How to use X10 with a gas fireplace that has a pilotless ignition system?

[mburwen]

There is information on X10 Community about how to use X10 with a gas fireplace that has an always-on pilot ignition system.  However, many of the newer fireplace models have a pilotless ignition system such as Heatilator's "Intellifire."  Has anyone addressed the issue of using X10 with that?

[Boiler]

mburwen,

Not sure how you want to control this device with X10.  The Intellifire controller is a fairly sophisticated device.  Page 43 of the following link shows the installation. 



http://content.hearthnhome.com/downloads/installManuals/4047-132.pdf

The controller offers (page 47):

• Flame height adjustment
• Fan speed adjustment
• Automatic temperature control (built in thermostat)

The interface to the device is not specified - being a 3 wire interface they must be using a form of serial data (not sure if it's ac or dc).

There is a manual over ride rocker for battery powered operation (when the AC power is off).  I suppose you could use a X10 contact switch in this position.  When operating on battery power the controller is disabled. 

As I said, it depends on what you're trying to accomplish.  I don't think I'd feel comfortable allowing an X10 device complete control over a fireplace (at least not without manual lockouts).

[gil shultz]

Good Afternoon,

From what I see this may be one of the systems that X10 will only subtract not enhance the operation of your unit.  From what I could see from the manual it is a three wire low voltage interface, if so the following might solve your meet your needs.

If you must have a remote mount the wall mount unit is a box (Outside type) painted would probably look nice.  You can use bondo to make it look even better; add some rubber feet, appropriate wire and you are all set.

It appears that it could be a single wire serial interface with power and ground supplied for the electronics in the wall unit. This is just a guess. 

Good Luck
Gil Shultz