What does the CPI/IPI switch on my fireplace remote do, and which setting should I use in winter?
On electronic-ignition units, that switch sets how the pilot behaves. IPI — intermittent pilot ignition — sparks the pilot only when you call for a flame, then shuts it off, saving gas. CPI — continuous pilot ignition — keeps a small pilot burning at all times. For winter, most people prefer CPI: instant, reliable lighting and a warm, dry firebox. IPI suits shoulder season.
What the two modes actually do
This switch only exists on electronic-ignition fireplaces — Napoleon, Heat & Glo, Heatilator and the like — and it controls the pilot's habit. In IPI, the intermittent mode, there's no pilot burning between uses; when you hit on, the igniter sparks a pilot, which lights the burner, and when you shut down, the pilot goes out too. In CPI, the continuous mode, a small pilot flame stays lit around the clock, ready to light the main burner instantly, much like an old-school standing-pilot fireplace.
Why CPI earns its keep in a WNC winter
Through the cold months we generally steer folks to CPI. That always-lit pilot means the fireplace fires on the first try every time, keeps the firebox and vent warm so cold mountain air doesn't sit in the flue like a plug and fight your draft, and — the classic local benefit — keeps moisture and off-season spiders from setting up in the pilot assembly and burner orifices. On battery-backup units it also means the pilot's already burning if the power drops. The cost is a small amount of continuous gas, which in deep winter you're barely noticing.
When IPI makes sense
IPI's whole point is saving that pilot gas when you're not using the fireplace much — perfect for spring and fall, or a unit you light only occasionally. Some people run IPI year-round for efficiency and just accept a half-second longer, spark-then-light start. There's no wrong answer; it's a small trade between instant readiness and a little fuel savings. If you're not sure which mode your remote is in or how to switch it, call (828) 545-0525 and we'll show you.
Related questions
- How do I use the remote control that came with my gas fireplace?
- Should I leave my gas fireplace pilot light on all summer or turn it off?
- How much gas does a standing pilot light use?
- Does a gas fireplace with electronic ignition have a pilot light I need to light myself?
- How does thermostat mode on my fireplace remote work, and how do I set it?
- How do I light the pilot light on my gas fireplace?
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