Can You Burn Real Wood In A Gas Fireplace

When I moved into my new house I was so excited it had a gas fireplace. I finally had a fireplace that I could use. LOL A fireplace that didn't require me to get and keep would or worry about starting it or filling my house full of smoke. Not that gas fireplaces don't come with their own concerns.

I love my fireplace, it's double-sided, so it provides heat to my living room and dining room/kitchen. It's so easy for me to use. I turn the key and use my fireplace lighter and bam, I have a nice fire going. It was all well and good until I got my first gas bill after using my gas fireplace several times. I love having a fire but if it cost this much, maybe not. I even kept the gas turned down low. I know the super cold temps in December also added to the bill. I would rather cover up with an extra blanket than have that high of a bill.

I am not going to lie, if I can skimp to save a buck sometimes I will, especially when it comes to my bills, so I got to thinking. Could I get one of the Duraflame logs, light it using the gas and then turn the gas off or could I just get wood and keep it going? I asked a friend who was no help so I did a little research.

The answer is NO! You can't use real wood or a dura flame log in your gas fireplace. Gas fireplaces are not designed to burn real wood. They have a different ventilation system, flue, and firebox. Your gas fireplace isn't designed to handle creosote, smoke, ashes, and soot. It could potentially become a major fire hazard.

So the moral of the story is if it sounds too good to be true, then it probably is. If I want I am wanting to sit by a nice warm fire, I am going to have to pay for it.