I want to replace the light switch for our gas fireplace with a smart switch (tp-link HS200). When I removed the existing switch, there are only two wires going into the wall - a red and a white. The smart switch I want to install has two blacks, a white, and a green. I assume I should connect the two white wires, and since there is no ground wire I would just leave the green wire alone. But what about the two black wires from the switch and the existing red wire in the wall? Do I connect all three together as one, just one of the black wires to the red, or some other configuration? I’ve installed other light switches in this house and don’t remember there only being two wires, so I’m guessing this has something to do with it being for a fireplace?
Replacing fireplace light switch
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Sounds like all you have is a switch loop, with out a neutral. If you need a neutral for the new switch you might need plan B.
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Your prior switch (2 wires total) was likely not really a part of your home's electrical system. It was a simple single pole on/off with a tiny voltage difference generated by the fireplace thermocouple or thermopile.
So how should I wire it then, or is this type of switch not even an option in this case? The smart switch says the neutral wire is required.
I believe you are right about how it is powered because I was initially frustrated when I couldn’t find the breaker controlling this switch. I finally figured out that the battery pack on the fireplace is powering the switch.
I believe you are right about how it is powered because I was initially frustrated when I couldn’t find the breaker controlling this switch. I finally figured out that the battery pack on the fireplace is powering the switch.
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First thing is to find what voltage you have?
Straight out of the box, no smart switch will work with your fireplace. The switch you are trying to replace switches low voltage where your smart switch is looking for 120 volts AC. Technically it could be done with a relay where the smart switch controls the power to the relay coil and the relay switches the low voltage.
In the control compartment under the fireplace, is your fireplace plugged into a receptacle? Perhaps you could try using a smart plug and leave that switch on to control the fireplace.
In the control compartment under the fireplace, is your fireplace plugged into a receptacle? Perhaps you could try using a smart plug and leave that switch on to control the fireplace.
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It sounds like your fireplace is similar to ours - a millivolt system that is controlled by a standard-looking 120v wall switch. You could probably shut down your main breaker and it will still light. The good part is it will light during a power failure. I don't know if you can find any type of 'smart switch' for it but there are several remote controllers that are available.
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Out basement f/p is on a t-stat but the main floor one is just on the toggle and there is no reasonable way to wire in a wall t-stat because of the room layout. Truth be told we really don't use it that much - the room is too small and it will drive you out of the room in short order.
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Nice when the power goes out and the furnace won't run. Tstat set just a little lower, takes over
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