At Parc Lighting, we're always looking for ways to improve both the performance and safety of our gas lanterns — without compromising the timeless aesthetic our customers love. That’s why we’re excited to offer a powerful yet discreet new safety add-on: the Automatic Shut-Off Valve.
CLICK ON IMAGE BELOW TO VIEW An INFO VIDEO ON THE AUTOMATIC SHUT-OFF VALVE
Why Add a Shut-Off Valve?
Gas lanterns are celebrated for their charm, especially when powered by an open flame. But as with any gas appliance, safety should always be top of mind. Wind, rain, or even a strong breeze can occasionally blow out the flame on an outdoor lantern. Without a safeguard in place, that could leave gas flowing unnoticed — a situation no one wants.
Our Automatic Shut-Off Valve addresses that concern head-on. If the flame goes out, the valve automatically stops the gas flow. It’s a small feature with big peace-of-mind benefits — whether you're a homeowner, designer, or builder.
The Thermocouple: How It Works
At the heart of this safety system is a tried-and-true piece of technology called a thermocouple. This simple, yet ingenious device has been a mainstay in gas appliances for decades, from water heaters to fireplaces — and now, your lantern.
So what is a thermocouple? It's essentially a small sensor made from two different metals joined together at one end. When the lantern is lit, the flame heats the thermocouple, generating a tiny electrical current. This current keeps the gas valve open and allows the flame to continue burning.
But if the flame is extinguished — say by a gust of wind — the thermocouple cools down quickly. As it cools, it stops generating electricity. Without that signal, the valve closes automatically, cutting off the gas flow. No flame, no gas. It’s an elegant solution that works silently in the background, providing a constant layer of protection.
How to Relight the Lantern
Relighting the lantern is just as simple. Once you're ready, all you need to do is:
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Hold down the button on the valve for about 3 seconds — this gives the thermocouple time to heat up again.
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Relight the flame using a long lighter or match.
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Release the button once the flame is stable.
Just like that, your lantern is safely back in operation.
Safety Meets Simplicity
The Automatic Shut-Off Valve is a small addition that delivers serious peace of mind — especially in climates prone to wind or unpredictable weather. Whether you’re lighting the entryway to a historic home or illuminating a new construction build, this feature helps ensure your lanterns are not only beautiful, but also responsibly engineered.
If you’d like to add the Automatic Shut-Off Valve to your order or learn more about how it works, our team would be happy to walk you through the options.