Abstract: A fireplace latch system has a pivotable latch retained within a latch retainer. One or more springs between the pivotable latch and latch retainer bias the latch towards two stable positions, an opened position and a closed position. In the closed position, one or more surface contacting elements extend through the latch retainer and exert a force on a frame for a glass panel to secure the glass panel and frame to the fireplace. The latch system allows the glass panel and frame to move outwards to release pressure in the event of an explosion within the combustion chamber of the fireplace.

Abstract: A power vented fireplace uses a single air inlet to pressurize a staging area from where air is distributed along a passageway between viewing panels to cool them as well as into the combustion chamber as a supply of combustion air. A partial restriction at an inlet to the passageway ensures that sufficient air is directed into the combustion chamber. The inlet to passageway may be adjustable to vary the extent of the restriction. Pressure differential switches may be used to ensure balanced operation of the fireplace.

Abstract: An unvented gas fireplace in which air flow through a closed combustion chamber is controlled by means of a restriction in the air flow path through an outer plenum chamber surrounding the combustion chamber. The restriction in the air flow path through the plenum causes a pressure differential between the plenum and combustion chamber, forcing air from the plenum into the combustion chamber, where it is combusted and mixed with the cool air that has passed the restriction in the plenum, before the air mixture is exhausted into the surrounding room, thereby heating the room.

Abstract: An unvented gas fireplace in which air flow through a dosed combustion chamber is controlled by means of a restriction in the air flow path through an outer plenum chamber surrounding the combustion chamber, causing a pressure differential between the plenum and combustion chamber, forcing air from the plenum into the combustion chamber, where it is combusted and mixed with the cool air that has passed the restriction in the plenum, before the air mixture is exhausted into the surrounding room or area. A diverter selects between exhausting the heated air in the same or the opposite side as the air intake. The unit may be used as an outdoor stand-alone fireplace.

Abstract: A burner and pilot assembly for a gas fireplace has a substantially hollow burner enclosure with a plurality of burner outlet apertures at the top of the enclosure. A pilot burner is mounted within the enclosure to underlie a portion of the outlet apertures such that flame from the pilot burner extends from a portion of the outlet apertures to merge the appearance of the pilot flame with the main burner flame when the main burner is lit. The invention is well-suited to a linear-style gas fireplace burner.

Abstract: A gas burning fireplace having a burner for producing a flame. A rod in the vicinity of the burner. A gap between the burner and the rod and wherein a flame is produced in the gap. An apparatus for monitoring the presence of a flame including a battery for applying a DC voltage between the rod and the burner. An electric circuit means for sensing a DC current between the rod and the burner.