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ECM: Space Heating & Cooling

H2. Convert to Electronic Ignition

Description

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. Many companies make pilot ignition retrofit systems that can be easily installed by skilled technicians.

Applicability

  • Single-family and multifamily buildings
  • Natural gas-fired furnaces and boilers with standing pilot lights

Types

  • Electronic spark ignition
  • Hot surface ignitor

Considerations

  • New equipment should be properly tested and certified for safety.
  • A replacement ignition system should provide for complete summer shutdown.
  • Perform a life-cycle cost analysis prior to replacing major system components.
  • Other HVAC system energy conservation measures should be evaluated as alternatives or complements to this measure.

Performance/Economics

  • Standing pilot lights unnecessarily burn approximately 6 therms of gas per month, and cost approximately $36 annually to operate.
  • Replacement ignition systems provide for complete summer shutdown.

Resources/Links

Energy Conservation for Housing – A Workbook, HUD, September 1998. Pages 7-45 through7-47 address converting standing pilot lights to electronic ignition.

CAUTION STATEMENT

TURN OFF UTILITIES: Turn off electricity, gas, propane, and other utilities before starting repairs, cleaning, or installations to avoid accident or injury.

BE AWARE OF LEAD-BASED PAINT HAZARDS: Many residences built before 1978 have paint that contains lead, which can pose a serious health hazard if paint, chips, and dust are not handled properly. See the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) lead brief before disturbing painted surfaces in homes of this vintage. Follow the HUD "Lead-Safe Housing Rule" for requirements for notification, evaluation and reduction of lead-based paint hazards.

BE AWARE OF ASBESTOS HAZARDS: Homes older than 1977 may have building products that contain asbestos such as insulation, high-temperature gaskets, roofing and siding shingles, and vinyl sheet flooring. See the EPA asbestos brief before disturbing such materials.

BE AWARE OF MOLD AND MOISTURE HAZARDS: Molds can gradually destroy materials they grow on; can irritate the eyes, skin, nose, throat, and lungs of both mold-allergic and non-allergic people; can cause asthma attacks in people with asthma who are allergic to mold; and can cause other serious health problems. To learn more about preventing and cleaning up mold in homes, see these mold guides and the EPA brief on What to Wear When Cleaning Moldy Areas.