Keys to reducing soot dangers in gas fireplaces

Properly aligned logs in a gas-burning fireplace provide better ambiance and reduce the chances of releasing soot into an environment. (Photo: Shutterstock)

A fire has an innate ability to catch our attention. Uncontrolled fire is terrifying and deadly, but the controlled burning of wood at a campfire or in a fireplace creates an unmatched ambiance and warmth. For that reason, a common amenity in houses today is the gas log fireplace insert.

When not installed properly, these logs will generate soot particles that can leave the fireplace and travel throughout a house. If enough soot gets into the HVAC system, soot can be deposited in every room throughout the home. When logs create a lot of soot, it is usually noticeable immediately and quickly corrected. However, when the logs produce lesser amounts of soot that builds up so slowly, it is not as noticeable until you adjust a picture frame and see how dingy the wall has become.