Modern fireplaces can do far more than “on/off.”
With Wi-Fi apps, voice assistants, schedules, and smarter safety, you can treat your fireplace like the rest of your smart home—without losing heat performance or aesthetics.
A fireplace is “smart” when it can be controlled beyond a basic handheld remote—typically via:
On the hardware side, look for:
Most electric and water-vapor models are plug-and-play smart. Gas systems can also be smart, but usually require pro-installed control modules and verification for code compliance.
Electric units are the easiest to make smart because power and controls are already electronic.
You’ll typically get app control for flame speed/height, ember bed colors, heat levels, timers, and sleep modes. For slim, space-saving installs, start with these collections:
Why it’s smart-friendly: electronic thermostats, ready-made app modules on many models, and no venting required.
Water-vapor (ultrafine mist + LEDs) creates a convincing three-dimensional flame without combustion—perfect for luxury feature walls where safety and moisture control matter. These are frequently app-ready and support multi-scene ambiance.
Why it’s smart-friendly: spectacular visuals, cool-touch fronts, and feature-rich lighting/effect controls—ideal for pairing with smart scenes.
Across modern electric and water-vapor units, app control usually covers:
Many systems pair with a Wi-Fi module or bridge for voice assistant control. Always check the product page for the exact integration and whether a separate hub is required. (See examples within our curated picks below.)
Gas stays king for “real-flame + real heat,” and many direct-vent models can be upgraded with smart control kits (wall switches, RF remotes with Wi-Fi bridges, or manufacturer smart modules). Because gas involves combustion and venting, plan on professional installation and a control system that preserves safety interlocks.
Pro tip: for transparent zones or media walls, see-through electric models can deliver the look you want, with simpler smart integration:
Once your fireplace is on Wi-Fi, it can join household routines:
Modern, app-first installs
Luxury realism, cool-touch
Transparent / room-divider concepts
Smart heat outdoors (extend the scene)
Looking at pellets for efficiency + automation?
Pellet systems are about steady, thermostat-like heat (automation is more “set-and-hold” than app eye-candy). Start here: Pellet.
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