Using Your Fireplace During a Power Outage

Few things can make you appreciate the convenience of modern living like losing power. With severe weather a common occurrence in many areas of the country, losing power—and subsequently, heat—can be a very real concern.

If you or a loved one is dealing with heat loss, know that you’re likely in good shape to generate heat during a power outage if you have a wood-burning fireplace or stove and plenty of cord wood on hand.

If you have a gas fireplace or stove with a standing pilot, it will light during a power outage since it doesn’t require electricity to activate the pilot flame. If your gas fireplace was manufactured in recent years, it may have an energy-saving intermittent pilot ignition system, which requires electricity to spark the pilot flame each time the fireplace is used.

Many models, such as Heat & Glo gas fireplaces and gas inserts are outfitted with IntelliFire or IntelliFire Plus ignition systems, which have battery backup systems that can be used to light the pilot during a power outage.

Generally, IntelliFire systems require two D-cell batteries, and IntelliFire Plus systems require four AA batteries. If you have a wireless remote control, or a wall switch with a display, find the control box in the lower controls of the fireplace or behind the stove.

You will find a switch that slides between ON, OFF and REMOTE; slide this to ON for the appliance to operate with the power off. If you have questions, consult your owner’s manual or contact your local dealer.

Batteries should be used as a power source only in the event of a power outage, as battery longevity can be affected by the temperatures of the appliance. So, when your power is restored, remove the batteries and keep them handy for the next time you may need them.

Remember that fireplaces and stoves produce heat, so be sure no flammable objects are near them, and please keep children a safe distance away.

If your hearth appliance has been exposed to water in any level, please contact your local dealer. For your safety, Heat & Glo products that have been partially or completely exposed to water, whether by flood, hurricane or leaks should not be used. Check out our warranty page for more information.