03 Aug Will My Gas Fireplace Operate If I Lose Power?
Posted at 15:36h
in Uncategorized
Will My Gas Fireplace Operate If I Lose Power?
One of the greatest appeals of a gas fireplace is its convenience when it comes to heating your home. However, you may understandably be concerned about how useful a new gas fireplace in your home would be during a power outage, especially during the cold winter months. When you choose to have a Kozy Heat gas fireplace installed in your home, you can be assured your fireplace will operate during a power loss.
Gas Fireplace Benefits
A large number of modern homeowners prefer gas fireplaces over their wood-burning counterparts for several reasons. First, besides having the potential to operate during a power outage, gas fireplaces are easy to use. You can simply push a button to enjoy instantaneous heat. A fire fueled by wood requires more maintenance and is more time-consuming to create and sustain. In addition, a wood-fueled blaze produces creosote, which can accumulate in your chimney and must be removed by a professional. The burned-out wood, ash and soot can also be a lot of work to clean up—something you don’t have to worry about with a gas fireplace.
IPI Valve System
A gas fireplace with an intermittent pilot ignition (IPI) valve system will remain operational during a power outage. An IPI valve system is an energy-saving electronic system that utilizes an electrode to ignite your pilot gas. After being sparked by electricity, the pilot flame then lights your main burner gas. The pilot flame is present only when your main burner is in operation. Thus, when the burner is not on, neither is the pilot. The IPI system makes sure that your pilot flame extends over your burner so that the gas is immediately ignited, and it ensures that energy is being conserved when you are not using the appliance.
Additional Tips
If you choose a fireplace with an IPI valve system, note that you’ll need batteries in the system’s battery backup in order for your fireplace to work when your home suddenly loses power. Also, if your fireplace comes with a fan kit or lights, these items won’t work when you lose power. Our professionals at Kozy Heat can guide you through the process of choosing the right gas fireplace for your needs.
