Gas fireplaces are often assumed to work like other household appliances—flip a switch, rely on power, stop working when the grid goes down.
In reality, some gas fireplaces are completely independent of electricity, while others rely on it heavily.
Whether your gas fireplace works during a power outage depends on how it ignites, how it controls gas flow, and whether any optional features require power.
This guide explains exactly what happens when the power goes out, which systems keep working, and why.
Some gas fireplaces work during power outages. Some do not. It depends on the ignition system.
Heat output, flame stability, and safety systems behave differently depending on the design.
Gas fireplaces do not create heat using electricity. They burn fuel gas (natural gas or propane). Electricity is only used for:
If the gas valve can open and stay open without external power, the fireplace can still operate. That’s the key distinction.
This is the oldest and simplest design.
No household electricity is required. If gas supply is available, the fireplace will ignite and run during a power outage.
Behavior during outage:
This is why older gas fireplaces often still work when everything else is dark.
Millivolt systems are an evolution of standing pilots.
Often found in robust heaters like the Empire Cast Iron Gas Stove, these systems are favorites for off-grid or emergency use.
The system is entirely self-contained.
Behavior during outage:
Millivolt systems are the most reliable outage performers.
Most modern gas fireplaces, such as the Empire Rushmore 40, use electronic ignition (often called IPI or Intermittent Pilot Ignition).
Instead of a standing pilot:
These systems require electricity.
Without power:
Unless the unit has a backup power source, the fireplace will not work.
Many modern gas fireplaces include battery backup systems.
These typically power the ignition spark and gas valve control.
They do not usually power:
Behavior during outage with battery backup:
Battery backup gives basic heat, not full functionality.
Even if the fireplace stays on, several features usually shut down:
Heat delivery shifts from fan-assisted heat circulation to pure radiant heat.
This is why fireplaces feel quieter—but still warm—during outages.
When blowers stop:
The room still heats, but with more localized warmth and less even distribution. This is normal and expected.
Even without electricity, gas fireplaces remain safe.
Safety mechanisms that still operate include:
If the flame goes out, gas flow stops automatically.
No electricity is required for this protection in millivolt or standing-pilot systems.
Both fuels behave the same inside the fireplace. The difference is supply.
As long as fuel is available, the fireplace will operate according to its ignition type.
Modern fireplaces prioritize energy efficiency, smart control, and remote convenience. This leads to electronic valves, control boards, and software-driven ignition.
These systems trade outage independence for convenience. Some homeowners intentionally choose millivolt systems for this reason.
Check for:
If unsure, look behind the access panel or consult the manufacturer documentation.
The ignition system—not the brand—determines outage behavior.
Gas fireplaces don’t inherently need electricity. Ignition systems decide everything.
Understanding this distinction helps you plan for outages, set realistic expectations, and avoid false assumptions about performance.
Gas fireplaces can be one of the most dependable heat sources during a blackout—if they’re designed for it.
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