SHOULD I LEAVE MY PILOT LIGHT ON MY FIREPLACE THROUGHOUT THE ENTIRE SUMMER?

This is a great question which gets asked all the time regarding gas fireplaces and gas inserts. The short answer is that it really depends on individual and what they are trying accomplish by either leaving it on or turning it off. There are functional reasons for asking the question, such as “will it hurt my fireplace if I do or don’t turn it off”, and then there are monetary reasons. It depends on what you want to know.

Here is some basic information about leaving the pilot on or off…

Pilot OFF:

  • No gas is being wasted so you are conserving energy and saving money!
  • No heat is being generated by the pilot so the glass door on your fireplace will not be warm to the touch. Just one less thing to worry about when it is HOT out.
  • With the pilot off, there are still trace amounts of gas molecules in the burner and pilot tubes of your fireplace. The gas companies add a chemical called Mercaptan to the gas which gives it that lovely odor we all know. Spiders are attracted to the smell of the Mercaptan and will sometimes build webs in the pilot and burner tubes when the flow of gas is off. So when you go to turn on your fireplace in the early fall or late summer, it will not work, and you will have to call you local installer to come service the unit. This will cost money.

Pilot ON:

  • On a cool night you can flip the fireplace on to take the chill out without having to re-light the pilot.
  • No chance for a spider to make a web in one of the tubes and clog the burner
  • If the pilot is left on for long stretches of time, without actually turning on the main burner of the fireplace, a white film can develop on the inside of the glass. This is sulfur based film and if left uncleaned could possibly etch itself into the glass. The sulfur is a bi-product of the burning pilot and it can build up over time on the glass. If you see this develop, refer to your user manual (or look it up online) to find out how to clean the glass or risk having that white haze there forever.

The big questions that people are usually wondering about is how much gas does it use. Really, it is “how much to it cost per month for the pilot to run?”

You need to understand that most Gas Fireplaces have pilot’s which use about 900-1100 BTU/hr. This is pretty powerful, and for good reason. The pilot must generate enough Millivolts of electricity to open and close the gas valve. This also means that it uses a fair amount of gas.

For a natural gas home, you pay for you gas by the Therm. A Therm = 100,000 BTU. So if you your pilot uses 1,000 BTU/hr and it is running for 24 hours a day, and 30 days a month, that comes out to be about 720,000 BTU. Divide that by 100,000 BTU to find the amount of Therms it uses (approximately 7.2). Then look at your gas bill and find out what you pay per Therm. Usually it is $1 and change. So you pilot can be costing you $7 to $10 per month.

Propane is a little bit different. Since propane is done by the gallon, the numbers are different. There are about 91,000 BTU in a gallon of propane. And the cost per gallon of propane is a lot higher than natural gas, floating somewhere around $3.05/gallon now. Doing the same math it would mean the pilot uses about 8 gallons of propane per month, which translates to about $24.00 in fuel cost.

Those are the facts to the best of my knowledge. For propane users, it seems to make sense to turn off the pilot light from a monetary point of view. Even if the pilot gets clogged while its off, it is a virtual wash in money having it serviced by a repair person. For natural gas customers it can really go either way.

For more information, contact a Team Harding Specialist today!

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Shaniski
Shaniski
20:36 19 Jul 23
We have used them for warranty work on our new home build and have been happy with the after care service provided by Lindsay and Bob.
Chris Hawkins
Chris Hawkins
14:01 28 Mar 23
Repairman showed up on time and was very personable and professional. He had our furnace working again in under 10 minutes and explained what the problem was a dirty flame sensor. I would highly... recommend Team Harding, they installed our Furnace and Air Conditioner and have provided excellent service since 2007.read more
yuan zhang
yuan zhang
16:30 06 Feb 23
I changed the rate because the reaction from site office is extremely satisfy. I have no heat during the weekend and complained. I got a respond very quickly from their site office and find out the... reason of no respond. Then a new appoint was scheduled right way! Also a report has been filed towards this issue and I believe communication will be taken to improve future services. I really like this manner! Thank you.//I have no heat on the coldest day this winter. I called for service at 10:28am, and the office lady said someone will reach me ASAP. I called at 17:26pm again because NO ONE called me the whole day. And I was told there is a long list so THEY DON'T CARE! I HAVE TO WAIT! And this is a same problem happened second time in two years. Do not recommend.read more
Syd Curry
Syd Curry
12:04 01 Feb 23
Very professional, clean install. High quality product.Extremely pleased with overall experience. Highly recommend.
david whelehan
david whelehan
21:24 28 Jan 23
I had an extremely positive experience with Team Harding from beginning to end. I had them install a Sterling Model GG 45,000 BTU Natural Gas Garage Heater with a Nest Learning Thermostat in my... double garage (Man-Cave).The sales rep, Brian was professional, friendly, he wasn’t pushy at all and he came under budget. Kirsten constantly kept me up to date on the installer’s scheduling and was a true professional. The installers came on time, did a tremendous job with the installation and they even cleaned up afterwards. Absolute Rock Stars!Again, thank you so very much to everyone that worked on this project for me.I highly recommend using Team Harding for your home projects.read more
Dipesh Chhabra
Dipesh Chhabra
18:30 06 Jan 23
Great experience, technician Steve was very knowledgeable, Thankyou
Tina Thompson
Tina Thompson
21:07 30 Oct 22
We had issues with our air conditioner in the summer.Colin was diligent to determine the issue and get it fixed.Great job!
Brittney Rush
Brittney Rush
18:45 21 Oct 22
Friendly staff & efficient service!
Natasha Wright
Natasha Wright
17:16 21 Oct 22
Harding is an exceptional company that has always been there for all my HVAC needs.
Don Cumming
Don Cumming
20:10 14 Oct 22
I had a Daikin furnace installed by Harding Heating and Air Conditioning on Sept 9/22.I was totally impressed by the competence, knowledge and professionalism displayed by the Sales Rep Brian... Chartier, the Sales Support Specialist Kirsten Neumarker and the Installers Dan and Luc.I have no reservation in recommending this Company to anyone looking for a Furnace or Air Conditioner.read more
Jurgen Neumarker
Jurgen Neumarker
19:03 14 Oct 22
Harding was best decision we have ever made regarding our heating and A/C service. After switching from another company, we have not looked back. Service is reliable, punctual, professional and... friendly.read more
Charlene Van Hofwegen
Charlene Van Hofwegen
00:11 24 Aug 22
Thank you for a huge job very well done ! Marc went above and beyond to find the problem and remedy the situation.Natasha, thank you for scheduling us in quickly and a big thanks to Marc who worked... tirelessly to get the job completed.read more
Eric Lavoie
Eric Lavoie
13:48 25 Jul 22
I purchased a new home that Harding mechanical install the full system, the first week I took possession an advisor came over to explain the system in details, I have never had 1 issue with this... equipment and installation. In the past 5 years, I have hired Harding mehcanial for my annual maintenance and filter replacement, I just pick up the phone and talk to a live person and get quick answer. I have never met an HVAC company that operates this way, very efficient. Thank you for the amazing service and I will keep on referring family and friends to your company.read more
Georgie Lavoie
Georgie Lavoie
01:28 22 Jul 22
This company installed a new air conditioner at my house and came over quickly and made sure I was satisfied, they called me the following day to make sure I understood everything and that my unit... was working at full capacity.I highly recommend this company, great technician and service from front office to install crew. Thanks and unit working fine especially during this heat wave.read more
Shawn Ku
Shawn Ku
00:57 24 Jun 22
Harding Heating & Air Conditioning were excellent. We had an issue with our furnace fan and I spoke to Natasha Wright (Service Coordinator) who first tried to troubleshoot the problem with me to... save costs, etc. Once that didn't work, a technician, Marc Gagon, attended. He quickly diagnosed the problem (faulty control board), but didn't stop there. He investigated the source - water under the AC coils. Further, he went outside to ensure the A/C unit was working properly. Marc Gagon is very professional, competent and took the time to explain things. He is a asset to Harding Heating & Air Conditioning, along with Natasha Wright. I highly recommend this company for your heating and a/c needs. Shawnread more
Tim C.
Tim C.
21:43 29 Jan 22
Brenden from Harding came and fixed the furnace by replacing the blower. He did a great job. And also well explained the membership plan. 10 out of 10.
Pam Burwash
Pam Burwash
18:14 16 Jul 21
From the very start the quotes I received were very fair. The estimator took the time assess the work that would need to be done and walked me through all the options. My furnace and AC were... installed by a polite, professional crew who also took the time to ensure that I was satisfied with the equipment being installed.Team Harding was there for me during a heat wave. I am thoroughly impressed with their professionalism.read more
Galina Khavrenko
Galina Khavrenko
15:17 15 Jul 21
Got Harding H&AC to deliver and install 2 AC units.Everything was fast, affordable and their customer service is 24/7 for you.
Tim Cinnamon
Tim Cinnamon
18:28 30 Jun 21
We had Brodie and Marc out to our cottage to install a heat pump and they did a fantastic job. Professional, very efficient, clean and knowledgeable. We would definitely use them again in the future.
Lifebeyondpanicattacks
Lifebeyondpanicattacks
04:02 29 Jun 21
Lindsay is a gem, she saved us money and time in this heat wave by fixing our problem over the phone. She went above and beyond her job with her kindness and expertise. We've used Harding multiple... times and have always had the best results! And awesome company with wonderful employees, especially Lindsay!!!read more
Wayne Calvert
Wayne Calvert
19:10 05 Feb 21
Woke up this morning with no heat in the house. Within a couple of hours a Harding service technician was at the door and was able to replace the blower unit in less than 20 minute restoring heat to... my home. Just want to state that the service was great and the staff were professional and friendly.I'm glad I've been with Harding for the past 8 years,...here's to many more.Great job!read more
Amanda
Amanda
20:24 20 Jan 21
Excellent customer service and friendly staff!
Vince Petrella
Vince Petrella
20:59 09 Nov 20
Provided a great and honest service at a reasonable price. I would use their services again in the future.
Gerry Moore
Gerry Moore
13:33 30 Oct 20
Harding Heating and Air Conditioning installed our Furnace and Air Conditioning when we purchased or new home in 2011. We have enjoyed excellent service from them for the last 9 years. We would not... hesitate in using their company again in the future.read more
Sketchyinkblot
Sketchyinkblot
22:02 03 Oct 20
We’ve used Harding for 6+ years and they always exceed our expectations. Friendly staff, knowledgeable technicians and reasonable prices. We couldn’t ask for better. They installed the ac unit at our... first house and anytime we needed them the service calls were great. We bought a new house July 2019. It wasn’t long after that we were told we needed a new furnace and ac. We went withHarding...obviously.read more
Paul
Paul
21:59 15 Aug 20
Fair price, good follow up. Appreciated!
Lisa Pow
Lisa Pow
14:49 29 May 20
Brendon was great
Tyler Lagasse
Tyler Lagasse
23:51 24 May 20
Showed up on time, and on a sunday! Very impressed with this company!
Trish Lagasse
Trish Lagasse
18:57 24 May 20
Harding just installed the AC in my home during a pandemic on a Sunday. Charbel was very nice to deal with and he was very responsive. Would recommend this company to anyone...very happy customer.
Kim Peckitt
Kim Peckitt
14:29 23 Jan 20
Routine maintenance but professional and courteous technician as always
Anne Bauer
Anne Bauer
01:08 24 Nov 19
Excellent service from Colin this evening. I placed a service call at 5pm and by 8pm, a new blower motor was installed. Thank you very much! Highly recommend Harding!
Don Donaldson
Don Donaldson
20:18 29 Jul 19
Even though we had an on-going issue with our Amana Distinctions AC that was originally installed in June 2012, Harding's team stood behind their product and went out of their way to extend service... without any question about warranty. It was a pleasure to deal with their inside staff as well as two installers that are top-notch. Thanks Steve, Brendan and Megan for superlative service!read more
Jean St-Amour
Jean St-Amour
16:44 08 May 19
Harding installed our new A/C, replacing our 25 years old Lennox.From the beginning of the process to the end of the installation, everything went smoothly.Communication with the main office for... the estimate and the installation schedule was done properly and on time, thanks to Kirsten.The technicians were on time and completed the installation as per scheduling.Both technicians (Mike & Brennan) were very polite and answered all our questions,Very knowledgeable and professional technicians.Overall we are very happy of the work doneWe have no problem to recommend Harding.read more
Steve Piercey
Steve Piercey
14:32 22 Nov 18
We have a 28 year old air-source heat pump that needed some TLC.Harding sent their tech out to diagnose, and provide options and pricing. Very reasonable.Exterior unit needed a new fan motor.... Within a few days an installer came and installed new motor, but made a slight error, and it was rotating the wrong way. Quick call had it corrected. Further found our defrost board was faulty. Harding provided quote upfront for a replacement aftermarket board. Kept in contact as to timeline and expected deliver and installation date.Tech came on-site as promised, did the install, and stayed to make sure unit was cycling properly. Billed for the quoted amount.Harding delivers what's promised, when promised, at quoted price. And has staff who know what they're looking at.Hard to ask for more from an HVAC service provider.read more
Zayan Khandker
Zayan Khandker
05:20 16 Nov 18
Reached the emergency hotline for a furnace issue. Understandably they were very busy on a snowy evening but Eli managed to drop by just before midnight to get it working!
Tom Anderson
Tom Anderson
14:46 18 Jun 18
Great air conditioner price and installation!
Mike Chaytor
Mike Chaytor
23:00 27 Mar 18
Our hot water tank basically blew up after 14 years (my bad for waiting so long). Brian was able to come by within a couple of hours and give us a fair quote, found a tank and coordinated the... install the next day (black vent pipe had to be replaced due to the code changing the colour to white). Install crew showed up on time and completed the job in a very professional manner. Thanks againread more
Lawrence Cynthia Ko
Lawrence Cynthia Ko
22:43 22 Mar 18
Service is always great and with slight occasional follow-ups needed on the customer service calls, but the customer service and service people are great. They arrived promptly and easily fixed the... furnace issue we had as per scheduled. The defective part had to be ordered, but took only a day plus, and it was installed and working the next day, so now the house is warm again. Great service, that's why we've been with this service company since nearly 17 years. Highly recommend this furnace servicing company.read more
Shawn & Veronica
Shawn & Veronica
20:04 08 Jan 18
We just had some furnace issues and we were able to get an appointment the same day. The technician was prompt, polite and took NO time in finding the problem and fixing it. Reasonable pricing too.... Highly recommended.read more
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