The first gas fireplace was invented in the 1850s. While rather crude at the time, it was the beginning of a fireplace evolution that was intended to make our lives easier. We no longer needed to cut wood, haul it into the home and dispose of the ashes afterwards. That can be a lot of work. The joke is that you get warm twice when you have a wood burning fire, once from chopping and hauling in the wood and once from the actual fire.
The love and intrigue of gas fireplaces have driven amazing technological advancements in the industry. There have been many important safety features developed as well as the convenient option of remote controls to turn on your fireplace. One of the latest advancements is the introduction of electronic ignition, making our lives even simpler!
We've Come A Long Way!
Electronic ignition refers to the ability to light the fireplace or gas log set via AC or DC power. Prior to electronic ignition, we only had standing pilots. In order to light your fireplace, you had to first ignite the pilot. This is done by holding in a knob, manually lighting the pilot with a match or lighter, and holding the knob in for 30 - 45 seconds before being able to turn on the fireplace. This process of lighting the pilot has to be done a few times a year, but now there is an easier way.
How Electronic Ignition Works
This new technology uses either batteries, a standard electrical plug or for the unit to be hard wired into your home. There is an electric ignitor that uses a fairly small amount of power. This ignitor provides a spark to light the pilot. After the pilot is lit, a sensor detects the heat from the pilot flame and opens the main control valve. After this, your gas log set or fireplace turns on and provides you with ambiance and heat.
With an electronic ignition gas appliance, all you have to do is push a button. You can have a remote control that allows you to light your pilot and control the appliance while relaxing on your sofa. It’s just too easy! Beyond being easy, there are several other benefits to having an electronic ignition gas appliance.
Benefits of Electronic Ignition Fireplaces
Piece of Mind - With Electronic ignition, your pilot remains off unless you turn your fireplace on. While pilots are very safe, many people have a fear of gas and fire. This fear can be relieved by knowing that your pilot is off. Additionally, many people are fearful of lighting a pilot. You have to be right in front of the gas fireplace to light it. With electronic gas logs or fireplaces, you can light the pilot from 20 feet away.
Energy Savings - Since your pilot is off, you are not using any gas to keep your pilot on. You are conserving one of our most precious resources for the generations to come.
Money Savings - This goes hand in hand with energy savings. You are not paying to have that pilot burning. While pilots typically use less than 300 BTUs per hour, that can still add up since they are on 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. On average, you will save $8 - $10 dollars per month if you are on natural gas. If you are on propane, you can save well over $20 a month.
Convenience - All it takes is a push of a button. That’s it.
In today’s fast-paced world, technological advancements are at the heart of our daily lives. From the devices we carry in our pockets to the appliances that power our homes, these innovations continually raise the bar for convenience, comfort, and efficiency. We often rely on them so seamlessly that it’s easy to forget just how much they’ve transformed our routines. When exploring your options, take the time to evaluate the features that matter most to you—whether it’s energy efficiency, ease of use, or added safety features. The right electronic ignition system can make all the difference in providing a seamless and enjoyable experience, ensuring you get the most value out of your investment while enjoying consistent warmth and ambiance in your home.
So, before you make your purchase, remember to visit a reputable hearth dealer who can help you find the perfect gas log set or fireplace, tailored to your preferences and equipped with the latest technological advancements that suit your lifestyle. It’s not just about buying a product—it’s about enhancing your home with the future of comfort.
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