Ambient Technologies Fireplace Remote Manual: A Comprehensive Guide

This comprehensive guide provides assistance with your Ambient Technologies fireplace remote.
We will explore operation, troubleshooting, and safety, ensuring a user-friendly experience.
Learn about millivolt systems, thermostatic controls, and essential maintenance for seamless fireplace operation.

Ambient Technologies provides the hearth industry with advanced, high-quality remote
systems, valve kits, and electronic controls. These remotes offer convenient control for your
fireplace, enhancing user experience with features like on/off functionality and thermostatic
regulation. This manual serves as a comprehensive guide to understanding and operating
your Ambient Technologies fireplace remote effectively. Whether you’re a new user or
seeking troubleshooting assistance, this resource provides valuable information to ensure
safe and reliable operation.

Ambient Technologies remotes are designed for millivolt valve gas appliances, offering a
user-friendly experience. The RCST remote control, for example, provides manual and timed
fireplace operation. Proper understanding of these systems allows for efficient temperature
control and energy savings. This manual will cover essential aspects such as battery
replacement, receiver location, DIP switch settings, and re-pairing procedures. In case of
any missing or damaged parts, contacting Ambient Technologies support is crucial. By
following this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to manage and maintain your fireplace remote
system effectively.

Understanding Millivolt Systems

Millivolt systems are commonly used in gas fireplaces, including those controlled by Ambient
Technologies remotes. These systems operate on a low-voltage electrical current, generated
by a thermopile or thermocouple heated by the pilot flame. This small electrical current is
sufficient to operate the gas valve, allowing the fireplace to ignite and function. The remote
control interacts with the millivolt system by opening or closing the circuit, effectively
turning the fireplace on or off.

Understanding how millivolt systems work is crucial for troubleshooting issues with your
fireplace remote. The receiver unit, typically located within the control cavity of the
fireplace, receives signals from the remote and relays them to the gas valve. If the
thermopile is weak or the connections are corroded, the system may not function properly.
Ambient Technologies remotes are designed to work seamlessly with these systems,
providing safe and reliable control. Knowing the basics of millivolt operation can aid in
identifying whether the problem lies within the remote, the receiver, or the fireplace’s
internal components. Regular maintenance and inspection of the system can prevent many
common issues.

Basic Operation: On/Off Functionality

The primary function of your Ambient Technologies fireplace remote is the simple on/off
control. This allows you to ignite or extinguish the fireplace with ease from a distance. To
operate this function, ensure that the remote has fresh batteries and is within range of the
receiver unit, typically located within the fireplace’s control cavity. Press the “on” button to
initiate the ignition sequence; the pilot light should ignite, followed by the main burner.
Conversely, pressing the “off” button will shut down the fireplace, extinguishing both the
main burner and the pilot light.

Some Ambient Technologies remotes also feature a manual mode, enabling direct control over
the on/off function, irrespective of any programmed settings. If you encounter issues with the
remote not responding, verify that the receiver is properly connected and that there are no
obstructions interfering with the signal. In situations where the remote fails to operate, you
can manually turn on the fireplace using the base unit switch, providing a backup solution.
Understanding this basic functionality is crucial before exploring advanced features such as
thermostatic control. Regular testing of the on/off function ensures that the remote system
is functioning correctly.

Thermostatic Control Features

Ambient Technologies fireplace remotes often incorporate thermostatic control, allowing you to
maintain a consistent room temperature. This feature enables the remote to automatically
adjust the fireplace’s flame level based on the desired temperature setting. To utilize
thermostatic control, first, ensure that the remote is in thermostatic mode, not manual mode.
You can typically switch between modes using a button or setting within the remote’s interface.
Once in thermostatic mode, set your desired temperature using the up and down arrow buttons.
The remote will then communicate with the receiver to modulate the flame, keeping the room
at your preferred warmth.

The thermostatic range usually spans from 45°F to 90°F, offering a wide range of comfort
levels. It’s important to note that the remote must be within range of the receiver for
thermostatic control to function correctly. If the room temperature deviates significantly from
the set point, the fireplace will adjust accordingly, either increasing or decreasing the flame.
Regularly check the remote’s display to ensure it’s accurately reading the room temperature.
This advanced feature offers a convenient way to maintain a comfortable environment without
constant manual adjustments.

Troubleshooting Common Remote Issues

Encountering issues with your Ambient Technologies fireplace remote can be frustrating, but
many problems can be resolved with simple troubleshooting steps. A common issue is the remote
not communicating with the receiver. Start by checking the batteries in both the remote and
the receiver, ensuring they are fresh and correctly installed. If battery replacement doesn’t
resolve the problem, verify the DIP switch settings on both the remote and receiver.
These switches must match for proper communication.

Another potential cause is interference from other electronic devices. Try moving the receiver
away from other appliances that may emit radio frequencies. If the remote still isn’t working,

attempt to re-pair or relearn the remote with the receiver, following the instructions in this
guide. A faulty thermocouple can also prevent the fireplace from igniting, even with a
working remote. Check the thermocouple’s connections and consider replacing it if necessary.
If these steps fail, contacting Ambient Technologies support or a qualified technician is
recommended for further assistance.

Battery Replacement and its Impact

Proper battery management is crucial for maintaining the optimal performance of your Ambient
Technologies fireplace remote. Regularly replacing the batteries in both the remote and the
receiver unit is essential for reliable operation. When batteries weaken, the remote’s signal
strength diminishes, leading to intermittent or non-existent communication with the fireplace.
Always use high-quality alkaline batteries of the correct type, as specified in your remote’s
manual.

Pay attention to the polarity when inserting new batteries to avoid damaging the device.
In some cases, replacing the batteries might cause the remote to lose its connection with the
receiver. If this happens, you may need to re-pair or relearn the remote, following the
instructions provided in the manual. Note that some users report that every time they replace the
batteries in the base, the remote stops working. This can be resolved by turning off auto temp
control, waiting a minute or two and turning automatic back on. This forces the remote to
re-establish communication with the base.

Remote Receiver Location and Identification

Identifying the location of your Ambient Technologies fireplace remote receiver is crucial for
troubleshooting and maintenance. The receiver is typically housed within the control cavity of
your fireplace, often behind an access panel or near the gas valve. Its primary function is to
receive signals from the remote transmitter and activate the fireplace accordingly.

The receiver unit usually has a small antenna and may feature DIP switches for configuration.
To locate it, consult your fireplace’s installation manual or carefully inspect the control area.
Be sure to turn off the gas supply and allow the fireplace to cool down before accessing this
area. Once located, make a note of the receiver’s model number and any visible DIP switch
settings, as this information may be needed for troubleshooting or re-pairing the remote. The
receiver box is often located within the control cavity of your fireplace. Knowing the location
of your receiver is critical for battery replacement.

Understanding the receiver’s location is essential before attempting any repairs or adjustments
to the system.

DIP Switch Settings and Configuration

DIP switches on your Ambient Technologies fireplace remote receiver are small toggle switches used
to configure communication settings. These settings ensure that the remote transmitter and receiver
are properly synchronized, allowing them to communicate effectively. Incorrect DIP switch settings
can lead to remote malfunction or failure to ignite the fireplace.

To configure DIP switches, first locate the receiver unit, typically found within the fireplace’s
control cavity. Identify the DIP switch block, which usually consists of a series of small
switches labeled with numbers. Refer to your remote control manual for the correct DIP switch
settings. The manual will provide a specific combination of “on” and “off” positions for each
switch.

Use a small screwdriver or pen to carefully adjust the switches to match the recommended
configuration. Ensure that both the remote transmitter and receiver have the same DIP switch
settings for proper communication; After adjusting the DIP switches, test the remote to verify
that it is functioning correctly. If issues persist, double-check the DIP switch settings against
the manual and ensure the batteries are fresh in both the remote and receiver.

Re-pairing or Relearning the Remote

Sometimes, your Ambient Technologies fireplace remote may lose its connection with the receiver,
requiring a re-pairing or relearning process. This is often necessary after battery replacement
in either the remote or the receiver, or if you experience intermittent or complete remote
failure. Re-pairing essentially re-establishes the communication link between the transmitter
and receiver.

To initiate the re-pairing process, first locate the receiver unit, typically found within the
fireplace’s control cavity. Look for a “learn” or “sync” button on the receiver. Press and hold
this button, usually for a few seconds, until an indicator light flashes or illuminates.
Immediately after pressing the button on the receiver, press the “on” button on your remote
transmitter.

The receiver should acknowledge the signal, often with a beep or a change in the indicator
light. This confirms that the remote has been successfully re-paired. If the re-pairing fails,
ensure that the batteries in both the remote and receiver are fresh and try the process again.
Also, verify that the DIP switch settings are correct and consistent between the remote and
receiver, as incorrect settings can prevent successful re-pairing. Consult your specific remote
model’s manual for detailed instructions.

Manual Mode vs. Thermostatic Mode

Ambient Technologies fireplace remotes typically offer two primary operating modes: manual and
thermostatic. Understanding the difference between these modes is crucial for optimal comfort
and energy efficiency. Manual mode provides direct control over the fireplace’s on/off function.
When in manual mode, the remote acts as a simple switch, turning the fireplace on or off based
solely on user input. The fireplace will continue to operate until manually turned off,
regardless of the room temperature.

Thermostatic mode, on the other hand, allows the remote to automatically regulate the fireplace’s
operation to maintain a desired room temperature. In this mode, you set a target temperature,
and the remote will cycle the fireplace on and off to achieve and maintain that temperature.
This mode is ideal for consistent heating and preventing the room from overheating. The
thermostatic mode uses a built-in temperature sensor in the remote to monitor the ambient
temperature.

To switch between manual and thermostatic modes, consult your remote’s user manual, as the
specific procedure may vary depending on the model. Typically, there is a dedicated button or
setting on the remote to select the desired mode. When using thermostatic mode, ensure the
remote is placed in a location representative of the overall room temperature, away from direct
sunlight or drafts, for accurate temperature sensing.

Contacting Ambient Technologies Support

When encountering issues with your Ambient Technologies fireplace remote that you cannot resolve
through troubleshooting, contacting their support team is the next step. Ambient Technologies
provides several avenues for customer support to assist with any problems or questions you may
have.

Before contacting support, gather relevant information about your remote and fireplace system.
This includes the model number of the remote, any error messages displayed, and a detailed
description of the issue you are experiencing. Having this information readily available will
help the support team diagnose the problem more efficiently.

One of the primary ways to reach Ambient Technologies support is by phone. According to available
information, their technical support line can be reached at 1-800-398-6195. Be prepared to
provide the information you gathered earlier and clearly explain the issue to the support
representative.

Alternatively, you may be able to find support resources on their website. Check for FAQs,
troubleshooting guides, or contact forms that allow you to submit your query online. When using
online support, be as detailed as possible in your description of the problem.

Remember to refer to your fireplace and remote manuals for additional information and
troubleshooting steps before contacting support.

Safety Precautions and Warnings

Operating a fireplace with a remote control offers convenience, but it’s essential to prioritize
safety. Always adhere to safety precautions and warnings to prevent accidents and ensure the
safe operation of your fireplace system. Before using your Ambient Technologies fireplace
remote, carefully review the following guidelines.

Never leave a fireplace unattended while it is in operation. Even with remote control
capabilities, constant supervision is crucial. Ensure that flammable materials, such as
curtains, furniture, and paper, are kept a safe distance away from the fireplace to prevent
fire hazards.

Regularly inspect the fireplace and its components for any signs of damage or wear. Check gas
connections for leaks, and ensure that the venting system is clear and unobstructed. If you
notice any issues, such as unusual smells or noises, immediately turn off the fireplace and
contact a qualified technician for inspection and repair.

Keep the remote control out of reach of children. The remote should only be operated by
responsible adults who understand the safety procedures. Educate all household members about
fireplace safety, including how to turn it off in case of an emergency.

When replacing batteries in the remote or receiver, use the correct type and voltage. Improper
batteries can cause malfunctions or even damage the system. Always dispose of old batteries
properly, following local regulations. Refer to fireplace instructions before using this transmitter.