PRESS RELEASE
- October 20, 2005Are Natural Gas Logs on the Way Out?
According to Carl P. Herkes of Exotic Flames, the answer is “Yes”. If you want to know why, read on.There is a growing popularity towards a product that boasts a significant heat output over that of gas fireplace logs. For people concerned about the rising cost of natural gas, this comes as a very welcome message.
“Fake fireplace logs were not the greatest thing ever invented for your fireplace anyway” says Carl Herkes. “The problem is - you need to crank up the gas so high in order to get a good view of the flame... Couple that with the lack of efficiency, and you've got a big waste of energy!”
Aquatic Glassel (a revolutionary, patented, tempered glass product) has solved both of these problems. For one, the amount of gas you need to burn is reduced by approximately 40% to obtain a desirable level of flame. The way this is possible is due to the fact that the flame burns directly above the bed of glass. With gas logs, the flame is mainly hidden behind the logs where you can't see it, or benefit from the radiant heat.
When asked how the glass stays clean, Carl responds, “Since the gas actually ignites above the bed of glass, any by-products from the burn are carried up the chimney. Keep in mind that the glass gives off no by-products. With gas logs, the gas ignites near the base of the logs. Therefore, by-products from the natural gas are deposited on the logs in the form of soot. Because the gas requirement is less, there is more oxygen to help the gas burn more efficiently, thus less by-product (soot) and a hotter flame.”
So, the positives for this glass product are stacking up quickly. Carl reminds us that there is another heat benefit as well. When the fire burns above the bed of glass, there is nothing blocking the heat from being radiated into the room. Coupled with the reflective qualities of the glass, it's no wonder that the bed of glass is an ideal heat source.
“But wait”, Carl says. “The heat benefit is only half of the story!” The beauty and versatility of Aquatic Glassel is the other half of the story. The product comes in dozens of colors and sizes. It is also transportable. That's right! When you get tired of the color you are using, you can simply top it with a new color or completely replace it. Colors can be mixed together to create new shades of colors. You can create designs on the surface of the glass bed using different colors. Carl says he has been involved with projects where customers have put logos or initials on the glass.
When asked if this product requires any special maintenance, Carl states, “As with any decorative item in your household, you will want to dust or clean it occasionally. Simply dust it with a feather duster or scoop just the surface out and go rinse it with water. That will ensure it stays nice and sparkling. Did I mention that the glass will not cut you?”
Carl also says this product is affordable for anyone. The average price for a fireplace is $200 - $400. So, what will be the future of Gas Fireplace Logs? You decide.
- amy r.