A control system for controlling a gas powered water heater includes a thermoelectric generator to provide electrical power at a first voltage, a valve control system to selectively hold a main gas valve in an open position, a valve pick system to selectively pick the main gas valve from a closed position to the open position using the electrical power at the first voltage, and a power converter. The controller is electrically powered by a boosted electrical power at the second voltage from the power converter. The controller is communicatively coupled to the valve control system, the valve pick system, and the safety system. The controller is configured to control operation of the main burner and the main gas valve using the valve control system, the valve pick system, and the safety system to provide water heated to substantially a setpoint temperature.