need to convert wood burning fireplaces to either vented or ventless logs.

[Whalen68]

I own an 1889 Victorian home in southern Ohio with six fireplaces.  Three down and three upstairs (bedrooms).  The previous owner brought gas intro the three downstairs, installed gas logs and all is well with the exception of some white/black residue that falls within the chimney.  It is more annoying than anything else.  

Question #1: Other than capping the chimney what can be done to the interior of the chimney to stop this residue?

Question #2:  The upstairs fireplaces need converted as well.  Would you recommend vented or unvented logs?  

     

[John Kogel]

Never install unvented gas logs if you want to keep breathing clean air. Anyway, you have chimneys.

The best solution to your gas fireplaces venting into old brick chimneys is to have metal liners installed. The liner is sealed to the housing of the gas unit so no fumes enter the old flue. A metal cap keeps the rain out and protects the old mortar. That means you would be installing fireplace inserts with glass fronts.

Edited January 19, 2018 by John Kogel

[Bill Kibbel]

Vented gas logsets require a lined chimney flue. Complete chimney inspection when change of fuel. Unvented logs have to be listed for use in a fireplace originally intended for solid fuel and the opening into the flue is typically required to be sealed. 

Several unvented logsets are prohibited for use in bedrooms and some require the room to be a minimum area.

[Whalen68]

I appreciate the feedback,  If I went with an insert, with glass front, will I get heat in the room?

[Jim Katen]

If you want to get heat from them, install direct-vent, glass-fronted units. There are two kinds, "vented decorative gas fireplaces" and "vented gas fireplace heaters." Get the latter, they're designed to be used a heat source. Spring for the blower kit. You'll have lots of safe heat.