Gas log fireplaces are those that not only give the illusion of burning wood, they also produce some of the heat that would be expected out of a "real fireplace." These creations come in two basic styles and which one to get will depend a lot of on personal choice.

Gas log fireplaces can be designed to require outdoor venting to ensure that carbon monoxide is removed from a room. They can also come in a form that burns a special gas log that doesn't need venting at all. The kind of fireplace chosen will likely depend on budgeting and the ability to have venting added to a home or apartment. When venting isn't possible for a gas log fireplace, the unvented version can work quite well.

There are some things buyers of unvented gas log fireplaces should know and consider. They include:

* Heat: Gas logs that don't require a venting system must be burned in a fireplace designed to handle them. The heat produced will be incredibly hot to ensure that most of the carbon monoxide is burned up rather than released into a room. Using the wrong kind of logs can be an issue.

* Sensors: A gas log fireplace that is meant to burn logs without a ventilation system should have an Oxygen Depletion Sensor or the room should have a carbon sensor installed. The ODS is the preferred choice because it is built into the gas log fireplace and will shut off the gas supply before a room's oxygen level reaches the danger point.

* Housing: Unvented gas log fireplaces will require a special location in a house. These might not be as portable as electrical versions, but safety should be a number one concern. To properly install an unvented system, it should be contained in a masonry fireplace or even in a firebox that can be quite decorative.

* Safety: Since unvented logs tend to produce a whole lot of heat, there are some rules for working these fireplaces to ensure maximum safety. The doors on the fireplace are generally required to be kept open, but a grate should be in place to make sure no one gets injured. Small children should be kept away from the fireplaces as should anything that might combust.

It is never a good idea to use gas log fireplaces, vented or unvented, over night. Make sure everything is turned off and extinguished before turning in for the evening. Also, it can be smart to keep a window slightly open as the logs are burning.

* Condensation: This is a byproduct of using gas log fireplaces. Vented fireplaces will take the moisture outside, but those that work without a dedicated vent generally don't.

Gas log fireplaces offer a way for almost anyone to enjoy the sights and warmth of a burning fire. They do require some special attention in regard to safety, however. Whether it's a vented version that's desired or an unvented model, make sure they are installed and used correctly to avoid dangers that can go along with their use.