Fireplaces, Heating Stoves, Flues and Chimneys - Gas fireplace question

Hi, we have one of those decorative gas fireplaces. We rarely use it, once or twice a year. Is leaving the pilot burning year round a significant waste?

Thanks
Tim

Pilots can be a pain to re-light. I was told to leave it on, but it may cost a couple bucks a month. If you only burn twice a year, it may not be worth it.

Hi, we have one of those decorative gas fireplaces. We rarely use it, once or twice a year. Is leaving the pilot burning year round a significant waste?

Thanks
Tim

Hi Tim,
I found this site while doing research. I am taking heating and air at the local community college. Here are my thoughts.

First, I recently replaced a set of old vent free gas logs. These were the old type made before the "yellow" flame models. Mine were difficult to light and ugly. I use mine for additional heat. The efficiency is just better than the furnace and warms the room where much of my time is spent.

As to your question, I would turn off the pilot each spring and relight in the fall. Remember that the pilot is also a safety device. Should there be a leak, only the gas at the fireplace will burn. This is better than your house filling with gas followed by an explosion. Having said that, it is important to shut off the gas valve to the fireplace.

In the Fall, follow the manufacture's maintenance instructions then relight the pilot. Next, blow the pilot out with your breath. All gas should stop flowing in a few seconds. This is an important safety test. If the test is OK, relight and enjoy.

Hi, we have one of those decorative gas fireplaces. We rarely use it, once or twice a year. Is leaving the pilot burning year round a significant waste?

Thanks
Tim

Alot of people, usually single females will leave it on all year. If its not used too much I will leave it off and ignite when needed.