Power outages can occur anytime, often due to adverse weather conditions. Then, once the lights are out and the living space has been plunged into darkness, heating becomes of utter importance, and the natural question would be whether the gas fireplace will work without grid power. Thankfully, most gas fireplaces are designed to provide warmth in these conditions, but with a few caveats. In this blog, we will discuss whether you can use a gas fireplace during a power outage and what precautions you should take.
To learn more about gas fireplace use and maintenance, contact our experts at New England Hearth & Home.
How Gas Fireplaces Work
Generally, a gas fireplace will work with a standing pilot light set-up or an electronic ignition.
- Standing Pilot Lights: These systems use millivolt ignition, which does not need outside power to ignite. This, in turn, means that during a blackout, the fireplace remains a source of heat as long as the pilot light is on.
- Electric Ignition Systems: Electric power is needed to ignite the gas in these systems. Since it is an electronic fireplace, it cannot work without electricity except with a backup battery.
Using the Battery Backup
Certain gas fireplaces are fitted with a battery backup system. This particular feature enables the fireplace to ignite even without grid power. Nevertheless, it is crucial to verify the details for your specific model:
- Standard battery backup: It would allow the ignition to work but would not allow features such as fans or accent lighting.
- Maintenance: Regularly test the batteries to ensure they will work during an emergency. Extra batteries should be stored in a cool place, away from heat sources.
Safety Considerations
Usually, it is possible to use a gas fireplace quite safely during an outage, provided some precautions are taken. Let’s list some of them below;
- Ventilation: Besides installations inside an already existing chimney, most direct vent fireplaces have been set out to be well-ventilated even when the fan is off. Thus, hazardous gas accumulation can be avoided.
- Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Keep a working carbon monoxide detector in the same room as your fireplace. This should be done with much precaution, particularly for fires that burn for more extended periods without electrical ventilation.
Being Prepared for Power Outages
Planning will ensure that your gas fireplace works if an emergency occurs:
- Emergency Kit: Get an emergency kit that should have things like matches or lighters, lights, extra batteries, some food, and water. These easily accessible things will enhance your comfort while you wait for grid power to be restored.
- Annual Maintenance: To function well, the gas fireplace needs periodic and scheduled servicing. Appointments for servicing, when at all possible, should be done during late summer or early fall well in advance of the winter heating season.
Yes, you can use a gas fireplace during an outage, but if it features a standing pilot light or even a battery backup system. A little foresight enables you to prepare your fireplace with all safety measurements in place, like carbon monoxide detectors. You will be warm while the lights are out. Prepare yourself and your house for anything!
Learn More & Get a Free Quote for Gas Fireplace Services in Canton, Massachusetts, with New England Hearth & Home
At New England Hearth & Home, we provide a wide range of gas fireplace services in Canton, Massachusetts. Our team of professionals is dedicated to ensuring that your gas fireplace functions properly and safely throughout the winter season. We can also help you learn how to properly maintain and use your fireplace in all conditions, including power outages and emergencies. To learn more about our services and explore our gas models, contact us online, visit our showroom, or call us at 781-562-0771!
