Many options of gas fires and stoves have a remote-control option. Some are included and others it can be an optional extra. Having a remote control means you can turn it on without having to even stand up. Different remotes are available. A standard remote allows you to turn the appliance on and up and down. The thermostatic remote means you can set the fire to come on automatically once the room goes below a set temperature or off once the room gets to a temperature and set time schedules.