Pilot light

A pilot flame , also known as a pilot flame , is a constantly burning, small flame .

Heaters

The pilot flame is usually under a cover next to the burner, such as here on a wok stove

In gas appliances such as boilers , instantaneous water heaters , etc., it ensures permanent combustion . If the gas valve of the burner is opened, the escaping gas is ignited by the pilot flame. An ignition fuse completely interrupts the gas supply to the device when the pilot flame goes out. Although the gas consumption is not particularly great, considerable amounts add up over time. This is why electrical spark ignition is usually used in modern devices .

operating cost

The power of a pilot flame is about 60 watts. This means that 60 Wh or 0.06 kWh per hour are required for operation, which add up to 43.2 kWh per month. At a price of approx. 6 ct / kWh (in 2006), natural gas costs 2.60 euros per month, or 31.10 euros per year. Pilot flames of older boilers and hot water generators can also use five to eight times as much.

Even in winter, the pilot flame only makes a limited contribution to room heating, as the heated air from its immediate surroundings is usually immediately directed into the chimney. It is therefore worthwhile to extinguish the pilot flame of consumption-controlled devices (e.g. domestic water heaters) when not in use.

pyrotechnics

In pyrotechnics it serves as Zündlicht as ignition . Electric igniters are also increasingly being used here.