The Outdoor Plus · Installation
The Outdoor Plus Electronic Ignition (Spark + Flame Sense) Installation
TOP's spark-ignition family — Spark Glow (-SG), Fire Glow (-FG), Flame Sense (-FSEN), and Flame Sense Match Lit (-FSML) — all share the same install story: a AAA-battery control box, an igniter electrode, and a thermocouple that kills gas when the flame drops. Install is 60-90 minutes, most of it the leak test and the burn-in.
By Ash · Updated November 8, 2026
What you need
- 4× AAA batteries (fresh — no dollar-store brands, the igniter draws hard)
- Phillips #2 screwdriver
- Adjustable wrench
- QCC-1 regulator (LP) or flare adapter (NG)
- Multimeter (optional — for electrode gap check)
Step by step
Verify the ignition model stamped on your pit
Open the access panel. The control box has a sticker — -SG, -FG, -FSEN, or -FSML. Spark Glow uses a manual key valve plus a push-button igniter. Fire Glow and Flame Sense models integrate the key valve into the control. The installation steps are the same; the LIGHTING procedure differs. Match the manual to the model.
Install fresh AAA batteries in the control box
Four AAA cells (polarity marked inside the compartment). Cheap batteries sag under the spark draw and fail intermittently within a season. Use a name brand, write the install date on them with a sharpie, plan to replace annually.
Set the electrode gap (if your model allows adjustment)
On models with an adjustable electrode, the published gap is typically 1/8" (3mm). Too tight — no visible arc; too wide — no jump. Check the specific ignition manual for your model number; if the electrode is fixed, don't bend it.
Route the thermocouple wire away from heat
The thermocouple sits in the flame path — that's how it senses. But its wire runs back to the control box and must NOT cross the burner plate. Route it along the pan wall, secure with the factory clip. A heat-stressed wire gives false drop-outs.
Connect gas, leak test, load media
Standard procedure — QCC-1 on LP, flare on NG, air mix set to gas type, soap-water leak test every joint. Media maximum 1" over the burner.
First-light sequence
Turn the key or integrated valve to ON. Press and HOLD the push-button igniter — spark is audible as it clicks. Flame catches within 2-4 seconds. HOLD the button 15-20 more seconds after flame catches to let the thermocouple warm and signal 'flame OK' to the control. Release early and the control will shut gas off thinking the flame failed.
Common mistakes
- Dead or weak batteries after the first winter. Cold saps alkaline cells. Replace in spring before firing even if last season was fine.
- Electrode fouling from media debris. Fire glass dust and lava rock grit settle on the electrode tip and insulate the spark. Blow the electrode clean with compressed air if ignition starts missing.
Hands-on tips
- Stock a spare control box from TOP — these are the field-replaceable unit most often needed. Running an outdoor bar? Two spares.
- Label the button on the control plate with the model stamp — three years in, you'll forget whether it's -SG or -FSEN and troubleshoot the wrong way.
Questions people ask
Can electronic ignition go poolside or commercial?
Flame Sense (-FSEN) is suitable for residential and commercial use per TOP's flyer. Spark Glow (-SG) and Fire Glow (-FG) are residential-only. Plug & Play (-EKIT) and Low Voltage (-E12V) are residential-only AND poolside-ready. Match Lit and Flame Sense Match Lit (-FSML) are the only pure-manual options that are also commercial.
How often do batteries need replacement?
Alkaline AAA, used about 20 times a season, swap once a year. Heavy use (nightly) or cold climates — every 6 months. The control box doesn't flag low-battery; it just gets harder to light.
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