Even though the water heater uses natural gas as its primary fuel, some models do indeed use electricity to get the pilot light burning. This piezoelectric starter makes a spark, which ignites the natural gas to start heating the water you'll use to take your nice warm shower.
Is water heated by gas or electricity?
Gas fueled water heaters mainly runs on the gas fuel. But some of the new models of the gas water heaters may also need electricity to run a few elements in the water heater.
How do I know if my hot water heater is gas or electric?
Remove the access panel on the side of the water heater and look inside for a blue flame. This is called a pilot light and indicates the presence of natural gas. If you see a pilot light, you have a gas water heater. Electrical water heaters do not have pilot lights.