Damper - Open When Not in Use?

QUESTION: Do the vented fireplace logs have to have the flue vent open even when it is not being used? Some one told me that in Maine, the flue has to be permanently fixed in the open position by the installer. Of course, this would allow a lot of heat to go up the chimney all winter long.

ANSWER: Practically speaking, the damper can be closed when the unit is not burning, so that heat may be kept inside the room. The same is true of glass doors (open when burning, closed when off). However, many jurisdictions have determined that people cannot be trusted to open the damper before using their gas log set, so it must be either removed or permanently blocked open. In such cases, glass doors provide you the ability to keep the heat inside the room when not burning your gas log set.