Manual Ignition vs. Automatic Ignition

Deciding on whether or not to use Automatic Ignition is something that should be considered based on the individual situation. Under many circumstances Automatic Ignition is not necessary, but below are some examples of when we would recommend it:
• Check with local building codes to confirm before purchasing, as it's not uncommon to see this outlined.
• In some circumstances the added convenience of a switch or ability for the lantern to re-ignite justifies the expense; situations where the lantern is hard to access, on a second home, or sometimes in commercial applications would increase the attractiveness of this feature. 

Manual Ignition – You have to turn on/off the flame inside the lantern, and light the flame with a lighter.  A *flame shield is included which helps protect the flame, but if the flame blows out, the gas continues to stream (minimal) until someone manually turns it off.  This is standard and included in the base cost.

Automatic Ignition – This is wired to a switch inside the house.  An electric line (to the switch) and a gas line would have to be installed for the lanterns.  You would be able to turn on/off the flame with the switch.  If the flame blows out, the lantern will automatically try to re-light the burner.  If it does not light after 3 attempts, the gas stream will be shut off.  There is a significant upcharge for the Automatic Ignition.

*Manual Ignition burner with Flame Shields.  These are included with Manual Ignition gas lanterns.
*Manual Ignition burner with Flame Shields.  These are included with Manual Ignition gas lanterns.

Automatic Ignition burner with components.
Automatic Ignition burner with components.

Continuous Flame or Not?

Whether you choose Manual or Automatic Ignition, gas manufacturers state that it’s typically ideal to leave gas lanterns burning 24 hours a day to reduce wear and tear of the components and to keep the gas line warm, preventing any buildup of debris or insects that may affect proper gas flow.  

General Maintenance Notes

Copper Lantern Patina Finishes will have small marks, drips, or discoloration, which is in the nature of the product.  The living finish is designed to naturally age over time, imparting a soft, weathered appearance. 
• Lantern should be free of any obstruction to ventilation.
• To clean your lantern, use a mild soap and water. Dampen a soft cloth and wipe the lantern down. You can then rinse the lantern with clean water.
• Depending on your weather conditions and location, your lantern can hyper oxidize to the point of flaking and turning red during the oxidation process. Your lantern may also develop a green color in certain areas of your lantern. This is also a natural oxidation of copper.

Natural Gas

• Make sure the gas is turned off to the lantern and it has at least 5 – 10 minutes to cool off.
• Check all ventilation holes in the top and bottom of the lantern. They should be free and clear of any debris.
• Check the slit in the top of the burner stem for debris and carbon build up.
• You can use non-wax dental floss to clear the opening to allow for uninterrupted gas flow. 

With Automatic Ignition System

• Follow all the above steps.
• The igniter probe must me free and clear of carbon build up for a flame to be maintained.
• Using a rag or light sand paper you can remove any extra carbon build up on the igniter probs.

Copper Quality

Copper is measured in ounces. We use different ounce copper for specific parts of the lantern - mostly 20 ounce and 32 ounce. We also use the purest form of copper available to purchase, C122, solid brass burners and valves, U.L. certified electrical components.

Natural Gas requires 7” W.C.  BTU 2730
Clearance required 12” from vent to ceiling / 6” from sides
This product is to be installed by a qualified Plumber only.