As we see in many homes people are shifting from traditional and old system furnaces to modern electric furnaces. So when it comes to working of these new systems confusion arises about how they operate. In the case of electric furnaces homeowners often get confused and ask questions about whether electric furnaces have pilot lights? This question and confusion is right because traditional furnaces operate using pilot light and gas while in electric furnaces there is no system of gas connections for heating.
So in this blog we will go through related to these questions and explain what every homeowner should know about electric furnaces. From this you will know exactly about the difference between traditional and old systems which saves your time, money and stress.
What is pilot light and how does it work?
Before diving deeper first you have to know about what a pilot light furnace is and how it operates. This pilot light is found in gas furnaces; it is a small continuous burning flame. Its main purpose is to ignite the main burner when the thermostat passes the signal to produce heat for heating water.
So this is the main component in older furnace systems when it goes out, furnaces stop working and are unable to produce heat which results in colder water from taps.
Do electric furnaces have pilot lights?
So the answer to the main and most asking question: do electric furnaces have pilot lights is no. Electric furnaces means that there is no system of gas so they don’t use pilot light. So in replacement of pilot light electric furnaces produce heat using electrical resistance. So when electricity passes through them inside the system heating elements warm up and produce heat like other electrical components such as the stove and kettle. As all the electrical appliances use electricity there is no use of pilot lights and ignition systems. So electric furnace pilot lights don’t exist at all.
Working of electric furnaces
For your understanding and guidance of why there are no electric furnace pilot lights, let’s look down how electric furnaces operate without this.
Thermostat Activation
When the temperature drops down and requires heat then the thermostat signals the furnace to turn on and deliver heat.
Electric heating elements
For electrical heat generation electricity flows through coils.
Air circulation
The electrical system circulates and delivers heat evenly without any combustion.
Blower fan
Through a blower fan warm air or heat is pushed through ducts into your home.
So this design and components of the electrical system makes operations of the furnace without a pilot light. These types of furnaces are safer and efficient heating solutions.
Do all furnaces have pilot lights
No, not all furnaces have pilot lights. However many modern system furnaces are being designed and working without pilot lights.
Traditional gas furnaces
These systems use standing pilot light furnaces for generating heat.
Modern gas furnaces
They operate with an electrical ignition system instead of pilot lights.
electric furnaces
These are the furnaces without a pilot light.
In this modern era and systems even in gas systems pilot lights are being replaced due to inefficiency and for safety concerns.
Read More: How To Turn Off Gas Furnace For Summer?
Electric vs gas furnaces
As there are different types of furnaces available, understanding major key differences between electric and gas furnaces is important. This helps you to make informed decisions related to installation and maintenance.
Heat generation
- Gas furnaces are pilot light furnaces and burn fuel for producing heat.
- Electric furnaces have no electric furnace pilot light and use heating elements.
Maintenance
- Gas furnaces require inspection of pilot light furnaces and fuel lines.
- Electrical furnaces don’t require more maintenance as there is no electric furnace pilot light to monitor.
Safety
- In gas furnaces there is risk of gas leaks or carbon monoxide.
- In electrical furnaces there is less risk and are safer because there is no electric furnace pilot light to monitor.
Installation costs
- Electrical furnaces are easier and cheaper to install.
- Gas furnaces are costly and difficult to install as they require gas lines installation.
Common Misconceptions about electric furnaces
It is observed that many homeowners assume that all the furnaces operate in the same way but that’s not true. Here are some common myths:
every furnace has a pilot light
This is not true as electrical systems are furnaces without a pilot light. Also modern units operate using an ignition system.
electrical furnace needs to be relighted
As there is no electrical furnace pilot light then there is a need to relight. If you face some issues then problems may be in the electrical components or thermostats.
electrical furnaces are less efficiency
Electrical furnaces are more efficient than gas furnaces as electricity is converted into heat. As there is no scene of pilot light furnace fuel is not wasted.
Electric furnace advantages
When your deciding to buy a new furnace or shifting from traditional to new system then electric furnace have several benefits like:
No open flame
There is no safety risk in case of a furnace without pilot light. Electric furnaces reduce the risk of fire hazards.
Quieter operations
As compared to gas furnaces electrical furnaces operate more quieter and smoothly.
Requires less maintenance
As there is no requirement to relight or inspect pilot light furnaces which reduces the load of maintenance.
Environmental friendly Options
Electrical furnaces are more powered with renewable energy resources so it is a beneficial heating choice.
Tips related to electric furnace maintenance
Here are some simple that you should follow for keeping your system working efficiently
- Keep vents and ducts clean
- Schedule professional maintenance with MileHi HVAC
- Check and replace air filters regularly
- Ensure proper thermostat settings
Professional maintenance from MileHi HVAC
Although electric furnaces face less issues, problems may arise sometimes. So contact some professionals like MileHi HVAC for better performance.
Contact us if you notice:
- System cycles frequently turns on and off
- Notice some unusual smells
- Your energy bills increases suddenly
- Furnace is not producing heat
Final Thoughts
So do electric furnaces have pilot lights? The answer is no. Electric furnaces only operate using electrical heating elements not combustion or ignition systems. This makes them safer and easier to operate as compared to traditional ones.
If you are facing some issues like heating or troubleshooting or need some guidance related to your system feel free to contact our expert team at MileHi HVAC. If you need furnace repair service in Denver, contact MileHi HVAC today!
FAQS
Do pilot lights come with electric furnaces?
The answer to the frequently asked question of whether electric furnaces have pilot lights is no. Due to their reliance on electrical heating elements, electric furnaces do not require pilot lights.
What is a pilot light for an electric furnace?
An electric furnace pilot light does not exist. Ignition is not necessary for electric systems.
Is there a pilot light on every furnace?
Modern systems are furnaces without pilot light.. Many contemporary systems, such as electric furnaces and more recent gas types, lack a pilot light.
What occurs in the event that a pilot light fails?
The system in a pilot light furnace will not generate heat until the flame is relit. Electric furnaces are exempt from this rule.
Are gas and electric furnaces safer?
Given that they don’t utilize a pilot light and don’t burn gas, electric furnaces are, in general, safer.
