Gas fireplaces offer warmth, ambiance, and convenience to homes. While traditional gas fireplaces rely on a standing pilot to ignite the gas, electronic ignition systems provide a more modern and efficient alternative. This article explores the feasibility of converting a gas fireplace to electronic ignition, outlining the process, considerations, and potential benefits.
Feasibility of Conversion
Converting a gas fireplace to electronic ignition is generally feasible, although it requires professional installation and expertise. The conversion process typically involves replacing the existing gas control valve and pilot assembly with an electronic ignition system. This system includes an ignition control module, transformer, and AC power source.
Considerations for Conversion
Before embarking on a gas fireplace conversion, several factors need careful consideration:
- Compatibility: Ensure that the electronic ignition system is compatible with your existing gas fireplace model and gas type (natural gas or propane).
- Cost: The cost of conversion can vary depending on the complexity of the installation, the specific components required, and the labor costs. Obtain quotes from qualified technicians to determine the estimated cost.
- Professional Installation: Converting a gas fireplace to electronic ignition is not a DIY project. It requires specialized knowledge and skills to ensure proper installation, safety, and compliance with local building codes.
- Benefits: Electronic ignition offers several advantages over a standing pilot, including:
- Increased Efficiency: Electronic ignition eliminates the continuous burning of the pilot flame, reducing gas consumption and lowering energy bills.
- Improved Safety: Electronic ignition systems are less prone to accidental ignition and eliminate the risk of a pilot flame going out, potentially causing gas leaks.
- Convenience: Electronic ignition provides instant and reliable ignition with the push of a button or remote control, eliminating the need to manually light the pilot.
Process of Conversion
The conversion process typically involves the following steps:
- Disconnecting the Gas Supply: Shut off the gas supply to the fireplace and disconnect the gas line.
- Removing the Existing Pilot Assembly: Remove the existing gas control valve and pilot assembly.
- Installing the Electronic Ignition System: Install the new electronic ignition system, including the ignition control module, transformer, and AC power source.
- Connecting the Gas Line and Wiring: Reconnect the gas line and electrical wiring according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Testing and Commissioning: Test the electronic ignition system to ensure proper operation and safety.
Converting a gas fireplace to electronic ignition is a feasible option that can enhance efficiency, safety, and convenience. However, it requires professional installation and careful consideration of compatibility, cost, and benefits. If you are considering converting your gas fireplace, consult with qualified technicians to determine the feasibility and obtain accurate cost estimates.
Lets talk about your gas fireplace. There are two types of ignition systems, standing pilot or millivolt and electronic ignition. In the millivolt systems, the pilot can be on 24/7; if thats what you have, youre all set! However, most new gas fireplaces, stoves, and inserts have electronic ignition systems with multiple pilot modes.
The greatest method to guarantee your fireplace will start when you want it to and to lessen wear and tear on the appliance is to keep your pilot on during the winter. In case you require help converting your IPI to CPI fireplace, consult your owner’s manual, view this informative video, or contact us at (303) 679-1601. If you’re in the market for a new stove, insert, or fireplace, stop by Mountain Hearth, our retail showroom. com.
There are two pilot light modes available for these systems: Continuous Pilot Ignition (CPI) and Intermittent Pilot Ignition (IPI). It’s time to switch your fireplace to continuous pilot mode if you have an electronic ignition system. In addition to making it simpler to start your appliance in the winter, CPI offers the following advantages:
To keep your direct-vent gas system in a draft during the winter, keep your pilot mode set to continuous. Since direct vent gas units are sealed systems, no air from outside the house mixes with it. This implies that when it’s chilly outside, your home’s interior is warmer than the firebox of your fireplace. A hot flue is a happy flue. A fireplace ignites more easily and is better for its parts when the pilot warms the firebox and produces draft.
Lastly, in CPI, if there is a power outage, your fireplace can still operate. Electronic ignition systems require electricity to light the pilot. Although many newer units have a battery backup that can light the pilot during a power outage, keeping your fireplace in CPI mode is the most dependable way to keep your unit up and running in an emergency. If the pilot is already lit during a power outage, your fireplace burner can start right up and heat your home!
Can I use this kit to convert my vent-free propane unit from manual to electronic ignition? asked Jean Richard on January 10, 2023, at 02:07 PM
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You can NOT change anything out on a ventfree unit. For that log set, you will need to purchase an electronic ignition burner, and it must come from the same manufacturer as the log set. Answered by FDO Support Team | 01-10-2023, 02:28 PM.
Two flex lines are included with the MVK-EI Fireplace Electronic Ignition Valve Kit to connect it to the main burner. Because this gas fireplace kit runs on batteries, it can function even when there is a power outage. It has a Dexen electronic ignition gas valve that is controlled by a remote control, timer, or wall switch. The pilot lights when the unit is turned on. Suitable for both natural gas and propane (propane users will need a conversion kit).
Can you manually light a gas fireplace with electronic ignition?
FAQ
Can you convert a standing pilot ignition to electronic ignition?
Which is better gas fireplace pilot light or electronic ignition?
How much does it cost to convert a gas fireplace to electric?
Can you convert a gas fireplace to an electronic ignition system?
Yes, you can convert your gas fireplace to an electronic ignition system; however, you should remember that this is a costly and highly technical process. You will need an experienced technician to complete the procedure for you. For starters, you will have to replace your gas fireplace’s pilot assembly and gas control valve components.
How to light a gas fireplace with electronic ignition?
To light a gas fireplace with electronic ignition, simply use the remote control or switch to turn it on. There’s no need for a pilot light as the ignition system does the job instantly and efficiently. Enjoy a cozy fire without the hassle! In manual ignition systems, you have to manually light the gas fireplace using a flame or a small matchstick.
Can you convert a gas fireplace to an electric start?
Converting a gas fireplace to an electric start or electronic ignition is not a DIY project. You may need to replace the gas control valve and pilot assembly. Then, you should spend money on getting an ignition control module, transformer, and AC power source.
What is electronic ignition in a gas fireplace?
Electronic ignition is a technology used in newer gas fireplaces that eliminates the need for a manual pilot light. Instead, it uses an electronic ignition system that automatically sparks and ignites the gas when you turn on the fireplace. This not only makes the lighting process more efficient, but it also provides several benefits.