found at the base of a campfire are small pieces of wood that are still smoldering. Not only are they pretty, but they help distribute the heat evenly around the fire.
Artificially burned embers are designed to be placed under the burners of gas fireplaces. They do a great job of imitating the look of a solid wood fireplace. There are several types of glowing embers. Rock wool is the most common type. The second is made from the mineral vermiculite. Both are designed for use with propane or natural gas fireplaces.
What is the purpose of burning embers in a gas fireplace?
Glowing embers in gas fireplaces are mostly used for aesthetic purposes. As the name suggests, the embers add an orange glow beneath the gas logs. However, the type made from vermiculite provides better heat distribution.
Most homeowners' complaints about the gas logs that come with their homes have to do with them looking "fake." While there are certainly gas logs that look very realistic these days, many entry-level sets don't look realistic. Adding glowing embers to your fireplace will go a long way towards making it look like a real wood burning fireplace.
Do I need to hire a professional to install them?
No, there is no need to hire a professional to install glowing embers in a gas fireplace. However, there are a few things to keep in mind before doing it yourself. For the safety of your family and property, please consider the following first:
Have your gas fireplace professionally cleaned and maintained annually.
Needless to say, but... turn off your fireplace first.
Do not remove or lift the gas burner when installing the hot ember.
Place the gas log in exactly the same position as before.
Insert glowing embers directly under the fireplace burner.
Do not place embers in the middle or on top of gas logs.
