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Turn off fireplace pilot light to save $

(NC)-A properly located energy-efficient gas fireplace can reduce the demand on your primary heating system. But a good portion of your energy savings will be wasted if you leave the pilot light on year-round.   In some cases, the pilot light can account for almost half of the gas used by a fireplace. Leaving it on in the summer or for other extended periods when the fireplace is not in use is a waste of energy and money.   Make a habit of turning off the pilot light at those times to minimize your monthly gas bills (follow the manufacturer's instructions for turning off and relighting the pilot light). If you're buying a new gas fireplace, look for a model that has an electronic ignition, which eliminates the need for a continuous pilot light or opt for a model which provides the ability to easily shut off and relight the pilot light. Look for the EnerGuide Fireplace Efficiency label to identify the most energy-efficient products and take action on climate change. The Government of Canada challenges all Canadians to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions by one tonne a year. Using energy more efficiently can help you reach that goal.   For more information, including a comprehensive listing of EnerGuide Fireplace Efficiency ratings for gas fireplaces sold in Canada, visit the web site of Natural Resources Canada's Office of Energy Efficiency at http://oee.nrcan.gc.ca. Information is also available by calling toll-free 1 800 387-2000 or writing to Energy Publications, Office of Energy Efficiency, c/o S.J.D.S., Gatineau, Quebec J9J 3N7.   News Canada