Firegear Outdoors · Buying Help
Firegear MT vs TMSI vs TPSI vs AWS: Which Ignition for Your Build?
Firegear sells four ignition systems — Match Throw (MT), Standard Safety Pilot (TMSI), High-Capacity Safety Pilot (TPSI), and All-Weather Electronic (AWS). The right choice is a function of use frequency, site exposure, electrical availability, and budget. Here's the honest tradeoff.
By Rob · Updated November 8, 2026
What you need
Ignition System Comparison
- MT (Match Throw)
- Simplest; no electronics; manual lighting with long match or lighter
- TMSI (Standard Safety Pilot)
- Mechanical pilot + thermocouple; no 120V needed; standard residential choice
- TPSI (High-Capacity Safety Pilot)
- Larger pilot flame; better in high-altitude or windy sites; no 120V needed
- AWS (All-Weather Electronic)
- 120V + control box; remote on/off; smart-home compatible; premium tier
Step by step
Start with electrical availability
If there's no 120V circuit near the install site AND no plan to run one, AWS is off the table. TPSI is the best mechanical choice for exposed sites; TMSI for sheltered residential; MT for simplest/off-grid.
Factor site exposure
Windy or high-altitude site = TPSI (high-capacity pilot resists blowout). Coastal salt air = AWS (all-weather rated). Sheltered residential = TMSI.
Factor use frequency
Daily use = AWS (convenience justifies the premium). Weekly or seasonal use = TMSI or TPSI (mechanical reliability with minimal upkeep). Rare / event use = MT (no electronics to fail).
Common mistakes
- Picking AWS without verifying 120V availability. Running a new 120V circuit after the enclosure is finished is expensive. Plan electrical from the start or pick a mechanical ignition.
Hands-on tips
- For commercial installs (restaurants, hotels), AWS is usually the correct choice because code often requires lockout-capable electronic ignition.
Questions people ask
What's the typical cost difference between MT and AWS?
AWS commands a premium of roughly $300-600 over MT across the burner lineup, plus the electrician's labor for the 120V circuit. For daily use, the convenience pays back fast; for rare use, MT is the right economy.
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