You're right in that they generally don't with electricity, but again if you have the know-how you can manually keep it open and light the pilot. Again, defini

You're right in that they generally don't with electricity, but again if you have the know-how you can manually keep it open and light the pilot. Again, definitely don't do this, but in a scenario where the alternative is that you freeze to death, it's possible to do so safely. With modern combi boilers (tankless hot water + boiler) I believe your point stands. edit: I mention this mainly because in Texas last winter some people froze to death during their electricity crisis.