The Ultimate Guide to Ignition Types for Fire Features

When it comes to fire pits, fireplaces, and outdoor fire features, ignition type matters. It impacts not just convenience but also safety, maintenance, and overall experience. As experts and an avid fire & heat enthusiasts, we're here to break down the different ignition types and help you make the right choice.

 

1.) Match Lit

• Benefits:
  • Simple and reliable—no electricity or batteries needed.
  • Cost-effective and long-lasting with minimal parts to fail.
  • High-BTU Potential
  • Simple to maintain and repair.
• Considerations:
  • Requires manual lighting with a match or lighter.
  • No built-in safety features like flame sensing-if the flame goes out, gas can still flow. 
    • We consider this an "attended-appliance;" Otherwise explained as a unit that needs to be supervised while running. 
  • Not certified, which may limit use in some areas.

2.) Certified Match Lit

• Benefits:
  • Similar simplicity to a standard match-lit system but meets specific safety certification.
  • Reliable operation without the need for electronics or batteries.
  • Certifications assists with building or local code approval process (Depending on Location)
• Considerations:
  • Still requires manual lighting.
  • More Costly than standard match-lit due to certification.
  • No built-in safety features like flame sensing-if the flame goes out, gas can still flow. 
  • Match Lit Certifications typically limits BTU Output. 

3.) Match Lit with Flame Sensing

• Benefits:
  • Adds an extra layer of safety—automatically shuts off if the flame goes out.
  • No electricity required.
  • Provides peace of mind while maintaining simplicity.
  • Typically Higher BTU potential than Certified Match Lit, but limited compared to Standard Match lit. 
• Considerations:
  • Slightly more complex than a basic match-lit system.
  • Additional Components that may need maintaining and replacing
  • Still requires manual lighting.

4.) Battery Powered Ignition (Without Thermocouple)

• Benefits:
  • Push-button convenience without needing an external power source.
  • Easier and slightly safer to use compared to match-lit systems.
  • High-BTU Potential
  • Relatively low-cost upgrade
• Considerations:
  • No flame safety sensing—if the flame goes out, gas can still flow.
  • Requires battery replacement periodically.

5.) Battery Powered with Thermocouple

• Benefits:
  • Includes a safety mechanism that shuts off gas if the flame goes out.
  • Battery-powered, so no need for electrical wiring.
  • Typically includes Certifications
• Considerations:
  • Batteries need occasional replacement.
  • Additional Components that may need maintaining and replacing
  • Limited BTU Potential
  • Can be a bit more expensive than basic battery ignition systems.

6.) Battery Powered with Flame Sensing Pilot

• Benefits:
  • Advanced safety feature ensures gas shuts off if the pilot or main flame is extinguished.
  • No need for electricity—great for remote locations or areas prone to power outages.
  • Higher BTU Potential than "Battery Powered with Thermocouple."
  • Cost-Effective compared to Complete Electronic Ignition.
  • Perfect entry option for commercial application.
• Considerations:
  • More components mean more potential for maintenance.
  • Mid Price-Tier (Between Match List Options & Electronic Ignition Options)
  • Battery life should be monitored.
  • Dual-Step Operation (1st: Pilot Light; 2nd: Main Burner Ignition)

7.) Electronic Ignition On/Off (Standard Switch or Home Automation Compatible)

• Benefits:
  • Ultimate convenience—ignite with the flip of a switch.
  • Can integrate with home automation systems or control systems for seamless control.
  • Reliable, consistent ignition every time.
  • Most Common Commercial Option.
• Considerations:
  • Requires electrical wiring, which may not be suitable for all locations.
  • Significant Cost Upgrade.
  • If power goes out, the ignition won’t work unless there’s a backup battery system
    • If power goes out, can-not manually light. Disassembly and reassembly would be necessary to do so, but is highly discouraged for a variety of reasons. 

8.) Electronic Ignition with Remote Adjustable Flame Height

• Benefits:
  • Full control at your fingertips—Ignition & adjust flame height for ambiance and fuel efficiency.
  • Integrates with home automation and remote controls.
  • High-end option for premium fire feature setups.
• Considerations:
  • Requires electrical wiring.
  • Top-Tier price point compared with other ignition types due to added features.
  • Operational ONLY from Remote or Specific manufacturer Application. 
  • Higher maintenance with more components.
  • If power goes out, the ignition won’t work unless there’s a backup battery system
    • If power goes out, can-not manually light. Disassembly and reassembly would be necessary to do so, but is highly discouraged for a variety of reasons. 

Which Ignition Type Is Right for You?

• For simplicity and durability: Match-lit or CSA match-lit systems are great choices.
• For convenience without power wiring: Battery-powered ignition systems.
• For added safety: Match-lit with flame sensing or battery-powered with a thermocouple.
  
• For smart home integration: Electronic ignition options.
• For premium control: Electronic ignition with remote-adjustable flame height.

*Most common certifications: 

• CSA: Canadian Standard Association
• UL: Under Writers Laboratories
• LC: Lighting Certified
• ANSI: American National Standards Institute

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FINAL THOUGHTS

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Your ideal ignition system depends on your priorities—whether it’s convenience, safety, or budget. No matter your choice, Flame Havens is here to help you create the perfect fire feature for your space.

Need expert advice? Let’s talk fire and heat! 🔥