pilot light

[/ˈpaɪlət laɪt/]
nounpl: pilot lights
chama piloto
1. a small, continuously burning flame in a gas appliance that ignites the main burner when needed
The pilot light went out, so the water heater stopped working.
A chama piloto apagou, então o aquecedor de água parou de funcionar.
2. a small indicator light on an electronic device that shows the device is powered on or in standby mode
The pilot light on the stove blinks to indicate the oven is preheating.
A luz piloto no fogão pisca para indicar que o forno está pré-aquecendo.
In both American and Brazilian contexts, pilot lights are common features in gas stoves, ovens, water heaters, and furnaces. Understanding how to relight a pilot light is considered basic home maintenance knowledge. In modern appliances, electronic ignition systems are increasingly replacing pilot lights due to energy efficiency concerns.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
ignition flamestanding pilotindicator lightstatus light

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
chama piloto
standard term used across Brazil for gas appliances
Rio de Janeiro
chama piloto
same as general Brazilian usage
São Paulo
chama piloto
same as general Brazilian usage
Portugal
chama-piloto or luz-piloto
Portuguese speakers may also use 'chama-piloto' for gas appliances and 'luz-piloto' for indicator lights

Related Words

gas burnerignitionthermocoupleflameappliance

Related Idioms & Phrases

the pilot light is out - indicates an appliance is not functioning
relight the pilot light - to restart a gas appliance by relighting the small flame
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