Fireplaces That Light With a Remote Control

Basics

• A typical remote-controlled fireplace communicates with its handheld unit by beaming radio waves back and forth at specific frequencies. The handheld devices can control the pilot light automatically, eliminating any need to turn ignition valves or perform other manual procedures.

Capabilities

• Remote-controlled fireplaces vary in complexity. Basic fireplace remote control systems simply turn the pilot light on and off. Variable-flame remote control systems can not only activate and deactive the pilot light but alter the flame output level as well.

Considerations

• Fireplace Professionals, Inc. notes that because remote-controlled fireplaces use electricity to function, a power outage that knocks the system offline requires that you manually reset the system before it will respond to remote control again. This procedure simply involves flipping a switch on the transmitter box.