When it comes to enjoying a cozy and comfortable environment in your home, there’s nothing quite like curling up near the warmth of a fireplace. Gas fireplaces simplify the process, with no need for wood-burning logs and steel pokers. Lighting a gas fireplace is also easier, whether it’s a more traditional type (with a pilot light and control panel), or a newer type (with a spark ignitor and electric switch or remote).
Some of the more common questions we receive revolve around gas fireplace basics and the use of pilot lights, how to relight a pilot light when it’s out, and wanting to know more about IPI (Intermittent Pilot Ignition) systems. So let’s take a closer look at the ins and outs of these different topics to help you keep your fireplace running at its best!
The Fundamentals of Traditional Gas Fireplaces and Pilot Lights
For the traditional type of gas fireplace, the pilot light remains on even when not in use. While it is safe to keep your pilot light lit, some people do choose to turn off the pilot light seasonally, when it becomes warmer outside, in order to save money. The gas used to keep the pilot light continuously lit will burn 800 to 1500 BTUs/hour, and costs upwards of $20 per month (depending on fuel prices), whether or not the fireplace is actually used during that time. Also, pilot light use during the summer months can increase AC usage, and some choose to avoid this expense when possible.
Keep in mind, however, that there are some things to consider about shutting off your pilot light. First, turning off your pilot light in climates with high humidity levels is not recommended. Second, if you don’t have the pilot light lit, you can’t quickly and conveniently switch on the fireplace to remove a chill in the air on cool evenings. Third, when the gas is turned off, spiders that are attracted to the smell of the chemicals will be able to build webs in the burner tube and potentially clog the system. The cost required for repairs may be higher than the cost if you had just kept your pilot light running.
There are pros and cons to keeping your pilot light lit year-round, and ultimately it comes down to your personal preference. Learn more in our video from the ‘Fireside Chat with Matt’ series about keeping your pilot light burning all year long.
Lighting a Pilot Light for Your Gas Fireplace
If you do choose to shut off your pilot light during the summer months, you’ll eventually want to relight it for warmth as the cooler weather returns. Here are the steps involved in relighting your pilot light:
- Caution: To prevent a buildup of gas, it is important to always remove the fixed glass assembly from the fireplace as a safety precaution prior to lighting your pilot light.
- Remove the gas fireplace cover to reveal the controls, which are usually towards the bottom of the unit. You’ll also notice a shut-off valve for the gas, and you should ensure that the gas valve is open.
- Check to see if your control panel has an ignition button. Press the ignition to see if there’s a spark. If you don’t see an ignition button, then you’ll have to light the pilot manually with a long lighter, like a barbeque lighter.
- Locate the gas valve and turn it to the pilot setting. You’ll need to press this button simultaneously with the ignition button to get the pilot light lit. While pressing and holding the gas valve knob in the “pilot” setting, press the ignition button repeatedly (once per second) until the pilot ignites. If it doesn’t light correctly, wait five minutes and repeat the process. Once you get the pilot light ignited, continue to hold the gas valve knob in for up to 30 seconds, then release slowly.
What is an Intermittent Pilot Ignition (IPI) System?
As technology has become more advanced, gas fireplaces have gotten “smarter” as well. Intermittent Pilot Ignition (IPI) is an energy-efficient update to the traditional standing pilot system. This modern electronic ignition system uses a control panel to operate the gas valve, and has the ability to start a fire without the pilot light constantly having to be lit. Intermittent Pilot Ignition is a great solution for those who desire greater energy-efficiency while still having the convenience of a warm fire with the push of a button.
Whether you have a traditional or modern gas fireplace, Gas Fireplace Service of Stafford can service, maintain, and repair your system to keep your home comfortable when you need it. We deliver professional results and offer a 100% customer satisfaction guarantee on all of our services. Gas Fireplace Service of Stafford can help with all of your gas fireplace needs. Give us a call today.