Electronic Ignition vs Pilot Light | NW Natural Appliance Center

Electronic Ignition vs. Standing Pilot Light: Which is Better?

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Understanding the Differences

Electronic ignition and standing pilot light are two ways to ignite burners in natural gas appliances. The main difference is that electronic ignition uses an electric spark to ignite the gas when the appliance is turned on, while a standing pilot light is a small flame that remains lit continuously.

In recent years, electronic ignition has become increasingly popular due to its efficiency and energy-saving benefits, as it only uses gas when needed.

“Can I still use my fireplace, cooktop, or water heater when the power goes out?”

Natural gas appliances and fireplaces have traditionally used a standing pilot light to ignite the flame/heat source. Because these systems do not rely on external electricity, they work seamlessly even if the power goes out for an extended period of time.

Newer generations of gas fireplaces and appliances use an electronic ignition system. This does require electricity to start up. In the event of a power outage, a battery backup system will allow you to continue lighting your fireplace/using an appliance.

Electric Ignition vs standing pilot NW Natural Appliance

Did you know? A 24/7 pilot light costs about $8-10 each month to run.

Electronic ignition eliminates this cost. An additional perk is that you may qualify for a rebate and/or a tax credit. Be aware when purchasing a new appliance or fireplace that there is no way to retrofit an electronic ignition system to a fireplace or appliance that is designed to work with a pilot light.

Helpful Resources

How to operate your natural gas fireplace during a power outage 

Did you know a natural gas fireplace can keep you warm even when the power is out? We’re here at NW Natural Appliance Center to show you how to access the battery backup for a natural gas fireplace.

  1. Make sure the fireplace is off and cold before accessing the battery module.
  2. Remove the metal front by lifting up and out. If your fireplace has a decorative louver, it may be hinged down to access the area under the fireplace.
  3. Look for the battery tray which will be connected to the fireplace by a series of wires. Some of these trays are completely removable. But it’s best to leave it in place so you don’t lose it.
  4. Make a note of what size batteries you need and keep a supply of backups on hand.
  5. There may be a manual switch on the fireplace or on a nearby wall. Set it to the “on” position.
  6. Once the batteries are in place the fireplace should start with the manual switch or the fireplace’s remote.
  7. Tuck the tray back into place and replace the front.

Outside of power outages, it’s best to avoid storing batteries in the battery tray. Once your power returns, turn the fireplace off, let it cool, and remove the batteries following the steps above.

Plan to have your fireplace serviced annually and ask your technician for details about your specific model.

How to operate your natural gas cooktop during a power outage

Even when the power’s out, you can cook on most models of natural gas cooktops available at NW Natural Appliance Center.

  1. When you turn the knob on your cooktop, the “click-click-click” you hear is the electronic igniter trying to light the natural gas burner. When there’s no power, you won’t hear this clicking sound.
  2. To get cooking again, all you need is a long-handled lighter — they’re available in most stores and online.
  3. Click the lighter on and place the tip near the burner you want to light.
  4. Turn the knob to “light” — and that’s it!

To be safe, always double-check to make sure the burner is turned off when you’re finished cooking.

How to operate your natural gas water heater during a power outage

Most gas water heaters (models with tanks and tankless units) can operate during a power outage. Gas water heaters should function during a power outage as long as the pilot light remains lit. If your pilot happens to go out, however, review your hot water heater’s manual to see how to relight it.

Some tank hot water heaters may have special features that require electricity. If this is the case, a battery backup may be a good solution for your home. In addition, tankless hot water heaters do need electricity to operate. The best thing to do is invest in a battery backup for your tankless water heater — before the winter storms come! A battery backup charges while the power is on and then operates automatically during a power outage.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the advantages of using electronic ignition?

The main advantage of using electronic ignition is that it’s more energy-efficient than standing pilot light, which can save on energy bills by eliminating the need for a constantly burning flame.

Can electronic ignition fail?

Issues with electronic ignition are very rare. In fact, electronic ignition is generally considered to be more reliable than standing pilot light.

What happens if the power goes out with electronic ignition?

Some models have a battery backup or can be manually lit with a match or lighter so you can still use your appliances when the power goes out.

Ready to learn more?

Call us at (503) 220-2362 or contact NW Natural Appliance Center online to learn more about our selection of natural gas fireplaces, cooktops, and other appliances. Our specialists are ready to answer any questions you have.

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