Match-Lit - This is the simplest type of fuel control system, the one many of us used in years past. You turn a manual on/off valve open and closed by hand, light the gas log burner with a match, and adjust the flame height via the valve by hand, as well.

Advantages

• Still relatively simple to operate
• Can be turned off in the summer months to save fuel

Disadvantages

• Still requires manual lighting of the pilot flame
• Somewhat limited flame control in the 'On' position
• More expensive than manual on/off valve to purchase
• Uses slightly more fireplace space than a manual on/off valve

Manual Safety Pilot - This fuel control system is similar to that used on a furnace or water heater. There are 'Off', 'Pilot', and 'On' positions. Initially you have to turn the valve to the 'Pilot' position and light the pilot with a match, but after that you can turn the gas logs on and off by switching between the 'On' and 'Pilot' positions. The pilot will stay lit until turned to 'Off' or blown out, at which point it automatically shuts off gas flow. Propane gas logs require a safety pilot valve of some kind.

Advantages

• Still relatively simple to operate
• Can be turned off in the summer months to save fuel

Disadvantages

• Still requires manual lighting of the pilot flame
• Somewhat limited flame control in the 'On' position
• More expensive than manual on/off valve to purchase
• Uses slightly more fireplace space than a manual on/off valve

Modified Safety Pilot Kits - A modified safety pilot kit is an SPK that has a motor added to the gas valve that lets you connect a remote control or variable control to the gas log set for easy on/off operation.

Advantages

• Remote operation, requiring no manual lighting of the pilot
• Maximum user flexibility
• Allows for many devices, some of which can be changed as needs change

Disadvantages

• Most expensive fuel control system
• Takes up the most space in the fireplace of any fuel control system

Millivolt Valve - This is very similar to a manual safety pilot valve, except a remote-ready pilot valve can be connected to an optional device to remotely turn the gas on or off or control the flame height. These devices range from inexpensive remotes or wall switches designed only to turn the gas on and off to more expensive remotes that can adjust flame heights and set timers, or even thermostats that will turn the flame down once the desired temperature is reached.

Advantages

• Remote operation, requiring no manual lighting of the pilot
• Maximum user flexibility
• Allows for many devices, some of which can be changed as needs change

Disadvantages

• Most expensive fuel control system
• Takes up the most space in the fireplace of any fuel control system

Electronic Valve - Electronic ignition systems let you control the gas log set with a switch on the gas valve, a wall switch, or a remote control. Some may require the use of household power, but most are battery operated.