Fire Pit Ignition Systems Explained: Match Lit, Flame Sense, Spark and Electronic
The ignition system decides how you start and control a gas fire. Match lit is the simplest, flame sense adds a safety shut-off, push-button spark removes the need for matches, and electronic ignition lets you run the fire from a switch, timer or home automation.
On The Outdoor Plus fire features, the ignition system is chosen as an option on the product page. Here is what each option means, using The Outdoor Plus names you'll see in our store.
| Ignition | How You Light It | Flame Sense Shut-Off | Power Needed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Match Lit | Key valve and a long lighter | No | None |
| Match Lit w/ Flame Sense | Key valve and a lighter | Yes, thermocouple valve | None |
| Flame Sense w/ Spark Ignition | Push button | Yes | See product page |
| 30DC Electronic Ignition | Switch, timer, pool controller or home automation | See product page | 30DC transformer |
| Plug & Play | Electronic, plugs into a 110V outlet | See product page | Standard 110V outlet |
In This Guide
- Match lit
- Flame sense
- Push-button spark
- Electronic ignition
- How to choose
- Frequently asked questions
Match Lit
The most traditional system: open the key valve and light the burner with a long lighter. With no electronics, there's very little that can go wrong, which makes match lit a dependable choice for fire pits you can reach easily. It's also the simplest to install.
Match Lit with Flame Sense
Still lit by hand, but with a thermocouple valve that shuts off the gas if the flame goes out, for example on a windy evening. It's a sensible upgrade for any fire pit used often or around children and guests.
Flame Sense with Push-Button Spark Ignition
The Outdoor Plus Flame Sense Valve with Push-Button Spark Ignition
Press a button to create a spark and light the burner, with flame sensing for safety. No matches, no reaching over the burner. A great balance of convenience and simplicity for everyday use.
Electronic Ignition
The Outdoor Plus 30DC Low Voltage Electronic Ignition System
Electronic ignition is the most convenient way to run a fire. The Outdoor Plus offers two versions:
- 30DC Electronic Ignition – a low-voltage system that can be operated from a wall switch, timer, pool controller or home automation system. It runs from a 30DC transformer; on our burner kits the transformer is included, and for other products it's available in our store.
- Plug & Play – electronic ignition with a 3-prong plug for a standard 110V outdoor outlet, so no separate transformer is needed.
The Outdoor Plus 30DC Plug & Play Electronic Ignition System
Electronic ignition is ideal for large fire tables, fire features built into walls and benches, and fire bowls around a pool that you want to turn on together. Add an outdoor-rated dial timer or emergency shut-off button for extra control.
How to Choose
| If you… | Consider |
|---|---|
| Want the simplest, most dependable setup | Match Lit |
| Want a safety shut-off without electronics | Match Lit w/ Flame Sense |
| Want to skip the lighter | Flame Sense w/ Spark Ignition |
| Want switch, timer or smart-home control | 30DC Electronic Ignition |
| Have a 110V outdoor outlet nearby | Plug & Play |
Good to know: Not every ignition option is offered on every product or size. Each product page shows exactly which systems are available.
Pairing Ignition With Your Fire Feature
| Fire Feature | Often Paired With | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Small fire pit you can reach easily | Match Lit or Flame Sense | Simple and dependable |
| Fire pit used most evenings | Flame Sense w/ Spark Ignition | No matches, built-in safety |
| Long fire table or linear fire pit | Spark or electronic | No reaching across a long burner |
| Fire bowls around a pool | 30DC Electronic Ignition | Run several features from a switch or controller |
| Fire table on a patio with an outlet | Plug & Play | Electronic ignition without a separate transformer |
Keeping Your Ignition Reliable
- Keep the burner area clear of leaves and debris, and use a cover between uses.
- Make sure water can drain away from the burner and ignition components.
- If the system stops lighting reliably, have it checked by a qualified professional rather than adjusting gas components yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I upgrade from match lit to electronic later?
It's possible in some cases, but it involves changing gas components and should be done by a licensed professional. Choosing the ignition you want from the start is simpler.
Do I need an electrician for electronic ignition?
The 30DC system needs a transformer connected to power, and Plug & Play needs an outdoor outlet. Electrical work should be done by a qualified professional to local code.
Does wind affect the flame?
Wind can blow out a flame. Flame sense systems shut off the gas if that happens, and a glass wind guard helps shelter the flame.
Who should install the ignition system?
Gas connections must be made by a qualified, locally licensed gas professional, following the manufacturer's instructions.
Final Thoughts
Choose match lit for simplicity, flame sense for added safety, spark for convenience and electronic ignition for full control. If you're unsure which suits your project, contact us.
