pilot light vs electronic igniter
#1
pilot light vs electronic igniter
I am going to replace my electric hot water tank with a gas hot water tank.My question is,does it make much difference if it is a pilot light or would one with an electronic igniter be better?Would the igniter be more fuel efficient?Thanks in advance for any thoughts.
Tom
Tom
#2
Generally speaking - not having a pilot light is more efficient. Of course, if the overal burner configuration on the pilotless water-heater is less efficient - then there may not be any net savings. Or if the pilotless heater costs considerably more - then you may not realicze any net money savings - except over a very long term. I've had both types of units and never really noticed a difference in my gas bill. Basically, I'd compare the yellow rating labels of various units - which estimate usage costs - factor in the cost of the the unit and make a decision that works for you. One more possible consideration - a pilotless water heater will not work during power outages - but the piloted heater will.
#4
I too have had both types. Now, we have one with an electronic ignition and the flue is run in 2" pvc pipe thru the sill. There was no place to run a vertical stack for a flue so this setup was the best way to go. As far as not operating in a power outage, it doen't make any difference since we live in the country with our own well. No power, no water.