Can I replace a pilot light with electronic ignition?

Author: Prof. Jewel Gulgowski  |  Last update: Wednesday, June 17, 2026

When the pilot light of a gas-fired boiler or furnace burns constantly, energy is wasted. This type of pilot light can be replaced with an automatic electric ignition that ignites the pilot only when the thermostat calls for the furnace to be fired.

Can you convert a gas fireplace from pilot light to electronic ignition?

Yes, many traditional gas fireplaces can be converted to electronic ignition with a conversion kit. Consult with a professional to see if your fireplace is compatible and to perform the conversion safely.

Which is better, gas fireplace pilot light or electronic ignition?

Energy Efficiency: IPI systems are more energy-efficient than standing pilot ignition. The pilot light only ignites when the fireplace is in use, reducing gas consumption and energy costs.

Can you change a distributor to electronic ignition?

When converting from points to electronic ignition, you've got two options. You can either convert your existing distributor, or you can install a new distributor. Advance Auto Parts offers kits that allow you to remove the old points components from inside your distributor and replace them with new ones.

Can you manually light a gas furnace with electronic ignition?

Yes, you can manually light a gas furnace with an electronic ignition system. The general steps are: Locate the manual lighting instructions, usually posted on the furnace itself or in the owner's manual. Turn off power to the furnace and wait for any residual gas to clear.

How To Convert Standing Pilot to Spark Electronic Ignition System with Honeywell Retrofit Kit

Can you change a pilot light to electronic ignition?

This type of pilot light can be replaced with an automatic electric ignition that ignites the pilot only when the thermostat calls for the furnace to be fired. Many companies make pilot ignition retrofit systems that can be easily installed by skilled technicians.

Is electronic ignition better than pilot light?

Pilot lights can also develop problems that cause them to burn inefficiently. When this happens, a small amount of carbon monoxide can be released into your home. Most gas appliances today rely on electronic ignition instead of inefficient pilot lights.

What are the disadvantages of electronic ignition?

Disadvantages of Electronic Ignition System

Cost: The electronic ignition system can be more expensive to install and repair compared to conventional ignition systems, potentially increasing overall vehicle maintenance costs.

Is it worth converting to electronic ignition?

With numerous options available, an electronic ignition conversion may be in your vintage car's future, along with crisper starting and reduced maintenance. You can retrofit your entire ignition system with the Pertronix Flame Thrower distributor, factory-style ignition wires,and the powerful Flame Thrower coil.

What do you need to convert to electronic ignition?

You need the coil, ignition controller, the MSD distributor for your engine, and some wire.

Which is better gas range pilot light or electronic ignition?

The automatic pilotless ignition (also called automatic electric or automatic electronic ignition) eliminates the need to light the burners. It also saves money by using less gas than a standing pilot range. Because this system has no standing pilot light, no gas is being used unless it is needed.

Is it OK to leave pilot light lit on gas fireplace?

Generally, leaving the pilot light on is safe, and you may decide to do this for a few reasons. For example, you want to use your outdoor fireplace on those cooler summer evenings. The pilot flame can also help prevent spiders from building webs in your fireplace, insert, or stove.

Is it expensive to leave the pilot light on a gas fireplace?

LP gas is measured in terms of gallons. There are 92,000 BTU's per gallon. The price of one gallon of LP is $1.10, which means that you will have to pay roughly $5.20 every month to keep your pilot light on.

Can you manually light a pilot light on a gas fireplace?

Using a long match or long-barreled lighter, press and hold down the gas control knob with the lit match or lighter until the pilot lights. The pilot should start immediately once the flame is close enough.

How to convert gas fireplace to electric start?

There are 3 main steps to convert a gas fireplace to electric:
  1. Disconnect the gas line and safely cap it. This must be done by a qualified gas technician, and is not a do-it-yourself project.
  2. Run a dedicated electrical line to the site of the fireplace. ...
  3. Design your dream fireplace and decide on size and shape!

Why upgrade to electronic ignition?

The efficiency of an electronic ignition means more complete combustion, which in turn not only makes more power, but is also more efficient (less emissions, better fuel economy, etc.). It is a win-win all around when upgrading to electronic ignition in your vehicle.

Does electronic ignition need a coil?

Electronic Ignition Systems

Another difference is that many of these modern systems have a coil on each spark plug rather than a single, central coil providing the high voltage for all the spark plugs.

How long does electronic ignition last?

Igniters tend to last about 3–5 years before they stop working because of cracking. The best way to prevent this from causing trouble is with yearly maintenance visits from a technician.

What are the hazards of electrostatic ignition?

If the energy of the electrostatic discharge is greater than the Minimum Ignition Energy of the flammable atmosphere, a fire or explosion hazard will exist, and measures should be taken to avoid the conditions under which such discharge could occur.

Why is electronic ignition better?

To achieve a higher level of voltage, a clever device known as the ignition coil effectively magnifies the voltage from a battery by utilizing the relationship between electricity and magnetism.

What's better, points or electronic ignition?

While it is easier to heed better performance results with an electronic ignition, there are those who stick to breaker points because they know how to dial in the system and don't mind the shorter maintenance intervals.

What is the alternative to the pilot light?

Hot surface igniters are the more common form of electronic ignition, and require no pilot light at all.

What are the disadvantages of electronic ignition system?

Coil-on-Plug (Direct) Ignition System

An engine control unit (ECU) uses input from various sensors to precisely control ignition timing for lower emissions. There are disadvantages, as well. DIS systems are more expensive and can be more expensive to repair.

Are pilot lights obsolete?

Newer gas furnaces have replaced the pilot light component with an electronic ignition. Electronic ignition systems are more reliable than standing pilot lights, don't waste fuel, and are easy to replace should anything go wrong. We recommend upgrading your old gas furnace with its outdated pilot light for a new model.

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