Gas fireplaces are no longer just for show. These days, plenty of people use them as a real backup heat source. If you want to get the most comfort, save energy, or just have more control, using a thermostat with a gas fireplace makes a big difference. So, how do you actually run a gas fireplace with a thermostat? Can you use a smart thermostat, or do you need something specific, like a millivolt thermostat for gas fireplace ? And what is the deal with those, anyway? Let us break down what you need to know before you connect a thermostat to your gas fireplace. By the end, you will know how to pick the right setup for your home. Can you use a thermostat with a gas fireplace? Sure, lots of gas fireplaces work with a thermostat, as long as the setup is compatible. With a thermostat, your fireplace can kick on or shut off by itself, depending on the room temperature — kind of like how your regular heater works. You do not have to mess with the controls every time you want to change the hea...