Empire Comfort Systems Fireplace & Fire Pit Repair & Service
Family-owned Illinois maker of gas fireplaces, log sets, inserts, stoves, heaters and outdoor fire pits.
About Empire Comfort Systems
Empire Comfort Systems is a fourth-generation, family-owned hearth and heating manufacturer in Belleville, Illinois, just outside St. Louis. It builds vented, vent-free and B-vent gas fireplaces, gas log sets, inserts, cast iron stoves and wall heaters, and sells outdoor fireplaces and fire pits under the Carol Rose name. White Mountain Hearth is the company's label for its log sets and many fireplace lines, and it also owns Broilmaster grills and, since 2023, Montigo fireplaces.
Empire covers a wide price span. Tahoe and Vail fireplaces are mid-priced, while the Rushmore and Boulevard lines reach the premium tier. It is a common choice for homeowners replacing an old fireplace or adding vent-free heat, and for builders who want one supplier for indoor and outdoor fire.
History
Henry Bauer started a sheet metal shop in Belleville, Illinois, in 1911, and the business was incorporated as Empire Stove Company on August 26, 1932. The Bauer family has run it ever since, with Nick and Jane Bauer now the fourth generation. Empire grew from stoves and heaters into gas fireplaces, log sets and outdoor products, picked up manufacturing rights to Broilmaster grills in 2002, and acquired Montigo, the Canadian gas fireplace maker, in 2023.
What Empire Comfort Systems is known for
Empire Comfort Systems products for outdoor kitchens and patios
| Product | Lines | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Direct vent gas fireplaces | Rushmore, Tahoe (Deluxe, Premium, Luxury, Contemporary, Multi-sided), Boulevard DV | Traditional to linear styles. |
| Vent-free gas fireplaces | Vail, Boulevard Vent-Free, Breckenridge | No chimney or vent needed; ODS safety pilot. |
| B-vent gas fireplaces | Keystone | Natural vent fireplaces. |
| Gas log sets | White Mountain Hearth vented and vent-free log sets | Ceramic fiber and refractory logs with matching burners. |
| Gas and wood inserts and stoves | Empire gas inserts, Spirit and cast iron stoves, wood stoves | Direct vent and vent-free options. |
| Outdoor fireplaces | Carol Rose outdoor fireplaces and linear outdoor fireplaces | Traditional and vent-free linear styles. |
| Outdoor fire pits | Carol Rose linear fire pits (48 in. and 60 in.) | Stainless steel, electronic ignition. |
| Gas wall and room heaters | Empire room and wall heaters | Vented and vent-free zone heaters. |
How much does Empire Comfort Systems cost?
- Tahoe direct vent gas fireplaces: about $2,500
- Rushmore clean-face direct vent fireplaces: about $9,000 to $11,300
- B-vent and vent-free fireplaces: about $1,600 to $2,000 and up
- Vent-free gas log sets: about $1,200 and up
- Carol Rose linear fire pits: about $2,300 and up
Typical street prices we found when researching. Prices change, so check with a dealer.
Where to buy Empire Comfort Systems
Empire is sold through hearth dealers, distributors and many online retailers such as BBQGuys and specialty fireplace sites. Larger fireplaces are usually installed by a dealer or licensed gas installer.
Common Empire Comfort Systems repairs
These are the jobs our verified pros see most on Empire Comfort Systems. Find a pro near you, or shop Empire Comfort Systems parts if you're doing it yourself.
Questions about Empire Comfort Systems
Who services Empire fireplaces near me?
The Pro Grill Find a Pro directory lists Pro Grill Verified companies that work on Empire gas fireplaces, log sets and Carol Rose outdoor fire products. Search by ZIP code to see local options.
Is White Mountain Hearth the same as Empire?
Yes. White Mountain Hearth is a product label used by Empire Comfort Systems for its log sets and many fireplace lines.
Why does my Empire vent-free fireplace keep shutting off?
The oxygen depletion sensor pilot can get dirty or weak and shut the gas off. A technician can clean or replace the ODS pilot and check gas pressure.
Where are Empire fireplaces made?
Empire builds its products at two factories in Belleville, Illinois.
Pro Grill is not affiliated with Empire Comfort Systems. Brand names and logos belong to their owners. Information here was gathered from public sources and may change; check with the manufacturer for official specs and warranty terms.