Turn Off Fireplace Pilot Light to Save

A properly located, energy-efficient gas fireplace can reduce the demand on your primary heating system, cut your energy bills and dramatically reduce greenhouse gas emissions. But a good portion of your energy savings will be wasted if you leave the pilot light on year-round.

In some cases, the pilot light can account for almost half of the gas used by a fireplace. Leaving it on in the summer or for other extended periods when the fireplace is not in use is a waste of energy and money.

Make a habit of turning off the pilot light at those times to minimize your monthly gas bills and reduce greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to climate change (follow the manufacturer’s instructions for turning off and relighting the pilot light). If you’re buying a new gas fireplace, look for a model that has an electronic ignition, which eliminates the need for a continuous pilot light.

For more information, including EnerGuide Fireplace Efficiency ratings for gas fireplaces sold in Canada, visit the Web site of Natural Resources Canada’s Office of Energy Efficiency at www.oee.nrcan.gc.ca. Information is also available by calling toll-free 1 800 387-2000 or writing to Energy Publications, Office of Energy Efficiency, c/o S.J.D.S., Ottawa, Ontario K1G 6S3.