When the power goes out, most homeowners do the same thing. You stand there in the sudden quiet, staring at your microwave clock that has gone completely blank, and think, “Okay… what still works?” If you have gas appliances, the question hits even faster. Gas seems independent, right? So do they keep running? Do they stop? Or do they do that mysterious half-working thing that makes zero sense at 8 PM when you just want a hot shower?
At Integra Electrical, we hear this all the time from good, smart homeowners who were never taught how gas and electricity actually work together. And honestly, nobody should be expected to know this stuff off the top of their head. That’s why we’re breaking it down in plain, friendly language without any of the industry jargon or the classic “it depends” line that makes you want to roll your eyes.
Before the end of this article, you will know...
- What gas appliances still work, and which ones don't?
- Why many gas appliances still depend on electricity
- Frequently Asked Questions
Which Gas Appliances Still Work and Which Ones Don't Without Electricity
Here’s the simple truth: some gas appliances will keep running when the power goes out, and others will stop immediately. Gas provides the heat or flame, but electricity is often the starter, the brain, or the muscles that keep everything moving. Think of it like having a car full of gas but no key to turn the engine. The fuel is there; it just has no way to get going.
Gas Appliances That Usually Still Work
Gas Stovetops with manual ignition - If your stovetop lets you light the burner with a match or lighter, you’re in luck. The spark might normally come from electricity, but you can take over that job manually. Just make sure you follow your appliance’s safety instructions, keep your face back (your eyebrows will thank you), and light it carefully.
Older gas water heaters with standing pilot lights - These are the classic tank water heaters that always have a tiny flame burning at the bottom. Because they don’t rely on electric ignition or a computerized control board, they can usually continue heating water during an outage. It won’t be endless hot water, but it’s something.
Outdoor gas appliances - Grills, fire pits, and some patio heaters work completely independently of your home’s electrical system. These are your power-outage MVPs. They don’t care if the lights are on; they’re basically living in their own world.
Gas Appliances That Usually Stop Working
Gas furnaces - Even though the heat comes from gas, the blower fan, control board, safety switches, and sensors all need electricity. No power means no warm air flowing through your ducts.
Modern gas water heaters (including tankless) - If you have a newer gas water heater or a tankless system, it almost certainly uses electric ignition and electric controls. Those go dark during an outage, which means the hot water goes with them.
Gas ovens - Many gas ovens use electric ignition and electronic temperature controls. Even older models that can technically ignite may still shut down because their safety systems are powered electrically.
Gas dryers - They heat with gas, but they spin with electricity. No electricity means no tumbling and no airflow, so they stop completely.
Gas fireplaces with electric ignitions or blowers - These are tricky because some can be manually lit, but many rely on electric switches, ignition systems, or blowers. If yours clicks on with a wall switch or remote, it’s likely not going to run without power.
Why Many Gas Appliances Still Depend on Electricity
It feels a little backwards, right? You buy a gas appliance because it runs on gas, not electricity. So why does everything seem to shut down the moment the power goes out? The short answer: gas appliances are basically half athlete, half computer. The gas provides the strength, but electricity runs the strategy.
Here’s what electricity is doing behind the scenes:
Ignition systems - Most modern gas appliances don’t use standing pilot lights anymore. They use electronic igniters. No electricity means there’s nothing to spark the flame.
Safety sensors - Flame sensors, temperature sensors, pressure switches, carbon monoxide protection… all of them need power. If these safety features can’t verify conditions, the appliance simply won’t run. It’s not broken; it’s doing its best impression of a responsible adult.
Control boards - These are the brains. Tiny circuit boards tell the appliance when to open the gas valve, when to heat, how much to heat, and when to stop. No electricity means the brain takes a nap.
Fans and blowers - Anything that moves air, furnace blowers, dryer motors, vent fans, fireplace blowers, relies on electricity. Gas provides heat, but electricity moves it where it needs to go.
Think of it like making coffee with a French press. You’ve got the coffee, the hot water, the mug… but if you can’t find the little plunger thing, it’s not happening. All the ingredients are there, but the key piece that makes it work is missing. That’s how gas appliances feel during a power outage.
Next Steps
If your gas appliances acted differently during an outage than you expected, you’re not alone. Most homeowners are surprised to learn how much electricity those “gas-powered” systems actually need. If you’re unsure whether your appliances are working safely, or if you want to be better prepared for the next outage, our team at Integra Electrical is here to help. A quick home safety evaluation can give you clarity and peace of mind, and we’ll walk you through everything in simple, friendly language.
Wondering what happens to your appliances during a power outage? Read "What Happens to Your Electrical System During a Power Outage"
Whenever you’re ready, we’re here to make your home feel safe, steady, and comfortable again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I light my gas stove with a match during a power outage?
If your stove allows manual ignition, yes. Many older or simpler gas cooktops can be lit with a match or lighter. Always check your manufacturer’s instructions and light it carefully.
Will my gas furnace work when the power is out?
No. Gas furnaces rely on electricity for the blower motor, safety sensors, and control board. Without electricity, the furnace will not run.
Do gas fireplaces work without electricity?
Some do, but most do not. If yours needs an electric igniter, blower, or switch, it likely won’t work until power is restored.
Do I need a generator to keep my gas appliances running?
For most modern appliances, yes. A generator can power the ignition systems, control boards, and fans so your gas appliances can operate normally during an outage.
Dustin Ober is a licensed electrician on Integra’s installation team. Born and raised in Iowa, he brings four years of licensed experience and five years of dedication to the Integra family. Known by customers as professional and helpful, Dustin is dependable and always shows up ready to help. When he’s not working, you’ll likely find him outdoors—enjoying the same steady calm he brings to every job.
